Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children

A rear bike seat is a great way to carry your young child on the back of your bike, providing an easy way to introduce your little ones to the sensation of being transported by bike. So if you’re looking for one of the best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children, you’ve come to the right place.

For parents who are cycling with babies and toddlers, rear bike seats are one of the most popular methods for carrying kids by bike. 

They are designed to carry children from about 9 months to 5 or 6 years old. Some are mounted to your bike's seat tube, while others are attached to the pannier rack of your bike. There’s even a type of rack mount, MIK (Mounting Is Key) that is becoming more commonplace and working towards standardising rack mounting options across the bike industry.

That’s why, with so much to choose from, deciding which one to buy can be an absolute headache. There’s so much to consider before making a purchase, but we’re here to help.

In a rush? No problem. We’ve provided some quick picks of the best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children, covering a range of budgets, plus some top tips to consider before you make your purchase. 

If you have more time, take a look at our full list of the best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children, complete with in-depth information about each model we recommend.

For more guidance, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive Q&A at the bottom of the page.

We’re only looking at bike seats for toddlers and very small children here, so if you’ve got a bigger passenger to think about, check out our guide to the best rear bike seats for older children.

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children - a dad on his bike looking back at his child in a rear seat

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children

Contents

Use the links below to navigate the article, as there's a lot to cover!

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Quick picks: for parents in a hurry

Not got time to browse? Here are our top picks of rear bike seats for toddlers and small children, to help you make a quick decision and get on with your day.

Best budget rear bike seats for toddlers and small children:

Best mid-range rear bike seats for toddlers and small children:

Best premium rear bike seats for toddlers and small children:

 

Top tips: to help you decide

There’s a lot to consider when choosing the best rear bike seat for your child, so keep the following in mind:

 

Type

There are three different types of rear bike seat: 

  • Frame-mounted seats attach to your bike’s seat tube.
  • Rack-mounted seats attach to a pannier rack, usually by clipping onto the sides of the rack or slotting into a rack.
  • MIK (Mounting is Key) is a new, universal click system, specially designed for children's bike seats, making attachment quick, easy and safe.

For more detailed info on different types of rear bike seat, head to the FAQs at the bottom of this article where we explore the subject further.

Age

When your child's neck muscles have developed enough for them to hold their head up for long periods of time unaided, they’re big enough to ride in a bike seat. 

The seat manufacturers state this is from 9 months, but not every child develops at the same rate. If you have any doubts as to whether your child is ready to use a rear bike seat always check with a health professional first.

There’s no definitive ‘too old’ age, as all kids will grow out of them at different rates, and this depends on their height, weight, and willingness to remain seated.

It is also important to invest in a larger seat if your child outgrows your current one. Feet getting caught in turning wheel spokes are a common cause of injury, which can happen if their legs are dangling free. Always make sure their feet are secured with the straps, and when the time comes, take a look at our guide to the best rear bike seats for older children.

Budget

Rear bike seats are one of the cheapest ways to cycle with your baby or toddler.  Costs vary among brands and models, with some having entry level and premium models to suit different budgets. 

Please always buy from a reputable brand and avoid very cheap imported seats that haven't been safety tested.  

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children - a mother pushing her bike along with her child in a rear bike seat looking up at her

 

How many bikes are you using?

Consider whether you’ll be mounting the seat to one bike only, or will be sharing it between multiple bikes, and choose the most appropriate mounting option for your needs. Some will have quick-release, while others won’t.

Quality / materials

Better quality rear bike seats tend to be made of more durable ABS type plastics (the type used for car bumpers). Quality materials and fixing methods allow for a heavier carrying capacity (up to 22kg). Choose stainless steel or chrome fittings for daily use in all weathers.

Securing

The harness should have 3-5 points of securing: two shoulder straps and one between the legs minimum. There might also be one around the waist, or a rigid bar across the width of the seat. Always make sure they’re fastened securely.

Accessories

Will you require extras, like rain covers or extra storage? Consider what’s available from your favoured brand/model before making a purchase, and that it’s all compatible with your bike.

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children - a mother on her bike with her child in a rear bike seat

 

Length of journey

If your child’s going to be seated for a long time, consider their comfort. Some more expensive seats may have a reclining back and adjustable headrests, with room for the helmet so they can lean back.

You child will tell you when they've had enough, so do plan in regular stops if you're heading out on a long ride.

Growth

Check the maximum weight for the seat – this could be an issue if you have a heavy or older child.

The footrest and the strap that goes round the foot can cause problems if they are not adjustable, especially if your child has very small or very big feet.

Ease of use

Consider how easy it’ll be to use when you’re short on time. In the winter, can you release the harness with cold fingers? Is the foot strap elastic, or does it need lots of fiddling to get them in and out?

Impact on your bike

Check with your local bike shop before you buy if you are worried about this.

Some wear and tear is inevitable, but some models of rear bike seat are more intrusive than others.  You may want to put protective tape on your bike frame before you install the seat to protect the paintwork. 

 

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children - a mother on a gravel bike with a baby in a rear seat

 

Easy fitting

Most children’s bike seats claim to be easy to fit, but that depends on how good you are with a set of instructions and a screwdriver. Many bike shops offer a fitting service, which also provides peace of mind that the seat or rack is correctly fitted.

Carrying capacity

You can’t wear a huge rucksack with your little one sitting behind you, so if you need extra carrying capacity, look for a model with additional storage. Depending on your carrying needs, you might consider a front seat or trailer, or a front basket.

Weather

Some models have seats that retain moisture, which can be uncomfortable for your child if they get wet, so consider whether the seat will remain outside in the rain. Several seats on the market come with rain covers, or a plastic bag might suffice if it’s infrequent. 

Also, think of how easy they are to dry and clean if your child is prone to having ‘accidents’.

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children

Here we take a look at some of the best rear bike seats available, and where to buy them. We've included where to buy new and secondhand as we know children grow so quickly at this age so you can often get lightly used models at a great price.

To save on time, you can navigate directly to the most relevant section for your needs:

Budget models of rear bike seats

If you're using your rear bike seat on a daily basis, and have several younger siblings coming along to use it, then it can make sense to invest in a more expensive version.

However, we all know kids grow quickly, so if you're only going to use the seat for a few weekends and holiday rides, you can get a perfectly good rear bike seat and still have change from £70. Don't expect to have all the fancy features, but do expect to have a fun ride!

Polisport Groovy

Best budget rack-mounted seat

  • Price: £39.99
  • Mount: Rack
  • Weight: 3.66kg
  • Max load: 22kg
  • Colours: 6 options
  • Accessories: N/A
  • Warranty: 3 years

Buy if: You’re on a tight budget and already have a rear rack installed

If you want a budget-friendly rack-mounted rear seat, then the Polisport Groovy offers good value for money.

It has lots of adjustment built in to help it grow with your child. There are three forwards and backwards positions, four foot height positions, and a three-point safety harness with length and height adjustment. It’s designed to be comfortable, with ergonomically shaped armrests and a helmet recess so your child can lean their head back.

Made from UV-resistant plastic, the Groovy includes reflective stickers for enhanced visibility, and provides reasonable protection at the sides. It’s easy to set up without tools and can be quickly installed or removed from the bike, with a quick-release system.

It’s a good practical choice, with a removable waterproof cushion and all adjustments and buckles designed to be operated with one hand so you can hold onto the bike with the other.

Buy Now

Polisport Bubbly Maxi Plus

Best budget frame-mounted seat

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children: Polisport Bubbly Maxi Plus on a blank background

  • Price: £45.00 (frame), £91.99 (MIK HD)
  • Mount: Frame, MIK HD
  • Weight: 3.27kg
  • Max load: 22kg
  • Colours: 5 options
  • Accessories: N/A
  • Warranty: 3 years

Buy if: You’re on a tight budget and don’t want to buy a rack as well

For a frame-mounted option that’s also easy on the bank account, the Polisport Bubbly Maxi Plus offers affordability without compromising on safety and comfort.

It comes with many of the same features as the Groovy listed above, such as the adjustability of the footrests, safety harness and forwards/backwards positioning. It also comes with the same waterproof removable cushion, one-handed operation and quick installation, and helmet recess for them to lean their head backwards.

It’s compatible with or without a rear rack, so if you choose to opt for this model, you don’t need to remove your ability to use panniers when you’re riding without your little passenger.

Buy frame-mounted Buy MIK HD

 

 

Polisport Groovy RS Plus

Best budget reclining seat

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children: Polisport Groovy RS Plus on a blank background

  • Price: £65.00
  • Mount: Frame
  • Weight: 4.47kg
  • Max load: 22kg
  • Colours: 6 options
  • Accessories: N/A
  • Warranty: 3 years

Buy if: You want a bargain reclining seat for mid-ride naps

For one more budget-friendly option, we look once again to Polisport, whose rear bike seats are definitely among the most affordable on the market.

While the Polisport Groovy RS Plus is priced a bit higher, for the extra money you get a reclining seat with three positions — 0 degrees, 10 degrees and 20 degrees — which makes it perfect for mid-ride napping. If your little one is likely to fall asleep while you’re cycling, then you can lean them back a bit for some extra comfort.

On top of this, you get all the same features we’ve mentioned previously, like all the adjustability, the removable waterproof cushion, one-handed operation and quick release system for easy installation and removal. You also get the ergonomic armrests and helmet recess for comfort, and safety reflective stickers to help you stay visible in low light conditions.

This seat is perfect for parents who want their child to nap comfortably during rides, but don’t want to spend more on something like the Hamax Siesta.

Buy Now

Mid-range rear bike seats

These rear bike seats are slightly cheaper than the premium ranges featured below, meaning there are some differences in terms of quality, ease of use, and comfort.

However, they're all really good rear bike seats that would be perfect for getting out and about with your kids, especially if they don't need to nap during your rides.

Bobike Go Maxi

Most affordable MIK HD fitting

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children: Bobike Go Maxi on a blank background

  • Price: £71.99 (frame), £72.99 (rack), £81.99 (MIK HD)
  • Mount: Frame, rack, MIK HD
  • Weight: 4.47kg
  • Max load: 22kg
  • Colours: 7 options
  • Accessories: Windscreen, frame adapter
  • Warranty: 3 years

Buy if: You’re keen to try out MIK HD for less of an outlay

The Bobike Go Maxi rear bike seat comes with three fitting options: frame-mounted, rack-mounted, and MIK HD.

The latter is new to the market and offers a more universal approach that spells out good things for the future. If you’re keen to give it a try, but don’t want to spend a huge amount of money, then the Bobike Go Maxi could be your best bet. Otherwise, it makes a great mid-range option for parents in need of a frame- or rack-mounted rear bike seat.

It features a double-walled shell construction to provide extra protection, and an integrated lock for added security. There’s integrated head protection, a childproof three-point safety harness with three-position adjustability, and a reflective rear sticker.

The footrests are adjustable for 12 positions, allowing for quick one-handed operation. Available in stylish pastel colours, the Go Maxi Frame also offers an alternative bar for 29ers and small-framed bikes, pushing the seat up and back in relation to the wheel. 

Buy frame-mounted Buy rack-mounted Buy MIK HD

 

Hamax Amiga

Best for riding off-road

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children: Hamax Amiga on a blank background

  • Price: £89.99
  • Mount: Rack
  • Weight: 3kg
  • Max load: 22kg
  • Colours: Black/grey
  • Accessories: Neck pillow, rain poncho
  • Warranty: 3 years

Buy if: You’re riding on light trails or navigating potholes

The Hamax Amiga is the best choice for riding off-road, thanks to its free-hanging bracket that provides integrated suspension to smooth out bumps, making it suitable for uneven surfaces.

It combines lightweight design with durability, and comes with soft, removable padding and a helmet recess for comfort. There are are reflectors for added visibility on the roads in low light conditions, while the adjustable harness and footrest allow the seat to grow with your child.

If you’re heading out in bad weather, they have a rain poncho available separately, that’s specifically shaped to fit around your child and the seat, to keep everything dry. There’s also a neck pillow for added comfort.

Buy Now

Urban Iki Rear Seat

Best storage solution

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children: Urban Iki on a blank background

  • Price: £74.99 (rack), £94.99 (frame), £114.99 (MIK HD)
  • Mount: Rack, frame, MIK HD
  • Weight: TBC
  • Max load: 22kg
  • Colours: 9 options
  • Accessories: Backpack
  • Warranty: 2 years

Buy if: You need to carry a backpack with you

If you’re doing the school run on the way to the office, or you have a need to pack a rucksack full of essentials to take with you, you may run into a bit of trouble.

Wearing a backpack while your child is in a rear bike seat behind you can be an issue, as you greatly reduce the amount of space they have. If this is something you might need a solution to, then the Urban Iki rear bike seat has a backpack accessory that attaches to the rear of the seat, meaning your little one has all the room they need, and you can bring your stuff along.

This is especially good in the summer, as you get to avoid the dreaded sweaty back! It also features a five-point harness and a water-repellent seat cushion, adjustable footrests and ergonomically shaped seat for comfort, and includes a frame and rack mount for greater flexibility, plus an integrated lock for security.

Buy rack-mounted Buy frame-mounted Buy MIK HD

 

 

Premium rear bike seats

These rear bike seats are at the premium end of the price range, meaning they're made to be extra comfortable for your child to sit (and sleep) in, and easy for you to fit. They're built for everyday usage, so ideal for daily commuting or long adventure trips.

Hamax Siesta

Best for napping

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children: Hamax Siesta on a blank background

  • Price: £99.99
  • Mount: Rack, frame
  • Weight: 4.37kg
  • Max load: 22kg
  • Colours: 2 options
  • Accessories: Neck support pillow, waterproof rain cover
  • Warranty: 3 years

Buy if: Your little one enjoys a mid-ride snooze

If you like your little one to get a good nap in on your rides, then the Hamax Siesta is designed with that in mind.

It reclines by 20 degrees without impacting their centre of gravity, making it perfect for comfortable snoozing. The seat can be rack or frame-mounted and uses the Hamax Safety System, which is easily fitted to most bikes with only four screws.

It includes a curved head area for helmet support, a dual-bar steel suspension system for shock absorption, and reflectors for added visibility. The double buckle harness can be fastened with one hand, and the removable padding is easy to clean.

There’s a lockable bracket that helps to prevent theft, while the quick release system allows for easy switching and removal.

Buy rack-mounted Buy frame-mounted

Thule Yepp 2 Maxi

Best for daily use, year round

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children: Thule Yepp 2 Maxi Rack on a blank background

  • Price: £119.99 (rack), £139.99 (frame), £149.99 (MIK HD)
  • Mount: Rack, frame, MIK HD
  • Weight: 4.6kg
  • Max load: 22kg
  • Colours: 6 options
  • Accessories: Rain cover, seat tube adapter, custom rear light
  • Warranty: 5 years

Buy if: You want a great quality seat that will stand the test of time

The award-winning Thule Yepp 2 Maxi is ideal for daily use year-round, thanks to its robust and high quality design.

It’s constructed from the same EVA material as Crocs, which is antibacterial, shock-absorbent, water-resistant, and easy to clean. The five-point safety harness has a childproof buckle and adjustable shoulder straps with soft padding for comfort.

The seat is quick and simple to snap into place and detach, with an integrated anti-theft lock and a safety light attachment point (and there’s a custom rear light available separately). If buying second-hand, note that Yepp was acquired by Thule in 2016, so try both names when searching.

The Yepp 2 Maxi comes with a five-year warranty - the longest of all the seats listed here.

For more details, check out our Thule Yepp 2 Maxi rear seat review.

Buy rack-mounted Buy frame-mounted Buy MIK HD

 

Bobike Exclusive Tour Plus

Best for long rides

Best rear bike seats for toddlers and small children: Bobike Exclusive Tour Plus on a blank background

  • Price: £125.00
  • Mount: Rack / Frame
  • Weight: TBC
  • Max load: 22kg
  • Colours: 6 options
  • Accessories: Windscreen, rack clamps
  • Warranty: 3 years

Buy if: You’re taking your little one on a bike tour

The Bobike Exclusive Tour Plus is the best choice for long rides or cycle touring, and is very popular in the Netherlands.

It features an adjustable headrest for an additional 10cm of comfort and increased head protection, while the adjustable footrests offer six positions to accommodate growth. It uses the brand’s own E-BD mounting system with easy click-and-go functionality, and allows easy switching between bicycles.

It attaches to almost any rack with a width between 120-175mm and round-shaped side tubes with a diameter of 10-16mm, and Bobike sells clamps for wider or unusual shaped racks. The five-point seatbelt is designed for one-handed fastening and is contoured to keep them upright while they sleep.

There’s a flashing LED light at the rear, for better visibility, while the whole thing is built with Bobike’s double-wall construction for added protection.

Buy rack-mounted Buy frame-mounted

How to choose the best rear bike seat for toddlers and small children

If you need a bit more guidance before making a purchase, you'll find a comprehensive Q&A below to help you make your decision.

How do I know which rear bike seat will fit my bike?

As you can see, each manufacturer has a wide range of bike seats to suit different ages, bike types and riding requirements. Most retailers will stock a wider range than shown here, so have a look at each model in the range to see which suits you and your child best.

Every bike and every seat is slightly different, so if you're unsure if a particular seat will fit your bike we recommend;

  1. Emailing the seat manufacturer to ask
  2. Speaking to your local independent bike shop
  3. Try before you buy: We have collated a list of community-based organisations that have family cycling equipment to loan or try before you buy.
  4. Joining the Family Cycling UK Facebook Group and searching the group for similar questions. If someone hasn't asked about your specific type of bike then post your own question - there's usually someone who has fitted a seat to a similar type of bike.

Different types of rear bike seats

There are three different types of fittings for rear bike seats: frame-mounted, rack-mounted and MIK HD-mounted.

MIK HD is a type of rack mount, but worth considering as a separate option.

A side by side illustration of three bike seats, with frame-mounted on the left, rack-mounted in the middle, and MIK HD-mounted on the right

Frame-mounted bike seats attach to your bike's seat tube. Rack-mounted bike seats attach to a pannier rack, on the rear of your bike, usually by clipping onto the sides of the rack or slotting into a rack. MIK HD mounts work in the same way, and work specifically with a MIK HD rack.

Many of the bike seats available have different models for different fixing methods, so do make sure you're buying the correct one for your needs.

On longtail cargo bikes, rack-mounted rear bike seats are usually used.

Overview of frame-mounted rear bike seats

Frame-mounted rear seats fit most bike types, and are therefore more commonly found. However, be particularly vigilant if you have a carbon bike as it may not be suitable. Also, make sure your seat tube is round or oval because that's a requirement for most brackets for bike seats.

Seat nameMax weightPrice - from
Thule Yepp 2 Maxi22 kg£139.99
Bobike Exclusive Tour22 kg£125
Hamax Siesta22 kg£99.99
Urban Iki22 kg£94.99
Bobike Go Maxi22 kg£74.99
Polisport Bubbly22 kg£45.00

Overview of rack-mounted rear bike seats

For rack-mounted seats you need to make sure your bike is able to take a rear pannier rack if you don't already have one fitted. You'll need to have the appropriate eyelets on your bike frame for this - not all bikes have these, so check before you buy your bike seat.

Seat nameMax weightPrice
Thule Yepp 2 Maxi22 kg£119.99
Hamax Amiga27 kg£89.99
Urban Iki22 kg£79.99
Polisport Groovy22 kg£44.99

Overview of MIK HD mounted rear bike seats

More and more bikes are coming with MIK HD equipped rear racks, and many seat manufacturers are designing MIK HD compatible seats.

This is an exciting standardisation within the cycling world that will hopefully increase compatibility between products and make it much easier to know if a piece of equipment will fit your bike or not.

Does your bike or cargo bike have a MIK rear rack?

If yes, then a MIK HD rear child seat will be very easy to attach and detach. But you don't have to choose a MIK HD rear seat, the rack will most likely still be compatible with 'normal' rack-mounted seats.

If not, then unless you want to buy a MIK carrier plate to be compatible with MIK products, then stick to any of the usual frame or rack-mounted seats listed above.

What’s the youngest age a child can use a rear bike seat?

Before using a rear bike seat it is very important that your child can sit independently and hold their head upright for the entire duration of your journey.

9 months is the age most rear bike seats say they are suitable from, but every child is different.

If you’re in any doubt please consult your Heath Visitor or GP before setting out. The younger your child the more support they will need, so you also need to check the minimum age range for the seat you are buying. 

You may want to invest in a seat with head support or reclining features if your child is younger and more likely to need to nap during your ride.

Is my child too old to use a rear bike seat?

As each child is different there’s no hard and fast rule as to when they’ll grow out of their seat. 

The maximum weight limit for each bike seat will vary, so check out on the manufacturers website.  Some seats have an upper limit of 18kg, others 22kg and some may be suitable for older children.

However, each child is different and limits vary by seat model, do make sure you check the suitability of the seat as your child grows. In reality it is likely that you will find your child outgrows the rear bike seat before reaching the weight limit. A good indicator is when you feel their feet knocking into your legs as you pedal. You’ll also know if they’re getting too heavy, as you’ll struggle to ride the bike with them in the seat!

Their increasing weight can also start to affect the stability of the bike and make if much harder for you to get them into and out of the seat. Some children will also start to get restless in a rear seat and may demand a more active role so it could be time to consider ways of pulling their own bike behind you instead, or upgrading to a trailer or cargo bike.

For older children who don’t need the same level of restraint or support then it’s worth checking out a junior rear seat.  These are very popular in places like The Netherlands and Denmark, and allow you to continue to transport your child as they outgrow a rear child seat.  

Does my child need to wear a bike helmet when they are in a rear bike seat?

In the UK there is no legal obligation for anyone to wear a helmet, but many parents choose to use them. If you’re in need of one, take a look at our guide to the best bike helmets for babies and toddlers. Some toddler helmets are designed with a flatter back section, to make them more comfortable when sitting in a child seat, so this is worth looking for.

Pros and cons of a rear bike seat

If you’re on the fence about whether or not a rear bike seat is for you, we’ve weighed up the pros and cons below:

Pros

  • Relatively cheap way to start cycling with your child.
  • Better view than a pushchair in many cases.
  • Premium models are very comfortable, great for nap time.
  • Lightweight compared to a trailer or cargo bike, easier to manoeuvre.
  • Easier to store than a trailer or cargo bike.
  • Can take the brunt of road spray and double up as a rear mudguard.

Cons

  • It’s attached to your bike, so it’s tricky to get them in and out without a kickstand, otherwise the whole thing could fall.
  • Exposed to the elements in cold and wet weather, so they need wrapping up warm.
  • Not as easy to hold a conversation with them behind you, compared to a front seat.
  • You can’t wear a full-sized rucksack with them right behind you.

How much should you spend on a rear bike seat?

Rear bike seats come with a variety of price tags, and in a variety of qualities to match. In general you can pick them up from £30 – £120. 

Most manufacturers have a range of models, of differing quality and price. As with anything, the more you pay, the better the spec, but the basic models can serve you well for weekend use on flat terrain. It’s worth considering how often you’ll be using it.

The Hamax Buddy, for example, is an entry level model that costs just over £50, whilst you pay well over £100 for the Topeak Babysitter Child seat for use with disc brakes.

Whilst you’re in the process of taking the child out of the rear bike seat, if it’s not propped up right there is a very small risk of your bike slipping – the more pricey seats come with good protection around the head area, to help protect if it did ever fall.

Do you need to transport your child on more than one bike?

If you do, choose a model that allows you to buy additional fixing kits, and has a quick release mechanism. This allows for much more flexibility – for example, one parent can drop off at nursery in the morning, and the other can pick up in the evening. However, do be aware that anyone can walk off with your rear bike seat at any time if you don’t secure it with a suitable lock.

If you don’t need to transport your child on more than one bike, then a more traditional style rear bike seat that fixes permanently to your bike, may be more suited – especially if you park in a communal place.

How long is your child going to be sitting in the rear bike seat?

More expensive models come with a reclining back and adjustable headrests, and cut out areas for your child’s helmet to rest, so their head is not forced forwards by the back of the seat.

You pay a premium for these features, in models such as the Hamax Siesta, but they can be worth it to avoid complaints on an all day adventure. Your child is sitting directly over the wheel, which is worth remembering when you’re riding off-road or over the ever increasing number of potholes appearing on the roads these days.

Are rear mounted bike seats safe for my child?

Everyone has a different perception of risk, and presumably the fact you're reading this article means you’re probably not prone to wrapping your child up in cotton wool. Make sure you’re confident riding without your child on board, and always plan your route carefully. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for fitting the seat (or get your local bike shop to help) and always make sure your child is securely strapped in. Always check that the seat is securely fitted to the bike before every ride and tighten anything that's loosened since the last outing.

I’m nervous about cycling with my child in a bike seat

We hear it a lot, parents who always loved cycling and would love to dig their bike out and take their little ones on a ride, but are too nervous to do it. It’s understandable, no matter how road-confident you usually are, because you’re carrying precious cargo.

Young children tend to copy the behaviours of the adults around them, so the first thing to do is become a confident cyclist in yourself. You could sign up for a training course, for example. Many local authorities offer these for free or reduced prices, so check your local council website, and look at Bikeability

You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness to cycle with a child on board, so make use of local cycle paths if you have them to develop your cycling muscles. Once you’re confident, it’s important to get time in the saddle with your little one. 

Fit the rear bike seat and do some practice runs with something less precious, like a bag of potatoes, to get used to the extra weight and manoeuvring with the seat on the back. Once you’ve mastered that, it’s time to try it with your child!

Check out our many family-friendly cycling routes if you’re not sure where to ride, and start small and local. With time and practice, you’ll be away and your little one will get the best introduction to life on two wheels.

Before you go...

Cargo bikes require a higher investment than a bike seat, but may well be the right solution for your family. Check out our cargo bikes section to find out what type of cargo bike would be best for your family.

Hamax Smiley Rear Bike Seat (RRP £79.99)

Billed as Hamax’s “Comfort” model, the Hamax Smiley comes with built-in suspension, to protect your child’s spine.

The Hamax Smiley (like the more expensive Siesta) comes with Hamax’s double buckle system, which only requires one hand to fasten and keep the child securely in the seat, leaving your other hand free to support the bike.

Ventilation in the backrest is also provided, to keep your child cool on a summer’s day.

The frame mounted version uses the Hamax Safety System which is quickly and easily fitted to most types of bikes using only 4 screws. You can remove the bike from the fixing point, but it will still have the metal carrier bars attached to the seat.

Buy New Buy Used

Hamax Kiss rear bike seat (RRP £69.99)

The Hamax Kiss is a simple and basic rear bike seat that is great for occasional cycle rides with your child. It attaches to the frame of your bike and the grey or black seat comes with a red or green seat cushion.

The bike seat features a 3 point safety harness, adjustable foot rests and some seat padding. The seat can be easily removed with a quick-release button.

The Hamax Kiss doesn't feature suspension, hence the lower price.

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Yepp Junior rear seat

Yepp Junior bike seat (RRP £70)

All the rear seats we've looked at so far have been designed for smaller children, but once your child grows out of their first rear seat you can continue to carry them using the Yepp Junior seat - usually between the ages of 5 and about 9.

This type of seat is incredibly popular in Holland, where you see lots of primary school-aged children being carried this way.

Yepp do two models - the more robust junior seat shown here (RRP £85)  is designed for daily use.

It has solid folding footrests to ensure feet and spokes don't mix, and the backrest is designed to be comfortable and also a bit "cooler" for older kids who don't necessarily want to look as if they're being contained too much.

They also do a budget version, which is £12 cheaper and has an over the head buckle system and slightly different styling. Both versions are available at Amazon.

If you want to see other bike seats for older children, go to the post The best front-mounted bike seats for older kids.

Polisport Bubbly Maxi Plus rear bike seat (RRP £45.00)

As with the other brands mentioned in this article, Polisport do a range of bike seats, mainly at the mid to low price range.

Their entry-level seat is the Bubbly, which comes with adjustable footrests and an ergonomic shape for a helmet to rest in and is very budget friendly.

Back in 2013, we wrote a review on another Polisport seat, the Polisport Koolah.

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Thule Yepp 2 Maxi kids bike seat (RRP £119.99 rack mounted/£139.99 frame mounted)

The Thule Yepp 2 Maxi is an award-winning children's rear bike seat. The range of colours and accessories make the Thule Yepp Maxi a popular choice for both parents and children.

The Thule Yepp 2 Maxi bike seat is made from the same rubber-like material (EVA) that is used to make Crocs shoes, which is antibacterial, shock-absorbent, water-resistant, and really easy to clean, which means they are designed for daily use, year-round.

There are no seat cushions to worry about keeping dry from the elements. A rain cover for the Yepp 2 Maxi is available if you want to avoid the seat getting wet when your bike is parked outside.

This bike seat is safe and easy to use due to the 5-point safety harness with a childproof buckle and soft shoulder pads to help avoid rubbing. There are two height levels for the shoulder straps which allow the seat to grow with your child.

There are two models of Thule Yepp 2 Maxi available. One is rack-mounted and secures to a pannier rack on the back of the bike. The rack-mounted  bike seat is very popular on electric longtail cargo bikes.

The second type is mounted to your bike’s seat tube using the Yepp Maxi seat tube adapter (fits 95% of bike models). The seat is quick and simple to snap into place and also detach.

The Yepp Maxi 2 rear bike seat can be attached to bicycles with a frame size of 21 inches or larger and a circular or oval seat tube diameter of 1.10-1.57 inches (28-40mm).

Please consult your bike shop or Thule to check whether your bike is suitable for use with the Thule Yepp 2 Maxi rear seat.

An integral anti-theft lock helps give peace of mind when leaving your bike unattended, making it ideal for both adventurous cycling days out or the daily commute. There is a safety light attachment point on the back of the seat and a custom rear light is available to buy separately.

As you can see from this picture, Yepp also do a front bike seat for children up to 3 years old (or 15 kg), called the Thule Yepp 2 Mini if you need to carry more than one child at the same time.

A quick wording about the naming of the seat if you're buying secondhand. The Yepp brand (which was Dutch) was bought out by Thule (a Swedish company) in 2016.

It took a while for a new name to come to market, especially in the UK, so older seats may be listed just as Yepp rather than Thule Yepp.

The Thule Yepp 2 Maxi rear seat comes highly reviewed and recommended, our testers loved the comfort for their child, how easy it was to fit and its durability.

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Hamax Siesta reclinable rear bike seat (RRP £99.99)

Hamax’s top of the range kids bike back seat, the Siesta, as the name suggests, is great for toddlers who like a snooze while you do the hard work. The Hamax Siesta reclinable bike seat is available as rack-mounted and as pannier rack-mounted version.

The seat can be reclined by 20 degrees without impacting on the centre of gravity, allowing your baby or toddler to enjoy their nap in comfort.

The standard Siesta model uses the Hamax Safety System which is quickly and easily fitted to most types of bikes using only 4 screws. You can remove the bike from the fixing point, but it will still have the metal carrier bars attached to the seat.

The Siesta has a curved head area to allow space for the back of a helmet if they wear one (resulting in a more ergonomic ride, as your child’s head is not pushed forward by the back of the seat).

The Hamax Siesta comes with a double buckle system, which Hamax says only requires one hand to fasten and keep the child securely in the seat, leaving your other hand free to support the bike.  It can also be fastened without going over the child’s head (or helmet).

Cycle Sprog reader Andy has provided us with the following details of the Hamax: "I have used the Hamax Siesta on a full-suspension Specialized Bicycles Stumpjumper 2010 without problem for several years. The seat is very good, and although you can release the buckles with one hand it is pretty stiff and isn't easy. Much easier to use two hands." 

Hamax also produce a wide range of accessories, including a neck support pillow and waterproofs, plus additional fixing points so you can carry on more than one bike.

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Bobike Exclusive Tour (RRP £128)

Bobike makes a large range of different bike seats, and if you ever venture over to the Netherlands you'll see that they rival the Thule Yepp for popularity.

The Bobike Exclusive Tour is their premium model, which has been designed with longer bike rides and cycle touring in mind.

This is shown in features such as an adjustable headrest and a contoured belt which is designed to keep your baby or toddler upright, even if they fall asleep.

The "Click and Go" mounting system allows you to switch the seat easily between bicycles, which is useful on long bike rides or if you're sharing the nursery drop off and pickups and the seat belt is designed to be fastened with just one hand.

There is a flashing LED light on the rear for safety during the winter months.

A waterproof cushioned seat (and we know sometimes it's more than the rain that gets a seat wet!), spoke protectors, adjustable foot support trays and helmet recess all combine to make this a premium kids bike seat, which is of course reflected in the price.

The Bobike Exclusive Tour is most widely available as a frame-mounted bike seat, which fits round or oval seat tubes with diameters of 22-40mm.

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Urban Iki rear bike seat (RRP £94.99)

The very stylish Urban Iki rear seats are available in a range of colours and are suitable from 9 months to 6 years (or up to 22 kg), like most other rear bike seats.

With a 5 point harness, water repellent seat cushion, adjustable footrests and an ergonomically shaped seats, the Urban Iki seems to hit the sweet spot. It is a very popular seat and is the recommended seat for some cargo bikes.

It is the only rear bike seat that comes with a frame and rack mount, which provides greater flexibility, especially if you're not sure what will work best on your bike or require it to fit on a range of different bikes with differing mounting options.

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Bobike Go Maxi bike seat (RRP £74.99)

The slightly less expensive Bobike Go Maxi bike seat is another frame-mounted bike seat and the newest addition to the Bobike collection. It is specifically designed for the international (not Dutch) market and will fit on most bikes with oval or round seat tubes (diameter between 22-40 mm).

This bike seat will be more suitable for kids who don't nap so much, or for shorter daily commutes where your child wants to see what's going on and is unlikely to fall asleep. The seat comes with an integrated lock to avoid the bike seat being stolen when not in use.

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Comments

Daniela

Hello,
Would the Yepp junior seat work for a 4 year old child?Since I also have an older child (6 years old) that would also use the seat sometimes, I was wondering if this seat could work for both of them, especially the youngest. Is it safe enough for short distances?

Karen

Hi Daniela – thanks for getting in touch. It really depends on how tall your children are, but this seat is definitely made with older children in mind and used extensively on the continent for taking kids to school. If you want to chat with people who already use this seat, you could post a question on the Family Cycling UK Facebook Group – there’ll be someone there who can share their experiences in terms of height, weight etc to set your mind at rest.
Karen

Mark

Hi
Do you think 9 months is too young for a rear mounted child seat?
Would a pull along trailer be better/safer?
Thanks
M

Karen

Hi Mark – you’ll find that the majority of seats and trailers will both advise usage from 12 months, even for the so called “baby carriers” that you can add into the trailer. I suspect some of this is to avoid litigation. The important factor is on how strong your child’s neck is – they need to be able to keep themselves upright whilst you are riding. This develops at different time with different children and it may be worth speaking to a health professional if you’re not sure if your child has the stability yet.
Karen

Emma Johnson

Hi I was wondering if you could help me. I’ve recently purchased a Romet Sonata 2 bicycle & am looking for a child seat/ carrier so I can take my toddler out with me. I have sent numerous pm & emails to Romet bikes but getting no reply. I’ve already wasted money buying a seat that didn’t fit. Could you give me any advice on a seat to fit my bike. Any help would appreciated thanks Emma

Penny Millar

Hi Emma
As all bikes (and bike seats!) vary we can’t give specific advice, however, we would recommend asking the question on the Family Cycling UK on Facebook. They have a huge community of cycling families and you may find someone on the group with first hand experience of child seats on the Sonata 2 who can advise. We hope this helps. Penny

Tracey Dewis

Hi, I have a new bike and so far have ordered two seats and neither fit, the frame on my bike has no where for the frame mounted seats to bolt on to. Is my only option a rack mounted seat? I want her to sit behind me. Thanks

Penny Millar

Hi Tracey
Thank you for your comment. It would be worth you asking the question on the Family Cycling UK page on Facebook. They have a huge community of cycling families, so if you state the make and model of your bike, other members can advise based on experience. Penny

Laura

Hi, you haven’t mentioned the Hamax Caress here, is that because you don’t recommend it? I’ve seen it has good reviews elsewhere. Thanks!

Karen

Hi Laura – the Hamax Caress is a good seat – we just can’t feature every single one in our articles. Kind regards, Karen

Tracey

Can you recommend a seat (front or back) for my 3 year old 16kg daughter? I have a Pendleton Dutch style bike.
Many thanks

Penny Millar

Hi Tracey
Thanks for your comment. With all bikes being different, it’s hard to recommend a seat for a specific make/model. You could contact Halfords directly to see if they recommend a particular seat, but we’d also suggest asking your question on the Family Cycling UK page on Facebook. They have a great community of cycling families and someone with first-hand experience with a Pendleton may be able to help.
We hope this helps. Penny

Rosie

Hi there, may you recommend a suitable rear mounted child’s bike seat for a Pashley Classic please. My son is 16 months.
Thank you

Penny Millar

Hi Rosie
Thanks for your question. With bikes and seats all being so different, and our not having tried them all, we can’t really recommend a specific rear mounted seat for your bike. However, if you ask your question on the Family Cycling UK page on Facebook, we’re sure someone will be able to advise. It’s full of cycling families who can comment from first hand experience. We hope this helps. Penny

Ffion Roberts

Hiya could you recommend a kids bike seat for the
Apollo Elyse Womens Hybrid Bike – Purple – 18″, my daughter is 3 so I would like a seat that would last her at least a year thank you in advance

Penny Millar

Hi Ffion
Thanks for your comment and great to hear that you’re looking to be cycling with your daughter. As all bikes are different, we can’t provide specific advice on which seat would be best for you, unfortunately. We’d recommend having a look on the website of the bike manufacturer, but also post your question on the Family Cycling UK Facebook page too. They have a brilliant community of cycling families and you may find someone with first hand experience of using a child’s seat on an Apollo is able to advise.
We hope this helps.
Penny

Ziggi

Hi I’m looking for a seat to fit a Bobbin Brownie bike, S/M frame, any recommendations? My little one is 9 months old. Thanks

Penny Millar

Hi Ziggi
As we haven’t tried seats on Bobbin Brownies specifically, we’d recommend asking on the Facebook page Family Cycling UK. They have a large community of cycling families and someone might be able to answer this having had first hand experience! Penny

sophie

hello, I’m looking for a rain cover for my bike that will go over the (topeak) bike seat as well. I can’t find one that will guarantee it is big enough. Please can someone advise me? Thanks.

Karen

Hi Sophie, as every bike is different size and shape I can’t give a specific recommendation. I would however recommend joining the Family Cycling UK Facebook Group, as you can post your question there, with full details of your bike (and perhaps a photo) and people will be able to give their recommendations based on their own experiences. Hope that helps, and you find the perfect rain cover. Karen

Sophie

Thank you Karen, I will look into the fbook group.

D Morton

Thule are a Swedish company

Karen

Thanks! Yepp are/were Dutch but it’s now owned by Thule – so a bit of a hybrid in terms of influence! Karen

Mi

Hi, I’ve been planning to get an electric bike and install a rear child seat to carry my 4 year old child. While I’m working out the best option, I’ve been helped massively by your website as there are so many confusing information out there on internet.
And still can’t find an answer to this question so have decided to turn to you. Is it considered ok to attach a rear child seat on a bike with the battery in a rear rack? Some say yes and some say the battery needs to locate on the tube… Many thanks in advance!

Karen

Hi Mi – thanks for getting in touch. Obviously every bike is different so it’s best to visit your local bike shop and get personalised advice. It will depend on how you intend to fit the seat, and whether you will still be able to access the battery. Another thing to think of is the weight distribution. If the battery is high up on the rack, and then you’re adding additional weight of the seat and your child, you may find if affects the stability of your ride. There’s more information on fitting ebikes with bike seats here. Hope this helps. Karen

Mi

Hi Karen,
Thank you for your reply. Weight distribution is a really good point. I shall definitely take it into account. Again thanks, have a wonderful Christmas and a new year.

Lydia

You have the Thule Yepp Maxi as your best top end seat, but do not mention the Thule RideAlong. Is this because you do not recommend it? Is the Yepp Maxi a better seat even though it costs less than the RideAlong?

Karen

Hi Lydia – the Thule Ridealong is new out and we’ve not had a chance to take a look at this seat yet. I’ll have to put it on the to-do list! Karen

Dadbiker

Hi
Could you recommed a bike rack for the Polisport Guppy that is compatible with a 29er mountain bike with disk breaks. The only one I can find is the Topeak 29er but it seems to be to wide at 23cm.

Karen

Hi – as every bike is slightly different I suggest you contact Polisport direct with your details, or else take the bike into your local bike shop for advice. Thanks Karen

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