That sidecar is COOOL.
I think the safest way to carry a kid on a bike is in a trailer. These are typically made to be highly visible, I don't know of any that aren't; and in the highly unlikely event that there is some kind of incident that can cause the trailer to tip over, the kid(s) are closer to the groud (less distance to fall), and are protected by the frame and fabric of the trailer and their helmets.
Originally Posted by
cradduck
I have read on sites like consumer reports that two-wheeled trailers are not good for riding on roads because their width presents a hazard and can be clipped by cars.
I have found this to be untrue. I have found that, regardless of the type of trailer, motorists tend to give a cyclist with a trailer much more room than the same cyclist on the same bike without a trailer. Much more likely would be you clipping an obstacle with the trailer that you could have easily passed with the bike alone. Kids don't like being bounced over curbs ... Well, some don't. Mine daughter wanted to do it again.
"
Do it again, Daddy.
"
I haven't noticed a lot of rolling resistance with my Burley Solo or Flatbed. Sure there's some, but a little is to be expected. In fact with both these trailers I was surprised at how easy they towed. Now my Wike Woody Wagon is a different story, but it's usually wearing a 14 1/2 foot canoe complete with all my gear for a days fishing.
One thing I have found is to put spare tubes for the trailer in with the spare tubes for the bike.