Best bike seats, explained.
Every way to strap a small human to a bicycle, rated on the things that actually matter. My specific picks are coming once I’ve tested them on my own crew.
Front-mounted seat
Kid sits in front of you, between your arms
Chat-abilityGood: You can chat, point out cows and they can see everything.
Bad: Your knees get in the way and they outgrow it quick.
Rear-mounted seat
The classic, on a rack or frame behind you
Chat-abilityGood: Takes bigger kids and it’s easy to fit on most bikes.
Bad: You can’t see them. Have they fallen asleep? Are they licking the helmet? Who knows.
Top-tube MTB seat
A little saddle on the frame for older littlies
Chat-abilityGood: Absolutely the most fun. They feel like they’re riding the trail.
Bad: For bigger kids who can hang on. Not for the tiny ones.
Bike trailer
Two-wheeled pod you tow behind
Chat-abilityGood: Fits two kids plus snacks plus the dog’s ball. Weather cover too.
Bad: Wide as a ute. Forget the narrow trails.
The non-funny bit
In Queensland every bike rider has to wear an approved helmet, and that includes the little one on the back. Check the seat’s weight limit and minimum age in the manual and make sure your kid can sit up properly on their own in a helmet before their first ride.
More gear, honestly reviewed.
Hiking carriers, beach tents, baby carriers that survive brewery naps, eskies that survive kids. If it’s going on a dadventure, it’s getting tested.