The Mac Ride: Early Childhood Development

Jun 17, 2014 at 18:22
by Danielle Baker  


MAC RIDE



Last night Myla, who is three, called to invite me to go riding with her. On the phone she talked about everything from her purple helmet to how much she loved riding Bobsled on her Mac Ride. Her Mac Ride is a prototype child bike seat that allows her to venture further off-road with her parents. Created by Glen Dobson, it could be the next great innovation to get kids into mountain biking sooner and building their muscle memory earlier. At the very least it allows for more adventurous outdoor family fun!

Trying out the Mac Ride
  Myla and Darren cruise down Bobsled together.

Combining his experience, passion, and knowledge, Glen Dobson has created a unique child bike seat that gives you the opportunity to explore further into the outdoors with your kids. As an engineer and a father Glen innovated a unique way to, not only getting his kids on bikes sooner, but also to teach them riding skills at the same time.

bigquotesI designed Mac Ride to solve the challenges that come with the toddler years, when children are ready for adventure but not able to go very far themselves. - Glen Dobson, Mac Ride Creator

The Mac Ride is a system that mounts to your bike, placing your child between you and your handlebars. The stirrups give them the experience of pedals and allow them to standup over bumps while their hands are placed on the handlebars where they experience the motion of steering. It allows children to explore more and go further into our forests while they are still building up the skills and stamina to do so under their own power.

Trying out the Mac Ride
  Whoops are Myla's favourite!

bigquotesThe experience with the Mac Ride has helped my daughter understand what is possible when she gets on her run or pedal bike. - Darren Butler, Owner of Endless Biking

Based out of Vancouver, B.C., the Mac Ride started as a family project when Glen and his wife started looking for a way to get out riding on the trails with two young children. They realized that, while there were plenty of child bike seats on the market, there wasn’t an existing product that met their needs. They were specifically looking for something that was suitable for off-road riding.

Trying out the Mac Ride
  Nothing but smiles out on the trail this morning!

The existing models offered bulky, hard plastic, moulded seats that transferred the bumps from the trail to the child, harnesses that keep the child strapped to the bike even in the event of a fall and hard plastic or steel foot protectors that prevent the child from standing up in anticipation of rougher terrain. The biggest deterrent for Glen was that the conventional child bike seats are rear-mounted, it is believed that they are safer because the adult’s body protects the child from impact, but it causes other potentially dangerous issues; the child will often lean out causing balance issues and the rider has to take their eyes off the trail or road to check on them.

bigquotesIt is really cool how the Mac Ride gets kids actually involved in the ride, feeling the bike lean, the bars turning and the bike getting jostled around a bit from the bumps. - P.J. Hunton, Engineering Manager at Norco Bicycles

After researching available solutions Glen took to designing the Mac Ride. The first step was putting the child in front, giving them the same view of the trail as the rider and allowing them to chat and interact. From there he positioned them with their hands on the handlebars to feel the steering and to balance themselves, and added the stirrups to allow them to stand up and lean in the corners. The seat, which is shaped like a bike saddle, takes advantage of the bike’s existing suspension and allows for a more comfortable ride. Lastly the Mac Ride positions the child on the bike without seat belts or straps, allowing them to find their own balance within the safety of their parents’ protective arms, if a fall occurred, the child would be thrown clear, rather than being strapped to the bike. (Always have your child wearing a safety approved bike helmet.)

Trying out the Mac Ride
  Gripping the handlebar allows Myla to feel how the bike steers. Darren has her practice widening her grip for extra stability on bumpy sections.

Trying out the Mac Ride
  The stirrup length is adjustable and allows kids to stand up the find their balance on the bike. The foot straps are not binding, and allow kids to easily climb on and off the bike while it is being stabilized.

Trying out the Mac Ride
  Sitting upfront allows Myla to see the trail and feel how the bike reacts to the trail features she can see.

Glen believes that the Mac Ride strikes a balance between what can easily become an overprotected childhood and one that allows kids to explore and learn about their capabilities at an early age. He wants to allow them to make good choices while building confidence and resilience.

bigquotesThe well-thought out craftsmanship of the Mac-ride is pretty obvious right away, you can adjust it to the child's size, as well as, the bike size and type. The low position of the child is great, you can actually absorb bumps with you arms and legs without getting their head in the chin. - Darren Butler, Owner of Endless Biking

One of the main questions that Glen gets when people see a Mac Ride prototype is “how safe is it?” The Mac Ride depends on common sense safety, including not riding something with your child unless you are sure you can complete it without falling, staying within your riding abilities and always wearing helmets. Currently there is no safety certification for front-mounted child bike seats, but the seat does conform, with the exception of not having a strap, to an EU safety standard for child bike seats (EN 14344).

Trying out the Mac Ride
  Myla demonstrates how she can stand up in the stirrups, just like she does for big bumps.

The system is designed for children 2 to 6 and is adjustable to grow with them. It is designed to fit most bikes from full suspension mountain bikes to cruiser bikes and can easily be switched between them. A simple headset spacer is the only item that is left on your bike when the seat is removed, meaning that it can quickly be taken on and off your bike between solo rides and family rides, or swap from mom's bike to dad's bike.

Trying out the Mac Ride
  Loving the corners!

Glen has been developing the project on the side since his daughter was born in 2007 and last year he established the company and started to produce prototypes. After experiencing first hand the life changes that come with having children, Glen feels strongly about helping parents adapt their active lifestyles to keep riding in their lives.

bigquotesWhen Glen first introduced me to the Mac Ride I immediately realized that it would get kids on mountain bikes earlier than ever, which hopefully gets more kids stoked on bikes! I sincerely believe it will help the sport of mountain biking grow. - P.J. Hunton, Engineering Manager at Norco Bicycles

Trying out the Mac Ride
  One more time daddy?

bigquotesI just want to see these available for other people, not just for those who are fortunate enough to be able to test one out! Seeing how kids interact with it is incredible. - Darren Butler, Owner of Endless Biking

Currently the Mac Ride is only a prototype that is being tested out with a few key families around the globe. If you would like to know more about Glen and this product you can visit his website here. If you would like to help put Mac Rides on the shelf in your local bike shop, you can visit his crowd-funding site here.

Author Info:
daniellebaker avatar

Member since May 10, 2007
235 articles

177 Comments
  • 117 9
 This is simultaneously a fantastic and absolutely horrible idea.
  • 16 17
 Define your thought process please.
  • 40 3
 crash with your kid on the front? yea imagine that. but getting to go riding with your kid...
  • 10 6
 Its actually amazing to be able to ride with your child... I have an weeride kangaroo seat for my 19 month old and I always figured that if we crash I would just hug him tight to protect him a damaged bike is better than a hurt kid.
  • 28 1
 Yes, using the A-line with your children, definitely not a good idea...
  • 25 4
 The concept is no different to the seats that are positioned behind the rider. You can just as easily crash with one of these on. At the end of the day, it boils down to common sense and if you take your child on to a trail that is above your own ability then quite frankly you shouldn't have children in the first place!
  • 42 10
 Crashing with kid on the front, great something to break the fall! Having to take your kid riding, how annoying!

That's what he meant right?
  • 11 5
 Love the idea, but I'm still not putting my son on the front of my bike. When he gets hurt riding I want it to be his mistake not mine.
  • 24 1
 You have to use common sense and ride only terrain that is suitable to have a toddler on your bike. Of course you wouldn't ride A-Line with your toddler! You can actually have a hand around your child if you wish, the kids can actually jump off if they want, it's much safer than you think! I would rather give the kids an opportunity to have the freedom to be able to get away from bike than be strapped in with a 4point harness and stuck to bike as it crashes onto child... -DB
  • 3 18
flag t-turi-mullett (Jun 19, 2014 at 8:28) (Below Threshold)
 You see, most of us don't crash often. Maybe one small crash a day, but that's if you are going hard. My problem with it is not crashing, but forfeiting I have a child on the front of my bike and trying to Huck something huge.
  • 28 1
 ^^^^ trying to huck something huge with a child on your bike? Why am I even responding to this?!

One crash a day...? -DB
  • 24 4
 McDonalds Happy Meals are probably more dangerous to your child's health than the Mac Ride. The consequences are high but if you can manage to stay well within your skill level then you can manage the risk. Looks fun.
  • 3 9
flag t-turi-mullett (Jun 19, 2014 at 9:32) (Below Threshold)
 i'm saying that you might wash out or take a slip maybe once a day. IF THAT more like once every couple of days ridding. To quote "If you don't crash you aren't trying hard enough"
  • 13 0
 Crashing does not make you a better rider it make you an injured rider....

That said, Myla seems to have a lot of fun judging by the pictures, so hell yes, switch on your brains and cruise down a nice "flow trail", have good time and enjoy the laughter of your young ones. Sounds amazing to me and I don't even have kids (yet)
  • 7 1
 I tried one of these at the Bike Fest and it's a brilliant idea and if you have a child you know most of these comments are hilarious.
  • 7 3
 I ride all the time, only fall when I'm being careless or clueless. If I had I child on the front of my bike, or the back, or even on their own bike riding with me, I wouldn't take chances. This looks like an incredible idea!!!
  • 5 2
 Or, you could just wait until your child is 3 and get them their own bike to ride, and you can actually ride together. What is the rush to get a kid out there before then? And yes, most kids can ride a bike by 3 if you take the time and show them how.
  • 18 1
 Even if they can ride a bike I can see how Mac Ride would be much more practical and fun. I just cant wait for the adult version so I can strap in with Ratboy while going down the Leogang WC track.
  • 5 0
 SlodownU... With the 3 your old riding her/his own bike daddy is probably not going to do much for his cardio...
  • 3 11
flag benbrooks1 (Jun 19, 2014 at 14:00) (Below Threshold)
 stupid design !! one crash or slip would be pretty bad for the kid !
  • 5 0
 My brother used to do this for me when I was like 3. It was awesome.
  • 7 1
 Why would you be riding hard with a toddler on your bike?? This is obviously only meant for tame trails without jumps and big drops. Unfortunately, protecting your child instead of hucking over huge gaps is is not an obvious decision
  • 6 0
 What if you have 2 children... who is the favorite?
  • 2 3
 T turn mullet. I'm with you I crash every ride or 2...... If I'm not crashing I'm not learning.
  • 6 2
 who cares, this is awesome
  • 4 1
 This is awesome,my 3 yr old cries his little heart out when I go riding because he wants to come to.now he can.awesome
  • 3 1
 Wow! Such a lot of hate for this?!?!?!!

Damn. I had a WeeRide ( wee ride co nz )for my daughter when she was 2-4 years old, this also has the child in front. It has her in the middle of the bike, weighted perfectly, and they can see what is happening. NOT behind, where she can't see anything but my back.

The only issue I had with the WeeRide was that CJ was in front, facing the wind. So you just need to keep them gloved and warm. I had this setup up and down dale. It's safe as houses. Never ride beyond what you know you are capable of while you have your child on board and you're fine!

Sheesh, settle people, this is a great thing! No lunacy at all.
  • 5 1
 I do not understand how people think that a child seat behind their bike would be much safer than their child riding in front of them? When you fall off your bike do you always OTB? No. So why the panicky parent reactions? Secondly, how fast do you think DB is going in the photos? I'd bet my house that's he's not even close pinning those whoops at all, because he's using his judgement (gasp!) and taking it slow and easy. This is not designed to take your kid down a DH course?! Use your judgement and pick mild terrain or just the poodle path. Stop jumping to conclusions based on nothing but fear and worst case scenarios and start thinking critically.
  • 43 4
 Haters gonna hate. Far, far too many parents out there living their lives in and subjecting their children to the suffocation of bubble wrap.

Is that Butler?!? Just started re-watching Drop-In from season 1 episode 1 just today in fact! haha
  • 9 4
 Bubble wrap indeed, loads of people look at me funny the way i play with the kids - but screw them.

Natalie and I have been prototyping ur own way of seating on the bike, given that I dislike the current solutions out there. This seat the article is promoting, is excatly what I'm after!

www.pinkbike.com/photo/11086341
  • 3 1
 Yep, I'm still in the mix and riding every day! Some days with my toddler! -DB
  • 33 3
 For all you folk out there asking about the saftety of ripping the trails with your kid in front on one of these- engage your brain first! these products are designed to get you out there riding with your kids not to set PR or KOM's on Strava or beast some gnar. BTW there are no guarantees in life that anything you do won't hurt, including doing nothing! IIRC I think LOCT went out of business recently.
  • 1 0
 Exactly! I have an ibert seat on my trail bike. Similar concept, kid is between you and the bars. That seat is more suited for younger riders and really smooth trails because they must remain seated. The kids love it and it allows us some more time together out doing things. I might have to pick this one up for my 3 year old now.
  • 3 1
 The Mac Ride is a great progression from the iBert. We had one but our daughter got too big and heavy for it, this is the next step and we all like it much better. -DB
  • 4 1
 I think this is an awesome idea and great execution! Lots of fun for the kids who can actually be engaged in the entire experience. Of course, you aren't going to be out pinning it and hitting gaps and tabletops, some people just don't think it through; no one is going to be taking risks with a child on board and it doesn't require that for the kids to have fun. My kids are grown and gone, but I look forward to having a chance to hit this with the grandkids someday.
  • 1 0
 Yes, it definitely seems like progression over the ibert
  • 24 5
 4th picture, how many cables did that bike have? No chance the young 'un being thrown over the bars onto the trail, the cables would act as a spiders web.
Pretty sure there's been a UK version of kids riding up front for years!
  • 4 2
 Dropper Post, Fork Lockout, Rear Shock Lockout, Rear Mech, Front Mech, Rear Brake, Front Brake... 7 Different Cables! This is yet another reason why 1x drivetrains are good, eliminates a cable!
  • 6 1
 ditch the lockouts & the front mech !!
  • 5 1
 Lots of cables = lots of options. Not all of my bikes are setup like this but I can take this bike on some huge rides and it will ride circles around a bike with a 1x drive-train. 1x drive-trains are quite limiting, many riders have been fooled by simplicity and are missing some gearing and cadence options available to those with a front mech. I choose this setup for a reason: hard-tail, short travel, long travel DH mode, trail mode, fully rigid, all at the push of a button. Wink - DB
  • 1 4
 1x drive-trains are quite limiting....only if your not fit enough to use it !! & lockout remotes ? thats just lazy
  • 5 0
 Sounds like we need to go for a ride Savmeister so you can see the light! I'm plenty fit and I'm far from lazy!

This is my BC Bike Race bike (www.bcbikerace.com), I'd love to see you run a 1x drivetrain in this event! -DB
  • 1 2
 bit far for me too travel but if i ever get to BC im sure id manage
  • 4 0
 If I can't climb it on a 1x drivetrain, I just walk it.
  • 4 0
 I run 1x8 and I do the exact same as arkon11 but I'm thinking I might switch to a 2x just because yesterday I was at some local trails walking up trails with a freeride bike, then these cardio guys with walmart bikes showed up while I was eating mcdonalds. Plus I'm sixteen so regardless of the fact that I paid for my bike with my own money, I look like a spoiled piece of shit... I just felt like the epitome of everything pure cardio guys hate about free-ride mountain bikers haha
  • 1 1
 Di2 up in there, also...
  • 1 0
 XTR Di2 doesn’t add and cables, in fact it can combine the front and rear shifter into one shifter, and thus removing a wire and not the front mech

There is also option to plug the iCD electronic remote lockout system from Fox and potentially in the future we may see a electronic dropper post from Fox that integrates into the whole system.

The good thing about electronic wires rather than gear cables or hydraulic lines is that they are much more flexible, and can often be combined.
  • 15 2
 We've been riding a mac-ride prototype for a year now with no problems whatsoever. Right now it's getting used every day for trips to the park with a couple of rides a week in the woods. My daughter now has good balance, moves and corners with the bike and stands up for bumps/roots.

Re the safety concerns it's very simple, you need to be confident that you can ride what you're riding without crashing. Sh!t happens though and in this event the child should fall clear of the bike most of the time as their feet are only loosely strapped in. I know for sure that I'd take my chances crashing a mac-ride over a rear mounted seat any day.

This seat allows kids a great introduction into trail riding and the outdoors in general, it's not for dragging your kids down a world cup dh course at full speed.
  • 3 0
 Yeah, you know it! -DB
  • 13 3
 That looks a fantastic idea. Way better than a seat at the back with them strapped in staring at your back for a few hours.

The 'wrap them up in bubblewrap crowd' sure are out in force. A dangerous expression these days springs to mind: Common sense. You're obviously not supposed to go tear arsing down a double black or world cup dh course with your little sprogling sat in one of these so you need to make a rational and sensible assessment of the situation, as someone mentioned already if you're not 100% confident do try that obstacle. I know it's a photoshoot but the little'un looks like she's having a wail of a time. Much more excited than the bored looking kids I see being dragged along with a tow-along unicycle-thing.

It's not about allowing your kids to experience the trails exactly as you do. It's about exposing them to the excitement of off-road riding gently and I'll bet they (and you) will have much more fun on the trails more quickly than turning up to a trail centre and forcing little Johnny reluctantly off down a green run on a bike that's slightly too big for him. Using one of these after a balance bike sounds to me like a great way to get your kids into trail riding faster.

I'll report back in about 4 years time how successful this approach is. Smile
  • 3 3
 Well put mate, obviously it is about just getting out with your kids in the local woods and gentle trails etc. Not so sure them crashing strapped in the back is any better, I do like the idea that they can 'fall off' this one. Anyway if you crash at all with a kid you have been riding irresponsibly. I have a newborn so gonna give it a coupe of years too.
  • 4 7
 See, the thing is, even if I'm just out for a really leisurely ride, I still wear a helmet, because you still MIGHT fall and hit your head in an awkward way or off of something. I never plan to fall when I ride, and I don't always ride balls to the wall, but I ALWAYS wear a helmet. While I agree that we shouldn't keep kids inside all day, I've gotten tangled up in my bike enough times to know that if you messed up, it would probably go worse than not wearing a helmet. Sure, toddlers are tougher than a lot of parents think with all their cartilage, but I wouldn't want a 3 year old coming between me, my handlebars, and the ground. Same way I don't want to have nothin' between my noggin and the ground.
  • 1 0
 Exactly. A nice easy trail with some fun corners will be like a roller coaster to a young kid. Just hope they don't try to steer.
  • 5 0
 The kids absolutely love it! They sing and laugh non-stop when aboard the Mac Ride! Pick and choose your rides carefully, with common sense. The fact that they are not strapped in as way better, it teaches them control and gives them freedom to get away from the bike if they need to. The kids won't be able to out-muscle you and steer. You have the control but they get to go through the motions.-DB
  • 1 0
 8 years later.... Both kids bloody loved it! Eldest is now too big and this is the last summer on it for youngest. Absolutely thoroughly recommended.
  • 2 0
 @veero: 8 years on, I'm more conflicted on it. 2 years ago I had a bad crash and broke my arm. It was a bit of a freak accident; caught a poorly sawn stump that was just off trail, hidden by some foliage. I was riding at a pretty leisurely pace on trails I was familiar with, just got caught out.

That being said, as I get closer to potential fatherhood, I see the value in having the kid up front and really "with" me. I'm starting to imagine possibly doing something like this (the Spirited Man YouTube channel has really spurred me to think more about it), but I'm not sure I'd ever take a kid on anything remotely like most MTB single track I've been on, and certainly not near my normal leisurely pace. Something I like about the trailer is that the resistance reminds and forces me to take it much easier - maybe having the kid up front would do that, too, but I can imagine getting comfortable and complacent. Constant vigilance, I guess.

I'm probably a few years off of having a kid where I'll actually have to make this call for myself, but I'm not sure I'll ever feel totally comfortable with it, but maybe that's the point?
  • 1 0
 @IsaacBikes: Having a child on the Mac Ride in front of you really changes the way the bike handles. I think the same way a trailer adds a lot of mass and constantly reminds you a kid on the MR does the same, plus you can literally feel them in the hollow your arms, legs and head make if that makes sense. It doesn't make it difficult to handle, it's just very different and I am constantly on a higher state of alert and risk aversion when riding with the precious cargo aboard and simply don't do the clowning around I would do on my own. Sure I've had those sorts of crashes where a tree stump I completely didn't see blindsides me and I've ended up in the hedge, but with a passenger you just go slower and more carefully. I had a crash back in May just rolling round a berm I'd done loads of times. Front wheel washed slightly went down like a sack of crap and was out with shoulder soft tissue damage for a few months. I wouldn't have been doing that berm with a kiddo onboard.

With the MR I've mainly done fireroad and canal path rides with my kids, some off road, but if anything only really blue trails with an odd bit of singletrack and touch wood have only had 2 minor hiccups. Once I stopped and my foot slid out on gravel and we both ended up in a heap, minor tears but no injuries and the other when I had to stop quickly and the bar caught a tree and forced the bars round and just started to squash little 'uns leg a bit. Again no injury not even any tears. I've seen more people overturn a trailer with a child in that accidents I've had with my kids on the MacRide.

But yes you're right, constant vigilance is key. Once the fruit of your own loins is on a bike with you in whichever seating arrangement you'll naturally take 100% more care than just riding on your own. I would still whole heartedly recommend a Mac Ride.
  • 12 3
 how often do you fall off your bike? and if you do fall off is that because youve been pushing it? riding basic trail is not dangerous and unless your a complete muppet you wont fall off. this is a good way to get kids used to a little bit of speed in a controlled fashion. admittedly, i dont have kids but if i did i would be getting one of these to get them out there and used to the experience of riding trail. as a boy i remember the old man dropping me of at the top of a hill and cruising down the road fast on my 16" bmx. it was awesome this is another way to get kids away from the tv and out doing something good for themselves. good on you bro, and shame on the haters. if theyre complaining about accidents etc. chances are they cant really ride. big call i know but i stand by it.
  • 7 1
 I've got two dogs who I'd like to ride with. Unfortunately, one of them is a lazy sod whilst the other is a marathon runner. Can this seat be adapted for dogs? I'd like to take the lazy one on a long ride and make her run back :-P Joking of course.
  • 4 1
 Touring luggage rack and cable ties?
  • 1 2
 For the dog, right? Otherwise I'm taking your props back.
  • 7 1
 I think a lot of the comments on here are from people who don't have a variety of terrain to ride. In BC we are lucky to have green mtb trails and off road paths everywhere....so you take your kids on the green trails (this may not be for you if the only trail you have access to (or want to ride?) is a difficult trail not suitable to have a toddler in front of you! It's frustrating reading the comments about steep downhill etc, people, only use it on trails you are comfortable riding with a toddler up front! And yes, you don't always see a crash coming (I have fallen going uphill??!! lol) and there is a possibility you could fall with your kid on the front, but don't shut the whole idea down on a possibly...you can have an accident in your car while transporting your kid somewhere and we still allow kids to be carried in cars. I love the idea and I hope it's available for when we have kids!
  • 7 1
 Its unfortunately to see the negative comments pertaining to safety with reference to riding steep downhills, rockgardens and jumping with your toddler. My only guess is that man of these comments are from people who are NOT PARENTS. The product isn't meant for riding technical terrain just like the current kids bike seats on the market and just like riding your fixie or commuter hybrid bike isn't safe for this type of riding. Bottom line no parent in there right mind is going to attempt riding technical trails with their child plain and simple.

As a mountain biking father of a 3 year old boy and baby girl (on the way) i'm absolutely stoked on the concept of MacRide and the idea of taking my kids out for rides. The MacRide team has produced an amazing product that is safer then the current bike seats out there for every day street riding while promoting/instilling bike skills and balance for kids and has the added advantage of allowing parents and children to ride suitable trails together. Hats off to MacRide for developing this product! We're pulling for you guys to complete the kickstarter funding!!! -Mike & Emilio
  • 8 1
 I am all for riding with my kids but at least put their helmets on correctly. The straps are so loose her helmet will slid right off her head if she does take a fall.
  • 6 3
 Kids play with their equipment all the time, it happens to the best of us. Sorry about that, we'll adjust it for the next photo shoot. Wow, the details that people get distracted by... What about the cool bike seat? -DB
  • 7 2
 We take risks everyday, with kids; crossing the street, driving, sports, etc.

Live life. Use common sense. Have fun.

This product looks awesome and I hope that by the time I have a child of my own, that this will be available to the masses for purchase.
  • 4 0
 PS. Myla looks stoked!
  • 2 0
 You got it! -DB
  • 4 1
 I love the idea!
But i would never ever allow this in a bikepark!

And for all of you arguing about the childs safety, people hang their kids in backpacks when they skiing and im pretty sure thats more dangerous than this beacuse you have more unpredicteble obstacles when you skiing. (my own thoughts and experiens)
  • 8 0
 Um, you don;t take a 3year old on a child seat into a bike park.... common sense please! -DB
  • 1 0
 After working a couple of years in a bikepark I can Say that tourists dosent have common sense, to point out why I felt it was neccesary to point it out.
  • 3 0
 After seeing this design 6 momths ago i made a very simple version for my trail bike.
My now 2 year old comes everywhere with me and has become very confident on his balance bike from getting the feeling of holding the bars and leaning with me .
As for crashing, you just don't when you have a child onboard and think about the trails your riding.
This is by far one of the most amazing inventions and i back it 100%. Good luck
  • 3 0
 For those looking to buy a seat - you can pre-order through Kickstarter. If the target isn't hit, the project won't go forward so for those who like the concept and have kids on the way, now is the time to go for it. www.kickstarter.com/projects/ridemore/mac-ride-a-unique-child-seat-for-adult-mountain-bi
  • 8 2
 Oh, and sure as hell wouldnt ride on the road with my kid. Off road is WAY safer...
  • 1 0
 Especially in Australia LOL. I don't even ride on the road there, major driver rage...
  • 7 0
 ....And you'd be taking it pretty easy with your little one on board...
  • 2 0
 Exactly, common sense people! Ride only what you can! -DB
  • 3 0
 Used safely and appropriately, it could be fun, but I just see too many jackasses taking it too far. Also lots of "just riding along", or mechanicals that have consequences. It's a pass from me. My kids are learning to drive their own boat, so to speak.
  • 7 2
 has something very similar not been around for years www.loct.co.uk ??
  • 1 2
 Even longer than the loct, I can remember fitting something similar 30 years ago that used to clamp to the top tube with foot rests mounted on the down tube. Not suitable for modern bikes but the same idea. Made by Leco i think
  • 8 2
 Amazing stuff dude! I can see myself getting one of these some day.
  • 3 1
 Dartmoor Cycles Tavistock England sells the co-rider. My little 18 month year old girl loves it. Is it dangerous riding with a child on the front....not really. People will always judge but don't knock it till you have tried it. Personally I have enough talent not to fall of just riding along the fire roads and park. I am no Travis Pastrana back flipping children in to foam pits. He has enough talent so he does and I cannot see the danger in that....just the fun!
  • 2 0
 This reminds me of how I grew up in the late 70's, Living on the gas tank of my dad's motorcycles loving every time we went for rides around the yard, or on some local trails. I was always grinning ear to ear loving every minute of it which grew into a passion with anything on two wheels, these pictures bring back those memories with the little girls face it is just pure joy. This is a great idea if used with just a little bit of common sense.
  • 3 1
 what a great idea. that's a great way to introduce your kids to mtb. obviously you wouldn't be hitting the jumps and drops but what a great way to spend quality time with your kids and get a ride in at the same time. brilliant!
  • 3 1
 It sure is, kids laughing and singing all the way! Haters can hate but when they are old enough to have kids, they might understand. The kids, they love it! -DB
  • 6 1
 An amazing idea ppl jus jelly they didn't think it up first XD
  • 1 0
 Have had one of these- www.co-rider.com mounted to a hybrid. Its been through three of my children and we just passed it on to my nephew. Wonderful way to get out and ride with the little ones and keep pace with the older kids (all my kids riding on their own at 3.5 to 4 years btw). With everything for the kids, safety first but fire roads where no problem...just taught the kids to stand up and use their legs to absorb bumps. Great training tool and allowed our family of 6 to all ride together and have fun. pure biking joy!
  • 2 1
 The guy who invented this thing is a local guy where I'm from, he has given a guy i know a prototype and its wicked, the kid LOVES it! As some people have said "what happens if you fall off with your kid"..... thats your fault because lets be honest when your riding with a child in front of you... your a hell of a lot more careful and you aint going to be trying anything too sketchy. I think its great and i can see big things for it in the future !
  • 1 0
 I have been riding with a mountain tandem, until recently because the boys can ride there own bikes now. vimeo.com/42481185

I like the tandem better but it is a more expensive option and not much more safe when you crash. The real goal is to get out and ride and share the trails with our kids.
  • 1 0
 There are some really nice flowing trails around my area. This is a great idea as My child isn't going to be able to ride even 1k on a pedelless bike. This way both my wife and I can ride together, take turns and my child can see more of nature too.
  • 4 3
 I know people will be riding more cautious with the kid on front but man I would be so worried about crushing them on the bars in event of a crash , and the poor buggers feet being strapped in. Sounds great having your kid on the front , I'm sure they will love it but it looks equally as scary to me. Seriously cute kid too btw !
  • 8 1
 I used to ride in the front of my dad's trials motorbike when I was that age, lost a few teeth during those years, but it was fun anyway !
  • 1 1
 Oh wow, that all came flooding back to me. I used to hang off my uncles motorbike all the time, can remember the feeling of those knobby tyres spinning inches away from me.
  • 2 0
 Kids aren't strapped in. They are just stirrups that a child can insert their feet into and fully adjustable. My 3yr old gets in and out of it by herself and she absolutely loves it. - DB
  • 6 2
 This is awesome Smile What a great article - I think my 3yr old would love this!
  • 4 1
 I love it well done.... I'd love to have one and take my son out on the xc trails he'd love the feeling and would defo help with his development. I'd be happy to buy one now!
  • 2 1
 You will love it! Every kid we've shared with has! -DB
  • 1 0
 Looks like samething i've been doing with my mc battery for years. The superwide stays that limit me on crank choice have proven to be the perfect footpegs for my kids to place their feet while holding the bars. Its worked so well that everytime the mountaincycle comes out, my kids, aged between 2 and 7 lineup for double rides on the battery.
  • 2 1
 I am so ready for this product. I heard about it around Christmas time and pledged $500 toward it when it came back on Kickstarter last week. I will use one with my daughter and give another to a friend. This looks to be an excellent product and if you want this to fly visit Kickstarter and make a pledge.
  • 1 0
 My 21 year old son, reading this article over my shoulder, just looked at me and said, "don't even think about it Dad". Hehe... okay, he might be a bit large for riding two-up on the mountain bike, but it sure would be fun! Good luck with your product launch DB!
  • 6 2
 Great idea but is there an eject button for when things go south...
  • 1 1
 The kids just jump off if they want, the way we would when we ride. They are not strapped in any more or any less than we are. -DB
  • 2 0
 Or you could just buy one of these right now, been manufactured in NZ since '98... www.facebook.com/pages/Do-Little-Bike-Seats/155294231207273
  • 1 1
 The product looks awesome and I would love to use it with my kids! Most parents will use it reasonably and safely and take their kids down relatively easy trails and expose their kids to the joy of riding. But some idiot is going to case a huge double with his kid riding that thing and the kid is going to get seriously hurt. Then the idiot rider is going to sue the company. And probably win too because it is completely foreseeable that this product is going to be misused by idiots. I'm not saying I like that. I'm just saying that I think that is the way it is going to go.
  • 1 1
 I think it's one of those things that you gotta try before making a cranky decision. As a tester, every single person I have lent the seat to, whether completely excited, a bit anxious, or totally freaked out, has come off of Mac Ride with their child giggling, shouting for more, and the adult themselves has been completed assured that the seat is safe. I love those who have commented about common sense. Once you've been on your bike with Mac Ride, you realise that you are in control and can ride within your limits comfortably and happily. So so so fun.
  • 1 1
 i agree there is a certain amount of danger involved, but you are attempting to mountainbike with a kid. backpack, rear seat, trailer, there is not 100% safe way to do it. it is inheriently dangerous. on a well known trail, even a boring tame trail, i would rather be able to ride with my kid then leave them at home.

I'm sold!
  • 1 0
 I have he kangaroo seat on front of my bike and my 2 year old loves it I do some trails but nothing too hard its brilliant I get to do the 2 thinks I love most ride my bike and spend time with my kids.
  • 2 2
 Dont diss it. Ive used the "wee-ride" for both our kids from 2-3 years (similar position to this but its a bucket seat, 4 point belt and bucket footrests) and you'd be amazed how well you can ride. Centre of gravity roughly unchanged, all sprung weight, we would regularly leave mummy in our dust... Then they both progressed to an "eccentric designs" seat, similar to the mac-ride but a bit simpler and less adjustable, NZ creation. Having the child hang onto your bars is better than it sounds, on the weeride they would lean all over the place, but once holding onto the bars they got the feel and started leaning into turns and unweighting for bumps. Both kids most frequent utterance was "faster!" No safety concerns offroad, just don't ride it if you're not totally confident you'll make it.
  • 3 1
 And if you add one of these www.pinkbike.com/photo/10665139 you can drag two kids around the forest.

Kids love it. Indoctrinate them young I say!
  • 2 1
 I used the eccentric seat. Feet aren't strapped in and it works great. Means they can climb on and off with minimal fuss. Crashing isn't a problem because you just don't crash. Take it easy on smooth tracks and everyone has a good time.
  • 2 0
 I used to put my toddler to sleep from age one onwards by taking her on a wee ride. I originally got a 6 inch travel bike just so I could go up kerbs with her on it. She was a great help on the steep climbs to keep me from looping out and used my chest as a whiplash prevention measure in the rough stuff. At age 3 we could go off about a 1 foot drop using that method. I miss those days that was some of the best riding.
  • 3 2
 I had my daughter with me since she was 1. Now shes 3 and cant sit on the front seat anymore so now its time for her to get on her push bike. She loves riding with me and it has giving her the joy for riding bikes.
  • 2 2
 I've had some dealings with compliance for kids bike seats recently and looking at it, i doubt he's taken it into account? No point designing something you're not allowed to sell.

Potentially a great product though, our kids would've loved it.
  • 1 1
 "Currently the Mac Ride is only a prototype that is being tested out with a few key families around the globe..." now that was a bit anticlimactic. Great idea though, hope they get this through the pipe by the time I have kids. hahaha.
  • 1 1
 Pretty cool idea, seems like a great way to introduce kids to biking. I'm interested in if it will have any effect on an individuals riding ability down the road. Theoretically, you are introducing them to speeds higher than they would be able to achieve on their own for several years (due to skill, strength, etc.), so therefore they may be more comfortable with higher speeds when they are finally able to reach them on their own than someone who didn't have the same experience. Either way, I like it!
  • 3 0
 My dad used to take me on motor-cycle rides like this Big Grin
  • 1 1
 Just started riding with my 2 yr old in one of these...mostly gravel/cart path stuff. Seems pretty safe, with a helmet of course.
reviews.mtbr.com/ibert-safe-t-seat-child-carrier-pro-review
  • 3 0
 When they are 3, they will be way to heavy (and big) to fit in the iBert. We have one and it quickly went the way of the do-do. Way higher centre of mass on the iBert, child absorbs all the bumps with their back instead of with arms and legs and the higher postion means you can't absorb bumps with your arms and legs, you will get the kids helmet directly into your chin! the Mac Ride is the next step. - DB
  • 1 0
 This is not a new idea, the Weeride looks the same but the kid doesn't hold the handle bars. This one might work for bigger kids though.
  • 4 1
 Awsome, let's help that guy!
  • 1 0
 Yes!!! Any amount of support helps - $5, $20, $50, or of course - pre ordering a seat! www.kickstarter.com/projects/ridemore/mac-ride-a-unique-child-seat-for-adult-mountain-bi
  • 1 0
 I hab something similar but not as good when my son was a toddler. He loved it, I loved it, what's not to love? Ride slower and carefully and get your kids out on bikes.
  • 4 5
 Idea is great, but strapping your kids feet to a bike? Would probably not feel that great on most of the trails round here (Alps), and any of the flat easy ones they could ride themselves at age 3 (With a bit of help pushing up any bigger hills).
  • 6 1
 Could any kid at age 3 keep up with you on a flat trail? That's why I'd want one of these when I have kids; kids get entertained and I get fit all at once. Hell, I might even buy a 29er to put it on.
  • 1 3
 No they couldn't ,but I don't mind if they get practice and I have to go slow most of the time. I do see your point though, as I said it's a good idea in theory.
  • 2 0
 Kids aren't strapped in. They are just stirrups that a child can insert their feet into and fully adjustable. My 3yr old gets in and out of it by herself and she absolutely loves it. There is no way a kid can keep up or go nearly as far on trails of any kind. - DB
  • 3 1
 This is exactly what I'm after at the moment! Please let this be available for import ASAP!
  • 1 0
 Look up the 'ibert safe t seat'. I got one off ebay cheap last year. Been around Sherwood Pines a few times with it and my 2 year old loves it! You have to resist the desperate cries of GO FASTER DADDY!! They are very stable and the child is well protected.
  • 2 0
 Thanks Hamplanet - I like the idea of them holding onto the handlebars though and she seems keen as hell to do it
www.pinkbike.com/photo/11086341

Does the ibert mount quickly, as it would just be mounted to my AM bike on an ad hoc basis.
  • 3 1
 the child will outgrow the iBert. This is where Mac Ride comes in! -DB
  • 1 0
 Well, hurry up and bring it out while my girls are still young :-)
  • 2 1
 All well and good if the rider is responsible and doesn't go shredding to hard with a little nipper up front. Wouldn't want to hear of little kids getting broken bones.
  • 4 1
 I know what I'm buying this weekend.
  • 1 2
 People that are saying this is a bad idea because of the potential for crashing with child aboard are just plain stupid. First. if you had any instinct as a parent, you wouldn't bring your kid down gnarly rock gardens or big booters. Second, if you have a child on board and you are taking it easy on an easy flow trail, chances are not very high you are going to eat shit hard enough to really damage your kid. I think it all comes down to how careful you are and what kimds of risks you take with your child on board.
  • 2 0
 Problem is, there's a lot of stupid people out there, parents included.
  • 1 0
 You're not going to be riding the world cup dh trails with your kid on the front , I think its a great idea for weekend local trail xc spins with your kids .
  • 4 3
 Can someone get cam mccaul and his daughter to post a video with one? that would be rad
  • 3 1
 Reminds me of Kuato off of Total Recall.
  • 1 0
 What a cool idea! Only Issue I see is that at 6'5" my knees would be hitting a child with each and every pedal stroke.
  • 2 0
 You actually won't. You can just run your knees out a touch and you won't hit them at all. We've had lots of people try it and it works great. You won't be riding for hours on end anyways... -DB
  • 3 1
 An idea when this will be on the market?
  • 4 0
 they are raising funds for the first production run using kickstarter. by supporting their kickstarter campaign with you're basically pre-ordering your mac ride $195 CAD.

www.kickstarter.com/projects/ridemore/mac-ride-a-unique-child-seat-for-adult-mountain-bi
  • 4 1
 that's awesome.
  • 1 1
 Awesome idea - I would totally ride easier trails with my kiddo on front! I loved the iBert front seat, and this looks 10x better!
  • 1 0
 Here's a bit of info on the certification and safety piece too: www.mac-ride.com/safety-topics
  • 1 0
 goo.gl/JSMKK6 an update on the project is here on the Mac Ride blog!
  • 2 0
 Tighten that child's helmet!
  • 1 0
 You can also ride faster with your R2 unit on board... My daughter and I have to be passed on most of Peaslakes trails.
  • 3 1
 I wanna buy this
"sadlle"
  • 2 0
 somebody kill me before I get that many cables
  • 3 1
 Darrin you are the best dad ever
  • 2 1
 Looks like fun, now i need a child.
To the internet!...........
Dating site obvs, not black market child trade.
Smile
  • 1 0
 Looks super fun and boy does Myla look like her mom smiling away. Keep up the good times Darren! -Jeremy
  • 2 2
 Well it's about time McDonalds started providing funding for sporting initiatives! The Mcride, I like it.
  • 1 0
 Thank god Aaron Gwin doesn't have children...
  • 1 0
 where can i get one of these ?
  • 1 1
 I now want a kid just so I can take them out on this, great idea!
  • 2 0
 The project needs your support even before you have your little one. If the target's not reached, the project won't proceed. Even $5 or sharing on your facebook page goes a long way! www.kickstarter.com/projects/ridemore/mac-ride-a-unique-child-seat-for-adult-mountain-bi
  • 1 1
 Are yet to be passed... (sausage fingers and phones dont mix)
  • 2 2
 ORR... get a kid bike.
  • 4 1
 kids can't ride as far or as fast as they can with this. We do have kids bikes but this allows us to cover great distances, allows child to get used the the speed, steering the bike, leaning the bike, absorbing bumps etc which helps her understand how to ride her kids bikes even better. -DB
  • 3 0
 Ready, rotate, lean!
  • 1 0
 yeap, but in the long run, kid bikes are way better at teaching them these. plus, i wouldnt want to risk riding long distances with my kid with me too..
  • 1 0
 You're missing the point. A balance bike is fantastic but a child isn't going to be able to ride even 1k on it.
What are you supposed to do, split the family and go out for rides at separate times or ride around the back yard for 6 or 7 years?
At this point your child has balance but no appreciation of the outdoors no sense of speed and no other technique other than not falling down.

I also don't have time to cycle long distances Smile
  • 11 12
 Wow, that sure looks like it could end up badly
  • 3 3
 Sketchy.
  • 4 6
 Everything looks safe and sound until shit happens.
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