For many people, the arrival of children means the arrival of minivans and SUVs, and the retiring of two-wheeled transport. Fear not! There are plenty of ways that children and bikes can co-exist.
It’s generally not a good idea to transport babies and infants under 1 year of age by bike, because their little bodies can’t withstand the bumps and vibrations inherent with bicycle travel. Consult your doctor first, before transporting your child on your bike.
For children over one year of age, you may want to start with a rack mounted child carrier. Made out of moulded plastic and suitable for one child, the rack mounted carrier keeps your child close to you, and safely strapped onto the bike. Observe the manual for the carrier so it is mounted securely. Also make sure that your child is the right size for the carrier. If he or she is too large for it, then it’s time to move up to a bike trailer.
Child bike trailers are becoming very popular, and are available at nearly every store that sells bicycles. They typically hold one or two children (up to a certain weight limit), and some can even be adapted into strollers. A trailer will attach either to your seat post or to the rear axle. When not filled with kids, the trailer is a great way to transport groceries or other large items that won’t fit in a set of panniers.
Once your child is old enough to pedal for themselves, but not necessarily keep up with you, a “trail-a-bike” is probably your best bet. Essentially the rear half of a bicycle, the trail-a-bike attaches to your seat post and allows your child to pedal with you. What a great way to wear off some excess energy!
One last thing: Make sure your child always, always wears a properly fitted bicycle helmet! Even if they’re in a trailer, or going for a short ride around the neighbourhood, a bike helmet should be mandatory (and in most places, required by law). Follow all of the directions in the manual, and make sure that your child also knows how to properly wear their helmet.
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