Before your First Ride

goRide recommends that you test the feel of the bike tow bar by connecting the two bikes you will be using.  This is best done in a quiet place without a passenger – no child on the rear bike to begin with.  As the adult you will control the experience so you need to be aware of the risks and any potential danger.  Take some time now to practice connecting the tow bar, handling & working with it until you feel confident in using it.

First Ride with a Passenger

Only after you feel safe should you take your child with you.  Practice away from road traffic. Your new tandem will possibly steer or brake differently to what you are used to with your solo bike.  This is especially true if the child’s bike is relatively large and your child is therefore older and heavier.

The tow bar is designed to be used when two bikes are following each other.  Make it clear to the trailing rider that to be safe they must remain seated on their bike and discourage them from leaning or swaying their bodies as this will make it difficult for you to maintain a straight riding line – this is very important in traffic and why you need to practice in a safe area.

Practice slowly at first and focus on clear communication techniques.

Communication: Always communicate starting or stopping in a loud voice.  Choose instructions that suit your family for starting – either ready, steady, GO or count 1, 2, 3 GO.  The trailing rider can make this starting call so you know they are ready.  Make sure the trailing person/child is aware when you are stopping or any slowing down.

As your child sits in behind you it is not always easy to see what they are doing, keep chatting to them as they get used to the feeling of being towed.  Let them know it is OK to ask you to stop and that they need to remain on their seat until you are completely stopped.  Also talk to them about when it is safe for them to dismount.  Ideally you do not want them dismounting until you reach your destination/a safe area especially if you are riding in traffic.

Note: Kids with rear pedal brakes will still be able to engage their brakes while you are riding.

Everyday Riding

Safety: Inspect the Tow Bar and mounting brackets for loose nuts/bolts before every ride.  Riding a bike causes vibration which will loosen things over time.  We recommend carrying a small tool kit that will assist you with keeping your Tow Bar safe whenever you ride.

Communication: Repeat or go over your communication calls and explain your ride. We recommend regularly reminding your child not to lean while they are being towed. When will it be safe for them to dismount during this ride?