Thule Chariot Cross 2 Review

fIf you’re looking for the ultimate multi-sport bike trailer, the newly updated Thule Chariot Cross 2 is a standout. It’s easy to use, folds up with minimal hassle, and is built to last through several kids. With multiple conversion kits and accessories to customize it to your needs, the Cross 2 truly does it all—and delivers exceptional performance every step of the way.

For this review, we tested the double capacity Cross 2 over several months, using all of its conversion kits with a variety of young families. We also tested it alongside the single capacity Sport 2, which offers a few additional upgrades beyond the Cross.

Across the board, our testers loved how easy it was to switch between modes and how the trailer made getting outside with their kids simple and enjoyable. From seats to skis to strolling, we cover it all in this review—and we’ll continue to update it with more pictures of the Cross 2 in action over time.

Common Thule Cross FAQs

Who is the Thule Chariot Cross 2 Best For?

• Families who actually use stroller or jogger mode as much—or even more—than trailer mode. This thing shines as a stroller!
• All-weather adventurers—sun visor, rain/snow cover, and new vent clips make sure your kids stay comfy no matter what.
• Parents tired of backtracking because their toddler throws a favorite toy out of their stroller while on the go. The full zip cabin prevents kids from throwing things out!
• Families who want something durable, functional, and yeah, sharp-looking too. This trailer lasts—and looks good doing it.
• Anyone needing a trailer/stroller that folds and unfolds and transports easily.
• On-the-go families who need the security of being able to lock their trailer to their bikes while running into a store, camping etc.
• XC skiers wanting to get the whole family out on a ski adventure

Who is the Cross 2 not ideal for?

• Families focused on biking. The Burley D’Lite is better choice as a pure bike trailer.
• Fat bikers who want to hit snowy trails—the new XC kit doesn’t work with bikes.
• Serious joggers. The upgraded Thule Chariot Sport 2 model has a hand brake with disc brakes and better airflow, which are worth it the extra $$ if you’re running hard and often.
• Young kids who are obsessed with putting things in and out of pockets!  The small side pockets of the Cross are harder to use and reach as compared to those on the Burley.
• Parents thinking they’ll swap between single/double setups a lot. Switching is a major hassle—get the size you need and stick with it.

Thule Chariot Cross vs. Cross 2

The original Thule Cross (pre-2025) and the newly updated Cross 2 are similar in size and overall functionality, but the Cross 2 comes with several key upgrades:

• Updated bike hitch – Easier to use and now allows the trailer to be locked to your bike for added security.
• Modular seating – Lets you reconfigure the seats so a single rider can sit centered in a double trailer.
• Rear LED light – Built-in light for better visibility.
• Redesigned VersaWings – VersaWings are now FlipWings! The stroller wheel mounts (“FlipWings”) now rotate up and out of the way, and can be removed entirely.
• New seat padding – More comfortable, but eliminates the helmet pocket for bike trailer mode.

Burley vs. Thule?

Both Thule and Burley offer top-notch multi-sport systems, but there are definitely pros and cons to each. While we’ll cover more detailed comparisons throughout this review, here’s the quick version: as a bike trailer, we prefer Burley.

Both trailers pull super smooth, but Burley wins on a few key details. The internal pockets are actually within reach for little ones (hello, mid-ride sippy cup access!), and the helmet pocket keeps the trailer from pushing your child’s helmet forward—something Thule unfortunately lacks. Burley also has a fat tire kit for dirt, sand, and snow, and the comparable D’Lite X is about $300 cheaper than the Thule Cross 2 double.

But if you want something that performs well across the board—biking, strolling, jogging, XC skiing—we believe the Cross 2 is worth the extra cost. It’s easier to fold, pushes smoother as a stroller, and is way easier to handle in crowds thanks to its two smaller front stroller wheels (instead of one wheel on the trailer arm). Plus, the internal cabin is taller with 2” more head room compared to the Burley and aesthetically, it has a more modern, sleek look that sets it apart.

For on-the-go families, the redesigned Thule hitch also lets you lock the trailer to your bike, so you don’t have to stress about leaving it outside.

So if you really only need a bike trailer, go Burley. But if you want an amazing stroller and jogger too, Thule is the way to go.

Single or Double Capacity?

Unless you’ve got two small kids close in age, go with the single. It’s so much easier to maneuver through doorways, lighter to lift in and out of the car, and way less of a hassle in tight spaces.

Thinking about adding another kid soon? Consider how close in age they’ll actually be. We’ve tested 1- and 3-year-olds in the double, and… let’s just say it’s cozy. Doable, but tight.

Tempted by the extra storage in the double? Just know your child will likely be more comfortable in the single. It offers more shoulder room, plus better ventilation. In the double, the seat pads block a lot of the rear mesh vents, making it warmer inside—something to think about if you’re riding in the heat. With the extra “trunk” space in the Cross, you should also have plenty of storage.

Thule Chariot Cross 2 Review – Results of our Tests

We have been a huge fan of the Chariot Cross since its original debut in 2016. In fact, the original Cross we tested back in 2016 is currently with its third family and is still performs as good as day one and while the trailer has a few scratches, it still looks amazing with no fading or tears in the fabric.

So you can imagine our excitement when Thule announced an update for the Cross! After months of testing, our love of the Cross is unchanged as it remains king of the multi-sport trailers. In this review, we’ll highlight whats new, what still shines as well as the few things that missed the mark on the Cross.

Thule Chariot vs. Thule Bike Trailers: What’s the Difference?

Thule offers two types of bike trailers. Their standard Thule trailers are bike-only—no conversion kits, just trailers (though the Thule Coaster XT does come with a basic stroller wheel). The Thule Chariot line, on the other hand, is built for multisport use and ready for a wide range of outdoor adventures.

The Chariot line includes three models: Lite (we assume a Lite 2 is coming?), Cross 2, and Sport 2. Every Thule Chariot comes with the bike trailer arm and two smaller front stroller wheels (Thule non-Chariot trailers do not).

All three Chariot models use the same accessories and conversion kits, but their features vary. The Lite is the most basic—no reclining seats, no adjustable suspension, and no rear cargo “trunk.” The Sport 2 is fully loaded, with removable side windows (mesh stays in place), a hand brake for running, and a battery-powered rear light.

The Cross 2 is that perfect middle ground. It’s designed for busy families who want all the comfort—reclining seats, adjustable suspension, padded seats—without paying extra for less used features like the dual disc brakes with a handbrake and zip-off windows.

All three models are also compatible with the Chariot’s jogger (with an air-filled front wheel) and XC ski conversion kits.

As a side note, if you pick up a Lite or older Cross or Sport model, know that they are NOT comparable with the Chariot 2 conversion kits. They are only compatible with the older Chariot conversion kits.

Inside the Chariot Cross 2: Internal Cabin Features

Before diving into the details of each mode—biking, strolling, jogging, or XC—let’s talk about what your little one will experience inside the cabin. Because no matter how you’re using the Cross, comfort matters. If your kid’s going to spend hours riding along, their happiness (and willingness to tag along next time!) comes down to how cozy and secure they feel. The Cross 2 is packed with thoughtful details to keep them comfortable, no matter where the day takes you.

Harness and Buckle

Each seat has a 5-point harness with padded straps on the shoulders and the waist joined together by Thule’s two-handed buckle. It’s secure, but still easy enough to manage without feeling like you’re solving a puzzle.

The upper insertion point of the shoulder harness is also adjustable by about 2″, making it easy to dial in a better fit as your child grows.

Padded Bench Seats

No saggy hammock seats here. Each seat is fully padded and supported from head to bottom, and while the pads are removable and hand-washable (because, snacks), we found the smooth surface easy enough to wipe down—though completely removing them isn’t the easiest.

Each seat also has its own supported base, so smaller kids aren’t stuck sliding into a sloped seat that’s sagging under an older or heavier sibling.

“Modular Seating” on Double Trailers (new for Cross 2)

The new Cross 2 features modular seating that lets you place a single child in the center of the double trailer. While the seats can be switched, know that this is NOT easy. After multiple attempts, we gave up trying to switch the seating on our double. It’s absolutely possible—but knowing we’d eventually have to move the seat back to the double setup? I decided it wasn’t worth the hassle.

To reposition the seats, you have to remove both seat cushions and buckles, then reinstall one seat pad and buckle in the center position. While it sounds simple, there’s very little (if any) wiggle room in the mounting straps and buckles to maneuver them free.

With four straps to remove on each seat, and four more to reinstall for the center seat, it takes a LOT of time. Bottom line—don’t plan on switching back and forth between single and double setups often.

Independent Recline

Each seat reclines separately, with a quick pull of a lever on the back. No need to re-adjust straps—the harness moves with the seat. Super easy.

Note: If you do manage to set up the double with one kid in the center, you’ll need to recline both sides evenly for it to work.

Cabin Height

With nearly 26” of headroom, the Thule Chariot line is great for kids with longer torsos or those who just need a little extra space. (Burley trailers top out at 24”.)

Snack Pockets

One feature we don’t love about the Thule Cross 2 is the hard-to-reach snack pockets. When strapped in, they’re tougher for kids to access compared to the pockets on Burley trailers. The pockets are also pretty tight, somewhat shallow and with minimal if any stretch—while an adult can get a smaller sippy cup in, and your child can likely pull it out, our testers couldn’t get their cups back in on their own.

While this isn’t a dealbreaker (it’s a common issue with bike trailers), it can turn into a problem when a sippy cup rolls out of reach mid-ride. Cue potential meltdowns. Over the years, we’ve even had preschool testers wriggle out of their shoulder straps trying to retrieve their beloved cups.

Burley does better here—their pockets are easier for buckled kids to reach and are slightly larger, making it simpler to stash a cup without help.

Outside the Chariot Cross 2: Doors, Storage and Folding

Mesh Door

The main door is made of sturdy mesh and zips closed on both sides. Unlike most bike trailer, the mesh door looks clean and zips tight.

At the bottom, it snaps into the trailer frame with a small plastic tab. It took us a bit to get the hang of snapping it into place—it’s a little tricky at first—but once you figure it out, it’s not bad.

The mesh door should always be used when riding to keep debris from flying into the cabin. It can be rolled up into the top mesh panel pocket when loading, unloading or when the trailer is stationary.

Ventilation

The mesh panel pocket on top of the trailer also allows for airflow (red arrow shown above), as well as allowing you to peek in on your child while you’re walking or jogging—super handy for checking in without stopping.

Both single and double trailers also have base vents at the bottom of the cabin for some added air circulation.

The Cross does have mesh vents in the back of the cabin, but in the double trailer, the seat pads block most of them. The single trailer doesn’t have this issue as much, so you get better airflow overall in the single.

If you plan on riding in warm or hot weather, the Sport 2 model is worth considering. It allows you to fully zip off the plastic side windows, leaving just the mesh for better ventilation.

Adjustable Sun Shade

The Cross 2’s sun shade is removable and clips onto the side rails of the trailer. You can slide it up and down the rails, but there’s a fair amount of resistance. At first, it’s almost easier to just unclip it and reclip it where you want it. With time (and a bit of breaking in), sliding it becomes easier.

On really sunny days, we also found that covering the mesh panel on top of the trailer with a small blanket or jacket helped keep the sun and heat off the kids inside.

Rain and Snow Guard (updated for Cross 2)

One thing that sets the Thule Chariot line apart is that the rain and snow cover is completely removable. Instead of rolling it up and strapping it to the trailer like most others, you can take it off entirely and stash it in the back storage area when you don’t need it.

When in use, the cover pulls tight, giving the trailer a clean, sleek look. For extra ventilation (and to help prevent fogging), the Cross 2 comes with ventilation clips. These four clips snap onto the side rails, letting air circulate under the plastic without letting in rain or snow.

Extra Storage (updated for the Cross 2)

The storage trunk on the back of the Cross has been updated with a zipper for the Cross 2. This large space can hold everything from helmets and balls to diapers and snacks. It also folds up and out of the way—super helpful for joggers with longer strides who might otherwise kick it while running. The more basic Lite model doesn’t include this rear trunk.

Rear Pocket

There are also a few small pockets on the back of the trailer, perfect for stashing smaller items like your phone or keys.

Folding the Cross

To fold the Cross, press down on the two gray buttons on either side of the trailer (#1 below) until you see red in the small window (shown in lower pictures below). Once both sides are unlocked, rotate the arm forward with a pushing motion, and the trailer will fold in on itself.

On folded, the rear wheels are easy to remove too—just press the center button on the axle and pull the wheel straight up and out of the socket.

The large rear wheels can be stored inside the folded trailer and secured by zipping them in with the mesh door. A plastic clip on the side of the trailer (red arrow below) keeps it from unfolding when you lift it.

Optional Cross 2 Comfort Accessories

Floor Mat

Thule’s floor mat is well worth the upgrade if it’s in your budget. It’s made of thick rubber and does a great job containing spills and keeping dirt from little feet off the trailer’s fabric. Without it, your child will be standing on the nylon floor, which we’ve never had rip—but it definitely gets dirty over time and isn’t the easiest to clean.

Baby Supporter

The baby supporter is designed for kids 6 to 18 months. (Reminder: babies shouldn’t ride in bike trailer mode until they’re at least 12 months old.) We used the bottom portion of the supporter a lot with our 9-month-old tester in stroller mode, and the extra padding made a huge difference in comfort and support.

We didn’t use the headrest—it was a bit too snug for her. If you have a smaller, petite 6-month-old, the headrest might work well. But for older babies ready for bike trailer mode, it’s likely too tight to fit comfortably with a helmet.

Also, attaching the headrest isn’t the easiest. There are four straps that snap around the upper shoulder straps (which need to be lowered all the way). With some effort, we got all four snapped, but honestly, three snaps held just fine when we couldn’t manage the fourth.

Baby Sling

Thule also updated their infant sling for the Chariot line. It offers great support for tiny babies in stroller mode. Compared to Burley’s Baby Insert, Thule’s sling is narrower, giving more room for a second rider in a double trailer.

Thule Organizer

This handlebar organizer provides a place for your phone and water bottle while running or walking.

Chariot Cross 2 as a Stroller

Even if you already have a stroller you love, I can almost guarantee you’ll end up using—and loving—the Cross as a stroller more than you expect. It’s easy to maneuver one-handed, has tons of storage, folds up without a fight, and honestly, one of our favorite features is the zippered door. The door is a total game-changer for toddlers, keeping them from tossing toys, snacks, or whatever else out of the stroller—whether by accident or during a meltdown.

We’ve also found that more sensitive or shy kids really appreciate the fully enclosed space. It gives them their own little bubble and keeps others from reaching in.

The stroller sits low to the ground, so kids can climb in and out on their own—no need to lift them every time.

Compared to other bike trailer strollers, the Thule Chariot line is unique in having two smaller front wheels tucked under the body, instead of a single wheel attached to the trailer arm. These wheels stay out of the way and are much less likely to trip you up, especially in crowded spaces.

The large rear wheels also make it easy to roll the stroller down curbs or even back it up and over curbs when needed. They handle bumps and uneven surfaces like a pro, making everyday strolls a lot smoother.

Converting the Cross into stroller mode is simple: unlatch the gray lever at the base of the stroller wheel mount, rotate the wheel down, and relock it. Because the whole stroller wheel unit is removable (required for XC kit use, optional otherwise), it can occasionally pop off while switching modes, but it’s easy to realign and snap back into place.

For added safety, there’s a foot brake next to the right rear wheel, locked and unlocked with a red lever. There’s even an indicator window that shows red when locked and green when unlocked.

Cross 2 as a Bike Trailer

As a trailer, the Cross pulls smooth, is easy to hook up, and switching from stroller mode to trailer mode is super quick. While we still prefer pulling Burley trailers overall, our testers had nothing but great things to say about the Cross as a bike trailer!

Updated Hitch

One of the biggest upgrades on the Cross 2 is the redesigned hitch system. It still uses Thule’s signature ball-and-socket joint, but now features magnetic alignment—the hitch plate (attached to your bike’s axle) and the trailer arm snap together easily and securely.

Once the trailer arm is snapped onto the hitch, it won’t detach unless you press the gray square release button, so there’s no risk of accidental unhooking. For added safety, the hitch arm also includes a black safety strap with a metal buckle that connected directly to the hitch.

The nylon safety strap on the hitch has also been upgraded to a plastic-coated wire for added durability. This wraps around your bike’s chainstay as additional backup in case anything goes wrong.

Another big plus? The hitch system now includes a locks that allows you lock the trailer to your bike—so you don’t have to worry about someone walking off with the trailer while your bike’s locked up. The trailer arm itself can also be locked directly to the trailer for extra security (on the right below).

The silver hitch plate mounts to your bike’s rear axle, with the main part pointing downward (shown above). The Cross 2 comes with a reinforced quick-release axle to replace your standard one if needed. If your bike has a thru-axle (common on e-bikes and mountain bikes), you’ll need to purchase a compatible one (as shown below)—we recommend The Robert Axle Project for finding the right fit.

Adjustable Suspension

To help smooth out the ride, the Cross features adjustable suspension with three different settings, based on the combined weight of the kid(s) in the trailer.

Whether you’re rolling over bumpy sidewalks or hitting random potholes around town, the suspension definitely takes the edge off. The Lite model also has suspension, but it’s not adjustable like it is on the Cross.

Helmet Pocket (changed for Cross 2)

One of our biggest complaints about the updated Cross 2 is the lack of a helmet pocket. These pockets are usually a mesh panel that allows the child’s helmet to rest slightly recessed into the seat back, as shown on the Burley D’Lite X in the image below on the right. In contrast, the back of the Cross (shown on the left) is completely flat, with no recessed area.

All Burley trailers have recessed helmet pockets, which is one of the main reasons we prefer them specifically for biking.

Without a helmet pocket, the back of the trailer often pushes the helmet up and forward on the child’s head. This not only makes it uncomfortable—prompting many kids to pull their helmets off or refuse to wear them—but it also compromises the helmet’s fit and protection, reducing its effectiveness in the event of an accident.

If you plan to use the Thule as a bike trailer, look for a helmet with a flat back to help reduce how much it gets pushed forward. Also, keep in mind that most of a helmet’s “growing room” is in the back—tightening the fit moves your child’s head closer to the front, leaving extra space sticking out behind. A helmet with a narrower fit range, like those with specific sizes (think woom READY or Giro Scamp II), can help minimize this issue compared to more generic one-size-fits-most designs.

Trailer Light (new for Cross 2)

To boost visibility, the Cross 2 comes with a battery-operated LED light that clips onto the top bar of the trailer. It has both blinking and constant light modes. If you plan on riding for longer periods, the upgraded Sport 2 model includes a light powered by an external battery pack (which you’ll need to provide).

Cross 2 as a Jogger

The jogger kit on the Chariot line is designed to track straight while running (the front wheel won’t bounce around when hitting curbs or uneven sidewalks). The large 16” air tire in front helps maintain traction and provides extra cushioning on the go. It tracks smoothly and can easily be controlled one-handed while running.

While not shown below, the smaller inverted stroller wheels can also be removed when the jogger kit is installed.

All Chariot models include a hand strap to make sure the trailer stays with you and doesn’t roll away if you let go.

For taller runners with longer strides, you might need to fold up the rear trunk to avoid bumping it with your legs. The trunk has a clip to hold it up and out of the way, but it needs to be mostly empty to fold properly.

Converting to a Jogger

To switch to jogging mode, you’ll need to remove both the stroller wheels and the trailer arm. The jogger kit consists of two arms that hold a 16” air tire in front of the trailer. This tire provides solid traction and cushioning and helps keep the trailer tracking straight at higher speeds.

The jogging kit is specific to either the single or double trailer, so make sure you get the right one. Also note: jogging kits for older Cross models won’t work with the newer Cross 2.

If you plan on running fast or frequently, we recommend upgrading to the Sport 2, which includes a hand brake with dual disc brakes for quicker stops and improved ventilation.

Cross 2 with the XC Ski Kit

The Cross-Country ski kit is a great way to use your Cross year-round. The kit includes the skis as well as the harness that attaches to the adult skier.

The updated XC kit connects to the Cross chassis in a new way, which has both benefits and drawbacks. On the plus side, there are fewer pieces to misplace. The two smaller aluminum bars can still be easy to leave behind, but at least there are no tiny attachments to worry about anymore.

The skis attach at the wheel axles, while the pull bar and harness connect through the sleeve used by the jogging arms. One nice functional change—this new setup keeps the trailer level when the harness isn’t being worn. The older version would tilt forward when not attached to an adult.

That said, this design prevents the XC kit from being used behind a fat bike—there’s no way to attach the trailer arm when the XC kit is installed.

On the flip side, if you remove the harness, this new setup would let you use the Cross as a ski stroller, which could be a great option if you live somewhere with lots of snow.

Thule Chariot Cross Bottom Line

We love the Cross 2! If you’re looking for a do-it-all, go-anywhere multisport trailer that excels around the neighborhood and on outdoor adventures—whether as a stroller, jogger, or bike trailer—the Thule Chariot Cross 2 is hard to beat.

It’s packed with comfort features for your child, easy to use in every mode, and built to last through years of adventures. While it’s not the best choice if you’re only planning to bike (Burley has the edge there), if you want a high-performing stroller, jogger, and trailer in one sleek package, the Cross 2 is absolutely worth it.

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