Kids

We asked our readers for recommendations for cycling with kids. What is the best kids stuff for cycling?

The response was overwhelming and many items appeared again and again. The holiday season is now here so this is an ideal time to look at presents for your children (and, let’s face it, for ourselves) which will make cycling a better experience for both our children and ourselves.

Helmets

Nutcase Little Nutty Helmet 
($45 USD $50 CAD)

Mentioned most often were helmets. Topping the list was the Little Nutty from Nutcase, and running a close second was the Bell Zoom. You can encourage your child to protect themselves by allowing them to choose a helmet that celebrates his or her creative individuality.

The bright active graphics of Nutcase’s Little Nutty have shown to be so effective, that some kids don’t want to take their helmets off in school! The easy-twirl adjustment feature makes the Nutty easy to use. Louis Garneau also offers a great adjustable helmet that a kid can grow up wearing, which may save you money, if your child doesn’t ever lose it. Another option is the blue Bell Zoom helmet with decorative animals. Its protective vent system will keep small creepy crawlies out, while protecting your child from the sun and rain.

Bell Zoom Helmets 
($16.99 USD, $23.93 CAD)

Also numerous were comments about parents wearing helmets. If you care enough about your child to have him or her wear a helmet, how about caring enough about your child to wear one yourself? Both to protect you in case of an accident (how are you going to take care of your little one if you are brain damaged – or worse!?), and you will be setting a safe example of helmet use for your children. Get a helmet that fits and is comfortable and your child will get used to wearing one.

Trailers

Burley Honey 
Bee ($349.00 USD)

After helmets, trailers were the next big choice. Most recommended getting higher quality gear, preferably with shock absorbers, because everyone uses a trailer far more than they think they will initially. Trailers carry picnics, toys to the beach and pretty much anything too big to fit on a rack. Specific brands recommended were Chariot, Schwinn and Burley.

The bright yellow Burley Honey Bee is a roomy model; it can carry two children and up to three bags of groceries (maximum of 100 pounds). No matter the weather, when you nestle your little busybodies into the Honey Bee, the clear UV-resistant windows keep bugs, wind, rain and sun away.

Chariot Cheetah-1 (Chassis Only: $400 USD, $450 CAD, Cycling Conversion Kit: $65 USD 
$75 CAD)

When choosing a trailer it is important to consider how your precious cargo’s weight will be distributed. The Chariot Cheetah-1 is just big enough for a baby, or one small child. The Cheetah’s mobility is key: it has a low center of gravity, so you will have greater control to protect your youngster when you ride.