Bike Trailers

Bicycle trailers: transporting loads and two wheels

Cycle trailers are a practical and versatile solution for cyclists who need to carry loads or travel with the family. They can be used to transport children, luggage or even a second bike, extending the possibilities offered by cycling.

Bike trailers to transport your children safely

Bicycle trailers for transporting children have become a must-have for cycling-loving parents who want to include their children in their outings. These trailers are designed to offer a solution that is both practical and safe. They can carry one or two children, with models often equipped with safety harnesses, comfortable seats and weather protection.

Safety being paramount, many models incorporate suspension systems to soften shocks and provide a more comfortable ride, whether on the road or on rougher paths. Wide wheels and reinforced frames ensure optimum stability, even at high speeds or on uneven terrain. Some children's bike trailers also feature mesh windows, so that younger children can enjoy the scenery while being protected from wind and dust.

There are multifunctional trailers which, as well as being attached to a bicycle, can be transformed into a pushchair once detached, offering extra flexibility for city walks. Brands such as Thule and Hamax offer this type of product. The secure attachment system makes assembly quick and easy, while disassembly for storage or transport is generally effortless.

Luggage trailers: for increased transport capacity

Bike trailers for luggage meet the needs of cyclists who need to transport bulky or heavy loads. These trailers are indispensable for cycle travellers, adventurers or those who use their bikes to run errands. They can be used to carry all kinds of equipment, whether camping gear, food shopping or even professional equipment.

With their impressive load capacity, they offer great flexibility. Luggage trailers are often lightweight but robust, with aluminium or steel frames to withstand the toughest road conditions while limiting the additional weight for the cyclist. Some are fitted with smaller wheels to save space, while others offer wheels of a similar size to those on the bike for greater stability.

There are also trailers with closed compartments, ideal for protecting luggage from bad weather or mud splashes. These trailers are attached to the rear of the bike via a sturdy hitch, guaranteeing balanced weight distribution so that the bike's manoeuvrability is not impaired, even when the trailer is fully loaded.

Traction solutions between two bicycles

For family or group outings, it's sometimes necessary to tow a bike, whether it's for a child too young to keep up with the pace, or for a less experienced adult. Towing systems make it possible to attach one bike to the back of another, making long distances easier. They generally consist of a solid tow bar that connects the two bikes.

These systems are designed to ensure safety and stability, maintaining a constant distance between the towing bike and the towed bike while guaranteeing good manoeuvrability on bends. The main advantage of this system is that it allows the child or the towed cyclist to pedal when he or she wishes, while benefiting from the assistance of the front cyclist in the event of fatigue. This type of trailer is particularly popular with families who want to cycle together, while offering extra assistance to those who need it.

The pull-up bars are quick to attach and easy to remove, making them ideal for occasional use or long outings. Some bars can even be folded for easy transport when not in use.

Some traction systems are called "bike pulls". These are a kind of coiled rope that allows the leading bike to pull the one behind. However, they do not maintain minimum distances between two bicycles.

Accessories for bike trailers: that extra practical touch

A bike trailer can be fitted with a number of accessories to improve its use and the safety of your cargo, whether children or luggage. These include rain covers, which are particularly useful for protecting your belongings or your children in unexpected weather conditions. Made from waterproof materials, they are easy to attach and provide complete protection against moisture.

Trailer tops are essential for children's trailers. They provide protection from the wind and bad weather while ensuring good visibility for the children inside. Some tops are adjustable and can be folded down as required. Trailer hitches are critical for securing the trailer to the bike. It's important to choose a hitch that's compatible with your model of bike and strong enough to bear the load without risk of failure.

Guide bars and tow bars are two other very useful accessories for those who need to tow another bike or even use the trailer as a pushchair. The guide bar makes it easy to steer the trailer when used in pushchair mode, while the tow bar, as explained above, is perfect for tandem outings with a child or adult in tow.