Tow rope for bikes: a relief for children and adults

Do you recognise this? You’re out on a long tour with your child or a less trained fellow cyclist and at some point they don’t have the strength to keep going. This is exactly where a tow rope for bikes comes into play!

With an elastic bike tow rope, you can support someone without them being fully pulled off – they continue to ride independently but receive a gentle lift. This is perfect for families, for e-bike riders who want to support a companion or for steep climbs when travelling by bike.

In this article, you will find out how a tow rope for bikes works, which models are available and what you should look out for when buying one.

What is a bike tow rope?

A bicycle tow rope is an elasticated connection between two bicycles. It is attached in such a way that the person in front (e.g. a parent or an e-bike rider) can support the rear bike with a gentle pull.

Typical features of a bike tow rope:

✔ Elastic material – Prevents sudden jerking movements
✔ Easy attachment – Usually to the seat post of the bike being towed and to the head tube of the bike being towed
✔ Quick release – Safety mechanisms ensure easy disconnection
✔ Compact & light – Easy to stow away when not in use

Who can benefit from a tow rope on a bicycle?

1. Families with children

Children often find it difficult to cope with longer distances or inclines. A tow rope for children’s bikes helps without them losing control of their bike.

2. Different ability levels on rides

If you are travelling with friends or family, a stronger rider can help a weaker one – ideal for long climbs or for less trained riders.

3. E-bike riders with regular bike riders

Do you ride an e-bike but your mate does not? An e-bike tow rope can be used to pull a cyclist along without motor assistance. This is particularly helpful if the e-bike battery is flat or a normal cyclist can no longer keep up.

4. Bikepacking & Cycle touring

Long distances with a lot of luggage can be tiring. A pulling system for bikes relieves the weaker rider and provides even support.

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Attaching the tow rope to the bike – this is how it works

1. Attach it to the towing bike:

• It is best to attach it to the seat post or luggage rack
• Some models have a special quick-release solution

2. Attachment to the towed bike:

• Usually attached to the head tube or handlebars
• Important: Do not attach to the front wheel, otherwise there is a risk of falling!

Safety tip: Make sure that the rope can be released easily if a dangerous situation arises.

What types of bike tow ropes can you find?

Bicycle tow ropes differ mainly in their elasticity and attachment options. Here are the most popular variants:

Type	Properties	Favourable use
Elasticated tow rope	Stretches under traction, absorbs shocks and provides gentle support	Children, long tours, MTB, e-bike assistance
Tow rope with carabiner	Enables quick attachment & detachment, often with elasticated function	Families, touring, mountain biking
Tow rope with quick release	Automatic disconnection if there is too much tension for greater safety	Children, beginners, greater safety

Tip: Elasticated tow ropes are best for most applications, as they prevent jerks and enable an even transmission of force.

Buying a tow rope for your bike – what you need to look out for

1. Material & Elasticity

• High-quality nylon or rubber ropes are durable
• A good stretch range (approx. 2-3 m) prevents jerking movements

2. Safety mechanism

• Quick-release fastener or easily detachable carabiners increase safety
• Some ropes release automatically if there is too much tension

3. Maximum pulling force

• Depending on the model, the rope can pull between 50-100 kg
• A lower load is sufficient for children, but it should be more stable for adults

4. Weight & Pack size

• A lightweight and compact rope can be easily stowed in a rucksack or on the seat post

Tip: If you tow frequently, a model with an integrated retraction function could be useful.

FAQ about the tow rope for bikes

How long should a bike tow rope be?

Most models have a length of 1.5 to 3 metres. An elasticated rope that can stretch provides more comfort.

Can I use a normal rope as a tow rope?

A simple rope can theoretically be used, but it lacks elasticity, which can cause sudden jerks – this is dangerous! Specialised bike tow ropes are safer.

Does the tow rope automatically detach from the bike in case of danger?

Some models have a safety mechanism that automatically releases the cable if the load is too high – this is particularly useful for children.

Can a tow rope be used for e-bikes?

Yes! E-bike riders in particular often use a tow rope to support e-bike riders on tours.

When is a tow rope for bikes useful?

A bike tow rope is an ingenious solution for families, cycling holidays and tours with different levels of ability. Especially if you are travelling with children, inexperienced riders or without motor assistance, it ensures more riding fun and less frustration.