There’s nothing better than hitting the trails or the road with your kids in tow. But before the fun begins, you need to get your inStep bicycle trailer securely attached to your bike. While it might look a bit technical at first glance, the process is actually quick and straightforward.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to safely hitch your inStep trailer, ensuring a secure connection for a smooth and worry-free ride.
What You’ll Need
• Your inStep bicycle trailer
• Your bicycle
• The inStep hitch arm (the long, L-shaped metal bar)
• The hitch assembly (the part that stays on your bike’s seatpost)
• The hitch pin or quick-release pin
• Optional: A small rubber mallet (for stubborn hitches)
Step 1: Prepare the Hitch Assembly on Your Bike
First, you need to ensure the hitch clamp is securely attached to your bicycle’s seatpost.
• Locate the hitch clamp—this is the circular clamp that stays on your bike.
• Slide it onto your bike’s seatpost and position it so it sits just above the bike’s rear tire, ensuring it has enough clearance and won’t interfere with the saddle bag or the tire.
• Tighten the clamp securely using the provided bolt or quick-release lever. It should be snug and not slip under pressure.
⚠️ Safety Check: Give the clamp a good tug to make sure it’s firmly in place before moving on.
Step 2: Position the Trailer and Extend the Hitch Arm
Lay the trailer on the ground in an open, flat area. Extend the long, L-shaped hitch arm fully away from the trailer body. You should hear a “click” when it locks into place. This arm is what will connect to the clamp on your bike.
Step 3: Connect the Hitch Arm to the Clamp
This is the most important step.
• Hold the end of the hitch arm (the part with the hole) and align it with the receiving slot on the hitch clamp on your bike.
• Slide the hitch arm up and into the clamp. You may need to wiggle it slightly to get it to seat properly.
• You’ll know it’s in the right position when the hole in the hitch arm lines up perfectly with the hole in the clamp.
Step 4: Secure with the Hitch Pin
Once the holes are aligned, insert the hitch pin or quick-release pin.
• Push the pin all the way through both holes.
• If it’s a cotter pin, open the two prongs on the other side to lock it in place.
• If it’s a quick-release pin, ensure the safety clip or ring is engaged.
💡 Pro Tip: If the pin is difficult to insert, a gentle tap with a rubber mallet can help. Never force it if the holes aren’t perfectly aligned—reposition the arm instead.
Step 5: The Final Safety Check
Before you load up the kids or cargo, perform these final checks:
1. Tug Test: Firmly pull the trailer away from the bike. The connection should feel solid, with no wobbling or slipping.
2. Visual Check: Confirm the hitch pin is fully inserted and secured.
3. Clearance Check: Lift the trailer upright and check that the hitch arm and safety strap have full range of motion without hitting the bike’s tire or frame. Do a quick practice turn to ensure there’s no interference.
You’re Ready to Roll!
Attaching your inStep trailer is a simple process that becomes second nature after one or two tries. By following these steps and always performing a quick safety check, you can ensure every family bike ride starts safely and smoothly.
Have any tips or questions about hitching your trailer? Share them in the comments below!