Originally Posted by turd
i've wondered the same thing and found some add-ons out there, but never seen anyone with..
http://www.pet-shop.net/html/bike.html
Safety Features
* Springer’s low mounted coil spring absorbs & reduces the dog’s tugs and pulls, making it easier to balance.
* The dog is held firmly in place beside bike, keeping the dog from interfering with the pedals or wheels.
* Springer is equipped with a “Safety Release” which allow the dog to break away instantly if it ends up on the wrong side of a tree, post, etc.
I've ridden fixed with a dog, and it is not very feasible unless you can go slow and the route is flat. I just use a leash, and I tie it to my rear rack. My dog is smart and we trained each other. The problem I anticipate with the springer, which I have not used, is that it can release the dog if something gets in the way. That is touted as a safety feature, but the last thing I want is for my dog to get suddenly released around any traffic.
I also choose routes with good shoulders and little traffic, because having a dog with you doesn't earn any more sympathy from crazy drivers. When you go down hill on a fixed with a dog, you really have to slow down even for a fast dog, because they have speed limitations. Going downhill slow on a fixie is not as scary as going too fast for your comfort down a hill, but it can really suck, especially depending on whether you or running brakes.
When I first tried this, I was living in mountainous country, with steep hills but little traffic. I decided I really prefer a freewheel when taking the dog.
I imagine it would be very difficult in NYC.