Facts on a Pull-Behind Bike Trailer

A two-seater bike trailer

Bicycle shops regularly field queries from parents looking to make biking a family activity. Pull-behind bike trailers come in a variety of styles, and they tend to be safe and easy to use.

Types

There are two common types of pull-behind bike trailers. With the first, a child, pet or your items merely sit in a tent-like compartment. In the second, children can share in the workload with their own seats, pedals and handlebars.

Function

Pull-behind bike trailers can be used to tow kids, but they also come in handy for transporting pets, groceries and other items. The trailer-bike style allows children to be physically active on the ride.

Attachment

A trailer bike attaches to the seat post of an adult bike. The type of trailer that your child, pet, or goods sits in most often attaches where the axle fits into the rear wheel of your bicycle.

Safety

On both types of pull-behind bike trailers, it is important to attach a brightly colored flag that extends several feet toward the sky. Your child should always wear a helmet.

Other Uses

Some pull-behind trailers that aren't trailer bikes double as strollers.

References

• Burley Bicycle Trailers
• Adams Trail-a-Bike
• University of Michigan Health System: Safety Out and About