Do you want to get a bike trailer? If so, then you’ll want to keep a few tips in mind, in regards to cycling with it.
Bike trailers are fantastic additions for those with children and can really be significantly beneficial in terms of a family getting from A to B. They’re practical, good for your health and the children tend to love them.
However, you need to take precautions if cycling with a bicycle trailer. Here are some tips to get started with bicycle safety.
- Inspect The Brakes
You could be towing a lot of weight behind you. This means when you brake and come to a halt, you will end up feeling that weight if your brakes are not in good shape. Inspect your brakes and make sure they are in good working order.
- Maneuvering
What you want to do is get used to maneuvering. When you’re going around corners and bends, it may feel weird at first and you could end up clipping the curb every now and then, but you will get used to maneuvering. What you can do if you are not confident about being on the road is to get off and wheel your bike and trailer until you get to a point you feel comfortable riding. For example, if you’re approaching a bend, then get off your bike and wheel it until you are passed the bend and then jump right back onto it and continue on with your journey.
- Get A Cover
Buy a cover because you will need it, but you should invest in a waterproof storage cover because this will provide additional protection. The last thing you want is for your trailer to get soaking wet as a result of being left in a rainstorm. Sure, the best covers may seem a bit pricey, but they are well-worth the price because you will prolong the life of your trailer and enjoy it for years to come.
- Use Lights
If you leave your trailer in public spots, then don’t bother bringing along a flag pole. Instead of doing that, cover your trailer with lights, such as placing LEDs on the trailers valve caps. You can use reflective tape too or things of that nature. This will ensure your trailer is visible and less likely to be struck by an oncoming vehicle.
Your children will eventually grow up and when that time comes, you should give one of them your trailer. If you look after your trailer and take good care of it, then your kids will love owning it once you give it to them. You can give your trailer away to your friends too or let them borrow it for an extended period of time, but the choice is up to you. One thing is for sure, and that is whoever you give the trailer to will love it.
I was never brave enough to fight with my kiddo on the back. I really like these tips if I had known about them while ago I probably would have at least try. Thank you for the tips.
These are such great tips. I was always too afraid to go biking like this was the kids. I was paranoid about accidents. This post would have helped me get over that, though.
Great tips. We had twins so it was interesting biking with them. Usually one would fall asleep and then they would bonk heads as they sat next to each other, we would hear the helmet hit.
You offer so many great tips for keeping your little ones safe while biking. Accidents are quite preventable with a little upkeep and maintenance.
Thanks so much for sharing these tips! Biking with the kids like this is so much fun, but you do have to make sure you’re extra safe about it. Great post.
We never did this with our kids. I know several families that have or have had them. Good for those who really like to bike.
My kids are past that age and now and now go riding with my husband but these tips are so useful. It is not that easy to ride with the trailer but is a lot of fun.
I got to go through this now. 🙂 cant wait to take my little girl riding (and I love cycling). Just brought the trailer recently so just waiting for the good weather 🙂
This is helpful thank you! My husband and I are looking into purchasing one this summer. We have the seat for toddlers that attaches to the end of the bike but I like the trailer better. Thanks!