Bicycle sidecars as alternative to cargo bikes

Bicycle sidecars are an unusual alternative to conventional child seats, but what more fun way of passing the cycling bug to the next generation?

There is a bewildering array of child seats, tag-alongs and trailers aimed at helping families cycle together, but arguably none is as stylish looking or adventurous as the Scandinavian Side Bike. The side car pitches itself as a better handling alternative to a cargo bike.

Bicycle sidecars

The Scandinavian Side Bike is bought off the shelf and can be fitted to any bicycle – making it a cost-effective alternative to larger, but more expensive, cargo bikes. Another advantage the sidecar has over other designs is that it allows the adult rider to keep an eye on the child and, just as importantly, the child an uninterrupted view of the path ahead.

The sidecar attaches via a pivot bearing that allows for the sidecar to lean with the bicycle. The sidecar is available in fibreglass (11.9 kg) or carbon fibre (9.9 kg). According to its makers, the sidecar is light enough to be a more enjoyable bike ride than other cargo bikes.

“This particular bicycle combination also gives you the opportunity to go for much longer distances and allows you to do your bike riding practice together with your children. You will not be limited by the typically heavy purpose-built cargo bikes. Instead you get more opportunities to embark on different types of trips and to enjoy new experiences together as a family.”

Spanners at the ready – this bicycle sidecar is DIY

The Scandinavian Side Car appears well made and there is a range of accessories available, but if you don’t have £1,000 to spend on one, why not make your own? Download the plans for free at instructables.com

Environmentally friendly cycle insurance

On the face of it, one cycle insurance policy is much like another, but the devil is the detail. How much excess you will be charged is just one of the things that varies wildly between providers. Another is so called ‘new-for-old’ replacement – many insurers use this term, but if your bicycle is more than a few years old, devalue it severely. This means you are left out of pocket when you come to replace it. Read our insider guide to cycle insurance.

Furthermore, every cycle insurance policy you buy from us helps support the work of the ETA Trust, our charity campaigning for a cleaner, safer transport future.

ETA cycle insurance has a low standard excess of 5% (minimum £25) and offers a new-for-old for life – how ever old the bike, if it’s stolen you get enough to buy a new model. The policy covers electric bicycles as standard and includes a breakdown service for your bike and you that will take you up to 25 miles if you suffer a mechanical problem or puncture. Your battery is covered against theft as standard.

For 25 years we have been providing straightforward, affordable bicycle insurance. Whether you use your bike to commute, shop, race or amble in the park, ETA Cycle Insurance has you covered. We never devalues bikes no matter their age, allow you to buy your replacement bike wherever you like, replace stolen quick release components and we handle claims in-house.

Can your insurance provider say the same?