Topeak Journey Trailer and DryBag

What is a tag-a-long?

Tag-a-longs are a simple but fantastic invention which is great for longer outings with younger children. It’s essentially a children’s bike minus the front wheel, which is easily attached to most adult bikes. The child can then pedal along, but can opt out if they start to tire.

Who needs a tag-a-long?

Tag-a-longs tend to be used by children between the ages of 4 and 6, and the child needs to be relatively confident at cycling. As their section is held up by your bike, it doesn’t matter if they aren’t used to riding without stabilisers, as balance isn’t required. Tag-a-longs make longer journeys much more interesting for children and also easier for parents as you can keep up a faster pace and not have to worry about cutting a ride short.

What are the choices?

Tag-a-longs are available in a variety of styles and colours, so hopefully you can coordinate with your bike and suit the style requirements of your younger rider. Tag-a-longs will fit to most 26”/700c bikes and can be equipped with chainguards, mudguards, racks and even jaunty pennants. Folding frames are great for simple storage.

What should I buy with it?

Sleeve hitches are available to help with the fit. Don’t forget a helmet for your charge, along with refreshments for long journeys and sun cream for sunny days.

Anything else?

Bear in mind that tag-a-longs are single speed and do not have brakes. If your child has progressed to a bike with brakes and gears, they may get a little frustrated that they cannot control the bike (this obviously applies to steering too).

See our Cycling with children guide for more.