Bike trailers for kids are a fantastic way for active families to include their toddlers and older children on bike rides. They offer a secure and stable alternative to child bike seats, allowing you to share your love of cycling with your young ones from an early age. For over 13 years, we at usabikers.net have been hands-on testing Kid Bike Trailers, putting over 40 different models through rigorous real-world use. From industry leaders like Thule and Burley to brands like Hamax, Schwinn, InStep, and Allen, we’ve accumulated countless miles – biking, running, walking, and even skiing – to bring you expert insights.
You might be wondering, what justifies the price difference between a budget-friendly $100 trailer and a premium $600 model? The answer lies in versatility, features, and performance. Some kid bike trailers are designed for leisurely rides on smooth, paved paths in ideal weather. Others are built to conquer diverse terrains, withstand various weather conditions, and even transform into strollers or joggers for year-round usability. And for families with infants, specific features are crucial for safely and comfortably including the youngest members. While these enhanced features come at a higher price point, they significantly expand the comfort, adaptability, and longevity of your kid bike trailer.
This comprehensive guide will break down the best kid bike trailers across different categories and price points, and equip you with the knowledge to choose the perfect trailer to suit your family’s needs and adventures.
| Bike Trailer Category | Why We Recommend It | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level: Bike Trailers Only | Ideal for casual riders seeking great value | $140 – $379+ |
| Entry-Level: Bike Trailer & Stroller Combos | Versatile and budget-friendly for dual functionality | $209 – $479+ |
| Mid-Range: Multi-Sport Trailers | Balances quality and features for active families | $649 – $749+ |
| High-End: Multi-Sport Trailers | Top-of-the-line performance and features for every adventure | $899 – $1,299+ |
Want a Visual Overview? Watch our Kid Bike Trailer Buying Guide video for a side-by-side comparison of key features including wheel size, stroller conversion options, and seat types. This visual guide will help you see the differences firsthand.
If you’re new to the world of bike trailers and need guidance, our detailed buying guide is here to assist! Click here to jump directly to our Bicycle Trailer Buying Guide and learn everything you need to know before making a decision.
And if you are also looking for a suitable bike to pull your new kid bike trailer, be sure to check out our 10 Best Bikes for Women page. Each bike on our list has been personally tested by our team to ensure quality and performance!
Top Kid Bike Trailer Picks by Price Category
Entry-Level Kid Bike Trailers – Trailer Only
For families who enjoy relaxed bike rides and prioritize value, entry-level bike trailers are an excellent choice. These trailers offer reliable performance without unnecessary frills, letting you enjoy family bike outings without breaking the bank. Priced accessibly, they deliver essential features for comfortable and safe rides on paved surfaces.
While numerous budget-friendly trailers are available online, especially on platforms like Amazon, we recommend caution. Many lack the quality and user-friendliness we consider essential. For dependable entry-level options, we advise sticking with trusted brands like Burley or Allen. These brands provide a balance of affordability and quality that ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for you and your child.
Burley Bee
$349 (single), $379 (double)
BEST FOR: Budget-conscious families seeking a dependable and easy-to-use kid bike trailer for regular rides.
CONVERSION KITS: None
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatibility: Yes (up to 15 mph)
STANDOUT FEATURES: UV-protective windows, robust build quality, exceptionally smooth towing, and folds easily for storage and transport.
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What We Love About the Burley Bee
The Burley Bee significantly surpasses typical budget trailers in quality and performance. While it represents a slightly higher investment than the absolute cheapest options, the Burley Bee justifies its price with superior durability, ease of operation, and enhanced safety features.
For families planning to bike frequently, the Bee’s enhanced design and features greatly improve both parent and child satisfaction. Its robust construction and durable polyester fabric ensure the Bee will endure years of use and multiple children.
The Burley Bee is available in both single and double configurations. For families needing to transport the trailer, the Burley Bee’s quick-fold design collapses in seconds, making it incredibly convenient for travel and storage.
Retrospec Rover Plus
$189 (single), $219 (double)
BEST FOR: Families desiring a comfortable, user-friendly, and easily foldable kid bike trailer.
CONVERSION KITS: None
WHEEL SIZE: 16″
eBIKE Compatibility: Not recommended
STANDOUT FEATURES: Generous rear storage, modern aesthetic, integrated helmet pocket, and adjustable height straps for growing children.
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What We Love About the Retrospec Rover Plus
The Retrospec Rover Plus stands out as a fantastic option for families prioritizing ease of folding and passenger comfort. It features a comfortably padded seat, adjustable shoulder straps to accommodate growing children, and a straightforward five-point harness system, all within a stylish, contemporary design.
Equipped with 16″ tires, the Rover Plus is best suited for relaxed neighborhood rides, with a recommended maximum speed of 10 mph. If you plan to ride at a slightly faster pace, the 20″ tires on the Allen Premier trailer (specifically the yellow version) increase the maximum speed to 15mph, which is the standard maximum for all kid bike trailers.
Like many trailers in this category, the Rover Plus has a weight limit of 40 lbs per seat. However, its cabin height is about 6 inches shorter than the Burley Bee. This means taller children might outgrow the cabin height before reaching the weight limit, so consider your child’s height when choosing.
Allen Sports Deluxe Steel Child Bike Trailer
$139
BEST FOR: Budget-conscious families seeking a basic, easy-to-use kid bike trailer for local use near home. (Less ideal for frequent transport in a car to trails.)
CONVERSION KITS: None
WHEEL SIZE: 16″
eBIKE Compatibility: No
STANDOUT FEATURES: Exceptional quality features for its very affordable price point.
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What We Love About the Allen Sports Deluxe Steel
The Allen Sports Deluxe Steel trailer is arguably the best kid bike trailer you can purchase for under $200. It provides a surprisingly smooth and quiet ride compared to other budget brands. Its harness and padded seat are also noticeably more comfortable and of higher quality than those found on trailers from InStep, Schwinn, and Retrospec in the same price range.
Compared to the slightly more expensive Allen Premier Trailer Stroller, the Deluxe features smaller 16″ wheels, which limit the recommended top speed to 10 mph. Its cabin is also shorter, making it less ideal for older or taller children who might need more headroom.
Entry-Level Kid Bike Trailer Strollers
For active families, the ability to convert your kid bike trailer into a stroller is incredibly convenient. Imagine biking to a local market or park – upon arrival, simply detach the trailer from your bike, deploy the stroller wheel, and you’re ready to walk! This dual functionality adds significant versatility to entry-level trailers.
Burley Honey Bee
$479 (double)
BEST FOR: Families who appreciate the convenience of occasionally using their kid bike trailer as a stroller.
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (included)
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatibility: Yes (up to 15 mph)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Integrated stroller wheel that stores on the tow arm when not in use, adjustable handlebar height for parent comfort, and ample storage space.
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What We Love About the Burley Honey Bee
The Honey Bee combines everything we love about the standard Bee model with the added benefit of stroller functionality. The included stroller wheel is basic in design and attaches to the end of the trailer arm, but it easily pivots up and out of the way when you’re biking. The Honey Bee excels in quality, design, practicality, and ease of use, making it a top choice in its category. Notably, the Honey Bee is exclusively available as a double trailer stroller.
Allen Sports Premier
$210 (double)
BEST FOR: Budget-minded families seeking a capable kid bike trailer with basic stroller functionality.
CONVERSION KITS: 3-wheel stroller on chassis (included)
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatibility: No
STANDOUT FEATURES: Large 20″ wheels with metal rims for smoother rides, and a higher maximum speed rating than the Allen Deluxe Trailer.
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What We Love About the Allen Sports Premier
The Allen Sports Premier trailer offers an unexpectedly roomy and spacious interior, comparable to more expensive models. It provides ample headroom and a generously padded, hammock-style seat to ensure a comfortable ride for children. Beyond its smooth and stable towing performance, this Premier kid bike trailer features a user-friendly 5-point harness system that is significantly superior in quality to those found in Schwinn bike trailers and other budget options.
For those aiming to spend under $300 on a kid bike trailer, the Allen Sports Premier stands out. In direct comparisons with Schwinn and InStep trailers, we consistently found that Allen Sports trailers offer smoother towing, are easier for loading and unloading children, feature higher-quality harness systems, and include extended helmet pockets for enhanced comfort for both younger and older kids.
Mid-Range Kid Bike Trailers – Multi-Sport
For families who demand high quality but are willing to forgo some premium features like adjustable suspension and reclining seats to manage costs, mid-range kid bike trailers strike the perfect balance. These trailers are still compatible with stroller and jogger conversion kits, making them a more economical choice for multi-sport enthusiasts. They provide a robust and versatile option for biking, strolling, and jogging, without the top-tier price tag.
Burley Encore X
$649
BEST FOR: Active families who frequently bike, stroll, and jog and seek high performance without the extra cost of premium features.
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (3-wheel included), jogger, ski
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatibility: Yes (up to 15 mph)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Supportive bench-style seats, integrated suspension for smoother rides, sunshade, exceptionally smooth towing, and abundant storage capacity.
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What We Love About the Burley Encore X
The Burley Encore X stands out with its high-quality, durable components that make it a pleasure for parents to use and create a supremely comfortable environment for children. Featuring bench-style seating and a premium harness system, getting kids in and out of the trailer is effortless. The Encore X is Burley’s most affordable trailer to include suspension, enhancing ride comfort over varied terrain.
UV-protective windows and an integrated sunshade shield sensitive skin from harsh sunlight, while a thoughtfully designed mesh cup holder makes it easy for little passengers to access drinks and snacks. These well-considered details contribute to an exceptional kid bike trailer experience at a reasonable price. Similar to the higher-end Burley D’Lite X, the Encore X’s seats can be folded down, transforming it into a practical bike wagon for hauling cargo.
Hamax Outback
$699 (single), $749 (double)
BEST FOR: Families needing an easy-to-handle trailer that also excels as a stroller, with extra headroom ideal for taller children.
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (3-wheel included), jogger, ski
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatibility: Yes (up to 15 mph)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Tallest interior cabin in its class, adjustable suspension for customized comfort, rubber floor mat for easy cleaning, sleek European design, and thickly cushioned tires.
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What We Love About the Hamax Outback
The Hamax Outback is sleek, modern, and surprisingly agile – the SUV of kid bike trailers. It offers the most interior headroom in its category, along with adjustable suspension, extra-thick tires for enhanced cushioning, a plush interior, and supportive seats, ensuring an exceptionally comfortable ride for passengers.
While its performance as a bike trailer isn’t quite as smooth as Burley or Thule models (and it is notably heavier), it transforms into a dream stroller. The Outback also boasts excellent ventilation and a convenient peek-through window at the top, enhancing the overall experience for both parent and child.
High-End Kid Bike Trailers – Multi-Sport
These represent the pinnacle of kid bike trailers – offering comprehensive features and exceptional performance in every activity. From adjustable sunshades and reclining seats to UV-protective windows and versatile conversion kits, high-end trailers are built to be the most durable and well-engineered options on the market.
They are not only the best kid bike trailers but also the best bike trailer strollers and bike trailer joggers available. While they come with a significant investment, their longevity and versatility ensure they will serve your family for years of adventures to come!
These multi-sport trailers are often chosen for more adventurous activities like bike packing, snow fat biking, and cross-country skiing, demonstrating their adaptability and robust construction.
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 bike trailer. Also our top recommendation for a ski trailer. (Available as a single only!)
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (included), jogger, ski
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatibility: Yes (up to 15 mph)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Reclining seats for napping comfort, plush padded seats, adjustable suspension for all terrains, top-view window for interaction, infant sling compatibility for stroller mode, and the best weather protection covers available.
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What We Love About the Chariot Cross
The newly updated Thule Chariot Cross 2 is undeniably the highest quality kid bike trailer money can buy, offering unparalleled handling and performance. With enhancements like an upgraded hitch, adjustable suspension, true reclining seats, optional infant sling, durable fabrics, the best adjustable sunshade and rain cover in the market, and generous 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 while you’re out and about. (And these kits don’t encroach on your regular storage space!) For enhanced braking power in jogging mode, the Thule Chariot Cross is uniquely equipped to offer a rear-wheel hand brake upgrade.
Considering the very similar Thule Chariot Sport and Thule Chariot Lite? The Lite is a slightly streamlined, more affordable version of the Cross. Our detailed comparison review of the Thule Chariot Cross vs. Thule Chariot Lite breaks down all their differences.
The Thule Chariot Sport includes a few high-end “nice-to-have” upgrades not found on the Cross, which may not be essential for most families. These upgrades include: (1) Removable side panels for enhanced ventilation, (2) Disc brakes on the rear wheels (most beneficial if you plan to use the jogging kit upgrade), and (3) Extra-padded seats for ultimate comfort.
Burley D’Lite X
$899 (single), $999 (double)
BEST FOR: Families wanting top performance for jogging, strolling, and biking, especially off the beaten path and on varied terrain.
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (3-wheel included, 4-wheel available), jogger, ski, fat tire kit
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatibility: Yes (up to 15 mph)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Waterproof zippers for all-weather use, all-terrain tires for varied surfaces, reclining seats for passenger comfort, adjustable suspension, and a single stroller wheel that conveniently tucks away when not in use.
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What We Love About the Burley D’Lite X
The Burley D’Lite X, available in double capacity, is truly the queen of comfort and versatility. Standard features include independently reclining seats, premium seat padding, adjustable suspension, full-length tinted windows, aggressive-tread 20″ tires, and user-friendly quick receivers that make transitioning between trailer and stroller modes incredibly easy.
With wider tires and a more aggressive tread pattern than the Thule Cross, the D’Lite X excels for families who frequently venture off paved paths. Burley also offers an optional 16″ fat tire kit, which has proven invaluable for our backcountry adventures. Further enhancing its adaptability, the seats can be folded down to convert the trailer into a cargo carrier or bike wagon.
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 from recycled plastic water bottles!
How to Choose the Best Kid Bike Trailer
Whether you plan to use your kid bike trailer primarily for biking, or also as a stroller or jogger, there are 15 key factors to consider when selecting the best model for your family: 1) trailer type, 2) budget, 3) infant compatibility, 4) single or double capacity, 5) weight capacity, 6) seat type, 7) wheels, 8) weather protection & ventilation, 9) suspension, 10) storage, 11) stroller wheel attachments, 12) stroller brakes, 13) adjustable handlebars, 14) folding mechanism, 15) hitch style.
1. Trailer Type – How Will You Use Your Kid Bike Trailer?
Beyond the standard bike trailer, many models offer conversion to 3-wheeled or 4-wheeled strollers, joggers, and even ski trailers! There are three main categories of kid bike trailers based on functionality:
- Multi-Sport (Bike, Stroll, Jog, Ski): The most versatile, designed for a range of activities.
- Trailer + Stroller: Combines biking and strolling capabilities.
- Trailer Only: Designed solely for biking.
The ideal kid bike trailer for you is 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 to use one piece of equipment for multiple activities. Other families may prefer dedicated bike trailers and separate strollers or joggers.
Before you start shopping, realistically assess the activities you plan to do with your children. This will help you narrow down your choices and purchase a trailer that truly meets your specific needs.
If you’re 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 – Balancing Cost and Quality in Kid Bike Trailers
Kid bike trailers range in price from around $100 to over $1,000. Generally, the price reflects the trailer’s quality and performance. Higher-end trailers offer more features and a smoother, more comfortable ride for both parent and child, but they represent a larger financial commitment.
Lower-end trailers can be sufficient for families primarily riding on smooth paved surfaces. However, they often lack the safety and comfort features found in mid-range and high-end models. Leading brands known for quality include Thule Chariot and Burley, with Hamax and Wike also offering excellent options.
The best kid bike trailers are characterized by smoother and easier towing, enhanced comfort features for children, available upgrades like hand brakes and drink consoles, and the ability to convert into strollers or joggers. Similar to car features, top-of-the-line kid bike trailers offer premium features that enhance usability and enjoyment.
Advantages of Investing in a Higher-Priced Kid Bike Trailer
Trailers from brands like Thule, Burley, or Hamax consistently outperform most other trailers on the market. While they come at a higher cost, with kid bike trailers, you truly get what you pay for. If you anticipate frequent use, investing in a higher-quality trailer is highly recommended.
For those on a tighter budget, at a minimum, we advise choosing a pull-behind bike trailer with 20″ wheels and metal rims. Many budget trailers feature 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: The difference in ride quality and durability is significant.
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 using your trailer as a stroller, you can use it with infants as young as 6 weeks old, provided you use appropriate infant support.
For stroller use with infants, a baby insert is essential to provide proper head and neck support. These inserts are typically used until the baby is at least 6 months old, and sometimes longer depending on the insert and the baby’s development.
From personal experience, the baby insert in my Thule Chariot Cross was an invaluable baby item. It allowed me to resume an active lifestyle just 6 weeks after childbirth. Burley’s Baby Insert offers similar support but doesn’t allow the trailer to be folded when installed. The Burley Baby Snuggler does allow folding, but is less supportive and is recommended for use from 3 months old.
Not all kid bike trailers are compatible with baby insert upgrades. Thule, Burley, and Hamax trailer/strollers are your best options if you plan to use your trailer as a stroller with a very young baby.
Learn more about the benefits in our article on the advantages of the Thule infant sling for new moms!
4. Single vs. Double Kid Bike Trailers
If you only plan to have one child, a single kid 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, bring along a friend, or have extra space for cargo. Note that most double trailers do NOT have a center buckle, so a single child riding in a double trailer should be seated on the right side. However, this can actually result in less personal space for the child as they are positioned closer to the trailer side. Single trailers offer more overall room for one passenger to sit comfortably on either side.
Internal Cabin Dimensions
The interior dimensions of kid bike trailers vary significantly. Even a few inches difference in cabin space can make a substantial difference in headroom and shoulder room, particularly for older or taller children.
The Burley Bee is known for its generous cabin height, while the Schwinn Trailblazer has a notably shorter cabin. The Burley D’Lite X models feature bowed-out sides to provide extra shoulder space for older children. WIKE trailers are generally larger overall to accommodate older children, including those with special needs who may use trailers beyond the typical age range.
Always check and compare the shoulder width and sitting height specifications of different kid bike trailers to ensure your chosen model will comfortably fit your child as long as you intend for them to ride in it.
5. Kid Bike Trailer Weight Capacity
The weight capacity listed by manufacturers can be misleading. Most single trailers state a weight capacity of 75 pounds, while double trailers often list 100 pounds. Smaller, budget-oriented trailers may have even lower total weight capacities.
However, this stated weight usually includes the combined weight of children and cargo. Kid bike trailers are safety-rated for a specific maximum child weight, which is often lower than the total capacity. For example, the Burley D’Lite single has a 75-pound total capacity but a maximum child weight of 40 pounds! The Burley D’Lite X double trailer has a 100-pound total capacity, with a maximum combined child weight of 80 lbs.
These more specific child weight limits are typically found in user manuals, which are usually available for download on the manufacturer’s website. Never assume that the weight limit listed on a product page refers solely to the weight of the child passengers. Always consult the user manual for accurate child weight limits.
6. Seat Type – Hammock vs. Bench Seats in Kid Bike Trailers
Hammock Seats: Budget kid bike trailers generally use “hammock-style” seating. This design consists of a piece of fabric stretched tightly across the trailer frame. Hammock seats tend to sag in the middle and offer less overall support.
Bench Seats: Found in higher-end trailers, bench seats feature a padded, structured seat that prevents sagging. These supportive seats are more comfortable for children and also provide more legroom. Bench seats also simplify loading and unloading children, as the seat supports their weight, making harness buckling easier.
7. Wheels & Maximum Speeds for Kid Bike Trailers
Kid bike trailers are available with either 16″ or 20″ wheels. Upgrading to 20″ wheels is worthwhile as they absorb road bumps much more effectively than 16″ tires. This results in a smoother, more comfortable ride for both the parent pulling the trailer and the child passenger. To reduce costs, trailers with 16″ tires often use plastic rims, which are prone to cracking and warping over time.
20″ tires paired with metal rims offer the best performance and are available across all price ranges. Trailers with 20″ tires typically have a maximum recommended speed of 15 mph, while those with 16″ tires are generally limited to 10 mph.
8. External Covers – Weather Protection for Kid Bike Trailers
Rain Covers
While riding in the rain is rarely planned, having effective rain protection is important, especially in wet climates. Almost all kid bike trailers come with an integrated rain cover that can be rolled up and stored when not needed. Lower-end models often use elastic bands to secure the rain cover, while mid-range and high-end models typically use zippers for a more secure and weatherproof closure.
Burley trailers, based in the rainy Pacific Northwest, excel in weatherproofing. Their Encore X, D’Lite X, and Cub X models feature zippered rain covers for superior protection. The Bee and Honey Bee models use a simpler Velcro system.
Thule’s entry-level and mid-range Coaster, Cadence, and Cheetah XT models use Velcro-secured rain covers. In contrast, the high-end Lite and Cross models feature a fully removable rain cover secured by elastic bands. Thule’s removable design completely encloses the top and sides of the trailer, offering exceptional protection from rain, wind, and cold.
Canopy/Sunshade
To shield children’s eyes from bright sunlight, high-end kid bike trailers include sunshades. Burley’s sunshade system is built-in and slides up and down on the D’Lite X and Cub X models. On the Burley Encore X, the sunshade is stationary.
The Thule Chariot’s high-end sunshade is detachable and slides up and down along the front metal rails of the trailer. It’s significantly longer than Burley’s sunshades and is arguably the best sunshade available on any kid bike trailer. For many parents, this superior sun protection alone justifies upgrading to a Thule Chariot Cross or Lite.
Windows
The side windows on all kid bike trailers are made of plastic. UV-blocking windows are standard on all Burley and Thule trailers, but are not typically found on entry-level trailers from brands like Allen or InStep. UV-protective windows help shield children from harmful sun rays during rides.
9. Suspension – Is it Necessary for a Kid Bike Trailer?
Suspension can significantly impact the ride comfort of a kid bike trailer, making the difference between a smooth, enjoyable ride and a bumpy, less pleasant experience. For families primarily riding on smooth pavement, suspension may not be a critical feature. However, for those frequently riding on uneven surfaces or trails, suspension can be a game-changer.
Several different suspension systems are used in kid bike trailers, and in our testing, we haven’t found significant performance differences between them. Adjustable suspension is available on models like the Burley D’Lite X, Cub X, Thule Chariot Cross, and Hamax Outback. Adjustable suspension is particularly beneficial for families who frequently carry either very light or very heavy children, allowing for customized ride tuning.
For the average family typically carrying one or two children of average weight, the non-adjustable suspension systems found on models like the Thule Chariot Lite and Burley Encore X generally provide sufficient ride comfort.
10. Storage – How Much Cargo Space Do You Need in a Kid Bike Trailer?
The amount of storage space you need in a kid bike trailer is largely a matter of personal preference and typical use. However, we generally recommend erring on the side of more storage than you initially think you might need! You might find yourself frequently hauling items like scooters, balance bikes, helmets, sports equipment, lunches, and extra layers of clothing for the whole family.
The shape and design of the trailer significantly influence available storage space. Burley’s spacious, flat-bottomed storage area is larger than most and is particularly useful for carrying bulkier items like scooters after dropping kids off at school. On Burley’s “X” model trailers, the seats can be folded down, converting the entire trailer into a bike wagon or cargo trailer for maximum hauling capacity.
The storage area on the Thule Chariot Lite and Cross is noticeably smaller but contributes to a less bulky and more streamlined trailer design.
Handlebar consoles offer convenient, easily accessible storage for smaller items like water bottles, keys, and phones when using the trailer 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 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, maintaining easy access regardless of handlebar position.
11. Stroller Wheel Attachments for Kid Bike Trailers
Kid bike trailers can be much more than just a bike attachment for kids. Strolling is a popular activity for families, and the stroller functionality of a kid bike trailer greatly expands its versatility. The type of stroller conversion available varies widely among models. If you plan to use your trailer frequently as a stroller, ensure you choose a model that converts to the type of stroller that meets your needs.
(1) Tow Arm Swivel Wheel
This type features a small, plastic swivel wheel attached directly to the end of the trailer tow 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 be less ideal for crowded spaces. Examples include the InStep Sierra Double and the Burley Honey Bee.
The quality of this stroller setup varies. On budget trailers like InStep or Schwinn, the stroller wheel functionality can be quite basic. However, on higher-end trailers, it functions much more smoothly. This style of stroller wheel comes standard on all Burley trailers that offer stroller conversion.
(2) Attached Single Swivel Wheel
Similar to the tow arm swivel stroller, this type features a single swivel wheel, but it attaches to the body of the trailer rather than the tow arm. It pushes smoothly and easily, but maneuverability isn’t as sharp as four-wheeled strollers, especially on uneven surfaces.
(3) Dual Swivel Bike Stroller Wheels
This is generally considered the most functional and user-friendly stroller type for kid bike trailers. Two small, plastic swivel wheels attach beneath the front of the trailer body. The tucked-in wheel placement enhances steering and maneuverability, making it easy to navigate tight spaces. Thule Chariot bike trailer models come standard with this four-wheeled stroller configuration, and Burley multi-sport trailers offer it as an upgrade.
(4) Jogging Kit
Jogging kits are designed for running and typically feature a single front wheel that is fixed in place for straight-line tracking. A true jogging wheel is also at least 10″ in diameter and pneumatic (air-filled) to provide smooth rolling at jogging speeds.
To turn a jogging trailer, you must apply pressure to the handlebar to lift the front wheel slightly off the ground, allowing you to pivot the trailer while the front wheel is raised. All multi-sport trailers offer the option to purchase a jogging wheel kit separately. Examples include the Thule Chariot Cross and the Burley Encore X.
12. Bike Trailer Stroller Brakes
All kid bike trailers that are sold with a stroller option are legally required to include a parking brake. The types of brakes range from a simple strap that wraps around a tire to more sophisticated hand brakes mounted on the handlebars. While brakes are less critical when used as a bike trailer, a well-designed parking or hand brake is invaluable for safety and control when using the trailer as a stroller or jogger.
Foot Brake
Similar to standard stroller brakes, foot brakes on kid bike trailer strollers are engaged with your foot and lock the rear wheels to prevent rolling. They are designed as parking brakes and are not intended to slow the trailer down while in motion. Foot brakes are found on trailers across all price ranges and vary in design, from simple push-down levers to slide-across mechanisms.
Hand Brake
Hand brakes are designed to slow the trailer down, rather than bring it to a complete stop. They are particularly useful for joggers and parents navigating hills in stroller mode, providing added control and safety. The most versatile hand brake is available as an optional 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 is not usable in stroller mode.
13. Adjustable Handlebars for Kid Bike Trailers
An adjustable stroller handlebar significantly enhances the usability of a kid bike trailer in stroller or jogger mode. Most trailers offer at least two handlebar height settings, achieved by flipping the handlebar and reattaching it to the trailer frame at a different height.
The best kid bike trailers, including all Burley strollers, the Thule Chariot Cross and Lite, and the Hamax Outback, feature a swiveling handlebar that provides a continuous range of height adjustments. Swivel handlebars are particularly ideal for couples with significant height differences, allowing each parent to set a comfortable pushing height. Multiple-height handlebars can be adjusted within seconds, while dual-height handlebars require a bit more time and may not offer as precise a fit.
14. Folding Frame – Portability and Storage of Kid Bike Trailers
The ease of folding a kid bike trailer and its folded dimensions are crucial factors, especially for families who need to transport their trailer frequently or have limited storage space. A trailer that is difficult to fold or bulky when folded might deter you from taking it out for rides.
For example, our Thule Cross Single, even when folded, requires us to fold down the back seat of our Honda Pilot to fit it in the car. This limits passenger capacity when we want to bring our trailer along on family bike trips.
However, most kid bike trailers are designed to fold in some manner to facilitate easier transportation and storage. Consider the folded size and folding mechanism when choosing a trailer to ensure it fits your vehicle and storage space, and that the folding process is user-friendly.
15. Hitch Style for Kid Bike Trailers
The design of the trailer hitch is a key factor in determining the smoothness of the ride for both you and your child. Most budget trailer brands (like InStep, Schwinn, and Allen Sports) use a standard, more universal hitch design.
High-end brands like Thule and Burley utilize their own unique hitch designs that are engineered for a more precise and secure fit. These brand-specific hitches typically result in less “give” and pull-back sensation from the trailer while riding, providing a more refined and comfortable towing experience. 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 a valuable feature for easy loading and unloading of children.
Related Kid Bike Trailer Articles
Burley vs. Thule Chariot Comparison Guide – A straightforward guide to help you choose between the two leading brands. We detail all the key differences between Thule Chariot and Burley kid bike trailers.
International Bike Fund – Child Bike Seats vs. Trailers for Infants: For an insightful discussion on the safety aspects of child bike seats versus trailers and trailer cycles, presented by a non-profit international biking advocacy group.
