Woof Cycle Bike Trotter Review

PRICE: $40

FIND IT AT: woofcycle.com

Woof Cycle’s Bike Trotter is a dog leash attachment that connects to your bicycle and is a great way to exercise your dog – especially for active dogs.

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The Woof Cycle Bike Trotter was easy to attach and kept our dog away from the bike, but still within a safe distance. This is a much easier alternative to trying to ride one handed with a leash. Our dog got used to it pretty quickly and loved coming along on our bike missions. The fairly flexible and durable arm easily folds up or back so you can park your bike against a wall or in a rack. When you don’t need to bring it, or if you need an impromptu leash, the whole unit detaches quickly.

WISH LIST

Although the company suggests installation on the side opposite the derailleur, we found it awkward to have our dog following on the left side of our bike as she was exposed to traffic and oncoming or passing bikes. We wanted the bike to be a buffer, like how a motorcycle sidecar is always on the inside. We were able to successfully install the Woof Cycle Bike Trotter on the derailleur side, although the shape of the hinge and the derailleur hanger meant that the unit folded back out of the way instead of up. We also contemplated making our own end strap from elastic instead of webbing to provide even more flex and freedom while on the move. Our smarty pants of a dog ended up just learned how to position herself and ran with it.

SUMMARY

Overall this product is great for what it sets out to do, which is to keep your dog attached to your bike at a distance that keeps them away from wheels or gears. It is important to make sure your dog is up for a bike ride, we checked with our vet and try to never go too fast or far and avoid much time on pavement or the road. Since the attachment point is low to the ground there is not much worry of the dog pulling you over, but admittedly our dog is only 35 pounds (16 kg) and well trained. The Woof Cycle Bike Trotter was easy to install, it folds up for parking, and quickly pops on or off of your bike. Your dog will appreciate coming along for a run/ trot while you bike, but if you want to go fast or for long distances you should look into a carrier or trailer.

Laura Langford is a designer and furniture maker in Ottawa, Canada and rides a Bianchi and a Raliegh bike. Her dog Dot (also spelled “.”) is a 2.5 yearr old Catahoula Leopard Dog. lauralangford.ca