Cycling is an excellent way to stay fit with your family and take them further than just a simple walk will get you while still avoiding getting in the car.
However, convincing little legs to bike very far may not be a reality.
Instead of being stuck by the short distances, the Thule Yepp Maxi will help you get as far as you need to go.
Your child will sit comfortably in the rear-mounted seat as you cycle to your destination and explore more of your surroundings.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Thule Yepp Maxi
This child bike seat is designed to have your little one ride in comfort and safety as you venture out to locations that are further than you can get via foot, but still would prefer not to drive.
For those who want to put the whole family on a bike and go, this is a great option.
If you ride often on narrow bike trails, around corners, or have the need to save space, this child bike seat will be a fine option for its compact design and sole purpose.
Before buying any new item, there are also some extra considerations to take into account.
Ask yourself these questions to be sure this child bike seat will work out best for you and your family’s needs.
How Many Children Are You Cycling With?
Since this child bike seat only fits one child, you have to consider how many children you have who need a bike seat versus how many adults typically go on rides.
You can definitely purchase two of these seats for two bikes if needed, but if you tend to ride as a solo adult, then you might need a different option like a child bike trailer.
Is Cycling Your Main Activity?
This child bike seat is made only for the bike.
If you are a family that also jogs, strolls, and skis, then you might want to consider a more universal item that can switch between your activities with ease.
How Big is Your Child?
Even though this particular child bike seat is tested at up to 48.5 pounds, you need to determine how large your child is versus how long you want to have this bike seat.
It might be that your child grows out of the seat faster than you had hoped and you need to purchase a new bike seat for your longer adventures.
Introducing the Thule Yepp Maxi
The Thule Yepp Maxi is a rear-mounted child bike seat that is designed for everyday rides.
With a shock-absorbing seat that is both soft and uses adjustable footrests and straps, you can cycle easily knowing your child is comfortable behind you.
The bike seat comes with a built-in reflector and safety light as well as an adjustable five point harness.
If you have more than one child, or plan to go on longer rides, then you might want to consider a more robust option that has multiple uses.
Pros of the Thule Yepp Maxi
- Weight capacity of 48.5 pounds
- Attaches directly to bike frame
- Breathable and comfortable material for ventilation
Cons of the Thule Yepp Maxi
- Product itself weights 10.1 pounds
- Does not recline
- Does not fit all bikes
- Mounts sold separately
Features & Benefits
Curious about what makes the Thule Yepp Maxi one of the top child bike seats? Here are a few features and benefits you’ll want to be aware of.
Shock Absorbing Seat
Your child will enjoy riding in this child bike seat because of the smooth ride.
The shock absorbing seat allows you to traverse uneven terrain without jostling your little one around.
This is ideal if they fall asleep during the ride and you do not want to wake them up after riding over a bump in the road.
Adjustable 5-point harness
You know your child is going to be safe in this seat because of the 5-point harness.
This is the same type of harness that is used in carseats, so you can rest easy that your child is getting the most secure buckle possible.
Childproof Safety Buckle
If you have a child with a tinkering heart, you do not have to worry here.
With a childproof safety buckle, your child will not be able to purposely figure out how to unbuckle himself.
Adjustable Footrests And Straps
Considering how fast your child grows, you want to be sure you are getting a child bike seat that can grow with him rather than having to buy more than one as he gets bigger.
The adjustable footrests and straps on this child bike seat make it a great option for those who want a bit more longevity.
Water-Repellent Material
As you know, children make messes. With the water-repellent material you do not have to worry that the bike seat is going to get ruined.
Similarly, if you accidentally leave it out in the rain, it can quickly dry out so you can be on your way in no time and without the hassle of waiting for padded cushions to dry.
Built in Reflector And Safety Light Attachment
Regardless of the time of day you typically do your cycling with your child behind you, you are going to want to be as safe as possible with reflectors.
This bike seat has built in reflectors and a safety light attachment so you can be calm and confident that motorized vehicles will see you.
It is highly recommended that you purchase a safety light to put on the bike to be as safe as possible while riding.
Tested up to Six Years Old
This seat was tested with children ages nine months up to six years old.
While you do need to check with your pediatrician if you use this child bike seat with a child less than one years old, you can use it with an older child.
Keep in mind the weight limit is 48.5 pounds, but depending on the size of your child you can reach that before age six or after.
Breathable And Comfortable Material
Some child bike seats will leave your child a sweaty, hot mess when they come out of it from the lack of ventilation on the back of the seat itself.
With the breathable material of this seat, that will no longer happen.
Your child will be so much more comfortable as you ride along.
Attaches Directly to Bike Frame
Skip the pesky extra needed materials and simply attach the child bike seat to your bike frame.
This seat does fit most bikes, but if it does not fit yours you can just buy an attachment.
Be warned that even though the seat does attach straight to your bike, it can take up to half an hour to get it securely on if it’s your first time.
High Back
With the 48.5 pound weight limit, your child can get pretty tall before they reach it.
With the high back of this bike seat, your child will still be able to fit regardless of not reaching the weight limit.
This means you do not have to worry about buying a second bike seat to accommodate his size.
Locks Into Place
Since this seat is built for adventure and further treks, there may be times you leave your bicycle unattended.
Instead of stressing that someone will take the child bike seat, you can play easy knowing that you have the key which locks and unlocks the seat into place.
Comes in Multiple Colors
Your child is going to love choosing their favorite color for their bike seat.
Not only will it perk their excitement to try the seat when it first arrives, but it will keep them excited to ride over and over again.
What Others Are Saying About The Thule Yepp Maxi
Kristen from Rascal Rides says that because this child bike seat, “has lots of holes in it, it is breathable and comfortable on hot days. [Her son] comes out of the seat without a wet, sweaty back or butt.”
Over at Momentum Mag, Gwendal claims this seat is, “Very easy and quick to attach and detach from the mounting bracket.”
Biker Mom says, “We see bigger kids sitting happily all the time, so I am sure the seat will last our daughter till she is 3 or 4 (she is 2 now), so it’s perfect to use till she learns to ride her own bike!”
Thule Yepp Maxi Alternatives
You obviously have a great deal of choices when it comes to picking the best option for you and your family.
Make sure that whichever one you buy is going to suit your needs. Here are a few of the options to consider.
Copilot Child Carrier
The Copilot Child Carrier is easy to mount and can accommodate a child aged 1-4.5 years old.
This child bike seat has an extremely comfortable thick-padded seat with high visibility colors and a reflector.
Highlights of the Copilot Child Carrier
- Child grab bar
- Removable and washable seat pad
- Molded helmet rest
Lixada Bicycle Baby Seat
For those who prefer to keep a closer eye on their child as they ride, the Lixada Bicycle Baby Seat is front mounted.
With this child bike seat you are getting a sturdy aluminum seat in one of three colors of your choice. It’s also worth noting that the seat is easy to assemble on any type of bike.
Highlights of the Lixada Bicycle Baby Seat
- Padded seat
- Foot pedals for safety and comfort
- Maximum weight of 55 pounds
Bell Shell Child Bicycle Seat
With a foam seat pad and the ability to fit most bikes, the Bell Shell Child Bicycle Seat is ideal for short rides.
Giving parents an easy and secure installation, you can quickly get it on and get out the door for a full day of adventures.
Highlights of the Bell Shell Child Bicycle Seat
- Three-point harness
- Adjustable foot beds
- Ventilated for comfort
- Foam seat pad
Conclusion
For families that like to stay active by cycling and want to be sure their child is comfortable, then the Thule Yepp Maxi is going to be a wonderful option.
With a comfortable seat that can easily grow with your child, you will not have to worry about buying a completely separate bike seat.
Cycling can be a great way to get your child involved in your physical activities so you no longer have to choose between child care and taking care of yourself physically.
Even when you become a parent, you will still want to stay active and fit to maintain your health.
Finding ways of getting your child involved in physical exercise can be a great way to model healthy behavior for your child, get outdoors, and create new memories with your family that are priceless.
