Taking children to school on an electric bike: a guide for parents

The journey to school is often the most stressful part of the day: traffic jams, lack of parking spaces, and tight schedules. However, instead of starting their day stuck in traffic, parents are increasingly choosing an alternative: the electric assist bike (EAB). Switching to family cycling means choosing freedom of movement while sharing a special moment with your children outdoors.

Why electric bikes for parents

Electric bikes: the easy mode of transport

The main obstacle to transporting children by bike has long been the physical effort, especially uphill or with the weight of school bags. Thanks to electric assistance, this obstacle completely disappears. With a powerful motor, such as the Valeo system found on Ultima models, restarting at a red light or tackling a hill with two children on the back becomes much easier.

Beyond the physical aspect, it's a significant time-saver. In the city, a bike is often faster than a car for journeys under 5 kilometers. No more circling to find a parking spot in front of the school: you can park right at the gate. It's also an excellent way to introduce young children to eco-mobility from an early age.

Which solution should you choose to transport your children?

The choice between several electric bikes

Depending on your children's age and your journey configuration, several options are available to you. It is essential to choose approved equipment suitable for your bike.

• The Larrun cargo bike: This is the ultimate option for families who want to completely replace their car.

• The Multipath Family cargo bike: For those who need to carry more weight or older children, this structure offers superior stability thanks to a lowered center of gravity.

• The Essentiel duo or FamilyGo urban bike: These models are perfect for parents looking for versatility. They allow you to combine daily solo commutes with safe child transport, offering the ideal compromise between lightness, maneuverability, and family functionality.
  
  

Safety: an absolute priority

Transporting passengers requires increased vigilance. A loaded bike is heavier, which slightly increases braking distances. This is why Ultima bikes are equipped with powerful brakes, ensuring a sharp stop even in the rain with a maximum load.

Never forget the golden rules of safety:

• Helmets are mandatory for children under 12 (and highly recommended for parents).

• Visibility: Make sure your lights are always clean and functional. Adding reflective strips to clothing or school bags is a real plus.

• Maintenance: A bike that transports a family must be in impeccable condition. Take advantage of a professional check-up once or twice a year to verify spoke tension and tire condition.

Managing range and weight

Transporting children places a greater demand on the battery. To maintain a comfortable range, play with the assistance modes. Use the maximum mode for starting or uphill climbs, and switch back to an intermediate mode on flat terrain. With intelligent technology, energy management is optimized so that you never run out of power before reaching your destination.

FAQ: Electric biking with the family

From what age can I put my child on my electric bike?

As soon as the child can sit up unaided and their neck is strong enough to support the weight of a helmet, generally around 9 or 10 months.

Is the electric bike stable with a child on the back?

Yes, provided you have a sturdy rear rack and a double kickstand. The design of Ultima bikes offers frame rigidity that prevents the wobbling effect found on low-end bikes.

How can I protect children from the rain?

For seats, there are specific ponchos that cover the child and their school bag. For trailers and cargo bikes, full protective covers keep passengers perfectly dry.