How to Hook Up a Bike Trailer for Kids

A bike trailer is a safe and dependable way to take your young children along for a bike ride, provided you set up each piece of the equipment properly. Other than an adjustable wrench, all equipment needed to set up the trailer safely should be provided in your bike trailer package. Once your trailer is assembled, remember to check all fasteners before each ride to make sure the integrity of your trailer is maintained.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench

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Instructions

• 1

  Remove all parts from the original packaging and account for each piece as stated on the directions. If you do not have all your parts, put each piece back in the package and return to the manufacturer.

• 2

  Place all parts on a flat work surface. Assemble the canopy frame to the bike trailer. Have a partner lift the canopy frame up. Slide the metal inserts through the frame. Lock the canopy in place at the joiners in each corner. Parts should click into place. Test for stability.

• 3

  Lay the canopy over the trailer and secure it. The shape of the canopy will match the shape of the trailer when it is laid in the appropriate direction. Snap each button to connect the canopy and trailer.

• 4

  Lay the trailer on its side. Find the tow bar at the bottom of the trailer. Undo the lock pin. Bring the tow bar forward. Replace the lock pin. The tow bar is the metal bar that connects the trailer to your bike.

• 5

  Release the wheel safety levers. These are located at the back and on the inside of each wheel.

• 6

  Loosen the bike hub nut on the rear wheel with your wrench. Remove the hub nut and washer completely.

• 7

  Find the tab washer that came with your trailer. Slide this in the place of the hub nut and washer.

• 8

  Find the coupler plate that came with your trailer. Slide this over the axle. It is shaped for, and will fit, the rear axle perfectly.

• 9

  Replace the bike hub nut and washer. Tighten by hand. Finish tightening with the wrench.

• 10

  Insert the tow bar into the large hole on the coupler plate. Fasten the pin on the tow bar. Check all parts for stability.