Trail-a-Bike Buying Guide
No more trailing behind
Everyone who's had a child has been there. The youngster is enthusiastic about getting out on his new bike, but when you find yourself a ways from home, he doesn't have the juice left to pedal back. He's probably too old for a child bike trailer, but he clearly isn't ready to pilot himself home. The Trail-a-Bike, or tagalong bike, is the perfect solution for kids ranging in age from 3 to 10 years.
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Adams: The originator Adams is quite possibly the most well-known manufacturer of trail-a-bikes. In fact, they hold the name "trail-a-bike," while other firms call them "tagalongs" or simply "bike trailers." They offer an impressive variety of trail-a-bikes that go far beyond the basic model that allows your toddler to pedal behind. Their more advanced models feature 7 speed drivetrains and are designed for children weighing up to 85 pounds. For the most part, this means your child can use it up till about age 10. By then, it's likely your child will be adequate at pedaling alone, and soon after, will likely have no interest in biking with you, anyway. Other options include chain guards, smaller cranks, a folding frame, and a standard safety flag. Still more tagalongs Wee-ride and Schwinn also make excellent tagalong bikes for children up to about 9 years of age. Though their selection isn't quite as broad as that of Adams, each of their products is worthy of their brand name. Both adjust to accommodate a growing child, up to about a 70-pound weight capacity. They also feature quick attachments to the seat post, eliminating time in preparation and allowing an easy transition for when you want to pedal alone. |
Fringe benefits of the trail-a-bike
The benefits of using a trail-a-bike are tough to beat. Once the child reaches 3 years old, he or she is ready to balance on a seat, just not on a bike. By familiarizing your youngster with two wheel transportation, you'll be putting him or her way ahead of other kids who might be afraid of bikes. You'll also facilitate better family time and encourage exercise, enjoyment of the outdoors, and confidence.