Child Bike Trailers are a fantastic way to include your toddlers and older kids in your cycling adventures, offering a secure and stable option for family bike rides. Having personally put over 40 different child bike trailers to the test over the past 13 years, from leading brands like Thule and Burley to budget-friendly options from Hamax, Schwinn, InStep, and Allen, we’ve experienced them across countless miles – riding, running, walking, and even skiing!
You might wonder, what justifies the price difference between a basic $100 trailer and a high-end $600 model? The answer lies in versatility and features. Some child bike trailers are designed for smooth, paved paths in ideal weather, while others are built to conquer rough terrain, perform in all seasons, and even convert into strollers and joggers. Thinking of bringing a baby along? Features like infant slings and enhanced suspension will add to the cost but significantly improve comfort and adaptability.
Top Child Bike Trailer Picks by Category
| Bike Trailer | Why We Love It | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level: Trailer Only | ||
| Burley Bee* | Exceptional quality for its price range | $349+ |
| Retrospec Rover Plus | Folds easily, modern and stylish design | $189+ |
| Allen Sports Deluxe | Best-in-class design for budget-conscious buyers | $140 |
| Entry Level: Trailer & Stroller Combo | ||
| Burley Honey Bee* | Impressive quality and user-friendliness | $479 |
| Allen Sports Premier | Top design at a super affordable price | $209 |
| Mid-Range: Multi-Sport Trailer | ||
| Burley Encore X* | Ample cargo space for all your gear | $649 |
| Hamax Outback* | The most spacious interior for growing kids | $649+ |
| High-End: Multi-Sport Trailer | ||
| Thule Chariot Cross* | Best Overall Performance and Features | $1,299+ |
| Thule Chariot Lite* | Best Value for a High-End Trailer | $599+ |
| Burley D’Lite X* | Ideal for adventurous families tackling any terrain | $899+ |
| *ebike compatible trailer, Green Prices = Sales Price, not MSRP |
Caption: A collection of top-rated child bike trailers from brands like Thule, Burley, Schwinn InStep and Allen, showcasing the variety available for family cycling.
Are you a visual learner? Dive into our Kids Bike Trailer Buying Guide video for a side-by-side comparison of different features, including wheel sizes, stroller conversion kits, and seat types, helping you visualize the best option for your needs.
If you’re new to bike trailers and feeling overwhelmed, our comprehensive buying guide below is designed to clarify everything you need to know! Just click here to jump down to our Bicycle Trailer Buying Guide and become an expert on child bike trailers.
And if you’re also in the market for a bike to pull your new trailer, be sure to check out our 10 Best Bikes for Women page. (All personally tested by our team, of course!)
Top Child Bike Trailer Recommendations by Price Point
Entry Level Bike Trailers – Trailer Only
For families who enjoy casual bike rides and need a dependable, efficient bicycle trailer that pulls smoothly without breaking the bank, entry-level trailers are your best bet. These reasonably priced options focus on the essentials, providing great value and making family rides accessible to everyone.
It’s important to note that while Amazon offers a wide selection of entry-level trailers, many fall short in terms of quality and ease of use. To ensure a positive experience and lasting durability, we recommend sticking with reputable brands like Burley or Allen for budget-friendly options.
Burley Bee
$349 (single), $379 (double)
BEST FOR: Families on a budget seeking a reliable and easy-to-use bike trailer for regular use.
CONVERSION KITS: None
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: Yes (15 mph max)
STANDOUT FEATURES: UV-protected windows, robust construction for smooth towing, folds easily for storage and transport.
View on Burley View on Amazon Our Review
Caption: A mother enjoys a leisurely bike ride, pulling her toddler safely in a Burley Bee child bike trailer along a paved trail.
What We Love About the Burley Bee
The Burley Bee stands out significantly above other truly budget-level trailers. While it represents a slightly higher initial investment compared to ultra-cheap kids’ bike trailers, the Bee’s enhanced durability, user-friendly design, and superior safety features make it a clear leader in its category.
For families planning to bike semi-regularly or more, the Bee’s upgraded design and features will noticeably improve both the parent’s and the child’s enjoyment. Its robust build quality and durable polyester fabric ensure the Bee will endure years of use and accommodate multiple children over time.
Available in both single and double configurations, the Burley Bee is also incredibly convenient for transport, folding down quickly and compactly for easy storage in your car.
Retrospec Rover Plus
$189 (single), $219 (double)
BEST FOR: Families prioritizing a comfortable, easy-to-use, and effortlessly foldable trailer.
CONVERSION KITS: None
WHEEL SIZE: 16″
eBIKE Compatible: Not recommended
STANDOUT FEATURES: Generous rear storage, stylish modern aesthetics, integrated helmet pocket, adjustable height straps for growing children.
View on Amazon View on Retrospec
Caption: A happy young child enjoys a comfortable ride in the stylish and easily foldable Retrospec Rover Plus child bike trailer.
What We Love About the Rover Plus
If you’re in the market for a child bike trailer that combines ease of folding with passenger comfort, the Retrospec Rover Plus is an excellent choice. It’s designed with a padded seat, easily adjustable shoulder straps, and a user-friendly five-point harness, all encased in a sleek, contemporary frame.
Equipped with 16″ tires, the Rover Plus is ideally suited for relaxed neighborhood rides, with a recommended maximum speed of 10 mph. If you’re planning to ride a bit faster, consider the Allen Premier trailer (yellow version only!), which features 20″ tires and increases the maximum speed to 15mph, matching the top speed recommendation for all bike trailers.
Like many trailers in this category, the Rover Plus has a weight limit of 40 lbs per seat. However, its cabin is 6″ shorter in height than the Burley Bee. If your child is taller, they might outgrow the cabin height before reaching the weight limit.
Allen Sports Deluxe Steel Child Bike Trailer
$139
BEST FOR: Budget-conscious families seeking a basic, easy-to-use bike trailer for local use around home. (Less convenient for transporting in a car to distant trails.)
CONVERSION KITS: None
WHEEL SIZE: 16″
eBIKE Compatible: No
STANDOUT FEATURES: Impressive quality and features for an incredibly affordable price point.
Caption: Side view of Allen Sports Deluxe Steel Child Bike Trailers T2 and S2, highlighting a budget-friendly option for families.
What We Love About the Allen Sports Deluxe Steel
The Allen Sports Deluxe Steel is unequivocally the best child bike trailer available for under $200. It offers a significantly smoother and quieter ride compared to other budget brands. The harness and padded seat are also notably more comfortable and of higher quality than those found in trailers from InStep, Schwinn, and Retrospec.
Compared to the slightly more expensive Allen Premier Trailer Stroller, the Deluxe model features smaller 16″ wheels, limiting the recommended speed to 10 mph. Its cabin is also shorter, making it less ideal for older or taller children.
Entry Level Bike Trailer Strollers
The option to convert your bike trailer into a stroller is an incredibly valuable feature for active families. Imagine biking to a local farmer’s market or shopping center. Once you arrive, simply park your bikes, deploy the stroller wheel, and you’re ready to walk and explore!
Burley Honey Bee
$479 (double)
BEST FOR: Families who appreciate the flexibility of occasionally using their trailer as a stroller.
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (included)
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: Yes (15 mph max)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Integrated stroller wheel stored on the tow arm when not in use, adjustable handlebar height for parent comfort, ample storage space for essentials.
View on Amazon View on Burley Our Review
Caption: The Burley Honey Bee, recognized as the best overall entry-level child bike trailer and stroller combination, showcasing its versatility.
What We Love About the Burley Honey Bee
The Honey Bee combines everything we admire about the Bee model with the added benefit of stroller functionality. The included stroller wheel, while basic in design and extending from the trailer arm, easily pivots up and out of the way when you’re biking. The Honey Bee excels in quality, thoughtful design, practical functionality, and ease of use, making it a top choice in its category. Note that the Honey Bee is exclusively available as a double trailer stroller.
Allen Sports Premier
$210 (double)
BEST FOR: Budget-minded families looking for a capable trailer that also functions as a basic stroller.
CONVERSION KITS: 3-wheel stroller integrated into the chassis (included)
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: No
STANDOUT FEATURES: Large 20″ wheels with durable metal rims for smoother rides, higher maximum speed rating compared to the Allen Deluxe Trailer.
Caption: Close-up of the Allen Sports Premier trailer windows and seating, highlighting comfort and design features of a budget-friendly stroller trailer.
What We Love About the Allen Sports Premier
The Allen Sports Premier trailer is surprisingly roomy and spacious, comparable to more expensive models, and provides ample headroom along with a thickly padded, hammock-style seat for a comfortable ride. This Premier child bike trailer is not only smooth and stable when pulled as a trailer, but it also features an easy-to-use 5-point harness system that is significantly higher quality than those typically found in Schwinn bike trailers and other budget options.
For those aiming to spend under $300 on a bike trailer, the Allen Sports Premier stands out. In direct comparisons with Schwinn and InStep trailers, we found that Allen Sports trailers offer smoother towing, easier child loading and unloading, superior harness systems, and extended helmet pockets for enhanced comfort for both younger and older children.
Mid-Range Bike Trailers – Multi-Sport
For families seeking high quality without the premium price tag of top-tier models, mid-range bicycle trailers strike the perfect balance. They offer excellent performance and are often compatible with stroller and jogger conversion kits, making them a versatile and more affordable choice for multi-sport enthusiasts.
Burley Encore X
$649
BEST FOR: Active families who frequently bike, stroll, and jog and desire high performance without extra luxury features.
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (3-wheel included), jogger, ski
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: Yes (15 mph max)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Supportive bench-style seats, integrated suspension for smoother rides, sunshade for sunny days, incredibly smooth towing, and a generous cargo area.
View on Burley View on Amazon Our Review
Caption: The Burley Encore X child bike trailer shown with its stroller attachment, highlighting its versatility as a top mid-range multi-sport option.
What We Love About the Burley Encore X
The Encore X’s high-grade and robust components ensure ease of use for parents and exceptional comfort for children. Featuring a supportive bench seat and a high-quality harness system, getting kids in and out of the trailer is effortless. The Encore X is also Burley’s most affordable trailer that includes suspension, enhancing ride comfort across varied terrains.
UV-blocking windows and an integrated sunshade offer protection from harsh sunlight, while a thoughtfully designed mesh cup holder allows easy access to drinks and snacks for little passengers. These well-considered details contribute to an outstanding child bike trailer experience at a very reasonable price. Similar to the premium Burley D’Lite X, the Encore X’s seats can be folded down, transforming it into a practical bike wagon for cargo.
Hamax Outback
$699 (single), $749 (double)
BEST FOR: Families needing a user-friendly trailer that doubles as a superior stroller, with extra headroom for taller children.
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (3-wheel included), jogger, ski
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: Yes (15 mph max)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Extra-tall interior for growing kids, durable rubber floor mat for easy cleaning, sleek European styling, and heavily cushioned tires for a plush ride.
View on Hamax View on Amazon Our Review
Caption: A mom enjoys biking with her daughter in the Hamax Outback, highlighting its spacious interior and smooth ride as a roomy child bike trailer.
What We Love About the Hamax Outback
The Hamax Outback is sleek, modern, and surprisingly agile – the stylish SUV of child bike trailers. Offering the most interior headroom in its class, along with adjustable suspension, extra-thick tires for enhanced cushioning, a super-plush interior, and supportive seats, this bike trailer provides an exceptionally comfortable ride for its passengers.
While it may not perform quite as seamlessly as a Burley or Thule in trailer mode (it is also notably heavier), it transforms into a dream stroller. The Outback also boasts excellent ventilation and a convenient peek-through window at the top.
High-End Bike Trailers – Multi-Sport
These represent the pinnacle of bicycle trailers – they truly offer everything and excel in every function. From adjustable sunshades and reclining seats to UV-protective windows and comprehensive conversion kits, high-end trailers are the most robust and best-engineered options available.
They are not only the best trailers but also function as top-tier bike trailer strollers and joggers. While they come with a higher price, their durability and longevity ensure they will serve your family for years to come.
These multi-sport trailers are also frequently utilized for more adventurous activities, such as bike packing, snow fat biking, and cross-country skiing, showcasing their versatility and ruggedness.
Thule Chariot Cross 2
$1,199
BEST FOR: Active families with babies and young toddlers seeking a stroller and jogger that perform as exceptionally as a trailer. Also our top pick for a ski trailer. (Available only as a single trailer!)
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (included), jogger, ski
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: Yes (15 mph max)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Reclining seats for napping children, plush and comfortable cushioning, adjustable suspension for varied terrains, top-view window to check on passengers, infant sling compatibility for stroller mode, and the best weather protection covers on the market.
View on Amazon View on REI Our Review
Caption: The Thule Chariot Cross 2, recognized as the best overall high-end child bike trailer, loaded with stuffed animals to demonstrate its spacious and comfortable interior.
What We Love About the Chariot Cross
The newly updated Thule Chariot Cross 2 is undeniably the highest quality trailer money can buy, delivering exceptional handling and performance. With an enhanced hitch system, adjustable suspension, true reclining seats, an optional infant sling, durable fabrics, the best adjustable sunshade and rain cover available, and ample interior height, the Cross is simply in a class of its own.
The Cross is intelligently designed with onboard storage for both stroller and jogger conversion kits, allowing for spontaneous transitions between activities while you’re out. (And conveniently, these kits don’t encroach on your regular storage space!) For added safety in jogging mode, particularly when navigating downhill, the Thule Chariot Cross is uniquely equipped with an optional rear-wheel hand brake upgrade.
What about the closely related Thule Chariot Sport and Thule Chariot Lite? The Lite is a slightly streamlined, more affordable version of the Cross, offering many of the same core features. Our detailed review comparing the Thule Chariot Cross vs. Thule Chariot Lite explores all their differences.
The Thule Chariot Sport includes several high-end “nice-to-have” upgrades not found on the Cross, but these may not be essential for all families. These upgrades include: (1) Removable side panels for increased ventilation, (2) Disc brakes on the rear wheels (most beneficial if you plan to use the jogging kit frequently), and (3) Extra-padded seats for ultimate comfort.
Burley D’Lite X
$899 (single), $999 (double)
BEST FOR: Families who want top performance for jogging, strolling, and biking, especially off the beaten path and on varied terrains.
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (3-wheel included, 4-wheel available), jogger, ski, fat tire kit
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: Yes (15 mph max)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Waterproof zippers for weather protection, all-terrain tires for varied surfaces, independently reclining seats for customized comfort, adjustable suspension to adapt to different loads, and a single stroller wheel that tucks away neatly.
View on Burley View on Amazon Our Review
Caption: A collage showcasing the Burley D’Lite X child bike trailer, emphasizing its all-terrain capabilities and robust features for adventurous families.
What We Love About the Burley D’Lite X
Available in both single and double capacity, the Burley D’Lite X is truly the queen of comfort and versatility, packed with standard features including independently reclining seats, premium seat padding, adjustable suspension, full-length tinted windows, aggressive-tread 20″ tires, and user-friendly quick receivers. These quick receivers make transitioning between trailer and stroller modes the easiest we’ve ever experienced!
Equipped with wider tires and a more aggressive tread pattern than the Thule Chariot Cross, the D’Lite X is particularly well-suited for families who frequently venture beyond paved paths. Burley also offers an optional 16″ fat tire kit upgrade, which has proven essential for our own backcountry adventures. To further enhance its versatility, the seats can be folded down to convert it into a cargo trailer or bike wagon, perfect for errands or hauling gear.
We also appreciate Burley’s commitment to sustainability; as of spring 2023, 55% of the soft goods in the Burley D’Lite X are made from recycled materials – primarily recycled plastic water bottles!
How to Choose the Best Kids Bike Trailer: Key Considerations
Whether you plan to use your bike trailer solely for biking or also as a stroller or jogger, there are 15 crucial factors to consider to help you choose the best trailer for your family’s needs: 1) trailer type, 2) budget, 3) infant compatibility, 4) single or double capacity, 5) weight capacity, 6) seat type, 7) wheels, 8) external covers & venting, 9) suspension, 10) storage, 11) stroller wheel attachments, 12) stroller brakes, 13) adjustable handlebars, 14) folding mechanism, 15) hitch style.
Caption: Essential features to consider when buying a child bike trailer, including stroller handlebar, seat type, suspension system, trailer type, cabin dimensions, wheel size, brake system, and stroller wheel types, exemplified by the Burley Honey Bee bike stroller.
1. Trailer Type – Intended Use: Bike, Stroller, Jogger, Ski?
Beyond the standard bike trailer, many models offer conversion to 3-wheeled or 4-wheeled strollers, joggers, and even ski trailers! Generally, there are three main types of trailers:
- Multi-Sport (Bike, stroll, jog, ski)
- Trailer + Stroller
- Trailer Only
The ideal child bike trailer for you will be the one that best aligns with your intended uses. Trailers with included or optional upgrades for strolling and jogging are perfect for active families who want a versatile piece of equipment for multiple activities. Other families may prefer dedicated bike trailers and separate strollers or joggers.
Before you start your search, think realistically about the activities you plan to do with your children. This will help you narrow down your options and choose a trailer that truly meets your needs.
If you are still unsure if a bike trailer is the right choice, explore our guide to 8 different styles of bike carriers for babies and kids.
2. Budget – Bike Trailer Options for Every Price Range
Child bike trailers span a wide price range, from around $100 to over $1,000. Generally, the price reflects the trailer’s quality and performance. Higher-end trailers offer more features and provide a smoother, more comfortable ride for both the parent and child, but they represent a larger investment.
Lower-priced trailers are adequate for families primarily riding on smooth paved surfaces but often lack many of the safety and comfort features found in mid-range and higher-end models. Top-tier brands known for quality include Thule Chariot and Burley, with Hamax and Wike also offering excellent options.
The best trailers are characterized by being easier and smoother to pull, offering enhanced comfort for children, providing additional upgrades like hand brakes and drink consoles, and often including stroller or jogger conversion capabilities. Similar to car features, the top-of-the-line child bike trailers come with the most advanced and desirable features.
Benefits of Investing in a Higher-Priced Bike Trailer
Caption: A comparison chart highlighting the feature differences between budget-friendly and premium child bike trailers, emphasizing the value of investing in quality.
Any trailer from brands like Thule, Burley, or Hamax will generally be far superior to most other trailers on the market. However, they also come at a higher cost. With bike trailers, you truly get what you pay for. If you anticipate frequent use, investing in the best quality you can afford is highly recommended.
For those on a tighter budget, at a minimum, we recommend choosing a pull-behind bike trailer equipped with 20″ wheels and metal rims. Many budget trailers feature smaller 16″ wheels with plastic rims, which are lower in quality and result in a bumpier ride.
16″ Wheels with Plastic Rims vs. 20″ Wheels with Metal Rims: Key Differences
3. Baby Bike Trailer Inserts and Age Restrictions
It is crucial to understand that you cannot safely pull a baby in a bike trailer until they reach 1 year of age. However, if you are using your trailer as a stroller, you can stroll with an infant as young as 6 weeks old, provided you use appropriate infant support.
In such cases, you will need a baby insert to ensure your infant’s head and neck are properly supported. These inserts are typically usable until your baby is at least 6 months old, and often longer.
From personal experience, the baby insert in my Thule Chariot Cross was an invaluable baby accessory. It allowed me to resume an active lifestyle just 6 weeks after childbirth. Burley’s Baby Insert offers similar support, but it prevents folding the trailer when installed. The Burley Baby Snuggler does allow folding with it installed but is less supportive and recommended for babies 3 months and older.
Not all trailers offer baby insert upgrades. Thule, Burley, and Hamax trailer/strollers are your best choices if you plan to use your trailer as a stroller with a young baby.
Learn more about the benefits in our article on the advantages of the Thule infant sling for new moms!
Caption: A comparison collage of two popular baby bike trailer inserts: the Burley Baby Supporter and the Thule Infant Sling, illustrating options for safe infant transport.
4. Single Bike Trailer vs. Double Bike Trailer
If you primarily have one child, a single bike trailer is likely the most practical choice. Single trailers are narrower and lighter than double trailers, making them easier to pull and maneuver.
Double bike trailers are ideal for growing families or those who want the flexibility to carry two children, a friend, or extra cargo. Keep in mind that most double trailers do NOT have a center buckle, so a single child in a double trailer must sit on the right side. This can actually result in less personal space for the child, as they are positioned very close to the side of the trailer. Single trailers offer more room for one passenger to sit comfortably on either side.
Caption: Visual comparison of passenger space in a single Thule Chariot Cross and a double Burley Encore X bike trailer, highlighting differences in width and seating.
Internal Cabin Dimensions
The interior cabin dimensions of trailers can vary significantly. Even a few inches difference can make a notable impact on headroom and shoulder space, especially for older or taller children.
The Burley Bee offers exceptional vertical space, while the Schwinn Trailblazer is comparatively short. The Burley D’Lite X models feature bowed-out sides, providing extra shoulder room for older riders. WIKE trailers are generally larger overall, designed to accommodate children older than 5, particularly those with special needs.
Always check and compare the shoulder width and sitting height specifications of different child bike trailers to ensure your chosen model will comfortably fit your child for as long as they need to ride with you.
Caption: A side-by-side comparison of the interior space in the Hamax Outback and Burley DLite X child bike trailers, emphasizing the spaciousness of each model.
5. Trailer Weight Capacity
Weight capacity figures listed on manufacturer websites can sometimes be misleading. Most single trailers state a weight capacity of around 75 pounds, while double trailers often cite 100 pounds. Smaller, lower-end trailers may have even lower total weight limits.
However, the stated weight capacity typically includes the combined weight of children and cargo. It’s crucial to understand that trailers are safety-rated for a specific maximum child weight. For example, the Burley D’Lite single has a total weight capacity of 75 pounds, but a maximum child weight of only 40 pounds! The Burley D’Lite X double has a 100-pound total capacity, but a maximum combined child weight of 80 lbs.
These more detailed weight limits are usually found in user manuals, which are available for download. Never assume that the weight limit listed on a manufacturer’s website refers solely to the weight of the child passengers.
6. Seat Type – Hammock vs. Bench Seats
Hammock Seats: Budget-friendly trailers typically use “hammock-style” seating, which consists of a piece of fabric stretched tautly across the trailer frame. These seats generally sag in the middle and provide minimal support.
Bench Seats: Found in higher-end trailers, bench seats are padded and structured to prevent sagging. These supportive seats are significantly more comfortable overall and also offer more legroom for passengers. Bench seats also make it much easier to load and unload children, as the bench supports their weight, facilitating easier buckling.
7. Wheels & Maximum Speeds
Child bike trailers are available with either 16″ or 20″ wheels. Upgrading to 20″ wheels is highly recommended as they absorb road bumps much more effectively than 16″ tires, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride for both the parent and child. To reduce costs, trailers with 16″ tires often use plastic rims, which are susceptible to cracking and warping.
20″ tires paired with metal rims offer the best performance and are available across all price ranges. Trailers with 20″ tires generally have a maximum recommended speed of 15 mph, while those with 16″ tires are typically limited to 10 mph.
Caption: A side-by-side comparison of a 20-inch wheel with metal rims versus a 16-inch wheel with plastic rims on a child bike trailer, illustrating wheel quality differences.
8. External Covers – Weather Protection
Rain Covers
While riding in the rain is rarely planned, keeping your child dry and comfortable is a priority, especially in wetter climates. Almost all bike trailers come equipped with an integrated rain cover that can be rolled up and stored when not needed. Rain covers on lower-end models typically secure with elastic bands, while mid-range and high-end models often use zippers for a more secure and weatherproof closure.
Burley trailers, based in the rainy Pacific Northwest, offer excellent weather protection with zippered rain covers on their Encore X, D’Lite X, and Cub X models. The Bee and Honey Bee models use a simpler Velcro system.
Caption: The rain cover deployed on a Burley Encore X child bike trailer, demonstrating effective weather protection for passengers.
Thule’s entry-level and mid-range Coaster, Cadence, and Cheetah XT models feature rain covers that attach with Velcro. In contrast, the high-end Lite and Cross models come with a fully removable rain cover secured by elastic bands. Thule’s removable rain cover completely encloses the top and sides of the trailer, offering superior protection from rain, wind, and cold.
Canopy/Sunshade
To shield children’s eyes from direct sunlight, high-end trailers are equipped with sunshades. Burley’s sunshade system is built-in and slides up and down on the D’Lite X and Cub X models, while it is stationary on the Burley Encore X.
The Thule Chariot’s high-end sunshade is designed to snap on and off and slides up and down the front metal rails of the trailer. It is notably longer than Burley’s and is considered the best sunshade available on the market. In our opinion, its superior design is a compelling reason to upgrade to a Thule Chariot Cross or Lite.
Caption: A comparison of sunshade designs on the Thule Chariot Cross versus the Burley D’Lite X child bike trailers, highlighting differences in sun protection features.
Windows
The side windows on all child bike trailers are made of plastic. UV-blocking windows are a feature of all Burley and Thule trailers but are not typically found on entry-level trailers from brands like Allen or InStep.
Caption: Side-by-side view comparing UV-protective windows on a Thule Cadence child bike trailer with non-UV windows on an Allen Sports trailer, illustrating window feature differences.
9. Suspension – Is it Necessary?
Suspension can significantly impact ride quality, potentially transforming a bumpy, uncomfortable journey into a smooth, enjoyable experience – and preventing those “I want to go home!” moments. For families who primarily ride on smooth pavement, suspension may not be a critical feature. However, for those who frequently ride on varied or uneven surfaces, suspension can be a game-changer.
Several different suspension systems are used in bike trailers, but in our testing, we haven’t found a significant difference in their performance. Adjustable suspension is offered on models like the Burley D’Lite X, Cub X, Thule Chariot Cross, and Hamax Outback. Adjustable suspension is particularly beneficial for families who may be carrying either very light or very heavy children, allowing for fine-tuning of the ride.
For the average family transporting one or two children of average weight, the non-adjustable suspension systems found on models like the Thule Chariot Lite and Burley Encore X are generally sufficient.
10. Storage – How Much Cargo Space Do You Need?
The amount of storage space you need in a child bike trailer largely depends on personal preference and typical use. However, in our experience, it’s always better to have more storage than you initially think you might need! We’ve often found ourselves hauling scooters, balance bikes, helmets, basketballs, lunches, and layers of clothing for the whole family.
The design and shape of the trailer significantly influence the available storage space. Burley’s storage area, known for its spacious and flat-bottomed design, is larger than most and is particularly useful for carrying bulkier items like scooters after school drop-offs. If you’re riding without children, the seats in Burley’s “X” series trailers can be folded down to convert the entire unit into a bike wagon or cargo trailer.
The storage area on the Thule Chariot Lite and Cross is considerably smaller, which contributes to the trailer being less bulky overall.
Handlebar consoles are also available as accessories for convenient storage of smaller items like water bottles, keys, and phones while in stroller or jogger mode. Both Burley and Thule offer handlebar consoles as optional upgrades. Thule’s console attaches to the trailer frame and remains stationary even when the handlebar is adjusted or flipped for trailer mode. Burley’s console stretches between the handlebars and moves with the handlebar as it is adjusted or flipped.
11. Stroller Wheel Attachments
Bike trailers can be much more than just a cart for kids to pull behind a bike. Outside of cycling, strolling is a very popular activity. The type of stroller conversion available on bike trailers varies greatly. If you plan to use your trailer frequently as a stroller, ensure you choose a model that converts to the type of stroller functionality you desire.
Caption: Examples of four distinct types of stroller wheel attachments for child bike trailers, showcasing the variety of stroller conversion options.
(1) Tow Arm Swivel Wheel
This type features a small, plastic swivel wheel attached to the end of the trailer arm. It flips up and out of the way for bike trailer use and flips down to convert to stroller mode. When used as a stroller, the trailer arm extends approximately 1.5 feet beyond the trailer cabin, which may not be ideal in crowded spaces. Examples include the InStep Sierra Double and the Burley Honey Bee.
The quality of this setup is quite basic on less expensive trailers like InStep or Schwinn, but it functions very smoothly on higher-end trailers. This style of wheel comes standard on all Burley trailers that offer stroller conversion.
(2) Attached Single Swivel Wheel
Very similar to the tow arm swivel stroller, but this wheel is attached to the trailer body rather than the trailer arm. It pushes smoothly and easily but is not as maneuverable as four wheels, especially on uneven surfaces.
(3) Dual Swivel Bike Stroller Wheels
This is often considered the most functional and user-friendly stroller type. Two small, plastic wheels attach underneath the front of the trailer body. Because the wheels are tucked under the trailer, it offers excellent steering and maneuverability, similar to a traditional stroller. Thule Chariot bike trailer models come standard as a four-wheeled stroller, and Burley multi-sport trailers offer it as an upgrade.
(4) Jogging Kit
Jogging wheels are designed to track straight while running, so the front wheel does NOT swivel. A true jogging wheel is also at least 10″ in diameter and pneumatic (air-filled) to ensure smooth rolling at jogging speeds.
To steer a jogging trailer, you must press down on the handlebar to lift the front wheel off the ground and then pivot the trailer while the front jogging wheel is in the air. All multi-sport trailers offer the option to purchase a jogging wheel kit. Examples include the Thule Chariot Cross and the Burley Encore X.
12. Bike Trailer Stroller Brakes
All trailers sold with a stroller option are legally required to include a parking brake. The types of brakes range from a simple strap around a tire to hand-operated brakes on the handlebars. While brakes are of minimal concern when used solely as a trailer, a well-designed parking brake or hand brake can significantly enhance safety and convenience when used as a stroller or jogger.
Foot Brake
Similar to typical stroller brakes, foot brakes on bike trailer strollers are engaged with your foot and lock the rear tires. They do not slow the trailer down while in motion, serving only as a parking brake. Foot brakes are found on trailers across all price ranges and vary in design from a simple step-down lever to a slide mechanism at the base of the trailer.
Hand Brake
Designed to slow the trailer down rather than bring it to a complete stop, hand brakes can be invaluable for joggers and parents navigating hills in stroller mode. The most versatile hand brake is available as an upgrade for the Thule Chariot Lite and Cross models and can be used in both stroller and jogging modes. The Hamax Outback jogging upgrade is unique in that it includes a hand brake as standard, but it activates the front jogging wheel and cannot be used in stroller mode.
13. Adjustable Handlebars
An adjustable stroller handlebar significantly improves the usability of a trailer when used as a stroller or jogger. Most trailers offer at least two handlebar height settings, achieved by flipping the handlebar and reattaching it to the trailer frame.
The best bike trailers, including all Burley strollers, the Thule Chariot Cross and Lite, and the Hamax Outback, feature a swiveling handlebar that provides multiple height positions. Swivel handlebars are especially beneficial for couples with significant height differences. Multiple-height handlebars can be adjusted in seconds, while dual-height handlebars take a bit longer and offer less precise adjustment.
Caption: A side-by-side comparison of trailer handlebars, illustrating a dual-height handlebar setting versus a continuously adjustable handlebar for user comfort.
14. Folding Frame – How Compact is the Fold?
The ease of folding a trailer can greatly influence how often you use it. A trailer that is cumbersome to fold and transport might deter you from taking it out, even for planned adventures. The folded dimensions are also crucial, determining whether the trailer will fit in your vehicle for transport to trails or storage at home.
For example, our Thule Cross Single, even when folded, requires folding down the back seats of our Honda Pilot to fit it in our car. This means we lose passenger space when we want to bring our trailer along for family bike rides.
However, most modern child bike trailers are designed to fold in some manner to facilitate easier transportation and storage.
15. Hitch System
The design of the trailer hitch system directly impacts the smoothness of the ride for both you and your child. Many trailer companies (including InStep, Schwinn, and Allen Sports) use a standard hitch design.
Higher-end brands like Thule and Burley utilize their own unique hitch designs, engineered for a more precise fit. This results in reduced “give” and less pull-back sensation from the trailer while you ride. All hitch designs sold in the US are designed to flex, allowing the bike to be laid down on the ground without tipping the trailer over, which is essential for safe and easy loading and unloading of children.
Caption: A comparison of hitch connection systems on Burley and Thule child bike trailers, highlighting design variations in hitch mechanisms.
Further Reading on Child Bike Trailers
Burley vs. Thule Chariot Comparison Guide – A helpful comparison guide to assist you in choosing between these two leading brands, detailing the key differences between Thule Chariot and Burley bike trailers.
International Bike Fund – Child Bike Seats vs. Trailers for Infants: An insightful discussion from a non-profit international biking organization on the safety considerations of child bike seats versus trailers and trailer cycles for transporting infants.
