Choosing an Electric Bike to use to tow kids/grandkids is a great idea and there are a lot of bikes on the market that will work really well for this purpose.
Supporting you and your family to SMILE when you ride.
It can be a great option to use an E-Bike for towing The largest barrier to riding with a kids bike trailer is the strength and fitness capability of the lead rider to bike safely and comfortably with the increased load that a trailer holding one or two kids creates. An electric bike removes/reduces this barrier.  An E-Bike gives you added power and provides the rider with the ability to cover greater distances, ride up slopes and hills with more ease. As your child grows the weight of the load your are towing increases. So E-bikes can support you to be able to tow your child through a wider age range.
What comes first the Electric Bike or the towing product?
This may not be a decision you have to make because you may already have one or the other. If not, the bike should be your first purchase. This purchase needs to be really focused on a bike that makes you feel comfortable and safe. Once you have this feeling of confidence about riding an E-Bike you can then look at the options of how you would tow your child/children/grandchildren – now and in years to come.
Get some great buying advice at Buying an E-Bike to Transport Kids or Grandkids.
Will your Electric Bike work with a Bike Trailer for Kids?
Choosing an Electric Bike to use to carry or tow kids/grandkids is a great idea and there are a lot of bikes on the market that will work really well for this purpose. Towing children with an E-Bike works well but you need to have an understanding of attachment points and how towing can affect your riding. As with standard bikes not all E-Bikes will work. It is about finding a solution to fit your situation.
Bike trailers are a good way to transport multiple young kids with a bike. The storage ability is a bonus. Single Seat Trailer age range 1-6 yr old, Double seat Trailer age range 1-4 yr old.
What does the E-Bike need?
The arm on a bike trailer attaches to the rear wheel hub (middle of your wheel). It be able to attach it to your rear wheel it comes with a Quick Release Adaptor to replace your existing axel. E-Bikes commonly have rear wheel hub gears which will require you to purchase a different type of adaptor to allow you to attach to your rear wheel . Found out more at Will a Bike Trailer Fit My Bike?
For information on options for attaching a Kids Bike Seat to the frame (front, mid, rear) of your bike see this story called Kids Bike Seats & Electric Bikes.
Electric Bikes & Safety
As always be aware of your safety… E-Bikes give you the ability to travel at a much faster speed than you would achieve under your own power. What does this mean when towing a child? While it might not be an issue while going up a hill, what does it mean on the flat or braking when coming down a hill? If this is how you will tow your child we recommend you spend longer in the practice/safe environment when you first get set up, going over balance, cornering at a greater speed and stopping distances.
Electric Bikes & Multiple Children
Electric bikes are a great idea if you are considering riding with more than one child on your bike. Whether they are both attached in seats or you chose to tow an older child having an electric assist will make riding a bike so much more pleasant.
You will need to be aware of the multiple attachment points of the set up you are thinking of riding with. We recommend spreading the weight as soon as possible; one child on the bike, one child being towed. There are a great range of possibilities to choose from. Depending on your budget and where you like to ride, there are definitely solutions for everyone in the market.
Let us know if you are struggling with this at all, we are here to help. Call 0800 44 33 77 to speak to Annette… or fill out our Kids Bike Seat Solution Finder to get a personalised recommendation for a kids bike seat & electric bike use.
A selection of family riding stories, support & solutions that will make you & your family SMILE
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Riding with my kids - What are my options?
This goRide Story has helped direct many. Get an overview of the options that are available so you can ride with your family.
E-Bikes & Kids
Is an E-Bike a good choice for transporting kids or grandkids? What do you need to know about an E-Bike before using it with your family?
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Support and inspire other riders and families to ride
Share your riding outings, adventures and experiences on our quick and easy question and answer forms. Join us in helping others ride bikes. All entries receive a free shipping coupon and go into our seasonal prize draw.
goRide supporting women and families to SMILE when you ride