Cycling Trailers: The Ultimate Sportive Bike Sidekick

Konstantin (The Cycling Dad) riding riverside trail with Qeridoo Kidgoo 1 bike trailer near trees and greener
Konstantin (aka The Cycling Dad) with Qeridoo Kidgoo 1 trailer on country grvael road wirh a big field of poppies on the left ahnd side

Welcome to the world of cycling with trailer

Why Pulling a Trailer with a Sportive Bike is Pure Genius

There comes a time in every cycling parent’s life when the dream of endless solo rides meets the reality of keeping tiny humans entertained. Enter the cycling trailer: your golden ticket to balancing training with parenting duties.
In fact, sportive bikes can be a great match for trailers — if you consider some basic rules. That’s where this blog comes in: I’ll try my best to give you some advice based on my experiences with trailers and give you insights into the different qualities of sportive trailers from the most common brands on the (European) market. Most brands have undergone some serious developments in the last decade that has seen huge parts of the population explore and shape its outdoor sports personality, even more so in pandemic and post-pandemic times. These trailer models, named “Outdoor”, “Sport, “Sportive” are designed for efficiency, having in mind a balance of weight, comfort and usability — exactly what you need when towing a mini chariot filled with snacks, toys, and the occasional tantrum. And let’s be honest, nothing builds leg strength like a good ol’ resistance workout courtesy of your offspring.

Discover how cycling trailers can help you balance fitness goals while keeping your little ones entertained on rides.
Learn about the compatibility of sportive bikes with various trailer models designed for efficiency and comfort.
Explore tips and insights from a fellow cycling parent on making every ride enjoyable, whether solo or with kids in tow.

Can I use any of my (race) bikes for any trailer?

In terms of the right bike for the trailer trip, I’ll take a closer look at the most influential topics, including an overview of compatibility across all established brands that produce race, endurance and gravel bike models right here.

What to Look for When Buying a Cycling Trailer

1. Attachment: Not All Adaptors Are Created Equal

It’s a tiny device made of metal, plastic or alike that ensures your toddler can enjoy your slipstream: The attachment from trailer to bike is the only point of contact between parental lead-out and the young capitain-de-route in the rear and as such the main security issue. It should be literally bullet-proof once locked, but also give the connection a little flexibility to maintain the cycling-specific flow when racing across the countryside. Once my guide to trailer attachments is finished, you’ll find a gallery with the most common attachment systems right here. Also, the evaluation of the adaptor is an integral part of any of the trailor tests you’ll find in my test department (coming soon).

2. Weight: Because Every Gram Counts (Until It Doesn’t)

Yes, weight matters. A lighter trailer means an easier ride, but don’t just go for the featherweight option—stability and durability are just as important. Look for a good balance between weight and sturdiness. If the trailer is too heavy, it’ll feel like you’re riding with the brakes permanently on. Too light, and you might question its ability to survive a child’s full-force meltdown.

3. Kid Comfort: Happy Kids, Happy Ride

If your tiny passengers aren’t comfortable, you’re in for a long, loud ride. Prioritize trailers with good suspension (especially if you’re riding gravel), padded seats, and plenty of ventilation. Some high-end models even offer reclining seats—because, let’s be honest, a mid-ride nap is the dream. Bonus points for rain covers, UV protection, and enough storage to carry half your household.

Read more about bike trailers

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