Burley Encore X vs Thule Chariot Sport: Bike Trailer Comparison
Two premium convertible bike trailers that also work as strollers and joggers. Burley Encore X ($699.95) is the value pick from an American brand. Thule Chariot Sport ($1,199.95) is the Swedish premium option with more refinement. Here's the breakdown.
TL;DR: Our Verdict
Buy the Burley Encore X for most families — real American brand, 90% of the Thule quality at 60% of the price, 2-child capacity. Buy the Thule Chariot Sport if you're a serious runner and need the jogging smoothness difference.
Burley
Burley Encore X
$699.95
Best value convertible trailer for most families. Pulls like Thule, rides like Burley — American-engineered to handle abuse.
Pros
- ✓2-child capacity (100 lb combined)
- ✓Bike trailer + stroller + jogger modes
- ✓Adjustable suspension
- ✓5-point harness per seat
- ✓$500 less than Thule Chariot Sport
Cons
- ✗Slightly less refined jogger mode
- ✗Folded pack-size larger than Chariot
- ✗Less integrated cup/phone storage
Thule
Thule Chariot Sleek
$949.95
Best for serious runners who use jogger mode often. Swedish refinement and smoother handling in stroller modes.
Pros
- ✓Smoother pushing in stroller modes
- ✓Reversible seat (kid-facing or world-facing)
- ✓Better folded compactness
- ✓Premium shock absorption
- ✓Large cargo basket
Cons
- ✗$250 more than Burley
- ✗1-child capacity (vs 2)
- ✗Heavier empty weight
Side-by-Side Specs
| Spec | Burley Encore X | Thule Chariot Sleek |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $699.95 | $949.95 |
| Capacity | 2 children (100 lbs) | 1 child (50 lbs) |
| Bike trailer | Yes | Yes (Sport model) |
| Stroller | Yes | Yes |
| Jogger | Yes (upgrade kit) | Yes (upgrade kit) |
| Folded size | Medium | Compact |
| Harness | 5-point per seat | 5-point |
| Suspension | Adjustable | Shock absorbers |
| Brand origin | USA (Oregon) | Sweden |
FAQ
Can both really haul 2 kids?
Burley Encore X: yes, designed for 2. Thule Chariot Sport and Sleek: both seat 1 child; the Thule Chariot Cross 2 ($1,399) is their 2-child version. If you have 2 kids, Burley Encore X or Thule Chariot Cross 2, nothing else.
How big a difference is jogger-mode smoothness?
On pavement at 6-8 min/mile pace: subtle. On uneven surfaces or faster paces: Thule's fixed wheel and suspension are noticeably smoother. If you jog 30+ miles/week with the kid: worth the upgrade. For occasional joggers: Burley is fine.
Which is safer for children?
Both are IBIS-certified. Both have 5-point harnesses. Both have roll cages. The Burley Encore X is slightly heavier/bulkier which some safety experts consider an advantage in impacts. No clear winner — both are safe.
Cargo or pet alternatives?
Burley makes the Nomad ($370) cargo-only trailer. Thule has the Coaster XT ($300) cargo-only. For dogs: Burley Tail Wagon ($420).