Cycling with a child: our tips for riding safely

At what age can you carry a child on a bike?

The Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) and the Institut national de santé publique du Québec recommend waiting until a child is at least one year old before carrying them on a bike. In practice, however, there is no law in Quebec specifically regulating child transport by bicycle. Keep the following in mind: 

• Your child’s neck muscles must be strong enough to support their head in case of bumps or jolts.
• Your child must be able to sit upright without assistance.
• Your child must be willing to wear a helmet, specifically a properly fitted bike helmet for children—and keep it on.

Some experts suggest waiting until the child is between 18 months and 2 years old. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide based on your child’s stability and muscle tone. 

The right equipment for cycling with a young child

Several child transport options are available. Here are a few recommendations based on the option you choose: 

The bike seat

Section 485 of the Quebec Highway Safety Code specifies that you may only carry a passenger if your bicycle is equipped with a fixed seat. For maximum safety, follow these rules: 

• Choose a seat with a high backrest to protect the head in case of impact;
• Make sure your child’s feet do not touch the spokes or the rear wheel and rest on proper foot supports;
• Check that your child’s hands cannot reach the springs under your saddle, if any;
• Take the time to adjust the safety harness correctly;

• Regularly check that the seat is securely attached.

Are there electric bike seats for e-bikes? 

Yes. However, before adding a child transport accessory to an electric-assist bicycle (e-bike), CAA-Quebec recommends consulting a bike shop. They can suggest options that are compatible with your bike and any accessories already installed, such as a rear rack. Keep in mind that the Highway Safety Code regulates this type of equipment—so it’s best to make sure it is compliant. 

Good to know: An electric cargo bike is also an excellent option for transporting children. 

The bike trailer

In the event of a fall, a child seated in a bike trailer will not fall with you. However, they are more vulnerable in a collision with a car. 

To reduce risks, follow these safety tips: 

• Make regular stops to carry out routine checks;
• Secure your child properly with adjusted safety straps;
• Ideally, ride with a second cyclist behind you to keep an eye on the trailer and signal you if needed.

While it can be helpful to keep a water bottle within your child’s reach in the trailer, avoid leaving food, as it could pose a choking risk. 

The trailer bike or half-bike

The trailer bike (also known as a tag-along bike or giraffe) is a great solution for children aged 3 to 10.

Good to know: Your child does not need to know how to ride a bike independently. 

Bike mirror: The perfect complement to a trailer bike

Using a bike mirror is always a good idea—and even more so when your child is riding on a trailer bike. 

A mirror allows you to keep an eye on the trailer without turning your head or veering off course. It also helps you maintain balance, especially given the added weight you’re pulling, which can be less stable. 

Essential safety equipment for riding with a child

• Properly fitted helmet: Make sure it covers the forehead and doesn’t slide backward.
• Safety flags and bright pennants: Especially important for bike trailers to improve visibility for motorists. Remember that SUVs, which sit higher off the ground, are very common on the road.
• Reflectors and lights: Ensure both your bike and the trailer are clearly visible—even during the day.
• High-visibility vests: Useful for both children and adults.

Did you know? The CAA-Quebec Boutique offers a wide selection of bike racks, hydration packs, and cycling accessories. 

How to choose a safe cycling route

• Prioritize bike paths: away from car traffic, they are much safer for children.
• Avoid busy roads: even with a safety flag, bike trailers can go unnoticed.

In all cases, plan for frequent stops. Use breaks to check the attachment of the seat or trailer and adjust the straps if needed—same goes for the helmet. 

Pre-ride safety checks

No matter which type of equipment you use, never head out on a ride without testing it first.

Tip: Fill a bag with items matching your child’s weight and securely attach it to the seat or trailer. 

• Ride short distances on different types of roads: residential streets, busier roads, and bike paths.
• Test your brakes and observe how your bike reacts, especially when turning.
• Bring your CAA-Quebec membership card to access Bike Assist in case of trouble on the road.

Cycling with a child requires a bit of preparation—but it’s well worth it. By putting safety first, always following the Highway Code, and choosing the right equipment, you’ll make every ride easier, safer… and a lot more fun.