Best Pull Behind Bike Carriers for Cycling Adventures

If you're planning a cycling adventure with your friends or family, a pull behind bike carrier is a must-have accessory. These carriers can hold up to 5 bikes and weigh as little as 40 pounds, making them easy to tow behind your vehicle.

The Thule T2 Pro is a popular choice among cyclists, with a maximum capacity of 120 pounds and a sturdy steel frame. It's also relatively easy to install, with a weight capacity of 120 pounds.

For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Saris Freedom 2-Bike Carrier. This carrier has a maximum capacity of 70 pounds and can be installed on most vehicles in minutes.

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Choosing a Carrier is a crucial step in selecting the right pull behind bike carrier for your needs. Thule offers a variety of models to suit different activities and family sizes.

Consider your specific needs, such as the number of bikes you need to carry and the type of terrain you'll be riding on. This will help you narrow down your options and choose a carrier that meets your requirements.

You can find more information on bike trailers by reading the bike trailer guide.

Bike trailers are a great option for families or groups, providing more protection for children due to their enclosed design and built-in harness systems. They also have roll bars to protect against impacts and a lower center of gravity, making them more stable than bike seats.

If you're looking for a trailer that's easy to use, consider the GO Easy Trailer, which is designed with a low height to make loading and unloading bikes a breeze. It's also very versatile, able to haul up to 7 bikes and fit various combinations of bikes, kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards.

The best bike trailers for different needs include the Burley D'Lite X for overall performance, the Thule Chariot Cross 2 for multi-sport use, and the Allen Sports Deluxe for a budget-friendly option. Here are some of the top picks:

If you're planning a cycling adventure, a trailer can be a game-changer. One key feature to consider is the trailer's capacity to carry multiple bikes. The GO Easy trailer, for example, can haul up to 7 bikes, making it perfect for group rides or bikepacking trips.

A compact design is also essential for easy loading and unloading of bikes. The GO Easy trailer weighs in at just 275 lbs and has a low height, making it easy to load and unload bikes without straining your back.

If you're planning a multisport adventure, you'll want a trailer that can accommodate various combinations of bikes, kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. The GO Easy trailer is designed for this purpose, making it a great option for cyclists who want to explore different water sports.

One thing to keep in mind is the weight of the trailer. The GO Easy trailer weighs 275 lbs, which is relatively light compared to other trailers on the market. This makes it easy to tow behind a car, van, SUV, truck, or even a motorcycle.

Here are some key features of the GO Easy trailer:

I've selected the best bike trailers based on my own first-hand experience with some of the models, as well as feedback from fellow parents who've shared what they like and dislike about their bike trailers.

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I've also drawn on my years working in bike shops, where I've assembled and installed child trailers for parents, giving me valuable insight into what makes a decent bike trailer.

To get a more comprehensive view, I've consulted with Chris Case, who's familiar with many of these brands from prior experience and has solicited opinions from friends with kids.

I've relied on a combination of my own experience, feedback from parents, and industry knowledge to make these recommendations.

The following bike trailers were selected based on their performance, features, and value:

The Burley 7-Speed Piccolo Trailercycle is a great option for kids who are still learning to ride. It's designed for kids between four and 10 years old who weigh 85 pounds or less.

This trailer bike features a 7-speed drivetrain, allowing kids to assist with pedaling and help keep pace with the parent's bike. The adjustable handlebar and seatpost ensure a comfortable ride for the child.

The trailer is made of aluminum and attaches easily to the rear rack via a quick-release hitch-mount system. This makes it simple to set up and take down.

Kids can enjoy the ride without worrying about steering or maintaining a certain pace, making it an ideal solution for families who want to spend quality time together on the bike.

As a parent, safety is always top of mind when it comes to transporting my kids. KidRunner is designed with durability and stability in mind.

We care about safety and so does KidRunner, which is why it's engineered and tested for passenger safety and performance. The company complies with applicable ASTM standards.

The unique design of KidRunner means some safety standards don't apply, so the composite parts are tested independently for strength and durability by the source manufacturers.

Bike trailers provide more protection for children because they are enclosed and shielded from the elements. This makes them a more comfortable and secure option for kids.

Bike trailers have built-in harness systems to keep children safe and secure while riding. These harness systems are a crucial safety feature that can give parents peace of mind.

Many bike trailers also feature roll bars to protect against impacts, which can help prevent injuries in the event of a crash. This added protection is a significant advantage over bike seats.

Bike trailers have a lower center of gravity, making them more stable than bike seats. This stability is especially important when riding with a child, as it can affect balance.

Unlike child seats mounted to bikes, many bike trailers are designed with hitch systems that allow them to remain upright even if the adult’s bike tips over. This feature can help prevent accidents and injuries.

KidRunner is designed with safety in mind, and we're parents ourselves who care about the well-being of our children. We comply with applicable ASTM standards and other 3rd party testing agencies.

We also test the composite parts independently for strength and durability, including by the source manufacturers of those parts.

In our review of the best pull behind bike carriers, we found that the Saris Freedom 2-Bike Carrier is a great option for those who need to transport two bikes at once. This carrier has a maximum weight capacity of 70 pounds per bike, making it suitable for most adult bikes.

It's worth noting that the Thule T2 Classic 2-Bike Carrier has a slightly higher weight capacity, at 80 pounds per bike, but it's also a bit more expensive. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Carrier is a good choice, with a weight capacity of 70 pounds per bike and a lower price point.

If you're in the market for a bike trailer, you'll want to consider the unique needs and lifestyles of your family. Every family is different, after all.

Thule offers a range of bike trailers designed to meet various needs and lifestyles. Whether you need a lightweight trailer for casual rides or a rugged bike carrier trailer for adventurous outings, Thule's got you covered.

The Burley D'Lite X is a great example of a trailer that's perfect for families who want to explore the outdoors. This trailer converts to a stroller, jogger, off-road trailer, and even a ski trailer. It's a game-changer for families who love to be active.

Here are some key features of the Burley D'Lite X:

One of the standout features of the Burley D'Lite X is its adjustable suspension, which provides a smooth ride for both the passenger and the cyclist. This trailer is perfect for families who love to explore the outdoors together.

The Thule Chariot Cross 2 is a versatile bike trailer that can handle various activities, including strolling, biking, jogging, and skiing. It's perfect for families who want to enjoy the outdoors together.

It has padded seats that are easy to remove for cleaning and recline individually for comfort. The trailer also includes an infant sling to support children aged 1-10 months and a Baby Supporter for added padding and a headrest for children up to 18-months old.

The Chariot Cross 2 weighs 31.9 pounds and has a weight limit of 49 pounds. Its size is 37 x 31.5 x 45 inches. It's available as a double trailer, but also comes in a single configuration for about $100 less.

This trailer is designed to be durable and can handle years of family fun. Senior Reviews Editor Bobby Lea has logged over 10,000 miles with his two kids using the Chariot Cross 2.

Here are some key specs of the Thule Chariot Cross 2:

You can take your bike adventures to the next level with a pull behind bike carrier. They're perfect for road trips, camping, or exploring new trails.

A pull behind bike carrier is designed to hold up to 3 bikes, depending on the model, and can be easily attached to most vehicles. This makes it ideal for families or groups of friends who want to explore new territories together.

These carriers are usually made of sturdy materials like steel or aluminum, ensuring they can withstand rough roads and harsh weather conditions. They're also designed to be adjustable, allowing you to customize the fit for your vehicle and bikes.

One of the biggest benefits of a pull behind bike carrier is the space it saves in your vehicle. By carrying your bikes on the back, you'll have more room for gear, snacks, and other essentials on your adventure.