Riding with children and babies is easy, if you have the right equipment and cooperating children. There are three basic means of getting toddlers and small children around:
Bike Child Seat
A bike child seat can be attached to the rack of most bicycles. One child sits in the seat (with a helmet) and is strapped in. There is also a front mounted version available, but this is unusual in the US.
Pros of this method:
- child has lots of visibility (can even practice with turn signals)
- You could take the bicyle and child on BART
Cons:
- If the bicycle falls the child falls. This is the least safe method.
Crossing uneven surfaces can unbalance the bicycle rider
Not good for multiple errand trips, since the child must get out of the seat when the rider does. The bicycle cannot stand on its own with the child in the seat
Another storage method is needed for bags and toys - like a front basket or a small bag attaching to the back of the child seat.
Bike Child Trailer
A bicycle child trailer that attaches to the rear wheel area of the bicycle can hold 1 to 2 children under 80 lbs.
Pros of this method:
- Lots of storage capacity. Most trailers can fit a picnic basket, sand toys, diaper bag in the rear cargo area. The child seating area usually has pockets for books and toys and plenty of leg room.
- Safe, safe, safe. The trailer will not tip and its brightness is usually all drivers need to stay clear.
- Some have stroller attachments, so that bikes can be detached and trailer can continue to be used in crowded areas or festivals.
Cons:
- Helmets may be uncomfortable, because it may hit the back of the seating area (Some newer models provide extra helmet room, though.)
Tag-a-long/Trail-a-bike
A tag-a-long or trail-a-bike is another wheel, seat, handlebars and pedals that attach to the back of the adult bicycle. One child sits on the seat, just as though they were riding by themselves. They can often peddle and actual help! This is for an older child 4+.
Pros of this method:
- This is a good way to teach good riding techniques without worrying about the safety of a child riding out into traffic.
- With independent pedals, the child can actually assist the adult