Cycling with a Trailer: Everything You Need to Know for a Safe and Fun Ride
Bike trailers make it easy to bring the kids, the shopping or the camping gear along on a ride. Whether you're towing two toddlers to the park, a load of firewood home or a family member who can't ride on their own, this guide covers what you need to know to ride with a trailer safely and confidently.
What bikes can tow a trailer?
All Wike trailers work with standard bicycles, e-bikes and tadpole-style recumbent trikes. The trailer connects to your bike's rear axle with the hitch supplied, so check that your axle suits it before your first ride. If you need a spare or a different fit, we stock bike hitches with safety locking pins and replacement tow-bar hitches.
E-bikes: pedal-assist e-bikes are a great match for a trailer, especially on hills or with a heavier load. Check your e-bike manufacturer allows towing and stay within its total weight limit.
Not suitable: Wike trailers are not for use with motorised vehicles such as motorbikes, mopeds or scooters.
Where can you ride with a trailer?
Bike paths, shared paths and quiet streets are ideal. Rail trails are some of the best places in Australia to ride with a trailer: they're flat, wide and away from traffic. Read our guide to using bike trailers on rail trails for tips.
Road rules for bikes and passengers vary between states and territories, so check the rules where you ride. Helmets are compulsory for riders across Australia, and passengers should wear one too.
How fast should you go?
Keep it under 16 km/h when you're towing a passenger or a load with a Wike trailer. That's an easy cruising pace, even on an e-bike. Slow right down for corners and narrow paths, and remember that braking distances are longer with a trailer behind you.
How much can you carry?
| Trailer | Weight capacity | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Double and Premium Suspension | 45 kg (one or two children up to 132 cm) | Kids from 1 year old |
| Special Needs Large | 57 kg (passengers up to 162 cm) | Older children and teens |
| Special Needs Extra Large | 90.7 kg (passengers up to 178 cm) | Bigger teens and adults |
| Heavy Duty Flatbed | 57 kg | Garden gear, firewood, the esky |
| DIY Cargo Kit | 57 kg | Build your own size |
Never go over the stated limit, and spread the load evenly so the trailer sits level.
First time riding with a trailer?
Your bike will feel different, especially when you brake, turn or head downhill. Take a few practice rides somewhere quiet first, with the trailer empty and then with some weight in it, before you carry kids or a passenger. Our guide to using your bike trailer for the first time walks you through it.
Bike trailer safety tips
- Fly the safety flag every ride so drivers and other riders can see you.
- Use lights if you're riding at dusk, at night or in poor visibility.
- Take corners wide and slow, and never let the trailer jack-knife past a right angle to the bike.
- Slow down on bumpy or uneven ground. If you ride gravel often, the Premium Suspension smooths things out for the kids.
- Check the hitch, tyre pressure and harnesses before every ride.
- Children must be at least 1 year old, wear a helmet and be able to sit upright with good neck control.
- Never leave a passenger unattended in the trailer.
Ready to ride?
With the right setup and a bit of practice, a trailer opens up school runs, shopping trips and weekend adventures by bike. Browse our bike trailers, all dispatched within 3 business days. Not sure which one suits you? Call us on 0410 129 275 or email admin@takemeriding.com.au.