Child Bike Seat Buying Guide
Start off with the basics
The first thing you'll want to think about is exactly how you want to share a bike riding experience with your child. Back in the 80s, the only common way to do it was a rear mounted plastic seat that faced the child forward. Nowadays that style is less common, but still available. Instead, forward facing child bike seats that straddle the center bar between the driver and the handlebars are becoming more popular. Naturally, these are growing in favor because it allows us to see the child without looking back and risking an accident.
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Also available, for a little more money, are child bike trailers, which trail behind the bike, typically on two large pneumatic wheels. You won't have to spend more than 200 dollars on a child bike seat that is mounted on the bike itself, but child bike trailers offer some important benefits that you should consider. The wide wheels add more stability to the bike and trailer, meaning spills are less likely and less dangerous when they occur. However, the added weight of a child bike trailer may make pedaling more difficult for the parent, possibly increasing risk. Once you decide between a child bike seat and a child bike trailer, you'll need to consider compatibility. Some people may not find it comfortable riding a standard bike with a front mounted child bike seat because their handlebars are too narrow. If your bike is a cruiser, with wide handlebars, this won't be a problem. Get to know your manufacturer A lot can be said about a product by whether a particular manufacturer has a well managed website, courteous customer service, and easily available instructions for their products. All of the names we endorse here can be thoroughly researched via the internet and have detailed instructions and descriptions of their products. You should become familiar with the vast array of features available for child bike seats and how prices measure up between manufacturers. |
How much use will you get?
Also consider the useful life of a child bike seat. They grow fast, as you know, and child bike seats typically are only good for up to about 40 pounds. Child bike trailers on the other hand, are designed for much more weight (that is, if you can tow it).
Understand safety features
The most important thing, of course, is that the child is properly strapped in the chair with a helmet and the chair is fixed firmly to the frame. Like car seats, these products are getting increasingly safer, but can sometimes be a little complicated. Make sure you understand how the safety mechanisms work, and if you don't, consult a customer service representative or a professional shop in your town.