Rating Guide

X No paws: Not Recommended or product has serious flaws

One paw: Not recommended for most pet owners

Two Paws: Ok product, some reservations


Three Paws: Very good product


Four Paws: Love it, great product

Springer Bicycle Jogger

Rating: 2.5 paws 1/2

The Springer Bicycle Jogger is a U-shaped attachment with a spring that can be clamped onto a bicycle, allowing your dog to run next to you while you ride, and satisfying leash laws.

This product really does perform as advertised, but beware, it will not fit on all bicycles. On the last two bikes I've had, I was unable to mount it the way it was intended to be mounted. On a 17" frame mountain bike, I had to mount it on the seat post - and *really* lock down the seat post tight to keep it from twisting. On my new 21" hybrid, I had to mount it at a backward facing angle on the seat tube, the part of the frame the seat post goes into. That's where it is supposed to be, but it's supposed to go straight out, at a 90 degree angle from the frame. Putting it on at an angle made it much harder to insert the cotter pin that anchors the tube to the clamp. The problem with both bikes was that my heel would hit the tube as I peddled if the Springer was attached as directed.

That said, the Springer really does work. Our 60 pound hound/chow mix really loves to pull, and really lunges hard. I've never felt in danger of tipping over with him. The clamp portion of the Springer is not really aesthetically pleasing, but it functions very well, is easy to tighten down, and isn't fragile. The tube is likewise sturdy, and we've never had a problem with anything breaking or bending.

There is a safety feature, also, a break-away plastic piece that is between the spring and the short leash.The piece is there in case you and your dog go on opposite sides of a mailbox or pole. It will break, hopefully preventing a nasty crash. (I havne't had the misfortune to test this particular feature.) Bigger dogs + better riders means that you should put the leash farther up on the plastic piece, so it won't break away as easily.
Another thing to know - this product should only be used with a harness (a simple one comes with it) and not a collar, which could choke your dog if something goes wrong.

(Reviewed by Amy)

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About the Critique

Chicago Canine Critique is a product review site which is part of The Chicago Canine, a website for dog owners with news, reviews, guides to taking your dog places, feature articles, Chicago dog-friendly event and business listings, and more.
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Meet the Reviewers

Below you can see photos and stats on some of the canines who have tested the products reviewed at the Canine Critique.


Bianca
Breed: German Shepherd
Size: "Large" 26" tall and 70 lbs.
Occupation: Pack Dog
Birthdate: 4/14/04



Farfel
Breed: Labrador Retriever
Size: "Large" 100+ lbs.
Occupation: Family Dog



Ginger
Breed: Golden Retriever
Size: "Medium" 24" tall and 65 lbs.
Occupation: Therapy Dog
Birthdate: 1/9/96



Pooch
Breed: Rat Terrier mix
Size: "Small" 14" tall and 25 lbs.
Occupation: Trick Dog
Birthdate: 8/8/94

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