Burley Bee Bike Trailer Review | A Great Trailer That Won't Break The Bank

Hello fellow cycling enthusiasts!

After countless hours of testing a variety of trailers, I finally found a bike trailer that simply blows other mid-range trailers out of the water.

I tested this bike trailer, and in short, the Burley Bee bike trailer is an economical, high-quality option that promises both fun and safety on your family bike rides.

Through rigorous testing of the Burely Bee, I have found that the Burley brand truly stands behind their products, ensuring a satisfying riding experience for parents and children.

Table of Contents

Burley Bee – More Than Just A Basic Trailer

The Burley Bee Bike Trailer isn’t just your basic trailer; it is a double trailer that is light, durable and easy to use. Although it’s a budget trailer, it sports a premium-model aura, thanks to its myriad of features that come standard with every Burley.

The aluminum frame, made of heat treated 6061-T6 aluminum, gives the Bee its structure, strength and is surprisingly a few pounds lighter compared to other trailers.

Safety Features That Exceed Standards

My take on Burley Bee’s superior safety features

I’ve spent countless hours on the road with bike trailers, and when it comes to safety, the Burley Bee sets a high bar.

It’s no surprise, as safety has always been a cornerstone of Burley’s design ethos, and the Bee firmly adheres to this principle.

In my opinion, the safety features of this trailer not only meet standards, they exceed them, setting an impressive precedent in this field.

Full Aluminum Roll Cage – Advanced Structural Safety

What immediately stands out about the Bee is its strong cage full of aluminum. I can’t stress enough how important this is.

The cage provides a strong layer of protection around your little ones, giving you peace of mind during those long walks.

This structural integrity ensures that in the rare event of an accident or tip-over, your valuable cargo is well protected.

Securing the Ride – Safety Harness and Seats

Inside, the bee has a 5-point harness that keeps your child firmly in place, reducing the risk of accidents due to movement.

It’s a feature I’ve found essential to keeping your child safe on any ride, whether it’s smooth pavement or bumpy trails.

The hammock-style seats in the bee add an extra layer of security. They cradle your child, maintaining a stable and secure position throughout the journey.

After testing many trailers, this design detail, in my opinion, gives the Bee a significant advantage over the competition.

High Visibility for Enhanced Road Safety

Burley also made sure the bee is highly visible on the road. It comes with rear reflectors and wheel reflectors, which greatly improve its visibility. Especially in low light conditions.

Burley has also made sure the Bee is highly visible on the road. It comes complete with rear reflectors and wheel reflectors, which, greatly enhances its visibility. Especially in low light conditions.

Plus, the addition of a safety flag is a great touch, making the trailer stand out even from a distance.

These features demonstrate Burley’s commitment to going beyond safety.

They ensure that your Bee trailer is not only noticeable to other road users but also communicates that a precious little one is onboard – a visual cue that prompts extra caution from those around you.

Burley – A Gold Standard in Safety

After years of reviewing bike trailers, I can confidently vouch for the safety features of the Burley Bee. They exceed industry standards, reflecting a deep understanding of what it takes to keep our children safe on the road.

This comprehensive approach to safety – from the strong aluminum roll cage to the 5-point harness, hammock-style seats to high-visibility features – speaks volumes about Burley’s dedication to safety.

It is this commitment that makes the Bee, and indeed all Burley trailers, a paragon of safety in the bicycle trailer market.

Riding Comfort and Storage Options

My Personal Insight on the Burley Bee’s Riding Comfort and Storage Options

Let’s dive a little deeper into what really sets the Burley Bee apart – its stellar focus on riding comfort and thoughtful storage options.

I’ve driven this trailer for hours, and it’s fair to say the Burley Bee knows how to pamper its passengers and provide convenience for parents.

Comfortable and Durable Interior

Ensuring your child’s comfort is no small feat. The experience of our young riders can make or break the journey, and this is where the Burley Bee shines brightly.

The Burley Bee features 600D polyester seats. This sturdy fabric adds an essential layer of durability while providing a comfortable surface for your little one.

I found the helmet pocket on the back of the seat to be a neat addition. This pocket accommodates your child’s helmet perfectly, so it doesn’t press awkwardly against their head when they lean back, ensuring a relaxed and natural sitting position.

That said, I must point out that the Bee lacks suspension, a feature that usually comes with high-end trailers. While it might give a slight bump over rougher terrain, the overall comfort quotient is still impressive for its price segment.

Storage Options – Because Every Little Bit Helps

The genius of the Burley Bee isn’t just about comfort. It really excels in providing practical storage solutions – a feature that every parent will appreciate.

The rear of the trailer houses a spacious cargo compartment. From personal experience, I can vouch for its large size – it’s a godsend for carrying everything your child might need, from jackets to toys.

But what I especially adore are the interior storage pockets inside the trailer itself. These are perfect for keeping sippy cups or snacks, eliminating the need for extra bags on your trip.

It’s these thoughtful details that make a ride with the Bee not just a trip, but a well-organized and stress-free outing.

Ease of Assembly and Versatility

One of the things I liked the most when testing the Burley Bee is how quickly and easily it can be assembled. The wheels can be removed with a simple push button and the trailer folds flat for easy storage.

The bee is also versatile. It comes standard with a single pushchair wheel and can be used as a pushchair. This feature is a big plus for families looking for a bike trailer that offers more than just towing.

Burley Bee vs Other Trailers: A Clear Winner

When it comes to the bike trailer market, my years of experience as a reviewer have shown me that the Burley Bee is a cut above the rest.

There are a multitude of reasons for this, but if I had to distill it down to its essence, it would be the extraordinary blend of comfort, safety and bee-friendly features that set it apart.

An Unrivaled Fusion of Comfort, Safety, and User-Friendliness

Comfort Come Standard

Comfort is key in a trailer, and the bee doesn’t hop in that department. Cushioned, hammock-style seats and premium wheels provide a smooth ride that’s a definite plus for both driver and passenger.

Contrast with basic trailers that tend to skip on these comfort features, and it’s clear why the Bee is a superior choice.

Committed to Safety

The Bee’s commitment to safety is another outstanding quality that sets it ahead of other trailers. Its heavy-duty aluminum roller cage, 5-point harness system, and high-visibility features speak to Burley’s dedication to rider safety.

From my professional perspective, this dedication is commendable, setting a benchmark for safety that other trailers have yet to meet.

It could be argued that the bee lacks a built-in sunset, but I believe the inclusion of a high-quality rain cover makes up for that minor inconvenience.

It is an easy to attach feature that offers exceptional protection against the elements, highlighting the understanding of users’ needs in varying weather conditions.

Defying the ‘Budget Bike’ Label with Superior Craftsmanship

The Burley Bee is often categorized as a “budget trailer”, but I would argue that’s a bad idea. It might be more affordable than some high-end models, but the bee’s quality materials, American craftsmanship, and attention to detail elevate it well beyond the average “budget” offering.

The premium 20-inch wheels are a perfect example. They’re not a feature typically found on budget trailers, yet they come standard on the Bee.

This inclusion demonstrates Burley’s commitment to quality, ensuring not only a smooth ride, but also durability and longevity.

The Burley Bee – A Winning Choice

After reviewing many bike trailers over the years, it’s clear to me that the Burley Bee stands in a league of its own.

It not only outperforms basic trailers, but also gives those more upscale a run for their money. Its premium comfort and safety features, combined with American craftsmanship and detail-oriented design, position the Bee as a clear market leader.

If you’re looking for a trailer that offers exceptional value without compromising on quality, the Bee is, in my expert opinion, your best bet.

Pros and Cons of the Burley Bee Bike Trailer

Based on my experience, here are some pros and cons of the Burley Bee:

Pros

Budget-friendly yet high-quality
Easy to assemble and use
Safe and comfortable for kids
Versatile with ample cargo space
Lightweight and durable aluminum frame

Cons

Lacks built-in sunshade
Suspension is not available

After putting the Burley Bee through its paces with my two children, I am convinced that it offers excellent value for money.

Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking for a trailer that offers superior features, the Burley Bee is the trailer you need.

If you ask me, the bee makes family bike rides much more enjoyable, fun, and safe.

Quality That Comes Standard

One thing that sets the Burley Bee apart from cheaper trailers is that quality comes standard. The Burley line is well known for its durable, high quality products, and the Bee trailer is no different.

You can tell that the fabric stretched over the frame is not going to wear out quickly and easily. Unlike some budget trailers, you won’t find any loose stitches or flimsy components.

Even the trailer hitch, a component that can often be a weak point in cheaper trailers, is sturdy and reliable in the bee.

The Little Extras That Make All The Difference

When looking for the best bike trailer to pull behind your bike, it’s often the little things that make the difference.

For example, the Burley Bee comes with a tow arm that is compatible with most bikes, making it easier for your kids to ride.

And despite its lack of suspension, the Bee makes up for it with a range of features that come standard.

What Could Be Better?

Although the Burley Bee trailer shines in many ways, it’s important to recognize its limitations. One is the lack of a built-in sunshade.

Sunset can be crucial for those hot summer outings when you need to protect your little ones from the sun’s rays. Although a rain cover is provided, it doesn’t quite make up for the lack of a sunset.

Another point to note is the lack of suspension. While the Burley Bee offers a smooth ride on paved roads and bike paths, you may find it a little bumpy on rough terrain.

Maximizing The Burley Bee Experience: Tips and Tricks

In addition to my detailed review and FAQs, I also want to share a few tips and tricks I’ve gathered over the time I’ve been using the Burley Bee. These could potentially enhance your Burley Bee experience:

Adjusting for Comfort: As the Burley Bee lacks a suspension system, you might experience a bumpier ride on uneven terrain. However, by adjusting the tire pressure, you can somewhat mitigate this issue. Slightly deflating the tires when planning to ride on rougher trails can help absorb some of the shocks. Remember to inflate them again for smoother surfaces to maximize efficiency.
Harness Adjustments: The 5-point harness system is one of the key safety features of the Burley Bee. Always ensure the harness is correctly adjusted and secured for each child. This will not only maximize their safety but also contribute to their comfort.
Optimizing Storage Space: Use the rear cargo area and interior pockets wisely. Try to balance the weight you put in the cargo area, as unbalanced loads might affect the trailer’s stability. Store heavier items at the bottom and distribute the weight evenly.
Maintenance: Keep your Burley Bee in top condition by regularly checking all its components. This includes inspecting the tires for wear, ensuring the hitch is secure, and cleaning the trailer’s fabric with mild soap and water after a muddy adventure.
Upgrading Your Burley Bee: While the Burley Bee doesn’t come with a sunshade, you can purchase one as an additional accessory. It’s a useful upgrade for those hot summer days. You might also want to consider investing in a handlebar console for the stroller conversion kit, which offers convenient storage for drinks, snacks, and other essentials.
Trailering Etiquette: Remember, the trailer will make your bike longer and potentially wider. Always be aware of your added length when navigating traffic, tight spots, or crowded bike lanes.

FAQs: Quick Answers to Common Questions About The Burley Bee

After my comprehensive Burley Bee bike trailer review, here are some frequently asked questions I’ve answered based on my experience with the product.

Is The Burley Bee Worth It?

In my honest opinion, the Burley Bee bike trailer is a great investment for any family that loves to ride bikes.

This trailer stands out for its ease of use, comfort, safety and value for money. Although a budget-friendly option, it does not compromise on quality or functionality, which is often the case with budget trailers.

Based on my testing, it’s clear that the Bee is Burley’s contribution to making family bike rides a fun, safe and comfortable experience for everyone.

The Burley Bee truly stands out from other trailers in its class and is definitely worth your consideration.

How does the Burley Bee handle weather conditions?

Although the Burley Bee lacks a built-in sun canopy, it does come with a rain cover that can be quickly and easily attached to the top of the trailer.

The cover provides protection from light rain and wind, ensuring your little ones stay dry and comfortable.

How easy is it to assemble the Burley Bee bike trailer?

One of the most impressive features of the Burley Bee is its ease of assembly. It’s a breeze to assemble, and the wheels can be quickly removed with a simple push button for easy storage.

This feature alone puts the bee above many other budget trailers that require you to remove the wheels using tools.

Is the Burley Bee safe for my kids?

Yes, the Burley Bee is safe for children over 1 year old.

The safety features of the Burley Bee are outstanding. It features an aluminum cage, secure 5-point harness, and comfortable hammock-style seats.

The trailer also features rear reflectors and wheels, and a safety flag for high visibility on the road.

What is a Burley trailer?

A Burley trailer is a type of bicycle trailer that is designed to tow behind a bike and transport passengers or cargo.

What is the Burley Bee Bike Trailer?

The Burley Bee Bike Trailer is one of the most popular models in the Burley lineup. It is a single-seat trailer that is designed to tow behind a bike and can also convert to a stroller for added versatility.

Does the Burley Bee Trailer come with a sunshade?

No, the Burley Bee does not come standard with a built in sunshade. If you are looking for a bike trailer with a sunshade, you should consider the more expensive models like: The Burley Honey Bee, or the Burley Encore X.

What is the Burley Bee Trailer made of?

The Burley Bee Trailer features a lightweight aluminum frame that is both strong and durable. The body and seats are made of durable 600D polyester.

Is the Burley Bee Trailer suitable for jogging?

No, the Burley Bee Trailer is not designed for jogging, as it does not convert into a stroller. The Burley Bee is a bike trailer only. If you are looking for a trailer that can be used for jogging, you may want to consider one of the other Burley models, such as the Encore X.

Can the Burley Bee Trailer be used as a regular stroller?

No, the Burley Bee Trailer is not designed to be used as a regular stroller. While it can be easily converted to a stroller, it lacks many of the features and functionality of a traditional stroller.

Does the Burley Bee Trailer meet safety standards?

Yes, the Burley Bee Trailer meets or exceeds all relevant safety standards for bike trailers, including ASTM and EN standards.

Is the Burley Bee Trailer a single or double trailer?

The Burley Bee Bike Trailer comes in both single and double child models.

How does the Burley Bee Trailer compare to more expensive Burley models?

While the Burley Bee Trailer lacks many of the features found on the more expensive Burley trailers, it is still a great option for those on a budget.

It is lightweight, easy to tow, and meets all relevant safety standards. If you need more features and functionality, you may want to consider one of the higher-end Burley trailers, such as the D’lite or Encore X.