Thule Carrier Bike Trailer Features and Benefits

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The Thule Carrier Bike Trailer is designed to transport your bike safely and efficiently, making it a great option for families and commuters alike.

It has a sturdy steel frame that provides stability and support for your bike.

The trailer's hitch system is easy to attach and detach from your bike, making it a convenient option for daily use. The Thule Carrier Bike Trailer can carry a bike up to 35 pounds, making it suitable for most adult bikes and some children's bikes.

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Weighing the Pros and Cons

The Thule Carrier Bike Trailer has some great features, but it's not perfect. Here are some of the things that make it stand out.

One of the biggest advantages is its large, air-filled tires, which help make the ride smooth. This trailer is perfect for paved roads and smooth paths.

However, there are some areas where it falls short. For example, there's no option to use the trailer as a jogging stroller, or to purchase a jogging add-on kit.

Bike by Trailer in Countryside
Credit: pexels.com, Bike by Trailer in Countryside

Here are some specific cons to consider:

  • No option to recline the seats.
  • No suspension system, making it only suitable for paved roads and smooth paths.
  • The trailer is heavy and bulky to carry, even when folded.

Despite these drawbacks, the Thule Carrier Bike Trailer is still a great option for many families. With a little planning and preparation, you can make the most of its strengths and work around its weaknesses.

Design and Features

The Thule carrier bike trailer is designed with comfort and practicality in mind. All three models, Chariot Lite, Chariot Cross, and Chariot Sport, come with optimal suspension for a smooth ride.

You can expect to find ventilation vents and a light on these trailers, along with an adjustable handlebar and simple compact fold. These features make it easy to use and store your trailer.

Some of the standard features across the Chariot series include a biking and premium strolling kit, which is perfect for families who want to explore different terrain and activities. Here are some of the key features you can look forward to:

  • Biking and premium strolling kit*
  • Ventilation vents and light
  • Optimal suspension
  • Adjustable handlebar
  • Simple compact fold

Maneuverability

The Coaster XT is designed to handle smooth paths, but it's not built for off-road trails or varied terrain due to its lack of suspension.

Dog in Bicycle Trailer
Credit: pexels.com, Dog in Bicycle Trailer

The added weight of the trailer and up to two little ones makes it more difficult to maneuver on the bike.

Its trailer attachment limits the bike's turning radius, making sharp turns a bit more challenging.

In stroller mode, the three-point wheel system allows for stability, and the front wheel's swivel feature makes it easy to navigate through tight spaces.

The swivel front wheel has no lock, which can be a bit tricky to manage on uneven terrain, but it's perfect for smooth paths and sidewalks.

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Folding Mechanism

The Thule Coaster XT's folding mechanism is a game-changer for parents on-the-go. It collapses flat in one step, making it easy to store in a small space.

To fold the trailer, you simply pull inward on two red knobs in the storage area. This is a clever design feature that makes it easy to collapse the trailer with minimal effort.

The seat back also plays a crucial role in the folding process, as you need to push forward on it to secure the trailer in its folded position. This ensures that the trailer remains stable and secure.

The trailer then folds flat, with a space in the center to store its large rear wheels. This thoughtful design feature helps to keep the trailer organized and makes it easier to transport.

Cost and Accessories

A person riding a bicycle with a trailer along a riverbank in a lush green landscape.
Credit: pexels.com, A person riding a bicycle with a trailer along a riverbank in a lush green landscape.

The Thule carrier bike trailer is a great investment for families who love to explore the outdoors together. It's priced around $200-$300, depending on the model and features.

You can customize your trailer with various accessories, such as the Thule Yepp Maxi seat, which provides a comfortable and safe ride for your child. This seat is designed for kids from 9 months to 5 years old, and it's easy to install and remove.

The Thule bike trailer also comes with a number of convenient storage options, including a large cargo area and a small storage compartment for essentials like snacks and water.

Cost

The Coaster XT bike trailer is priced around $450, which is significantly more budget-friendly than most of Thule's bike trailer options.

However, when compared to other brands on the market, it sits at the higher end of the price spectrum.

The price includes the trailer itself, but you may want to consider adding extra accessories to enhance its functionality or style.

The Coaster XT measures 34.6 inches long by 30.7 inches wide by 41.3 inches high when it's open and ready for use, which is quite large and requires extra-wide doorways to pass through.

Accessories

Dog in Bicycle Trailer
Credit: pexels.com, Dog in Bicycle Trailer

Thule sells a rain cover to keep kids dry while using the Coaster XT trailer.

You can also buy a storage cover to keep the trailer clean when not in use.

Parents can purchase a foot muff to keep little feet warm.

An infant sling is available for babies from one to ten months old to provide extra support.

A baby supporter gives extra cushion for those 6–18 months old, making the seats more supportive for younger ones.

Accessories like the Thule Infant Sling and the Thule Baby Supporter allow you to start strolling with your child as soon as they can hold up their own head.

Thule sells multiple optional add-ons for the Coaster XT trailer, making it easy to customize to your needs.

Bundles

Bundles are a great way to get everything you need for your biking adventures in one go. Thule bike trailer bundles combine a bike trailer with essential accessories, ensuring you're fully equipped for any outing.

Male cyclist in black gear posing with red bike under a blue sky, showcasing athleticism and outdoor adventure.
Credit: pexels.com, Male cyclist in black gear posing with red bike under a blue sky, showcasing athleticism and outdoor adventure.

These bundles offer comprehensive solutions for your biking needs. Whether you need additional storage or weather protection, Thule bike trailer bundles have got you covered.

One of the best things about Thule bike trailer bundles is that they save you time and money. You can get everything you need in one purchase, rather than buying individual accessories later on.

Thule offers a range of bike trailer accessories that can be added to your bundle. From additional storage options and weather covers to suspension kits and extra hitches, Thule has a variety of accessories to customize and upgrade your bike trailer.

Trailers

Thule offers a range of bike trailers to suit different needs and preferences. The Thule Cadence is the brand's most streamlined bike trailer, costing about $350 and not converting to a stroller.

The Coaster XT is Thule's "value for the money" bike trailer, priced at about $450 and accommodating cycling and basic strolling on a three-point wheel system. It's a great option for those who want a budget-friendly trailer without sacrificing too much functionality.

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If you're looking for a more compact strolling experience, the Courier trailer is a good choice, operating on a four-point wheel system and converting to a cargo or dog trailer for about $800. This trailer is perfect for those who want to use their bike trailer for multiple purposes.

Thule's multisport trailers are ideal for families who enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The Chariot Lite is one of the brand's three multisport trailers, priced at $900–1,000 and equipped for biking and strolling with the option to purchase jogging or cross-country skiing add-on kits.

Here's a breakdown of Thule's bike trailers by price point:

The Chariot Cross and Chariot Sport are the most advanced multisport trailers, offering adjustable suspension, reclining seats, and hand-controlled disc brakes, among other features. These trailers are perfect for families who want the ultimate in comfort and convenience.

Included in Sport

The Thule Chariot Sport is a fully-equipped stroller that comes with some fantastic features. One hand-activated disc brake is included, making it easy to control the stroller on various terrain.

You'll also appreciate the removable side panels and windows, allowing for good airflow and visibility.

Fully padded seats are a great feature, providing comfort for your little ones during long strolls or adventures.

Safety and Setup

A woman rides a bike with a child seat outdoors in a vibrant park.
Credit: pexels.com, A woman rides a bike with a child seat outdoors in a vibrant park.

The Coaster XT bike trailer is designed with safety in mind, featuring a robust five-point harness to keep kids secure. Parents should always use significant care when pulling their kids along in the trailer.

A helmet is a must-have when using the trailer in biking mode, and a bicycle mirror can help improve visibility. The trailer also includes reflectors throughout to increase visibility on the road.

The brand cautions parents to only use the trailer on roads with light traffic, and never to exceed 15 miles per hour. A sturdy safety flag helps alert others on the road.

Protection from Elements

Protection from the elements is a top priority when it comes to keeping your little ones safe and comfortable while cycling.

The Coaster trailer comes with a mesh shield to keep bugs and debris out.

Parents can also lay a thick, clear plastic windshield over the top for added protection from the elements. This windshield secures easily with simple Velcro fasteners.

The trailer's tinted windows on the side help block out the sun's glare.

On hotter days, parents can improve ventilation by lifting a flap from the back of the seat, which doubles as a small sun shade when positioned over the top of the chariot's seats.

Safety

Child riding a BMX bike quickly through an urban setting, blurred motion reflects speed.
Credit: pexels.com, Child riding a BMX bike quickly through an urban setting, blurred motion reflects speed.

Safety is a top priority when using a bike trailer like the Coaster XT. The trailer incorporates a robust five-point harness to help keep kids safe while in use.

Parents should always use a helmet for their kids when the trailer is in biking mode, just like we do with our son. Thule also recommends using a bicycle mirror to improve visibility.

The Coaster was designed for use in daylight, but it's not equipped with built-in lights. However, it does have reflectors throughout to increase visibility.

A sturdy safety flag is included to alert others on the road, and the brand cautions parents to only use the trailer on roads with light traffic. Never exceed 15 miles per hour when using the trailer.

The parking brake next to the right rear wheel is a convenient feature that keeps the trailer secure and prevents it from rolling away unintentionally.

Setup

Setting up the Coaster XT is a breeze, taking under a minute to switch between bike and stroller mode.

Cyclist with child carrier bike stopped at urban intersection during daylight.
Credit: pexels.com, Cyclist with child carrier bike stopped at urban intersection during daylight.

The front wheel remains attached and flips upward, out of the way, keeping it close by for a quick transition.

You won't have to worry about forgetting the front stroller wheel when you reach the end of your bike ride and need to continue on foot.

The trailer connects to the rear bike axle, making it easy to attach and detach.

For bikes with a quick-release axle, the trailer simply attaches to the left side of the skewer, while bikes with thru-axles require an adapter to securely attach the trailer.

Make sure to buy the right adapter for your bike's pitch, as it varies from bike to bike.

Target Audience

The Thule carrier bike trailer is perfect for families with young children who want to explore the outdoors together. This trailer is designed for kids aged 1-4 years old.

Parents who enjoy cycling and want to include their little ones in the fun will love the Thule carrier bike trailer. It's great for short trips around the neighborhood or longer adventures on bike trails.

The trailer's compact design makes it easy to maneuver through tight spaces, making it ideal for urban explorers.

Kids

Child in a red jacket riding a balance bike on a tree-lined urban sidewalk. Autumn setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Child in a red jacket riding a balance bike on a tree-lined urban sidewalk. Autumn setting.

If you're planning a family outing on bikes, Thule bike trailers for kids are a great option. They're designed with safety and comfort in mind.

These trailers feature secure harness systems to keep your little ones safe and secure. Padded seats and weather-resistant covers provide extra comfort and protection from the elements.

Thule bike trailers for kids are easy to attach and provide a smooth ride. This makes family outings fun and safe for everyone involved.

As your child grows, you can start using accessories like the Thule Infant Sling to help them get used to being in the trailer. This allows you to start strolling with your child as soon as they can hold up their own head.

Dogs & Cargo

If you're an active pet owner or enjoy taking your gear on bike rides, you'll want to consider Thule's bike trailers for dogs and cargo. These trailers provide a comfortable and secure space for your furry friends or additional gear.

Kids watch a cycling race on a sunny day in Mersin, Türkiye.
Credit: pexels.com, Kids watch a cycling race on a sunny day in Mersin, Türkiye.

Thule bike trailers for dogs and cargo are designed with sturdy construction and ample ventilation to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride for both you and your pet. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, these trailers are perfect for any journey.

For pet owners, bike trailers for dogs offer a convenient way to bring your furry friends along on bike rides. They provide a comfortable space for your pet to sit or lie down, and the sturdy construction ensures their safety.

Bike trailers for cargo are also a great option for carrying everything you need on your next adventure or errand run. They're designed for versatility and practicality, with flat, spacious loading surfaces and adaptable frames that can carry everything from compact loads to oversized items like surfboards or tools.

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Types and Features

If you're in the market for a Thule carrier bike trailer, you'll want to know about the different types and features they offer. The Thule Chariot Lite, Thule Chariot Cross, and Thule Chariot Sport are the three main models.

A Man Carrying a Box
Credit: pexels.com, A Man Carrying a Box

The Thule Chariot Lite, Thule Chariot Cross, and Thule Chariot Sport all come with a set of standard features that include biking and premium strolling kits, ventilation vents and light, optimal suspension, adjustable handlebars, and a simple compact fold.

You can customize your Thule Chariot Lite or Thule Chariot Cross with hand-activated brakes using the Thule Chariot Brake kit, which is sold separately. Jogging and skiing kits are also available as separate accessories.

The Thule Chariot Sport stands out with its sport features, designed for athletes and their kids. It's packed with clever features that make it a flexible training partner.

Sport and Courier Features

The Thule Courier is a versatile bike trailer designed for active family life. It can easily carry kids, cargo, and even a dog with the optional dog trailer kit.

One of its standout features is the Flip flat technology, which converts the bike trailer into a cargo trailer. This is a game-changer for families who need to transport gear or groceries.

Black and white photo of three kids cycling on a path through a park.
Credit: pexels.com, Black and white photo of three kids cycling on a path through a park.

The Thule Courier also comes with an adjustable rain and mesh cover, ensuring that your kids stay dry and comfortable on rainy days. This feature is a must-have for families who live in areas with unpredictable weather.

Here are the unique features of the Thule Courier:

  • Flip flat technology
  • Adjustable rain and mesh cover
  • Optional dog trailer kit accessory

Multisport

Multisport bike trailers are a great way for active parents to do sports with their kids. They often come with additional kits for jogging or skiing, allowing families to enjoy different activities together.

The Thule Chariot bike trailers have premium features, but the Thule Chariot Lite is considered the most basic model.

The Thule Chariot Cross is a mid-range option, offering a balance of features and price.

The Thule Chariot Sport is the trailer packed with the most features for athletic parents.

Cross and Sport Features

The Thule Chariot Cross and Sport models have some exciting features that set them apart from the Lite model. These two models have slightly more advanced comfort features than the Thule Chariot Lite.

A cyclist laces up shoes next to a bike, ready for an outdoor journey.
Credit: pexels.com, A cyclist laces up shoes next to a bike, ready for an outdoor journey.

Both the Thule Chariot Cross and Thule Chariot Sport come equipped with ventilation vents and light. This is a great feature for parents who want to ensure their little ones stay comfortable and safe during rides.

The Thule Chariot Cross and Thule Chariot Sport also have optimal suspension, which helps to smooth out bumps and rough terrain. This makes for a more enjoyable ride for both kids and adults.

You can easily adjust the handlebar on both the Thule Chariot Cross and Thule Chariot Sport to find a comfortable position for riding. This is especially useful for parents who want to be able to steer and control the trailer with ease.

Here's a quick comparison of the features of the Thule Chariot Cross and Thule Chariot Sport:

Sport Features

The Thule Chariot Sport bike trailer is a game-changer for active parents who want to share their passion for sports with their kids.

This trailer is designed to be a flexible training partner, making it easy for parents to jog, bike, or cross-country ski with their kids. The Thule Chariot Sport is packed with features that make it stand out from the crowd.

A Kid Biking on the Farm Road
Credit: pexels.com, A Kid Biking on the Farm Road

One of the standout features of the Thule Chariot Sport is its one-hand activated disc brake, which provides safe and easy stopping power. The removable side panels and windows also make it easy to customize the trailer to suit your needs.

All Thule Chariot bike trailers have similar premium features, but the Thule Chariot Sport is considered the most feature-packed option.

Here are some of the key features of the Thule Chariot Sport:

  • One hand activated disc brake
  • Removable side panels/windows
  • Fully padded seats

These features make the Thule Chariot Sport an ideal choice for parents who want to share their love of sports with their kids.

Courier Features

The Thule Courier is a bike trailer that's perfect for active family life. It's incredibly versatile and can carry kids, cargo, and even a dog (with the right accessory).

One of the standout features of the Thule Courier is its Flip Flat technology. This allows you to easily convert the bike trailer into a cargo trailer.

Couple enjoying a ride on a cargo bike in Bordeaux, France, near tram tracks.
Credit: pexels.com, Couple enjoying a ride on a cargo bike in Bordeaux, France, near tram tracks.

The Thule Courier also comes with an adjustable rain and mesh cover. This is super useful for keeping your cargo dry and comfortable, no matter the weather.

You can also convert the Thule Courier into a dog trailer with the optional dog trailer kit accessory. This is a great feature for dog owners who love to take their furry friends on bike rides.

Here are the unique features of the Thule Courier:

  • Flip Flat technology converts the bike trailer into a cargo trailer
  • Adjustable rain and mesh cover
  • Optional dog trailer kit accessory converts Thule Courier into a dog trailer

Courier and Pet

The Thule Courier is a game-changer for families who love to bike together. This bike trailer is designed for all types of families and can accommodate two children in its roomy cockpit.

It's perfect for long rides or quick trips into town, and the best part is that it easily converts into a stroller with compact wheels for navigating crowded areas. The fully adjustable handlebar is a thoughtful touch for parents.

The Courier also features the option to fully convert into a cargo trailer, which is great for carrying gear. A durable and sturdy cargo floor ensures that your belongings stay secure at all times.

If you're an animal lover, you can even turn the Courier into a pet trailer with the optional dog trailer kit. This kit includes a soft dog bed and a roof cover with an integrated rain cover, so you can bring your furry friend along on your outdoor adventures.

Reviews and Versatility

A bicycle securely attached to a car roof rack set in a scenic outdoor area, perfect for travel and adventure.
Credit: pexels.com, A bicycle securely attached to a car roof rack set in a scenic outdoor area, perfect for travel and adventure.

The Thule Carrier bike trailer is a game-changer for families who love to be active together. It's designed for up to two kids, so whether you have a big family or a small one, this trailer has got you covered.

The Thule Carrier bike trailer is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for long rides, quick trips into town, and even commuting to school. It's great for families who love to explore new places together.

One of the standout features of the Thule Carrier bike trailer is its ability to convert into a stroller with compact wheels, making it easy to maneuver in crowded areas. This is a total lifesaver for parents who need to navigate busy streets.

The Thule Carrier bike trailer also features a fully adjustable handlebar, so parents can customize the fit to their liking. This is a great feature for parents who want to ensure they're comfortable while riding.

A father and two children wearing helmets ride a pink cargo bike in Paris.
Credit: pexels.com, A father and two children wearing helmets ride a pink cargo bike in Paris.

Whether you're commuting through the city or exploring mountain trails, the Thule Carrier bike trailer is built to handle diverse terrains. Its durable construction and robust safety features make it a great choice for families who love to be adventurous.

With its quick-release wheels and easy folding mechanisms, the Thule Carrier bike trailer is a breeze to attach, detach, and store. This is a huge plus for families who have limited storage space or who need to transport the trailer frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age can you use a Thule bike trailer?

For safe use, children should be between 1-10 months old and weigh less than 22lb/10kg. This age and weight range ensures a secure and comfortable ride for your little one.

What is the weight limit for the Thule Coaster XT bike trailer?

The Thule Coaster XT bike trailer has a maximum weight capacity of 45Kg/100lb, suitable for experienced and strong riders.

Gretchen Gerhold

Writer

Gretchen Gerhold has established herself as a prolific writer, covering a diverse range of topics including logistics, trade, and economic development. Her articles on container terminals and the logistics sector in India provide deep insights into the complexities of modern supply chain management. Focusing on the state of Kerala, her work on the economy and transport in Kochi highlights the region's significant contributions to India's economic landscape.

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