Best Bike Child Seats

Review & Comparison, Last Update November 29, 2023
A child bike seat is a great way to bring your little explorer along on your bike rides. Being easy-to-use, comfortable, and safe, ...Read more
PROS

The seat has a unique design - the T-bar mounting system should be mounted behind the handlebar. It can be attached within minutes and causes no inconvenience for a rider.

CONS

Fidgety kids might make steering a bit difficult.

OUR VERDICT

This is a stunning model to bring your family happy memories. Comfy and ergonomic, the seat allows parents to always interact with their little ones. Kids can even spin their own small steering wheel to "help" parents.

detailed parameters
Mounting

Front-mounted, Attaches to a handlebar tube (0.75 inch distance is required on the handlebar stem)

Best For

Most bicycles

Maximum load

38 lbs

Age

1-4 years

Safety

3-point safety harness, Solid leg wells, Handrail

Extras

Shock-absorbing removable seat pad, Padded steering wheel, Vents, Handy hex wrench storage on steering wheel base

Weight

6.2 lbs

Warranty

2 years

PROS

The UrRider seat is easy to install and remove without a need to use wrenches or hexagons (quick-release clamps are provided). As a bonus, a practical storage bag is included.

CONS

There isn't any adjustability to the seat.

OUR VERDICT

Despite the amazingly light weight (about 2 lbs), this child seat is able to withstand high loads of up to 110 lbs and is intended for children up to 6 years old. This was achieved largely due to Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction.

detailed parameters
Mounting

Front-mounted, Attaches to seatpost clamp (diameter is within 1.4 inch) and top tube

Best For

Most bicycles (except Step-through frames)

Maximum load

110 lbs

Age

2-6 years

Safety

Handrail (wrapped with soft NBR tube with anti-slip stripe)

Extras

Saddle with polyurethane foaming processing technology, Foot rests, Silicone pads for fork arms, Storage bag included

Weight

~2 lbs

Warranty

Amazon's 30-day return policy

PROS

The manufacturer has done its best to make this seat as safe as possible. The leg wells with adjustable foot straps guarantee that small feet won't get into spinning wheels and bike’s spokes.

CONS

The straps are rather tight.

OUR VERDICT

If you're looking for an extra-safe seat for a quite small baby, the CyclingDeal Front Mount Baby Carrier may be right up your alley. It has a rigid wraparound cocoon-style design and is suitable for kids from 9 months.

detailed parameters
Mounting

Front-mounted, Attaches to seat tube (diameter is within 1.1 - 1.57 inch) and top tube (diameter is within 1.07 - 1.5 inch)

Best For

Most hardtail bicycles (except Step-through frames)

Maximum load

33 lbs

Age

9 months - 3 years

Safety

Handrail, Leg wells, Foot straps, 5-point safety harness

Extras

Facing front and facing back mounting options, Quick release clamp

Weight

~6.4 lbs

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

PROS

This is surely one of the most interactive models that will help your child develop a sense of balance. It has no restrictions and can provide your kid with more freedom. 

CONS

It has no harness system.

OUR VERDICT

The Tyke Toter open seat is great for curious kids and for their parents who are experienced enough to watch the road and their kids simultaneously. Your children will definitely like the freedom it provides.

detailed parameters
Mounting

Front-mounted, Attaches to a seatpost clamp

Best For

All bikes without suspension

Maximum load

45 lbs

Age

2-5 years

Safety

Handlebar

Extras

Foot peg (should be mounted on a down tube)

Weight

2.5 lbs

Warranty

Lifetime Warranty

PROS

The seat is made with a cushioned front pedestal that can act either as a handlebar or as a headrest. Also, the carrier is fitted with a 5-point safety harness and oversized buckle system.

CONS

It's quite hefty. 

OUR VERDICT

The Kangaroo Deluxe is one of the most comfortable bicycle carriers that is suitable for the longest rides. It boasts a good amount of padding and "rest area" for quick naps on-the-go.

detailed parameters
Mounting

Front-mounted, Can fit any standard frame

Best For

Most bicycles (except Step-through frames)

Maximum load

33 lbs

Age

1-4 years

Safety

5-point safety harness and oversized buckle system

Extras

Ultra-thick seat and back padding, Adjustable foot holders, Plush headrest

Weight

~8.25 lbs

Warranty

2 years

A Real Standout

At a glance, it becomes obvious that the iBert Safe-T seat really stands out from other front-fitting models. The distinction lies in its method of installation - it should be attached right to a handlebar stem with a patented tool-free Stinger mount. This way, the seat will keep a baby far in front of parents, allowing them to ride in comfort without banging their knees on the kid's seat when pedaling. This unusual design may look strange but actually it ensures freedom of movement for you and the total comfort and safety for your child.

As a nice touch, the seat is made with its own little steering wheel, so your kids can turn it and pretend to be pedaling as well, shouting fun "beep beep" sounds. By the way, the said steering wheel is padded so that your toddler can rest his/her head on it too. As for the overall construction, the seat comes with a special insert that surrounds your baby with softness and prevents sliding. The seat also boasts a good shock absorption system making a ride as smooth as possible. And to stay comfortable even on the hottest of summer days, the seat has little vents that ensure good ventilation.

Safety Comes First

Despite its seemingly minimalistic design, the seat still offers great protection. During the trip, your child will be reliably secured by a three-point harness while deep sides will prevent injuries in case of side falls. Besides the harness system, the seat has a pivoting lap bar that locks kids in place. What is more important, though, is that you'll be able to comfortably wrap your arms around your child to protect him or her and, thus, enjoy close interaction. Nestling your baby between your arms, you'll be able to easily explain what's up ahead and even let your little passenger ding a bicycle bell.

Last but not least, the iBert model is incredibly easy to set up. The patented stinger system mounts right behind the handlebar within a few minutes with no extra tools needed. The installation requires no special skills, and actually the most important job you have to do is make sure that your bike is in good working condition and is ready for an additional load.

Summing up, the iBert Child Bicycle is one of the most unique yet safest options out there. It can help you share your adventures with your little ones with maximum fun and minimum risk for their health.

Last updated price $102.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B0065UTOWO

Ultra Light

If you're looking for an extra-light alternative to rear seats or bulky front seats, this tandem attachment may be exactly what you need. The UrRider Child Bike Seat has an ultra-thin design and weighs only about 2 pounds but can deliver exceptional support to 2-6-year-old kids up to 110 pounds. This bearing capacity was achieved largely due to the premium materials the manufacturer has used for this seat. To specify, the frame of the seat is made from aircraft-grade 6061 Aluminum alloy, A380 Aluminum alloy, and fasteners of 304 stainless steel. This combo might tell nothing to you but we can assure you that these are the highest-quality materials, which ensures that the whole is extremely solid, durable, and never-rusting. The saddle itself is quite soft and cushy owing to the polyurethane foaming processing technology. Also, it has undergone surface anti-slip treatment and is designed with numerous hollows and grooves for ventilation. This way, your little cyclist will feel stable and stay dry even during the hottest of days.

For enhanced protection, the seat comes with the handrail that is further wrapped with a soft NBR tube and anti-slip stripe. It has a U-shape design and provides kids with a comfy place to rest their hands on. Thanks to all this, this chair feels very safe and reliable. That said, keep note that it is not suitable for kids who have not reached 3 years of age. According to the manufacturer, this seat is best used for older kids who are already aware of the danger that they can expect while on the road and can keep their hands on the handrail all the time.

Super Portable

It's worth mentioning that both the handrail and the front fork arm are adjustable and can perfectly match bikes of various specs. The only requirement is that the seat post should be within 1.4-inch (35.5mm) diameter. That is to say, the seat is applicable to various mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, and fitness bikes. Moreover, the manufacturer also offers another version of this seat for a women's bike. The seat is available in Blue and Orange options.

When it comes to mounting, the seat is very stable on the bike. It's equipped with a quick-release handle that enables swift installation and removal with no additional tools required. What is notable, it can be folded almost flat and packed into a soft bag (included in the box), making it an ideal travel companion to carry just in case. So, those who often travel by city shared or rented bicycles will hardly find a better option than this. Surely, this front bike seat for toddlers opens up a whole new world of freedom.

Last updated price $99.99
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B07FMQ2TCD

Best Protection for the Smallest

In case you're in the market for an extra-rigid and safe option for the smallest of babies, you may like the CyclingDeal bicycle seat for infants and toddlers. It's a classic-style seat that has been designed and rigorously tested for kids from 9 months to 3 years old. The manufacturer has taken all the possible issues very seriously and done its best to make this child bike seat as safe as possible. As a result, we have a great product with a well-thought-out design.

Plunging deeper into details, the seat has a wraparound cocoon-style design with high sides that effectively prevent injuries in case of falls or even light crashes. Also, it perfectly absorbs bumps and ensures a smooth ride, no matter the surface. And if you often travel to the country and ride on forest trails, the seat can shield your kids from splashes and mud.

What's also great about this seat is that it's made with security straps on the footrests to protect small feet from spinning wheels and bike’s spokes. In addition, the seat is equipped with a special belt buckle that keeps kids secure and can't be released by them accidentally. Understanding that one of the main safety requirements on the road is to be well-visible, the manufacturer has designed the harness system in a bright orange color noticeable from far away. As you see, everything about the CyclingDeal seat streams safety.

Compatibility

The CyclingDeal saddle comes with a quick-release bracket that allows you to mount or dismount the seat from the bike in seconds. The bracket is compatible with most bike frames that are 27.2-38 mm in diameter (except for dual suspension bikes, beach cruisers, and front-derailleur models). Overall, the seat is quite easy to install and feels very sturdy on the bike.

Take note that this seat is intended for the front mounting only, yet it can be positioned to either facing front or facing back. And if you're not sure whether you will feel comfortable with the seat being attached in front of you, the manufacturer also offers rear-mounted seats that will give more freedom of movement and won't interfere with your ability to ride a cycle.

In the end, the manufacturer is really confident in this seat, which is proved by the fact that they back it with a lifetime warranty. So, if you're looking for the safest model out there, the CyclingDeal seat, which excels in its ability to protect the smallest kids from falls or muddy terrain, is really a good deal.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $55.64
Stock In stock
ASIN B00OK2XEQG

Gives More Freedom

As children grow, they want to explore the world around them, and one of the key tasks for all parents is to create a safe environment for their kids to test boundaries. With this in mind, the folks behind Tyke Toter have created a toddler seat that can provide kids with maximum freedom coupled with reliable protection. Actually, it has neither harness nor backrest, and sitting in it, your kid will be able to pretend that it's he or she who is actually riding a bicycle. Why not?

What is notable, the model fits even 5-year-old children, whereas most others work only until the age of 3. That means, the seat can provide you with fun family trips for quite a long time. Your kids will be upfront and you will be able to talk and touch them during a ride. And since your child will be safely nestled between your arms, you'll always be able to control the situation.

When it comes to safety concerns, many people believe that kids will be safer in a bulky seat with a good harness system. While this may be true for the smallest kids, the older ones may be even safer in a sideless seat like this. In case of some dangerous situation, they will be able to simply slide off and, thus, avoid serious injuries. Moreover, you will be able to quickly grab and shield them or, on the contrary, push them away.

Easy to Install

The seat is easy to install and doesn't require additional brackets or racks. It's suitable for all types of bicycles (even for mountain bikes) and you'll have to take a few simple steps to mount it on your bike. Just place the Tyke Toter above the top bar of your bike frame, wrap the quick-release clamp wings around the seat post, and tighten the nut. Install a foot peg and you're ready to go. If needed, you can order one more foot peg and install it on the other bicycle. This way, you'll need to mount only the seat when you want to switch between bikes.

To wrap things up, the Tyke Toter is one of the easiest to install child bike seats out there. It has a simple design with no extra frills and bulky harness systems but gives enough protection and freedom for your child. However, if you have a very wiggly baby, we'd recommend looking towards bike seat options that come with the harness.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $136.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B0055PJUL0

Extra Comfortable

Having won the "Baby and Child Recognition Awards", the WeeRide LTD Kangaroo Child Bike Seat doesn't go anywhere from the sales charts, remaining a popular choice among parents worldwide. What makes it a fave of so many people? Actually, quite a few reasons, but first and foremost, it's the ultimate level of comfort it delivers. 

The seat has a generous amount of padding and comes with a cushioned seat, back, and front pedestal that feel not only extra supportive but also extremely comfortable. The pedestal can also act as a handlebar to keep your child's little hands off your steering wheel or as a headrest if you notice that your son or daughter wants to have a nap while you're riding a bicycle.

To proceed with safety features, the carrier has sturdy foot cups that will keep little legs away from the chain/bike parts and add extra comfort during long rides. The footrests are vertically adjustable, so you will be able to use it for quite some time until your child outgrows it. The seat belts are also fully adjustable and come equipped with soft shoulder pads to ensure nothing chafes the delicate skin of your baby, which is especially important when summer days get really hot. 

As you've probably noticed, it's a front-position child bike seat, meaning it should be installed in front of the bicycle frame. We like this configuration a lot because it allows for much more child interaction.

Wise Weight Distribution

Although generally back-mounted seats are considered to be more comfortable for parents due to the fact that they don't shift the bike's center of gravity forward, you can rest assured the WeeRide LTD Kangaroo Child Bike Seat won't cause any inconvenience as well. According to customers' feedback, it feels even more stable than some back-mounted models and enhances their bicycle's stability rather than impairs it. Besides, it's very easy to control. All you will need to do is just splay your knees out a bit further than usual. The trick is, wise weight distribution.

All things considered, the WeeRide Kangaroo is arguably one of the best offerings for the longest of rides. Both you and your child will feel comfortable with it. Your child will always be within your range of vision while having a great view and feeling like a part of the ride. And if he or she happens to fall asleep during a ride, they will be able to use the padded front pedestal as a headrest. So, if you'd like to take your kid's comfort to a sofa level, the Kangaroo Deluxe is a worthy choice.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $49.95
Stock In stock
ASIN B001DF68MA

What Is a Bike Child Seat?

With the delivery of a child, the life of new parents often changes drastically. But the parenthood doesn't mean the end of an active lifestyle (if anything, you'll become even more active) and what isn't worth changing is healthy habits such as riding a bike.

One of the favorite thrills of active parents is taking their kids on exciting bike trips. Bike riding is not only a great way for you to get exercise but also a fantastic adventure for your infant or toddler. Once your little one is old enough (9 months+) you can put him/her in a special safe bike seat and set off on a fun family ride!

Toddler bicycle seats are great both for city neighborhood and country terrain trips (in case you prefer long trips, a bike GPS might be useful). Yet, if you usually ride on-road, you can use a child bike trailer that can accommodate even two kids.

What Features to Compare

Type and Сompatibility with Bicycles

With numerous different mounting systems and countless types of bikes, it’s pretty challenging for parents to choose the right child bike seat for their bikes. In general, most models easily fit standard road bikes without suspension, but finding a proper carrier for a full-suspension mountain bike is usually quite difficult. So, prior to purchasing a seat, consider the type of bike you have and whether the particular item is compatible with it.

Another frustration parents often face is what type of seat will work for them, front-mounted or rear-mounted? Actually, both options have their advantages and disadvantages.

  • Front models should be mounted to the stem of your bike and they are very easy to take on and off. They provide a close interaction between you and your child and allow you to keep an eye on them. In addition, these models give a better balance, especially over bumps. However, this type is a bit uncomfortable for petite parents, or worse still, in case you fall, your child might act as your cushion.
  • Rear ones took a huge step towards safety. They are the best option for older kiddos as they won't block your field of vision. They reliably protect your baby during the trip and even allow him/her to have a nap. You won't be able to watch your baby all the time, though.

Child's Weight and Age

Before purchasing the selected item, pay attention to its weight and age limits. Front seats generally shouldn't be used for kids under 9 months and over 3 years. The weight limits for rear-mounted ones vary, but they usually go from 40 lbs to 70 lbs. As for safety systems, no one knows your child better than you, so you have to choose the level of protection based on your tot's character. For instance, if you have a very active baby, a seat with high sides and a five-point harness is a worthy choice.

When choosing a child seat, also pay attention to its weight - the heavier it is, the more difficult it will be for you to pedal. That said, heavy models are usually more durable and reliable.

Extras

Most models have extra frills to be comfortable for both kids and their parents. They are usually fitted with a soft pad so that your kid doesn't slip during the trip. The best models use shock-absorbing materials or memory foam. Some manufacturers also make this pad double-sided and suitable for machine washing. In addition, some models have a small steering wheel to entertain your little wonder and let him/her feel like a real cyclist during the trip.

FAQ:

Q: At what age can my kid make its bike debut?

A: It's not a question of age but of physical development. Babies vary a lot as to the age at which they can sit up unattended. Mainly, you can place them on your bike when they are about nine months.

Q: What bike seat should I buy as my first?

A: For under-twos, most pediatricians recommend buying one with a reclining backrest. The riding is very soporific for most infants, and they usually nod off as soon as you start pedaling. Thus, it’s better to get a reclinable model so that your baby can have a comfortable nap on-the-go.

Q: What type of bike seat will work best for me?

A: It depends on your bike and your child. For example, front-fitting ones are usually mounted near handlebars. They are smaller and lighter than rear seats and they work best for small kids from 9 months to 2 years, with some exceptions. As for the rear models, they mount to a rack or a frame of your bike in the back. They offer better suspension and reclinability but they can be harder to fit on some bikes. You will use rear-mounted seats longer since they typically have higher weight limits.

Q: Where can I purchase accessories like cushions, footrests, rain covers?

A: You can purchase additional accessories on Amazon.  

Q: How does a child seat affect the balance of an adult bike?

A: If you can balance well when riding alone, you aren't likely to have problems balancing with a child seat attached. However, we recommend you to mount it and ride without a kid first to become familiar with balancing, stopping, starting, turning, and the overall feel of riding with it. Though you might feel a bit different at first, we are sure you'll get used to it quickly.

Q: Are child bike carriers suitable for use on rough terrain?

A: Not all of them are. If you plan to ride on rough terrain, look for models with good cushioning and suspension system that will absorb road shocks to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride for your little one.

Q: Are there any safety precautions?

A: Cycling becomes very popular for both recreation and common transportation, so the safety standards of child bike seats are highly regulated. Most models meet ASTM and some other standards. Yet, don't forget to follow bicycle safety laws in your state, including wearing helmets for safe and happy cycling!

Sources:

1. Erin Carson The Safest Bicycle Seat to Use for Toddlers, LIVESTRONG. June 25, 2015.

2. What to consider when buying a child bike seat, Evans Cycles. January 1, 2016.

3. Anna Studman Cycling with children, Which?

4. Your Guide to Buying Child Seats and Trailers for Bikes, eBay. March 3, 2016.

5. Ten Fun Facts About Bikes, National Geographic Kids.

6. Vincent Iannelli Best Age and Method for Children to Learn How to Ride a Bike, VeryWell.

7. Cycling with Young Kids, REI.

8. When can you put your baby on your bike? TheGuardian.

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