Cycling with your baby in a carrier; GO or NO GO?

The weather is becoming lovely again. It's great to go outside, preferably by bike. But how do you do that with a baby who is still too small to sit in a seat? It's certainly super easy to transport your baby in a carrier on the bike from A to B. However, there are several points that are important to consider before making that decision.

The advantages
– You are much more mobile if you can take your baby on the bike. If you don't have a car and need to transport multiple children from A to B, it is definitely an attractive option.
– You already have the carrier at home.
– It's cozy and pleasant.

The disadvantages
– There is a risk that you might fall, need to brake unexpectedly, or dismount. If this happens, your baby is between you and the handlebars, absorbing the impact.
– Bumpy roads are not good for the baby's back and neck.
– Busy traffic situations, other road users, and slippery roads increase the risk of an accident.
– A carrier does not provide protection for the baby in case of a fall; the baby can fall out of the carrier or you might land on them.

The chance of actually falling off your bike might not be that high. But for us, the advantages do not outweigh the disadvantages. Therefore, we advise against transporting your baby in a carrier on the bike. If you still want to cycle with your baby, there are safer alternatives.

Alternatives
There are options that are much safer than transporting your baby in a sling. For example, there are special holders that allow you to carry a MaxiCosi on your luggage rack, such as the Steco BabyMee (suitable from 4 months).

Is your luggage rack already occupied with a child seat for a brother or sister? Then you could attach a trailer bike behind your bike, so you can still fit a MaxiCosi on the back. Additionally, a bike trailer or cargo bike can provide a solution.
Points of attention
If you decide to cycle with a baby in a sling, carrier, or bike trailer, be extra aware of the following:

– Ensure the saddle is not too high, so you can easily reach the ground with your feet.
– Make sure you are both well-dressed. And do not carry your baby under your coat.
– Ensure you are both highly visible.
– Gradually build up cycling with very young children. Start, for example, with short rides on a good and even road surface.
– Ensure that a bike trailer/cargo bike has good suspension for your child's weight. Severe vibrations can often be remedied by adding extra weight to the trailer/bike (another child, groceries, a bag of sand).
– A bike ride is very tiring for a small child. If your child cries, it's time to take a break or stop.

Have a safe ride!