BICYCLE TOW BARS: SAFE FAMILY CYCLING WITH A TANDEM BAR
Transform your family cycling adventures with a bicycle tow bar - the perfect solution for teaching young riders and enjoying longer trips together. These devices let you safely connect a child's bike to an adult bicycle, making family rides more enjoyable and worry-free.
Scroll to the bottom of the page to find out more about the benefits of a tow bar.
WHAT IS A BICYCLE TOW BAR?
A bicycle tow bar, also known as a bike tow bar, child bike attachment or tandem bar, is a sturdy connector that links an adult's bicycle to a child's bike. This setup creates a safe "tandem" arrangement that lets parents maintain control while children experience the joy of cycling on their own bikes.
BENEFITS OF USING A TANDEM BAR
Safety First: Maintain complete control over your child's bike during busy street sections or when they get tired
Skill Development: Children can practice balancing and pedalling while having backup support
Extended Range: Take longer family rides without worrying about your child's stamina
Easy Storage: When not in use, most bicycle tow bars can be quickly detached and stored
Versatility: Switch between independent riding and towed riding as needed
IMPORTANT FEATURES TO CONSIDER
SIZE COMPATIBILITY
Check the wheel size range for the child's bike (typically 10" to 20")
Verify the minimum tyre size requirement for the adult bike
Ensure proper seat post diameter compatibility
SAFETY FEATURES
Maximum weight capacity (including both child and bike)
Secure attachment mechanisms
Not compatible with dropper posts, suspension seat posts, or carbon seat posts
If you have any of these posts, they should be replaced with a standard seat post for use with the tow bar (see our range of compatible seat posts)
WHEN TO USE A BICYCLE TOW BAR
Learning Phases: Perfect for children transitioning from training wheels
Long Distance Rides: Ideal for family cycling trips where children might get tired
Challenging Terrain: Helpful when tackling hills or difficult sections
Urban Cycling: Provides extra safety in busy traffic situations
INSTALLATION TIPS
Always verify seat post compatibility before purchase - note that tow bars cannot be used with dropper posts, suspension seat posts, or carbon seat posts. These must be replaced with a standard seat post (available in our range)
Check that both bikes meet the size requirements
Ensure all connections are secure before each ride
MAINTENANCE AND CARE
Regular inspection of all attachment points
Keep moving parts clean and lubricated
Check for any signs of wear or damage
Store in a dry place when not in use
SAFETY GUIDELINES
Your family's safety is paramount when using a bicycle tow bar. The maximum weight capacity must never be exceeded, as this ensures the tow bar functions safely and effectively. Before each ride, ensure both cyclists are wearing appropriate safety gear, including properly fitted helmets and visible clothing.
When first using your bicycle tow bar, take time to practice in a quiet area away from traffic, such as an empty parking lot or park pathway. This allows both adult and child to become familiar with the connected riding experience, including starting, stopping, and turning. During these practice sessions, work on smooth acceleration and gentle turns to help your child adjust to the new riding dynamic.
Ready to start your family cycling adventure? Discover our bicycle tow bar and make family rides more enjoyable and safer than ever.