If you’re a biking parent looking for a straightforward, reliable child bike seat, the Burley Dash RM might be exactly what you need. Made by the well-loved brand Burley, known for their iconic child and cargo bike trailers, the Dash RM is designed to be practical, affordable, and easy to use.
But is it the right fit for your bike and your family? Let’s dive into the details.
What is the Burley Dash RM?
The “RM” stands for Rack Mount, meaning this version of the Dash mounts directly onto a rear rack you already have installed on your bike. There’s also an FM (Frame Mount) version for those without a rack. This model is designed for busy biking parents who want a no-fuss installation and a safe ride for their child.
At the time of this review, the Dash RM retails for $180 for just the seat, or $220 for a bundle including a compatible rear rack—a great deal compared to similar models like the Thule Yepp Nexxt Maxi, which starts around $230.
The seat supports children up to 40 lbs, though you’ll want to check your specific rack’s weight limit to be sure it can handle that load.
Installation: Tool-Free and Straightforward
One of the biggest perks of the Burley Dash RM is how easy it is to install. The seat attaches directly to a standard rear rack using a simple clamp system—no tools required after your rack is in place.
Here’s how it works:
- The seat fits racks with 16mm diameter tubing, which is common, but not universal. Heavier-duty cargo bikes (like the Tern GSD or HSD) may have thicker tubes that aren’t compatible.
- You tighten the seat to the rack using a dial on the side that engages four clamps under the seat.
- A safety strap loops around the seat post or part of your bike frame to provide backup security.
This mounting style is similar to what Thule uses on their Yepp seat line, and it’s generally reliable and secure—just make sure to double-check compatibility before buying.
Safety and Comfort Features
Once installed, the seat offers solid safety features and a comfortable ride for your little one:
- 5-point harness system with shoulder and waist straps that buckle at the lap. I often add a chest or sternum strap to keep the shoulder straps from slipping.
- Helmet relief area in the back to prevent your child’s head from being pushed forward—an essential detail many parents overlook.
- Arm/hand rests on either side that offer extra support and side protection.
- Adjustable footrests with straps to prevent stray kicks or dangling legs.
- A rear pocket to stash small essentials like snacks, diapers, or wipes.
Thanks to its soft shoulder padding and thoughtful adjustability, the harness system is one of my favorite features. I still add a chest sternum strap to the middle so the shoulder straps can’t fall off their shoulders.
My Long-Term Experience
As someone who reviews and uses a lot of bike seats, I’ve been riding with the Dash RM on and off since 2020. It’s a solid, dependable seat—but it’s not my go-to for every situation. Here’s why:
- Limited rack compatibility: Some of my bikes (especially cargo bikes) have rack tubing that’s too thick for the Dash RM’s 16mm clamp.
- No built-in lock: This was a bigger issue when I lived in Denver and needed to leave my bike unattended more often. There’s no integrated locking system like you’ll find on some higher-end seats, although you could always loop a cable lock through it if needed.
Who Is This Seat Best For?
The Burley Dash RM is a fantastic choice for:
- Families on a budget: At $180, it undercuts the competition while offering many of the same features.
- Parents adding a seat to a commuter or hybrid bike with a compatible rack.
- Riders who don’t need an ultra-lux option but still want safety and quality.
It might not be quite as plush or premium-feeling as the Thule Yepp Nexxt Maxi, but for many families—especially those upgrading from older models like the Thule RideAlong—it’s a better value and just as functional.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the market for a no-nonsense, budget-friendly child bike seat that’s easy to install and safe to ride, the Burley Dash RM deserves a serious look. Make sure your rack is compatible, or consider buying the seat + rack bundle directly from Burley.
Still trying to decide on the right seat for your bike setup? Drop your questions in the comments or let me know what models you’re choosing between—I’m always happy to help fellow biking families ride more and worry less.
Disclaimer: This seat was provided for review and I will make a small commission if you purchase at the links above.
