Crossbar Passengers

[Emett]

I bike with my daughter on the crossbar of my road bike all the time, much like you see this with this guy and the girl in front:

I think it's kinda funny that I don't have an actual picture of us to share, but such is life... Don't worry, my passenger gets a helmet, something soft and fitted to sit on, sits straight on, not side-saddle, and has a place to set her feet. My tires aren't flat, but that's about the only thing that isn't currently in need of a little maintenance on the Mistress (that's the name I've given to my Scwhinn Fastback, an excellent bike of unknown age, it's about as strong, light, and fast as they get before the step up into carbon fibers and multiple thousands of dollars.) But Maiya's in 2nd grade, and won't fit this method much longer. I think she's almost ready to bike it herself with me, but Winter's coming and it's almost 4 miles to school. 3 or 4 miles to swimming. Only about 1 mile to grandma's house, maybe we'll try that soon and see how she does! We'll need a new way soon, though. What do you think? Have I been too risky with my daughter's safety? It's always felt safe to me, because I can control her and grab her right there in front of me, other methods have a lot more separation... -peace, emett

[Emett]

Unsafe? This topic's on fire now... I have lots to say, but a parent is going to bike a safely as possible when riding with their kids.  Is that always true for Moms and Dads driving their children?  I think not if they EVER push 30 mph or more.  Human bodies can't handle impacts at those speeds.  So lets ban kids under 6 from the freeways!  Safety 1st.