Cycle Sprog - A Full Guide to Cycling with Babies and Toddlers

Are you an outdoor-loving parent who enjoys walking with your children but is curious about cycling with them? Blaze Trails and Cycle Sprog have teamed up to share detailed information and expert advice to help you start cycling with your children. 

Going on a bike ride can be a fantastic way to explore the outdoors with your little ones, offering the chance to cover more ground than on foot. Bikes also provide a brilliant alternative to car trips, meaning you’ll spend less time in traffic jams and searching for parking, and more time outside with your child.

Here's an in-depth guide from family cycling experts Cycle Sprog to help you get started on this journey!

Why cycle with your baby or toddler?

Cycling is not only a fun and efficient way to get around, but it also provides an excellent opportunity for bonding with your child. It allows you to explore new places that might be too far to walk to, all while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery. Plus, it’s a great form of exercise for you and an enjoyable ride for your child. Cycling with your baby or toddler enhances fitness, boosts mental well-being, and encourages a love for the outdoors from a young age.

Getting started

Choose the right gear

Selecting the appropriate gear is crucial for a safe and enjoyable cycling experience. Knowing which seat, trailer, or bike will be right for your family and child can be confusing. Cycle Sprog offers an online masterclass specifically aimed at helping parents buy the right equipment for cycling with babies and toddlers. 

Here are some options to consider:

  • Rear-mounted seats: These seats attach to the back of your bike and are suitable for children aged nine months to six years. They are a popular choice for many families as they can be budget-friendly, fit on most types of bikes and will fit your child for many years. The thing children love most about bike seats is that they are up high and can see everything around them. This article, the best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children will help you decide which is best for your family.

  • Front-mounted seats: Positioned between the handlebars and the rider, these seats are ideal for younger children, providing them with a great view, ideal for children aged nine months to three years. This article summarises the best front bike seats for toddlers and young children.

  • Trailers: Trailers can be a big investment, but offer a way to carry one or two children and offer lots of additional storage space. Trailers keep children warm and dry and are good for naps if you're planning longer bike rides. Premium bike trailers have features such as suspension, reclining seats and running and stroller wheel accessories, meaning you can have one bit of equipment for many sports- even skiing! Head to our best kids trailer guide to find out more. 

  • Cargo bikes: Cargo bikes are becoming an increasingly popular way to carry children for short journeys around town, acting as the perfect car replacement for many families. While more suited to utility cycling, there are a few off-road suitable cargo bikes! Many cargo bikes come equipped with electrical assist, ideal for carrying lots of children or in hilly areas. Box bikes are ideal for carrying young children who are too young for seats or trailers, as you can fit a car seat into the box of the bike to carry your baby! Find out what type of cargo bike is best for your family and see our pick of the best cargo bikes for families. 

Practice makes perfect

Once you’ve chosen the right equipment, start by practising rides without your child to increase your confidence; the bike will handle differently with the new accessories. Gradually introduce short rides in a safe, traffic-free area to get both you and your child used to the experience. As you both become more comfortable, you can gradually increase the length and complexity of your rides. Here are some tips for practising:

  • Take potatoes for a ride: To get used to the weight of your new equipment and the impact it will have on how your bike handles, load up the seat or trailer with a bag of potatoes and take them for a ride or two.

  • Start slow: Begin with short, easy rides in familiar areas to build your confidence.

  • Frequent stops: Take breaks to check on your child and make any necessary adjustments. Keep the first few rides short and fun so they are excited to go on the bike again!

Plan your route

Choosing the right route is essential for a successful family bike ride. Opt for easy, quiet routes with interesting things along the way to keep your child entertained. Parks, designated cycle trails, and disused train lines are excellent options for family rides. Cycle Sprog offers lots of family cycling route recommendations if you’re looking for rides in your area. Consider the following when planning your route:

  • Traffic-free zones: Look for routes that minimise exposure to traffic, ensuring a safer and more relaxing ride for you and your child.

  • Engaging scenery: Choose routes with parks, playgrounds, or natural attractions to make the ride more enjoyable.

  • Rest stops: Plan frequent stops to rest, snack and allow your child to stretch and explore.

Tips and tricks

Pack essentials

Ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable ride. Pack snacks, water, and sunscreen, and don’t forget extra layers for changing weather conditions. Here’s a checklist of essentials:

  • Snacks and drinks: An essential for any outing with kids!

  • Puncture fixing equipment: It’s a good idea to take a small puncture repair kit, some tools and a pump with you as well as the knowledge to use it- or have a plan for getting home if you get a puncture!

  • Weather-appropriate clothing: Dress your child in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. Remember if they aren't peddling, they will need more layers as they aren't creating any of their own heat and in a front or rear seat, will be exposed to wind chill.

Try before you buy

If you’re unsure if family cycling is right for you or if you want to test equipment before making a purchase, there are lots of organisations around to allow you to try before you buy or options for short or long term hire. This allows you to see how a piece of equipment feels and determine if it suits your needs. 

Invest now, make memories for years

Investing in quality cycling equipment now can lead to many years of happy family bike rides. Whether you choose a rear child seat, a front seat, trailer or a cargo bike, the research and investment you make while your child is little will pay off in the long run. Here’s why:

  • Durability: Quality equipment lasts longer and provides a safer ride.

  • Comfort: Well-designed seats and trailers ensure a comfortable experience for your child.

At what age can I start cycling with my baby?

This depends on a whole host of factors, as well as your physical recovery and cycling fitness and ability. 

Cargo bikes with a front box can be fitted with a standard car seat, meaning you can cycle with a newborn. 

Families looking to invest in a bike trailer or seat must wait until the child is old enough to support their head, usually around 9 months old.  

Cycling with your baby or toddler is a rewarding way to stay active, explore new places, and create lasting memories together. By choosing the right gear, practising regularly, planning engaging routes, and packing essentials, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying many joyful family bike rides. Cycle Sprog are here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to embark on this exciting adventure with your little ones.

There is so much information out there to help with working out what equipment is right for your family, but we know it can be hard to sift through it all! 

These two resources are here to help!

Happy Cycling!