Kym- Regarding Bike Seats and Trailers??
Moms View Message Board: General Discussion: Archive April 2006:
Kym- Regarding Bike Seats and Trailers??
I think I have the right person....who owns a bike shop?? 
Anyway, I've read the info about bike trailers being safer than bike seats, and although I'm sure all of that is true, I'm nervous about using a bike trailer.
We live in the country on narrow roads that are driven at high speeds. To go off the road for traffic is nearly impossible, as you will go down a large hill into the woods or just through uneven deep ditches. I also feel weird about not having Natalie within sight or close to us when we ride bikes. I might be crazy, I know, but those are just my reservations about it.
My question is about bike seats. If you couldn't talk someone into a bike trailer, what would be your recommendations for a bike seat? I would really appreciate any info or product suggestions. Things to look for, what not to buy in a bike seat, best place to go, etc. You seem to be really knowledgeable about this so I thought I would ask.
TIA
Yep DeAnna, it's me) My dh is still snoozing so when he's up and had a bit o' liquid brain I'll get him to give us some brilliant advice! I know a 5 peice harness is important, they way it connects to the bike and the material it's made of and of course the kiddo needs to be in a helmet adn use the flag provided.
And...for safety the roads you are talking about would be no more safe in a seat than a trailer, and possibly less safe because the trailers are large, usually bright colored objects, wider than a bike so they attract more visual attention than a narrow bike with a seat. And if there is an accident, a child is much more protected in a trailer than on the back of a bike, but I understand most people feel safer with the kid up close to them As far as the hills and ditches I would think a trailer would make it fine.
One thing you should think of is if you happen to wreck on your bike, in a seat they are susceptible to the same injuries you are, but enclosed in the trailer, it seems they would be much more protected from bumps, scrapes, bangs, and broken bones...
Though I do understand the apprehension about having your children behind you out of sight like that.
My fear with trailers is that if you turn a corner and a car comes out of nowhere and hits the trailer before the trailer makes the turn.... Do you know what I mean? I refused to use trailers, too, and bought a bike seat. However, those are HEAVY and HARD to balance!! I found it nearly impossible to get her in the seat AND keep the bike upright AND then get on it myself and not tip the whole thing over! And getting off and getting her out was the same horrible balancing act. I soon gave up on the whole bike idea and just walked with strollers. MUCH easier and safer for me!
I much preferred the trailer to the seat, and I had both. I thought it was much easier to ride my bike, with the trailer.
It is nice around here, because we are close to bike trails that keep you off the streets, for the most part.
Thanks for the advice from everyone, and Kym, I look forward to hearing your DH's advice, too!
Kate- I bet you're right about the weight. I wasn't ever going to ride with her myself, but let my DH do it just because of that. I feel kind of like I don't like either option, but she really doesn't like just being in her stroller walking through nature. She wants to go on her own. I thought she would enjoy the bike riding, and DH I used to ride together all the time, so we could pick that back up in the process.
I'm just afraid that everytime a car goes by, we will be so nervous. In addition to the narrow roads and high speeds, it's very hilly, Do trailers have a flag, too? People who walk on the roads around my house all wear bright orange vests or bright orange hats because you just come over a hill and all of a sudden BOOM there's someone walking.
Another question for you Kym about trailers (or anyone who knows): is getting a cheaper trailer mean anything other than it's not convenient for strollers, etc.? I really can't afford a Burley. My brother has one from Walmart that I might be able to buy from him, but I don't want to if it's not going to be safe because it's cheaper. Does cheap = unsafe for these things?
I guess info on both the seat and how the trailer works would be appreciated. If nothing else, maybe we could try my brother's and see how we feel about her being back there! Maybe if she rides with DH and me behind them I would feel better? I really don't see myself going out alone on a bike. I never did because I thought it was boring without my sweetie to go along!! LOL
Any info on both please. And talk to me like I'm an idiot!!!
I am sure you can get a flag and mount it on the trailer, too.
I have a friend who has a seat on the back of her bike, but she can't put her dd in it b/c she isn't strong enough to balance the bike w/dd on it, too. It would be more dangerous b/c it's easier to lose control of the bike. I would think that the trailer would be a better investment b/c it can be used longer, when the dks are bigger.
Best Brands of Seats are Rode Limo, Topeak
about the same price
The trailer acts as "roll cage" for kid if an accident occurs, all around much safer than seat.
I have not looked to closely at the "wal mart" type but usually high end equipment requires less maintenence, is made of better/safer components, is more user friendly, lighter weight.
You can also add a mirror onto your handle bars so you can keep an eye on the kid without turning around.
Hope that helps,
Mike Kym's dh (and that's dear)
Thanks alot!! I like the mirror idea and the flag on the trailer.
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