Kassensturz tests child trailers: Which two-seater beats the competition?

Michael Restin

17/9/2025

Translation: machine translated

A bike trailer has to withstand a lot: romping children, heavy luggage and critical test reports. While last year's Stiftung Warentest labelled all tested models as "unsatisfactory", Kassensturz had a different verdict.

On the one hand, five cyclists were allowed to do what you do with child trailers in everyday life: mount them on the bike, adjust the straps, convert them into a buggy, fold them up, fix the brakes and pack the luggage compartment full. On the other hand, two experts scrutinised the quality and handling characteristics. How good are the braking systems, the suspension and the seating comfort? Practical questions. I like the approach.

Different standards, different results

Despite the best models in the Kassensturz test, we still have a reference to a poor Stiftung Warentest rating in our range. This is due to perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl compounds (PFAS). In July 2024, the consumer organisation found harmful substances using new test methods and therefore gave otherwise good trailers a poor rating across the board «»

I'll tell you how the surprised manufacturers reacted at the end of this article. But first, let's take a look at the Kassensturz judgement.

Suspension child trailers

Suspension models not only reduce the risk of tipping over, they are also more comfortable on tarmac. That's why I quickly ended my brief intermezzo with the unsprung Leggero back then. Although the suspended models are more expensive, they occupy the top three places in the test field.

Thule Chariot Cab: 70/100 points

Almost everything as I know it and would sign it. At first glance, I think the side zip fasteners on the hood are better than before. In my experience, Velcro and clamp solutions pop open as soon as a child's foot kicks them hard. This is the only point that would make me a little sceptical about the second-placed model.

Croozer Kid Keeke: 69/100 points

The price-performance winner in the test: suspension, clutch system and ride comfort are rated better than the competition. Also interesting: the clutch can be secured with a lock. The seatbelt buckles are considered cumbersome, and it is hardly possible to convert it into a buggy (fit the front wheel and remove the drawbar) when fully loaded.

Burley D'Lite X: 64/100 points

The test subjects praised this trailer for the best seating comfort, plenty of space, the adjustable seat angle and the suspension. However, the drawbar is difficult to adjust and remains attached even when used as a buggy. In addition, nothing bulky can be transported in the luggage compartment.

Suspension trailers

Thule Courier: 61/100 points

Hauck Dryk Duo: 56/100 points

The good foot brake, on the other hand, is emphasised in the Hauck Dryk Duo. The cheapest model tested also has the largest load capacity with a maximum of 50 kilograms and is easy to fold. However, the trailer itself (18.7 kg) and the conversion to a buggy are heavy. In addition, the harness height is difficult to adjust and the zip is vulnerable as it is constantly under tension.

Hamax Traveller: 55/100 points

At 13.2 kilograms, the lightest of the trailers tested. However, it is not waterproof; the rain cover must be ordered separately. Other points of criticism: tippy when the luggage compartment is loaded, tedious disassembly of the drawbar and the worst baby holder.

And what about the pollutants?

On the other hand, consumer protection organisations are also facing criticism of their rating system. One father was stunned by the rating on test.de «» , although according to Stiftung Warentest there is no acute health risk for children. The environmental problem is unquestionably important, but safety must not become a secondary issue. However, this is not reflected in the score, as the pollutant score is made the overall score.

The manufacturers would probably also have found this fairer, as consumer advocates criticise faster than they can react. Then the headlines are already out in the world.

Statements from the manufacturers

The industry magazine velobiz.de has analysed the case. On the one hand, all manufacturers concerned emphasise that they produce in compliance with the law. On the other hand, they are endeavouring to respond to the criticism and meet new requirements.

Michael Restin

Senior Editor

Michael.Restin@digitecgalaxus.ch

Simple writer and dad of two who likes to be on the move, wading through everyday family life. Juggling several balls, I'll occasionally drop one. It could be a ball, or a remark. Or both.

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