Thule has launched the Chariot 2 Bike Holder, a £89.99 accessory designed to carry a child’s balance bike on top of a compatible trailer. The idea tackles a familiar family-ride problem: the child has had enough pedalling, but their bike still needs to get home.
Instead of leaving a parent juggling the bike while pushing the trailer, the holder gives it a dedicated place to travel. Children can ride under their own steam for part of an outing, then climb into the trailer or walk when they need a break.
How the Thule Chariot 2 Bike Holder works
A folding support arm and straps hold the balance bike upright above the trailer, with separate straps securing its wheels. The holder folds flat when it is not carrying a bike, and Thule supplies the tool needed for installation.
For MTB and eMTB parents, the appeal is in the slower family outings between trail rides: giving a youngster time on their own wheels without making the whole day depend on how long their enthusiasm lasts. It also offers a way to bring the balance bike along for a stop during a longer outing.
One balance bike, and specific trailer compatibility
The details matter before buying. Thule specifies capacity for one 12-inch balance bike and lists the Chariot Cross 2 double and Chariot Sport 2 double as compatible trailers. This is not a universal carrier for any child’s bike or any trailer.
That single-bike capacity is particularly relevant for families with two young riders. A double trailer may accommodate both children, but the holder is still designed for only one balance bike. Parents of twins will therefore need to think through what happens when both children want a rest at the same time.
The holder weighs a claimed 2.4kg and measures 79 × 32 × 10cm. Its own weight is worth considering alongside the balance bike when deciding how much equipment to take.
Price and family-riding appeal
The UK price is £89.99 for the holder. Thule’s launch announcement says it is available now; check the official product listing for current stock and compatibility before ordering.
For an existing Chariot owner, the question is whether carrying a balance bike is a frequent enough nuisance to justify another accessory. For someone starting from scratch, the cost of the compatible trailer also needs to be part of the decision. We have not tested the holder yet, so ease of loading and how it behaves in everyday use remain questions for a hands-on review.
If you are planning a broader family cycling setup, our electric trekking and SUV bike guide looks at practical bikes for mixed everyday riding. Any trailer combination still needs to be checked against the bike and trailer manufacturers’ compatibility guidance.
Thule Chariot 2 Bike Holder questions answered
Can it carry two balance bikes?
No. Thule specifies one 12-inch balance bike, even though the compatible trailers are double models.
Does it fit every Thule Chariot?
Thule lists the Chariot Cross 2 double and Chariot Sport 2 double. Check the exact trailer model rather than assuming all Chariot versions accept it.