Biking with Infants: Best Tips and Considerations

Sharing the joy of cycling with your little one is a delightful experience filled with lots of new discoveries and cherished memories. A great thing is that there’s no need to wait until your baby can ride their own bicycle to enjoy family trips – cycling with infants is possible if you are well-equipped and prepared. Let’s see how to make the process enjoyable and, most importantly, safe for both you and your little one.

When Can You Start Biking with an Infant?

Age considerations are crucial when it comes to riding a bike with an infant. And it’s not just about the possibility as it is, but about keeping a child safe during rides. It’s recommended to wait until the baby is strong enough to withstand road vibrations, can sit up unaided, and has the neck strength needed to support the weight of a helmet. Here’s what you should know about bike riding with infants and newborns:

  • Newborns: it’s possible to cycle with your little one if you have a newborn bike attachment – a special insert or car seat adapter that allows them to lie flat and be securely cradled.

  • 9 months: this is a commonly recommended age for starting infant bike riding. Now, you are allowed to carry your baby in a front- or rear-mounted child seat as long as they can withstand the duration of the ride.

  • 1 year: most bicycle trailer and infant bike cart manufacturers say their products are safe for 1-year-old children. This is the best age to start family rides, as the baby is already strong enough.

Important! Consult with a pediatrician about putting your newborn or infant on bike to make sure they are ready.

Safe Ways to Bike with an Infant

Below, we have listed several good ways to make your child safe and comfortable during rides. You should also explore manufacturer recommendations and assess your baby’s development to choose the most suitable option for cycling with infant.

Infant Bike Trailers

Such trailers accommodate one or two child seats, which makes them suitable for carrying kids from 9-12 months and up to 6 years. Plus, they are spacious, comfortable, and equipped with a canopy for sun and rain protection. However, the trailer is attached behind the bicycle, and the baby sits low to the ground, which requires extra caution on the road.

Bike-Mounted Child Seats

Front seats are designed for younger toddlers (9 months - 3 years) who can sit upright and have good neck control, while rear seats are suitable for older kids (1-6 years). If possible, opt for the front mount, as it allows you to see the baby all the time, engage in communication, and provide them with an unobstructed view of the surroundings.

Cargo Bikes

These bicycles are praised for their hauling capacity, stability, and versatility. The most powerful models (e.g., Ferla Royce Max) can carry up to 600 lbs, which makes them great for transporting kids, dogs, and groceries at the same time. Even if you want to start biking with a newborn, a cargo trike will suit you well, since it supports not only child seats but also newborn attachments. Other accessories include a fully enclosed canopy, LED lights, a lockable storage compartment, cushions, and even a table – everything you need for a comfortable family trip.

How to Bike with a Newborn or Infant Safely

With proper preparation, you will have nothing to worry about when riding a bike with newborn or infant. Keep in mind the following tips to make the most out of your family trips:

  • Invest in a quality child seat that matches the age and weight of your baby

  • When choosing a bike cart for infants, make sure it’s made from durable materials and supports safety gear

  • Arrange a test ride or rent a bicycle before making a purchase

  • Check your bicycle and gear, and secure your baby properly before each ride

  • Start with short trips and increase their duration gradually as your little one becomes more comfortable

  • Choose smooth, well-maintained bike paths instead of bumpy trails or rough terrains

  • Check weather conditions before hitting the road

  • Bring all baby essentials with you (a change of clothes, nappies, wipes, etc.)

  • If you also carry a pet, grab some snacks for them too

  • Consider purchasing a newborn bicycle with pedal assistance for smooth and easy cycling

  • Stay attentive to your little one and be ready to stop if they start crying or become fussy

Best Gear and Accessories for Biking with Infants

  • Infant bike helmets: purchase a quality, lightweight infant helmet to protect your child’s head. At the same time, look for models that meet CPSC or ASTM standards and fit your baby properly without pinching or sliding. 

  • Padded seating and harness systems: opt for a comfortable child seat with thick padding, adjustable footrests, and a 3-point harness to keep your little one comfortable and safe.

  • Rain covers and wind protection: get a weather-resistant canopy to protect your baby from rain, wind, and scorching sun. Many infant and newborn bikes offer such covers as add-ons, so you can put them on and off whenever needed.

  • Suspension systems for smooth rides: it’s recommended to choose a bike or trailer with built-in suspension to absorb bumps and vibrations on uneven paths. This helps prevent discomfort during longer trips.

Read Also: Comprehensive Guide on Pedal Assist Electric Bikes

Transitioning from Newborn to Infant Rides

The body of a newborn is still too fragile in the first few weeks of life, so cycling is not an option during this period. It’s better to focus on stroller walks or use a baby carrier until you notice the signs that your little one is ready for new exploits. Switch to a bicycle if they can:

  • Sit upright without any support

  • Hold their head well

  • Wear a lightweight helmet

  • Tolerate short periods of sitting without discomfort

  • Maintain good balance and control over their body

As soon as your child meets the minimum age and weight requirements specified by the bicycle seat manufacturer, you can cease to use the newborn bike attachment while riding a cargo trike or bicycle trailer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid when Riding Bike with Infant

With kids, especially the youngest ones, things may not go smoothly all the time. So, we have put together some common mistakes parents make when putting infants on bikes. Avoid them to save yourself and your child from trouble on the road:

  • Biking with newborn too early

  • Using non-specialized equipment

  • Purchasing low-quality used gear or bikes

  • Neglecting proper helmet and child seat fitting

  • Skipping safety checks

  • Riding on busy roads or uneven terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bike with newborn?

It’s possible if you have a secure newborn bike attachment. However, it’s still better to wait until your baby is at least 9 months old. Always talk with your pediatrician first.

What’s the safest way to carry my baby on a bike?

Many experts consider a cargo bike the safest option for carrying kids. It has better stability, keeps kids protected in an enclosed area, and supports child seats. Plus, you can see and interact with your little one easily.

How do I choose between a trailer and a seat?

It depends on your riding needs and trip duration. Trailers are more comfortable for long rides, especially when you need to carry extra cargo or two kids. A seat may suit you better if you want to talk and bond with your baby during cycling.

Conclusion

Bike riding with infant is not just about getting from point A to B, but about spending quality time with your sweetheart. It’s one of the best ways to build an active, adventurous family lifestyle, from feeling the wind together to exploring new paths and creating those priceless smiles along the way.

To get the most out of it, make sure your baby is ready for the ride and always prioritize their safety while on the road. There’s one more thing to keep in mind: whenever you are seeking durable infant bikes for sale, bicycle gear, or accessories, Ferla is here to help. Happy riding!


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