A bike trailer puts your child about 18 inches off the ground, moving at whatever speed you’re pedaling, in traffic or on paths where cars pass close. That’s not meant to scare you out of using one – trailers are genuinely safe when built right and used correctly. But it does mean the trailer you pick actually matters. A poorly designed hitch that separates on a downhill, a 3-point harness that lets a small child slump forward, a frame that buckles in a rollover – these are not hypothetical problems. They’re exactly what safety standards like ASTM F1975 were written to prevent.
We researched eight child bike trailers across every price tier – from sub-$200 budget picks to $800+ premium rigs from Burley and Thule. Every product in this list was evaluated against the same criteria: harness type, frame construction and roll cage protection, hitch security, reflector and visibility equipment, and whether the manufacturer publicly certifies to recognized safety standards. We also looked at conversion options (stroller, jogger, ski) because a trailer that only works behind a bike is a harder sell when you can get one that works for running and walking too.
The short version: Burley dominates the mid-to-premium range for good reason – they build in the USA and their trailers carry ASTM F1975 and JPMA certification, which means independent labs have tested the frame, harness, hitch, and rollover protection. Thule and Hamax bring strong European engineering with equivalent safety rigor. Budget picks from Schwinn, Allen Sports, and Retrospec work fine for occasional use but require more attention to fit and harness adjustment. Let’s get into it.
Key Takeaways
Before you read every review, here’s what actually matters most when buying a child bike trailer.
- The Burley D’Lite X is the best overall pick – ASTM F1975 and JPMA certified, converts to stroller and jogger, fits 1 or 2 kids up to 100 lb combined, and has one of the easiest hitches available.
- Safety standards to know: ASTM F1975 covers frame integrity, rollover protection, harness strength, hitch security, and braking. JPMA adds independent third-party lab verification. EN 15918 is the European equivalent – Thule and Hamax trailers meet it.
- All trailers in this list use a 5-point harness. Never put a child under 4 years old in a trailer with only a 3-point harness – it does not restrain the torso adequately in a tip-over.
- Minimum age is 12 months for standard child trailers. A child must be able to sit upright unassisted and fit a helmet properly. Babies under 12 months lack the neck muscle development to safely handle road vibration.
- The Burley Encore X is the best two-kid trailer if you want suspension and stroller/jogger conversion without paying D’Lite X prices. The Schwinn Trailblazer Double is the best value mid-range option for families who just need trailer mode.
- Trailers significantly extend your stopping distance – budget an extra car length when braking. Flag and reflectors are required equipment, not optional accessories.
| Burley D’Lite X Kids Bike Trailer & Stroller |  |
Best Overall | Capacity: 1-2 kids, 100 lb max | Cert: ASTM F1975 + JPMA | Conversion: Stroller + Jogger | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Burley Encore X 2-Seat Bike Trailer & Stroller |  |
Best for Two Kids | Capacity: 2 kids, 100 lb max | Cert: ASTM F1975 + JPMA | Conversion: Stroller + Ski | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Thule Chariot Cross Multisport Trailer & Stroller |  |
Best Premium Pick | Capacity: 1-2 kids, 99 lb max | Cert: EN 15918 + CE | Conversion: Stroller + Jogger + Ski | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Hamax Outback Two Seat Multi-Sport Bike Trailer |  |
Best European Alternative | Capacity: 2 kids, 88 lb max | Cert: EN 15918 | Conversion: Stroller (jogger wheel sold separately) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Burley Bee Lightweight Kids Bike-Only Trailer |  |
Best Budget Burley | Capacity: 1-2 kids, 100 lb max | Cert: ASTM F1975 + JPMA | Conversion: Bike only (no stroller kit) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Schwinn Trailblazer Double Child Bike Trailer |  |
Best Mid-Range Double | Capacity: 2 kids, 80 lb max | Cert: ASTM F1975 | Conversion: Stroller | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Allen Sports Deluxe Steel 2-Child Bicycle Trailer |  |
Best Budget Pick | Capacity: 2 kids, 100 lb max | Cert: ASTM F1975 | Conversion: Stroller | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Retrospec Rover Kids Bicycle Trailer |  |
Best Ultra-Budget | Capacity: 1-2 kids, 88 lb max | Cert: ASTM F1975 | Conversion: Bike only | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Burley D’Lite X Kids Bike Trailer & Stroller
If you’re going to put your child in a bike trailer, this is the one most safety-conscious parents land on – and for good reason. The Burley D’Lite X carries both ASTM F1975 and JPMA certification, meaning it has been tested by independent labs for frame integrity, harness strength, rollover protection, hitch security, and brake performance. Burley is made in the USA, and the D’Lite X is their flagship model for a reason.
The 5-point harness is padded and easy to adjust without a degree in engineering. The internal roll cage is aluminum – lightweight but genuinely protective in a tip-over. The suspension system smooths out bumps so your kid isn’t getting rattled on every crack in the pavement, which matters both for comfort and for keeping younger riders from being jolted. The trailer attaches via Burley’s proprietary EasyConnect hitch – it clicks onto the rear axle and releases with one hand, which is the kind of thing you really appreciate after the fifth time you’re loading up for a ride.
The D’Lite X converts to a stroller and jogger with optional kits (the stroller kit is often included in bundle versions). As a stroller it handles well on flat surfaces – not as nimble as a dedicated jogging stroller, but solid for errands and parks. The trailer fits 1 or 2 kids and has a 100 lb combined weight limit, which is generous enough to cover most sibling combinations.
The caveat: this is a premium product at a premium price. If you need a trailer strictly for occasional weekend rides and won’t use the stroller or jogger modes, the Burley Bee below gives you the same ASTM F1975 and JPMA certifications at roughly half the cost. But if you want the most versatile, best-built trailer on the market – the D’Lite X earns every dollar.
- Safety Cert:ASTM F1975 + JPMA certified
- Harness:5-point padded adjustable
- Frame:Aluminum roll cage + internal frame
- Hitch:Burley EasyConnect (proprietary, axle-mount)
- Capacity:1-2 kids, 100 lb combined max
- Age Range:12 months minimum (child must sit upright unassisted)
- Conversion:Stroller + Jogger (kits available)
- Visibility:Front, side, and rear reflectors + safety flag
- Weight (trailer):Approx. 25 lb
- Price Tier:Premium ($500-$700+)
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Burley Encore X 2-Seat Bike Trailer & Stroller
The Burley Encore X sits one tier below the D’Lite X in Burley’s lineup, but it does not cut corners on what actually matters for safety. It carries the same ASTM F1975 and JPMA certifications, uses the same EasyConnect hitch system, and includes a full internal aluminum roll cage. For parents with two kids who want certified safety at a lower price than the D’Lite X, this is the logical choice.
Where the Encore X differs from the D’Lite X is in the extras: no seat recline and no independent suspension. The seats are padded but fixed upright, which is fine for older toddlers who aren’t likely to nap on long rides. The compact fold is genuinely impressive – it collapses smaller than most competitors, which matters if you’re storing it in a small car trunk or apartment. Both seats come with individual 5-point harnesses so each child is secured independently.
The Encore X is designed around two-child use, with a 100 lb combined weight limit and a wider interior than single-conversion trailers. It also has a ski kit available separately – one of the only trailers under $500 where you can add winter ski conversion. If you live somewhere with real winters and want to continue family outings, that option matters.
The stroller conversion is included as a standard feature (push handle folds out from the frame). It’s not going to replace a dedicated jogger stroller for trail running, but for pushing kids around a farmer’s market or neighborhood, it does the job fine. If you need the jogger wheel for running, that’s an add-on. Overall, for two-kid families who want certified safety without paying D’Lite X money, the Encore X is the right call.
- Safety Cert:ASTM F1975 + JPMA certified
- Harness:Dual 5-point harnesses (individual per seat)
- Frame:Aluminum roll cage, compact fold design
- Hitch:Burley EasyConnect (proprietary, axle-mount)
- Capacity:2 kids, 100 lb combined max
- Age Range:12 months minimum per child
- Conversion:Stroller included; ski kit available; jogger wheel sold separately
- Visibility:Front, side, and rear reflectors + safety flag
- Weight (trailer):Approx. 26 lb
- Price Tier:Mid-Premium ($350-$500)
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Thule Chariot Cross Multisport Trailer & Stroller
The Thule Chariot Cross is the European alternative to Burley’s top tier, and it’s genuinely competitive – or better in a few key areas. Thule certifies to EN 15918, the European standard for child-carrying bicycle trailers, which covers the same categories as ASTM F1975 (frame integrity, harness retention, rollover protection, hitch security) with equivalent or stricter testing in some areas. If you’ve seen the Chariot series in outdoor gear stores and wondered if the price is justified, the short answer is yes.
The standout feature of the Chariot Cross is its suspension system. Thule’s spring-loaded suspension absorbs road shock better than most competitors – parents who ride on mixed surfaces (paved paths plus gravel or park trails) consistently flag this as a major difference. The seating position is slightly more reclined than Burley’s, which can be more comfortable on longer rides. The 5-point harness uses a single-pull adjustment that tightens evenly across both shoulder straps simultaneously – easier to get right on a squirmy toddler than systems that require adjusting each strap separately.
The Chariot Cross converts to stroller, jogger, and ski modes – all three kits are available, though each is sold separately. The hitch system is Thule’s own design, connecting to the rear axle with a secure click mechanism. One note: Thule hitches are specific to Thule trailers, so you can’t mix and match with other brands. The trailer fits up to 2 kids and has a 99 lb combined weight limit.
The honest trade-off: the Chariot Cross is expensive, and buying the bike kit plus stroller kit plus jogger kit starts to add up fast. If you want the full multisport package without buying each kit separately, look for the bundle versions. But for parents who will genuinely use it year-round across multiple activities, the Chariot Cross is the most capable trailer on this list – and the suspension alone makes it worth the price if you ride on rough surfaces regularly.
- Safety Cert:EN 15918 + CE certified
- Harness:5-point single-pull adjustment
- Frame:Aluminum frame with integrated roll protection
- Hitch:Thule proprietary axle-mount hitch
- Capacity:1-2 kids, 99 lb combined max
- Age Range:12 months minimum; 6 months with Thule Infant Sling accessory
- Conversion:Stroller + Jogger + Ski (each kit sold separately)
- Visibility:Reflectors front/side/rear + safety flag
- Weight (trailer):Approx. 26 lb
- Price Tier:Premium ($600-$900+)
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Hamax Outback Two Seat Multi-Sport Bike Trailer
Hamax is a Norwegian brand that’s been building child carriers since 1958, and the Outback is their most capable bike trailer. It meets EN 15918 – the European child trailer safety standard – and the build quality reflects that. This is a legitimate competitor to Burley and Thule at a price point that often comes in below both, which makes it worth knowing about if you’re doing a thorough comparison.
The Hamax Outback’s most notable feature is the reclining seat – both seats can be individually reclined, which is rare in two-seat trailers at this price. If you have a toddler who still naps and an older sibling who won’t, you can set each seat independently. The 5-point harness is padded at the shoulders and adjustable in height, and the interior dimensions are notably spacious. The trailer includes a removable weather cover and a mesh sun screen.
The hitch system is Hamax’s own universal coupler design, compatible with most standard rear axles. It locks with a spring-loaded mechanism that prevents accidental release – one of the things the EN 15918 standard specifically tests. The internal frame includes side impact protection panels and a reinforced roof structure that functions as rollover protection. Weight capacity is 88 lb combined for the two-seat version.
One thing to note: the jogger wheel is sold separately, which adds cost if you want that mode. The stroller kit is included. For families who want European safety certification at a lower price than Thule, or who specifically want individual seat recline for napping toddlers, the Hamax Outback is a strong pick. It’s less well known in the US than Burley, but the build quality and safety credentials are genuinely comparable.
- Safety Cert:EN 15918 certified
- Harness:Dual 5-point harnesses with height-adjustable shoulder pads
- Frame:Reinforced frame with side impact protection + rollover structure
- Hitch:Hamax universal coupler (fits most rear axles)
- Capacity:2 kids, 88 lb combined max
- Age Range:12 months minimum
- Conversion:Stroller included; jogger wheel sold separately
- Seat Recline:Individual per seat – rare at this price
- Visibility:Reflectors + safety flag
- Price Tier:Mid-Premium ($300-$450)
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Burley Bee Lightweight Kids Bike-Only Trailer
The Burley Bee is the answer to a specific question: what if I want Burley’s safety standards but don’t need the stroller or jogger conversion? At roughly half the price of the D’Lite X, the Bee gives you the same ASTM F1975 and JPMA certifications, the same EasyConnect hitch, and the same aluminum roll cage – just without the multi-sport conversion hardware. If you’re a cyclist first and a stroller-pusher never, this is the smarter buy.
At around 20 lb, the Bee is one of the lightest child trailers with full ASTM F1975 certification. That weight difference is noticeable on climbs and when you’re loading it into a car trunk. The 5-point harness is the same padded, easy-adjust design as on more expensive Burley models. The trailer fits 1 or 2 kids with a 100 lb combined weight limit, and the interior is comfortable with good headroom for kids up to about 6 years old.
The Bee uses a simple, durable polyester fabric canopy with a built-in bug screen and weather shield. It doesn’t have suspension, which you feel on rougher pavement – but for smooth bike paths and neighborhood streets, it’s perfectly comfortable for kids. The fold is compact and straightforward, and the wheels quick-release for storage.
The main limitation is the conversion options: the Bee is a bike trailer and nothing else. No stroller conversion, no jogger wheel. If your kids are past the age where you’d push them in a stroller anyway, that’s not a problem. But if you want the flexibility to use it as a jogger or stroller – even occasionally – look at the Burley Honey Bee or step up to the Encore X. For dedicated cycling families, though, the Bee is excellent value with no safety compromises.
- Safety Cert:ASTM F1975 + JPMA certified
- Harness:5-point padded adjustable
- Frame:Aluminum roll cage
- Hitch:Burley EasyConnect (proprietary, axle-mount)
- Capacity:1-2 kids, 100 lb combined max
- Age Range:12 months minimum
- Conversion:Bike only – no stroller or jogger kit
- Weight (trailer):Approx. 20 lb – one of lightest certified options
- Visibility:Reflectors + safety flag
- Price Tier:Mid-Range ($250-$350)
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Schwinn Trailblazer Double Child Bike Trailer
Schwinn has been making bike trailers for a long time, and the Trailblazer Double is their most capable two-child option. It meets ASTM F1975 and uses a steel frame construction with a reinforced roll bar that provides rollover protection. At this price point, it’s one of the more complete packages you’ll find – the stroller conversion kit is included, not an add-on.
The 5-point harness on the Trailblazer Double is simpler than what you get on Burley and Thule models, but it does the job of securing each child properly. Schwinn uses a universal coupler that attaches to the rear axle without needing to remove any existing parts – compatible with most adult bikes out of the box, which is a practical advantage. The 20-inch air-filled tires roll smoothly and absorb some road vibration, better than the smaller wheels on cheaper trailers.
The steel frame is heavier than aluminum – the trailer comes in at around 27-30 lb – which you feel when loading it into a car or carrying it up stairs. The trade-off is durability: steel frames take more abuse without denting or deforming than aluminum at this price tier. The combined weight limit is 80 lb, slightly lower than Burley’s 100 lb limit. For two kids under 5, that’s plenty of room, but it’s worth noting if you have older or bigger children.
For families who want a certified two-child trailer with stroller conversion included, at a significantly lower price than Burley’s two-seat options, the Trailblazer Double makes sense. It’s not going to match the fit, finish, or conversion flexibility of the D’Lite X or Encore X – but the core safety features are there, the hitch works reliably, and parents who use it regularly report it holds up well over time.
- Safety Cert:ASTM F1975 certified
- Harness:Dual 5-point harnesses
- Frame:Steel with roll bar overhead protection
- Hitch:Universal coupler (rear axle mount, most bikes)
- Capacity:2 kids, 80 lb combined max
- Age Range:12 months minimum
- Conversion:Stroller (push handle + front wheel included)
- Tires:20-inch air-filled
- Weight (trailer):Approx. 27-30 lb
- Price Tier:Mid-Range ($180-$250)
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Allen Sports Deluxe Steel 2-Child Bicycle Trailer
Allen Sports has been selling budget-friendly bike gear for decades, and the Deluxe 2-Child trailer is a legitimate option for parents who need certified safety without spending $300+. It meets ASTM F1975 and includes a 5-point harness for each child – not a 3-point system that some cheaper competitors try to pass off as adequate. Those two facts matter more than anything else at this price tier.
The steel frame is straightforward and solid. The rollover protection is a reinforced overhead bar – not as engineered as the aluminum roll cages on Burley trailers, but present and functional. The trailer folds flat for storage and car transport, the wheels quick-release, and the whole setup weighs around 25 lb. The stroller conversion is included: a front wheel and push handle attach to convert it for walking. It won’t turn heads at the park, but it works.
The 100 lb combined weight limit is generous and matches what Burley offers at twice the price. The universal coupler hitch attaches to the rear axle and has a safety leash as a backup connection – standard on certified trailers. The canopy includes a mesh screen for warm-weather rides and a weather shield panel for light rain. One note on harness adjustment: the Allen Sports harness is functional but takes more fiddling to get properly snug compared to Burley’s push-button adjust systems. Take an extra few minutes to get it right before every ride.
This is a budget trailer, and it shows in the details – the harness buckles feel less polished, the stroller mode is basic, and there’s no suspension whatsoever. But for a family that wants certified safety, a 5-point harness, and a trailer that will reliably carry two kids around the neighborhood without breaking the bank, the Allen Sports Deluxe delivers. It’s a smart choice for occasional-use families or anyone testing whether their kids will actually tolerate trailer rides before investing in something premium.
- Safety Cert:ASTM F1975 certified
- Harness:Dual 5-point harnesses
- Frame:Steel with overhead rollover bar
- Hitch:Universal coupler with safety leash backup
- Capacity:2 kids, 100 lb combined max
- Age Range:12 months minimum
- Conversion:Stroller (front wheel + push handle included)
- Weather:Mesh screen + weather shield
- Weight (trailer):Approx. 25 lb
- Price Tier:Budget ($150-$200)
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Retrospec Rover Kids Bicycle Trailer
The Retrospec Rover shows up frequently when parents search for the most affordable certified kid trailer, and it earns its place on that list. It meets ASTM F1975 – so the core safety checkboxes are there – and uses a 5-point harness for child restraint. For a trailer that often sells under $150, that’s a meaningful baseline. Retrospec is a younger brand but has built a solid reputation in the budget bike gear space.
The Rover comes in single or double passenger versions, with the double topping out at 88 lb combined weight. The 16-inch wheels are smaller than the 20-inch wheels on Schwinn and Burley trailers – they roll adequately on smooth paths but feel bumpier on cracked pavement or gravel. The frame folds flat for storage and the wheels quick-release, which is standard. Safety reflectors are built into the front and rear panels, and a safety flag is included – both are non-negotiable for road visibility.
There’s a rear storage compartment that fits snacks, a change of clothes, and basic gear – a practical feature often missing on entry-level trailers. The canopy includes a weather shield and bug screen. The hitch is a standard axle coupler with safety leash. One honest limitation: the harness adjustment on the Rover is basic compared to mid-range options, and the overall construction tolerances are tighter – meaning you need to check all the connection points before each ride, which you should be doing on any trailer but especially here.
The Retrospec Rover is the right pick if your budget is firm, your riding is mostly smooth paths, and you want a certified trailer rather than a non-certified one. It’s not going to match the durability or refinement of Allen Sports, Schwinn, or Burley at higher price points – but for occasional rides and families new to bike trailers, it provides the core safety features without the premium price. If the kids end up loving trailer rides and you want something more capable, you’ll know what to upgrade to.
- Safety Cert:ASTM F1975 certified
- Harness:5-point harness
- Frame:Steel with rollover bar
- Hitch:Standard axle coupler with safety leash
- Capacity:1-2 kids, 88 lb combined max
- Age Range:12 months minimum
- Conversion:Bike only
- Tires:16-inch (smaller than mid-range trailers)
- Visibility:Built-in reflectors front/rear + safety flag
- Price Tier:Ultra-Budget (under $150)
How to Choose a Safe Bike Trailer for Your Child
The marketing on bike trailers can make them all sound equally safe. They’re not. Here’s what the labels and specs actually mean – and what to look for before you buy.
Safety Standards That Actually Matter (ASTM F1975, JPMA, EN 15918)
Three certifications are worth understanding before you buy any child bike trailer.
ASTM F1975 is the US standard specifically written for non-powered bicycle trailers designed for human passengers. It covers six categories of testing: frame and structural integrity, rollover protection (the trailer must protect occupants when tipped on its side), hitch/coupling security (the connection to the bike must not release under load), harness retention (the harness system must hold a child at speed), braking characteristics, and reflector requirements. If a trailer meets ASTM F1975, an independent lab has tested all of these. Burley, Schwinn, Allen Sports, and Retrospec all certify to this standard. When a listing doesn’t mention ASTM F1975 at all, treat that as a red flag.
JPMA certification (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) is an additional layer on top of ASTM. JPMA requires that products be tested by an independent, accredited third-party lab – not just manufacturer self-certification. Burley trailers carry JPMA certification, which is why they’re consistently recommended by pediatric gear reviewers. Thule and Hamax carry the European equivalent.
EN 15918 is the European standard for child-carrying bike trailers. Thule and Hamax both certify to EN 15918, which tests for the same categories as ASTM F1975 – rollover protection, coupling security, harness retention, stability – with equivalent or stricter parameters in some areas. A trailer certified to EN 15918 has met rigorous independent safety testing; don’t discount it because it’s a European standard.
Harness Type: Why 5-Point Matters
A 5-point harness has two shoulder straps, two hip/waist straps, and a crotch strap – all meeting at a central buckle. In a tip-over or sudden stop, all five points hold the child’s body in place. A 3-point harness – which has a waist strap and crotch strap only, no shoulder restraint – allows the child’s torso to pitch forward on impact. For children under 4 years old especially, the 3-point system does not provide adequate protection.
Every trailer in this list uses a 5-point harness. If you’re looking at a trailer not on this list and the harness has fewer than five points, skip it for children under school age. Also check that the harness is adjustable – children grow, and a harness that fits a 2-year-old loosely will not safely restrain a 4-year-old. Burley’s padded push-button adjusters are the easiest to use correctly; budget options require more manual adjustment but can be set up properly with patience.
Frame and Roll Cage Construction
The roll cage is the internal structure that protects your child if the trailer tips over – which can happen on a sharp corner, a gravel section, or when the tow arm disconnects unexpectedly. Premium trailers (Burley D’Lite X, Encore X, Thule Chariot Cross) use aluminum roll cages – engineered structures that maintain their shape under deformation and protect the interior space. Mid-range and budget trailers use steel roll bars – simpler overhead bars that provide some rollover protection but less engineered protection than a full roll cage.
The wide wheelbase also matters for tip-over resistance. Trailers with narrow wheelbases (common in some budget designs) are more prone to tipping on tight corners. ASTM F1975 includes tipping resistance testing, so certified trailers meet a minimum standard – but there’s a meaningful difference between meeting the minimum and what premium trailers provide.
Hitch System and Attachment
The hitch connects the trailer to your bike, and a failure here can be catastrophic. All certified trailers require a safety leash as a backup connection – if the primary hitch releases, the leash prevents the trailer from separating from the bike entirely. Check that your trailer has one and that it’s attached before every ride.
Burley’s EasyConnect hitch attaches to the rear axle and clicks in securely with one hand. Thule and Hamax use their own proprietary systems with similar axle-mount designs. Budget trailers use universal couplers that fit most rear axles – these work reliably when installed correctly, but take more care to verify the fit on your specific bike. Disc brake bikes and some e-bikes have different axle configurations; check compatibility before buying any trailer with an axle-mount hitch.
Age and Weight Limits – Why 12 Months Is the Minimum
Most pediatricians and child safety organizations recommend a minimum age of 12 months for standard bike trailers. The reason is neck and head muscle development: infants under 12 months don’t have sufficient strength to stabilize their heads against the vibration and sudden movements of road riding, even in a trailer with good suspension. A baby who can’t hold their head steady can experience neck strain or worse on rough surfaces.
The 12-month rule also requires that the child can sit upright unassisted – slouching in the harness means the shoulder straps are not positioned correctly to do their job. And regardless of age, every child in a bike trailer must wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet. The roll cage protects the interior, but in a serious tip-over, head protection still matters.
Thule offers an Infant Sling accessory that allows use of the Chariot Cross from 1 month old – but this is a specialized product for very young infants and requires the sling plus specific review of whether it’s right for your child’s development. Consult your pediatrician before using any trailer with a child under 12 months.
Conversion Options (Stroller, Jogger, Ski)
Most parents underestimate how useful the stroller conversion becomes. A trailer that converts to a stroller means you can ride to a destination, fold out the push handle and front wheel, and walk around without needing a separate stroller. Burley, Thule, Hamax, Schwinn, and Allen Sports all offer stroller conversion. The Burley Bee and Retrospec Rover do not.
The jogger conversion adds a larger front wheel that allows running. Standard stroller front wheels are too small and wobble at running speeds. If you run regularly and want to bring your kid, verify the specific jogger wheel is available for your trailer model. Burley’s jogger wheel is sold separately; it fits the D’Lite X, Encore X, and Honey Bee. Thule sells a jogger wheel for the Chariot Cross.
The ski/winter conversion replaces the wheels with ski runners, allowing the trailer to be towed on groomed snow. Burley offers this for the Encore X and D’Lite X. Thule offers it for the Chariot Cross. If you live somewhere with proper winters and want to cross-country ski with your kids, this is a genuinely useful feature and one of the reasons parents pay premium prices for the top-tier trailers.
Kids Bike Trailer Comparison
Here’s a side-by-side look at all eight trailers across the specs that matter most for safety and usability.
| Trailer | Capacity | Certification | Harness | Conversion | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burley D’Lite X | 1-2 kids, 100 lb | ASTM F1975 + JPMA | 5-point | Stroller + Jogger | Best overall – versatile, certified, premium build |
| Burley Encore X | 2 kids, 100 lb | ASTM F1975 + JPMA | Dual 5-point | Stroller + Ski | Two-kid families wanting certified trailer at lower price |
| Thule Chariot Cross | 1-2 kids, 99 lb | EN 15918 + CE | 5-point | Stroller + Jogger + Ski | Best suspension; mixed-surface riders; premium buy |
| Hamax Outback | 2 kids, 88 lb | EN 15918 | Dual 5-point | Stroller (jogger sold separately) | European cert; individual seat recline; under Thule price |
| Burley Bee | 1-2 kids, 100 lb | ASTM F1975 + JPMA | 5-point | Bike only | Cyclists who don’t need stroller mode; lightest certified pick |
| Schwinn Trailblazer Double | 2 kids, 80 lb | ASTM F1975 | Dual 5-point | Stroller | Mid-range families; stroller included; solid steel build |
| Allen Sports Deluxe | 2 kids, 100 lb | ASTM F1975 | Dual 5-point | Stroller | Budget families; occasional use; certified but entry-level |
| Retrospec Rover | 1-2 kids, 88 lb | ASTM F1975 | 5-point | Bike only | Lowest price certified option; smooth paths only |
Frequently Asked Questions
Parents researching child bike trailers tend to have a lot of the same questions. Here are honest answers.
Is it safe to put a baby in a bike trailer?
Not if the baby is under 12 months old. Standard bike trailers require that a child can sit upright unassisted and have adequate head and neck muscle control to handle road vibration. Infants under 12 months lack this muscle development, and the movement of road riding – even on smooth paths with a good suspension trailer – can strain an infant’s neck. The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend bike trailers for children under 12 months. Thule sells an Infant Sling accessory that allows use from 1 month, but this requires specific conditions and a pediatrician conversation before use. For children 12 months and older who can sit upright independently, trailers like the Burley D’Lite X and Thule Chariot Cross are safe options when used correctly.
What age can a child ride in a bike trailer?
The minimum is 12 months for standard trailers – the child must sit upright unassisted and wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet. Most children comfortably fit in bike trailers up to age 6 or 7, depending on their size and the trailer’s weight limit. The Burley D’Lite X and Encore X both have 100 lb combined limits, which accommodates most children through early elementary school. The practical upper limit is usually the child’s willingness to sit in the trailer, which tends to drop off around ages 5-6 for most kids.
Are bike trailers safer than child seats mounted on bikes?
This is debated, but trailers have several specific safety advantages. First, trailers sit lower to the ground – if the bike falls, the trailer doesn’t fall with it, and the child’s head is further from the pavement. Second, trailers have roll cage protection – a child in a rear-mounted bike seat has no structural protection in a fall. Third, trailer hitch systems are designed to maintain a connection even if the coupling loosens. The trade-off is that trailers extend the bike’s overall length significantly, increasing stopping distance and making it harder to maneuver in tight spaces. For children under age 4, most safety experts consider trailers the lower-risk option. Over age 4, with a good-fitting helmet, either can be appropriate depending on your riding environment.
Do bike trailers need helmets even when there’s a roll cage?
Yes – always. The roll cage protects the interior space of the trailer from collapsing in a rollover, but it does not prevent a child’s head from making contact with the interior frame panels or seat structure in an impact. Pediatric safety guidelines are clear: a properly fitted bicycle helmet is required for any child in a bike trailer, regardless of the trailer’s construction. Note that the helmet must fit properly – a helmet sized for a toddler cannot be worn by a 5-year-old, and a loose helmet provides significantly reduced protection. Check helmet fit before every season.
What’s the difference between ASTM F1975 and JPMA certification?
ASTM F1975 is the technical standard – a document published by ASTM International that specifies exactly what tests a child bike trailer must pass, covering frame integrity, rollover protection, harness strength, hitch security, and reflector requirements. Manufacturers can self-certify to ASTM F1975, meaning they claim their product meets the standard without requiring external verification. JPMA certification requires that a product be tested by an independent, accredited third-party laboratory – not by the manufacturer. JPMA certification is therefore a stronger claim than ASTM F1975 self-certification alone, because it means someone other than the manufacturer verified the results. Burley carries both; their trailers have been independently lab-tested. When evaluating any trailer, look for both – or at minimum ASTM F1975 with clear documentation of how testing was conducted.
Can I jog with a bike trailer?
Not with the standard bike trailer configuration. Standard trailers have smaller front wheels or a fixed front axle that is not designed for running speeds – the trailer will track poorly and can tip more easily. To jog with a child trailer, you need a dedicated jogger wheel – a larger-diameter, swivel-then-lock front wheel specifically designed for running. Burley sells jogger wheels compatible with the D’Lite X, Encore X, and Honey Bee. Thule sells one for the Chariot Cross. Hamax sells one separately for the Outback. Also note: most trailer manufacturers recommend against jogging with children under 12 months (some say 16 months), and recommend locking the front wheel straight during jogging rather than leaving it in swivel mode. Check the specific recommendations for your trailer model before running with it.
Related Guides
If you need a trailer for hauling gear instead of kids, the setup, materials, and hitches are quite different – see our guide to the best bicycle cargo trailers for options built around load capacity and durability rather than child safety.
For pet transport, the framing, ventilation, and interior dimensions are different from child trailers – check out our best dog bike trailer guide for options sized and designed specifically for dogs.
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