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Step 1
amazon.comThe bike seat (ages 1 to 3). The bike seat is probably oldest and most popular of the massed produced "child on board" options. The traditional back seat (with the seat behind your seat) gives the grown-up a clear view ahead. Although it's impossible to watch the child and the road at the same time, back seats have worked well for many people for many years. The newer front seat option (for younger kids) has the advantage (and disadvantage) of placing the grown-up literally on top of the child (good for the child, harder on the grown-up). In addition, many front seats offer much less side protection for the child than most back seat options. With both front and back options, it's a long fall down. Loading, unloading, balancing, and riding will take a bit of practice. Check the straps before buying (child can fall out, or choke if helmet gets caught wrong). Also check child's position in the seat (proper back support, and what happens if the child falls asleep).
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Step 2
Burley.comThe bike trailer (cart). Riding with a bike cart attached is easy. If the grown-up bike falls or flips, your child isn't attached. Carts are roomy places to rest, but the air quality is not as good down low (near car exhaust). You'll also have to watch your side clearance when riding. Also consider the following: roll bar vs. none; soft floor that sags vs. better made brand name cart; wheels close to the body of cart vs. a big gap so wheel gets stuck on everything; safety straps vs. none; storage space?; protection from elements vs. are you kidding?; stroller conversion vs. who cares?; convenience of attachment link; and position of child in cart (slouched, room for feet, what happens if your child falls asleep?). If your child's not comfortable, he'll whine like crazy (and won't care how much you spent).
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Step 3
BurleyThird wheel tandem. Third wheels are add on devices which attach to the back of the primary grown-up bike. The child sits on a separate seat and pedals (or not) as they choose. These attachments are fairly easy to take off and put on, but even the best of them are relatively heavy and inefficient. Most kids never pull their weight. Depending on how hot it is outside, and how strong you are (or aren't), you might either find this infuriating or mildly entertaining. Parents with legs of steel can sometimes pull two darlings on a double without trouble. Others will carry a second child in a front seat, but this creates obvious balance and control issues. Keep in mind that all kid related extras must also be stored on the bike (if you don't want them on your back). Considerations include: weight; ease of connection; swivel joint (great) vs. non; position of child (too much reach); quality of seat (plastic, pleather, or leather); gears (do you need them?); and how much riding do you plan to do (if you are looking for an every day car alternative seriously consider spending more money for a more efficient option).
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Step 4
Joebike.comCargo bike. Cargo bikes are well loved by fitness oriented environmentally concerned families who use cargo bikes like a second car. Cargo bikes hold kids and other stuff in a hold which is usually mounted near a small wheel in the front of the vehicle. The best cargo bikes are marvelously efficient and easy to ride: they are no wider or heavier they necessary. Attachments and conversion kits, can be purchased for some models (including the one pictured) which can transform a "cargo box" (like that pictured) to "kid seat." Some "cargo bikes" come with padded seat options, as well as baby seat hook-in options. A cargo bike allows a grown-up to get exercise (taking the kids to soccer, baseball, or to the park) while the kids chill. For many kids it is best to relax (not pedal) between activities. Some parents will combine a cargo bike with a bike seat to accommodate a smaller child. However, an unmodified cargo box can be dangerous for kids under three or active children who might be tempted to stand up, jump out, or try something crazy. With so many exciting new models now available, it's up to the consumer to make sure that the bike is safe for their use.
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Step 5
countrymousekidst.comTandem bike. The tandem bike is a bike made for more than one. Look for a model that is especially made for a grown up and child team. It will be very adjustable. A well made tandem is much more efficient than a third wheel. It is a great option for families that want their child to ride. Many families add an additional child seat to also accommodate a younger sibling. Also, consider adding racks.
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Step 6
Extended backrack wheelbase (Extracycle). Many bikes can be modified so that the wheelbase is extended to accommodate a very long and wide backrack which will hold a child (or two) with kids holding on to a handlebar attached to the parent's seat. There is no side protection in case of a fall. Some parents mount a child seat attachment behind their back seat to accommodate littler kids. Kids riding directly on the board must be able to pay attention and hold on well (kids over 5). Due to safety concerns, most parents use ride with a kid on the board for short, traffic free, trips. The backracks were designed to hold side bags (not kids).
Comments
sonni57 said
on 9/25/2009 Great article on transporting children.