How to transport your children by bike: blue>Trailer or cargo

A child's bike seat is the first step in introducing youngsters to the pleasures of cycling. Adapted to their age, weight and height, they ensure comfort and safety, from the saddle to the frame. Protection also comes in the form of the indispensable helmet and windscreen, shielding your little ones from the vagaries of the weather.

Safety first and foremost: ensuring that the seat complies with current safety standards is paramount. A good baby seat must be equipped with a five-point safety harness, side protection for the head and a reliable, sturdy fastening system to avoid any risk of tipping over.

Here are a few tips to help you choose the right seat:

Child comfort: To ensure your little passenger's comfort, opt for a seat with shock-absorbing pads, a height-adjustable seat and a sun/rain visor, depending on the model. Adjustable footrests are also a plus to adapt to your child's growth.

Practical advice: Before you buy, check the seat's compatibility with your bike, in particular the maximum weight supported and the type of frame. Some bicycle models, such as electric bikes and some city bikes, require special seats.

Looking for a fun, eco-friendly way to get around town with your little ones? Have you heard of cargo bikes? 😎

These longtail bikes are not only a smart choice for transporting your groceries, they're also perfect for urban escapades with your babies or young children.

Just imagine: ultra-comfortable seats for the kids, space galore for all your luggage, and even an electric option to make life easier. Buying a cargo bike means choosing freedom and safety, while bringing your eco-friendly touch to the city.

So, are you ready to pedal off to new adventures with your family? We tell you all about these bikes that will spice up your daily commute!

Whether you opt for a cargo bike or a trailer, each solution offers its own advantages and special features when it comes to transporting your children. But how do you decide between these two options? 🤔

In the following lines, we're going to dive into the specifics of each. Get ready, it's face-to-face time! 🤼‍♂️

Cargo, champion of families in action

Who says you can't combine style, fun and functionality? The cargo bike is here to prove otherwise. It's the mini-van of bike paths, but with a whole lot more panache! 🕶️

Design

A sturdy frame with an integrated cargo area, either at the front or rear. This space is usually a box or platform. 🚚

Use

Ideal for city trips. Perfect for transporting a baby or several children, shopping, luggage or even pets. Some electric models offer assistance to make it easier to get around with heavy loads (or after a busy pizza party 😜).

Flexibility

Less flexible than trailers. The cargo part is fixed and an integral part of the bike. 🔗

Common types

Two-wheeled (front loading, often with a conventional saddle) and three-wheeled (three wheels, with a wide body at the front, accommodating several seats). 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

The trailer, to take your world everywhere

Need extra space to take Junior, Medor or that oversized shopping bag (yes, we know, the promotions were too tempting)? The trailer is your trusted ally, always ready to go with the flow!

Design

Trailers are attached to the bike frame, usually at the rear wheel, by means of a bar or attachment system. It's like turning your bike into a van, only greener. 🌍

Use

Extremely versatile for transporting children, luggage, shopping or equipment. Brands like Thule and AddBike offer models specially designed to guarantee children's comfort and safety, with belts and rain guards (because kids don't like rain any more than cats do). 🌧️

Flexibility

Highly flexible. Can be detached when not needed (like that old song you always skippered). Easy to store and suitable for rainy days or long road trips. 🛣️

Common types

Classic children's trailers, luggage trailers (because you can never have enough shoes), two-seater trailers for two children, and even specific trailers for transporting animals. 🐶

Have you fallen for a bike trailer? Great! You'll be able to enjoy your family outings with this superb solution on wheels.

Attach it to the back of your bike - be it electric, classic, longtail or even a scooter - and turn every outing into an adventure for you and your children.

For toddlers, the baby seat in the trailer is a cocoon of softness and protection, but beware, it can shake things up. As they grow, switch to more suitable seats, where they can admire the world while wiggling their little feet in safety.

Choosing the right trailer for your child's age and weight

This is the basics: make sure the trailer is suitable for your child's weight and age. Always check the product specifications, and if in doubt, confirm with the seller.

Installing and securing the trailer

Once the choice has been made, installation is key. Make sure the trailer is securely fastened to your bike and that all attachment systems are properly locked. 🔒 A double-check never hurts (and avoids "oops").

Tips for a comfortable trailer ride

Think comfort! Inflate the tires properly, make sure the seat is comfortable for the little feet that will be sitting in it, and don't forget to check the weather forecast. Having a few essentials, like a blanket or snacks, can also make a difference (and avoid little revolutions on board). 🧺

The age of your children is no longer a concern; the trailer adapts to every stage of their growth.

With its protective bar and sturdy frame systems, you can ride in complete peace of mind, knowing your little treasures are safe and sound. And don't forget, this wonderful invention isn't just for kids; it's perfect for carrying your luggage too. So your bike becomes the practical, eco-friendly solution for all your family outings.

So, you've opted for the undeniable swag of the cargo bike? Congratulations! You're now a member of the cool club of stylish, eco-friendly parents. But how do you get the most out of this two-wheeled wonder? Simple: let us guide you.

First, familiarize yourself with riding this special bike. Whether you have an electric or a classic model, the cargo bike has a little something extra. With its long frame and dedicated space for children or luggage, it requires a little practice to master its dimensions and weight. But don't worry, after a few turns on the wheel, you'll be just as comfortable as on a conventional bike.

For parents, the handlebars and saddle should be adjusted to your height for easy, pleasant riding. A good fit will enable you to get the most out of your journeys, whether you're dropping the kids off at school or going on a shopping spree.

You also need to be comfortable with the extra weight it brings, especially when loaded. This can affect your balance at first. Next, adjust your handlebars and saddle to ensure a comfortable posture. Don't forget to check the brakes regularly, as stopping a cargo bike, especially downhill, requires a little extra strength.

Practice in a quiet spot before heading out into the urban jungle. With a little practice, you'll be king or queen of the bike lanes in no time! 👑

Which model to choose? Faced with the diversity of models available, taking into account the size of your family, your commuting habits and the type of journeys planned is essential. Long cargo bikes offer more space for luggage, while compact models are perfect for city jaunts.

A lasting investment

The price of a cargo bike may seem high at first, but think of it as an investment in your mobility and the environment. Cheaper and more ecological than a car, it represents a sustainable solution for conscientious families.

Ready to take the plunge?

The cargo bike could well become your best ally for unforgettable family moments. But before you pedal off towards the horizon, let's discover bike trailers, another interesting option for transporting your little adventurers.

Cycling, whether in a cargo bike or with a trailer, is the perfect way to enjoy family time together. But to ensure that the fun doesn't turn into an obstacle course, a few precautions are in order. Below you'll find a list of accessories and tips to ensure that every cycling outing is synonymous with safety and comfort. Don't hesitate to ask the rental company for it if they don't think of it.🕊️

The importance of a helmet for every passenger

We can't stress this enough: helmets are essential! Whether for adults, children, or even small passengers comfortably seated in a trailer, it's vital to protect your head. 👦👧

Some bikes are even available with matching helmets, to combine safety and style. Make sure it fits snugly and adapts perfectly to the shape of your head. After all, a trailer can take a beating, so prevention is better than cure.

Don't forget practical accessories either: rain covers, extra shopping baskets, and why not, a few decorations to personalize your ride!

Protect your children from the elements

As much as we love cycling in the sunshine, sometimes Mother Nature seems to have other plans for our outing (perhaps she's jealous of our cycling style?). Fortunately, there are plenty of accessories available to protect your little ones from rain, wind or cold. Think about :

• ☔️ rain capes,
• 🧤 gloves,
• 🌨️ or blankets.

Carrying extra items: solutions and tips

With children, you always need to carry a thousand and one things. Fortunately, the world of bicycles adapts! Think panniers, baskets or even lockable panniers for cargo bikes. So, whether it's for a snack, toys or a change of clothes, everything will be safe and within easy reach.