Child Bike Trailer Safety Advice and Tips
Child Bike Trailer Safety Advice and Tips
Using a bike trailer to carry your kids behind you when out cycling is not only a great way for you to exercise but it's also a fun and exhilarating experience for your child as the world rushes by!
To ensure that both you and your child get the most from using a bike trailer it is important to take safety seriously, and this can start even before you have bought a trailer.
The size and type of trailer you need can depend on a number of factors.
Your first consideration should be how old your child is and how much they weigh. It is recommended that a child riding in a trailer should be at least 12 months old. Most trailers can carry a load of between 75lbs and 100lbs, but it is best to check with the manufacturer.
Child bike trailers are usually available with fitted covers. Make sure the cover is strong, waterproof and gives your child protection from the sun. The material used is often bright to make the trailer more obvious to other road users. Some are also fitted with reflective tape and even a flag to make them easier to see.
One of the most obvious and important considerations is the wearing of cycle helmets. Make sure you get helmets that fit both you and your child correctly. This will usually involve measuring your head to ensure the right size and fit.
Ok, so once you have decided on the type and purchased a bike trailer and helmets you're ready to go! Well, not quite. Before you venture out it is worth having a routine that involves a number of safety checks:
Is the trailer fitted to the bike correctly and tightened where appropriate?
Is the cover in good condition with no tears or holes?
Are the tyres at the right pressure and the brakes or quick release mechanisms working correctly?
Are the harnesses fitted correctly to the trailer and your child? This is particularly important as children can fall asleep in the trailer, so it is essential that the harness will hold them securely yet comfortably without the chance of them slipping out.
If this is the first time you have ridden with a trailer attached it is worth trying it without your child. Once filled with objects to simulate the weight of your child you will notice the extra effort needed, especially if going uphill!
As well as taking a longer time to come to a stop when braking the trailer will also limit some maneuverability. Lastly, remember that the trailer is wider than the bike!
I hope these hints and tips are useful but you will find that bike trailer safety is really all about common sense, so what are you waiting for? Hit the road and have some fun! Can Your Child Learn From An ABC Rug? Giving Your Kid His Very Own Pedal Plane Karaoke Systems Great For Children - Holiday Gift Ideas North Face Is The Professor For Kids Jackets! Precious Kids Clothing Fertility Treatment Addressing Infertility Issues In Childless Couples Helping Kids To Pack For A Camping Trip Eagle Ranch Academy is Helping Teens Cope with Issues of Divorce Unique Toys for Kids! What Type Of Special Activities Would Be Right For Your Child? Your Out Of Control Child - Looking For Help And Strategies That Really Work How To Make Kids Listen - How A Child Behavior Program Can Keep You Sane And Help Raise Great Kids Getting To Grips With Child Behavior Problems - Do You Really Care About Effective Parenting?