Weehooooooooo! (Gear Review: Weehoo iGo Pro Bike Trailer)

This is the year where things in our family as far as adventuring really starts to change.  J is simply just outgrowing the avenues we had to get out as a family (and go as far and as long as we wanted….within reason, of course.)  We’re in the process of testing and exploring some new gear for kids that just don’t fit in backpacks and/or trailers anymore.  The good news is that gear IS out there and companies are responding to a need for outdoor families in the middle of those “shoulder” years.

Thanks to plenty of miles on his balance bike, J (aged 3 1/2) is starting to really get the hang of a “pedal bike”.  And yet, he can’t go for 10 miles while we explore the Park (as in “Yellowstone Park”) or surrounding area.  Plus, I just don’t trust him riding near traffic (he IS only 3!)  Yes, he does technically still fit in the Chariot with his little brother, but things are tight (and the fights are many.)

Enter the Weehoo iGo Pro (“Pro” because it is the 2012 model – lighter, tougher, and completely removable seat.)  It’s one company’s ingenious solution to helping families get out on longer bike rides with kids actively engaged.  It’s like a “Trail-A-Bike” that is towed behind an adult’s bike, but much safer, more adjustable (allowing for younger riders) and something I trust enough to put my kids on.

What we love:

– The freedom to continue biking as a family when kids get too big for traditional bike trailers.

– Fits most kids aged 2-9 (or  38-52″ and up to 65 pounds.)

– The child sits in a recumbent position low to the ground meaning their center of gravity is also lower and their ride is smooth and comfortable.

– 3-point harness system keeps kids safely in the seat (and it’s padded so they remain comfortable.)  Seat easily adjusts forward or backward to accommodate for shorter or longer legs.

– Seat can be completely removed for more stream-lined storage.

– Pedal straps keep feet safely in position (though see slight problem we had with these below.)

– Kids have the choice to pedal

– Storage in pannier-like bags is ample enough for snacks and some extra jackets.  Mesh cup holders on both sides of the seat come in handy for kid riders.

What we aren’t so crazy about:

– A bit on the heavy side and because of its length, it can be a bit tough to maneuver (and keep from tipping over.)

– Can be awkward to hitch until you get the hang of it.

– Pedal strap concept is great, the straps themselves need a little work.  We found that J’s feet would often slip out of them at the beginning of a ride and need adjusted back in.  Straps that are more adjustable for smaller feet/different shoes would be very helpful.

– While I know they are working on this, I would LOVE to see a Weehoo that could hold two kids.  When it is just me at home, I have been putting P in the Boba on my back (though not highly recommended – do this at your own risk!) and riding with J in the Weehoo.  At this point,  you have to have enough adults pulling to make it work with the amount of kids you have.

– They are pricey (though if you do use it a lot, especially for commuting, it will easily pay for itself.)  BUT, $400 CAN buy a lot of bike….  See the Weehoo home page for a great cost analysis on when it would pay for itself (opposed to driving, gas,etc.)

The Stats:

$399 at REI (or specialty bike shops)

– Hitch attaches at the seatpost, fitting seat posts with diameters of 25.4, 26.8, 27.2, 30.9 or 31.6mm; cannot be used with carbon fiber seat posts

– Fits up to 65 pound kids (or 75 pounds total with gear)

– Lightweight steel frame

– Canopy accessory available (sold separately) to protect from the sun.

Bottom Line:

Yes, the price tag is steep, but the freedom the Weehoo iGo Pro provides is worth it if you use it often.  It opens up the potential to commute with much older kids (think dropping them off to school, daycare, etc.) and longer family bike rides.  We are starting to see them all over Yellowstone as families need solutions for larger kids and longer rides.  **They have an engaging Facebook Page too with lots of die-hard fans (and great conversation/tips!)**  Weeeeehooooooo!!!!!!

See it in action (background music too!!) *Hitching it up and riding!*

Weehoo helped us bring you this honest review through a discount on the Weehoo iGo Pro.  Some of these links are affiliates.  By clicking through and purchasing from them, they help offset the cost of this blog (and the information we bring you) in a very small way.  Thanks for supporting us! (See our full disclosure here.)

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