Jogging strollers and bike trailers have a lot of things in common, aside from the obvious fact that they’re designed for active parents. Did you know that there’s a way to convert a jogging stroller to a bike trailer?
If you’re mechanically-inclined, this will be a simple yet rewarding project. However, you have to be aware that it may not be the best choice, depending on a number of factors.
In this article, you will learn how to do this step by step, and understand the risks involved too. If you want a Done-For-You type of trailer, we recommend that you go with jogging stroller bike trailer combos like COPilot Bicycle Trailer & Stroller Conversion Kit.
Convert Jogging Stroller to Bike Trailer
A bike trailer and jogging stroller are like siblings or paternal twins. They both are designed to provide a smooth ride in uneven terrain, they can go at faster speeds than a regular stroller, and they are built to accommodate an active lifestyle.
Their main difference is that you pull a bike trailer, while you push a jogging stroller.
It is not unusual for an active parent to enjoy both jogging and cycling. When it comes to bringing kids in the outdoors, well let’s just say it’s a very enriching experience.
When you have a good jogging stroller that converts into a bike trailer, and vice versa, you get to have the following benefits:
- You can easily switch from biking to jogging or running, any time
- Traveling is a lot easier as you need to bring just one transportation option with you, aside from the bike
- There is no need to maintain a jogger and a trailer separately
- Your kids will feel more comfortable using only the same mode of transportation every time
- Converting an existing jogger into a trailer will save you money
All of the benefits above apply to everyone, except the last one. Doing the conversion by yourself will indeed save you money if you know what you’re doing. That is if you already have experiences with similar projects in the past.
Steps in Turning a Jogging Stroller into a Bike Trailer
What you will need
- angle grinder or hacksaw
- wrench set
- electric drill with bits
- screwdriver
- 16 pieces of hex bolts
- 16 nuts
- 16 locking washers
- a lot of washers for uses in spaces
- a hitch pin with an r-clip
- 1 caster wheel with four flat bolt pattern; make sure it matches the bolt pattern of your bike
- L-frame steel with drilled holes; length will depend on the size of your bike and stroller
- bike
- old yet serviceable jogging stroller
Here are the steps to follow:
- After you have gathered all your tools and materials, you will start by dismantling the cover on the front of the jogging stroller. Your goal is to expose the frame where the front wheel is attached to.
- Place the stroller behind the bike, about 10 to 14 inches behind. Record the measurement of the gap.
- Construct the trailer frame based on your previous measurements. Remember to add supporting frameworks. This is where you will need most of the washers and bolts.
- Construct the hitch attachment to be connected to both ends of the trailer frame.
- Attach the trailer frame to the stroller. Be sure to add the necessary washers and bolts to keep the connection strong.
- This is where you use the caster wheel. It is important that you use existing holes to maintain the bike frame’s integrity. Then finally, attach the other end of the frame to the bike with hitch and bolt pin.
The process detailed above does not work vice versa, though. Once you have turned your stroller into a trailer, it stays that way until you remove the trailer frame altogether. Be aware that you may end up compromising the stroller’s capability to fold.
If you want the options to switch between both modes easily and retain the feature to fold, I would highly recommend that you go with DFY (done-for-you) instead of DIY (do-it-yourself).
Jogging Stroller Bike Trailer Combo
There are several caveats to converting a jogger into a bike trailer, and the risks involved is more than enough to just purchase a new one. The dangers include:
- A jogging stroller has a high center of gravity which makes it prone to tipping over
- There’s a big risk in the attachment points giving in, which could lead to pole vaulting if it breaks
- There is not much ample protection to the front, exposing your children to debris or other flying objects
COPilot Bicycle Trailer & Stroller Conversion Kit is your best choice when it comes to a heavier weight limit. It can accommodate up to 2 kids and has up to 100 lbs weight capacity. The frame is made of aluminum so it is very lightweight yet strong.
The entire unit alone has a weight of 25 lbs only. The trailer converts to a jogging stroller easily by attaching its frame-mounted front wheel. The handlebar attaches easily to the frame as well.
Another great choice is Aosom Elite II 3in1 Double Child Bike Trailer. This one has a lower weight capacity of up to 88 lbs only, but still has enough room for 2 children to ride side-by-side.
What makes this model stand out is it has features found in most premium jogging strollers like handbrake, full suspension system, and a locking swivel front wheel.
Wrapping It Up
Aside from the safety issues involved after you convert jogging stroller to bike trailer on your own, you might end up spending more money in the long run too. Your focus is to have a great time with your family outdoors, and not worry about the dangers or spending more time in the garage fixing or improving the project.