If you search the web for the best pet bike baskets, you’ll often see Petsafe Solvit’s Tagalong Bicycle Basket. Most likely, you’ll come across its two versions: the more practical DELUXE version and the luxurious WICKER version.
Both these baskets have their pros and cons. Today, I’ll help you figure out which basket is right for you and your fur baby.
REVIEW SUMMARY
WICKER VERSION | DELUXE VERSION |
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We like:
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We don’t like:
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Specifications:
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The Similarities: what’s common between these two baskets?
Alright, let’s begin with what’s similar between these two:
1) Free mounting bracket
Both baskets come with a free mounting bracket to provide better support. Considering the price, the mounting brackets are a huge bonus, in view of the fact that competitors like the BarkBay All-In-One Pet Basket don’t include one at all. The bracket also fits nicely into the ‘pocket’ at the back of each basket.
2) Same max load weight
Max load weight is 13 pounds. This is a pretty good weight. Most cyclists won’t have issues maneuvering the bike’s handle with a relatively light load. You can try your luck and let a heavier pup ride. But you may need to make adjustments to the mounting bracket to make sure it will still support the weight.
The Differences: what makes each basket stand out?
Let’s compare these two baskets based on these aspects:
1) Appearance
You’ve probably already got an opinion on which basket looks more appealing. And if I were to guess, I’d say you picked the WICKER version as well. The DELUXE basket isn’t bad looking, by any means, but it doesn’t hold a candle to the WICKER basket in terms of looks.
Winner: WICKER
2) Pockets
This is where the DELUXE basket shines – pockets. It may not win in the looks department, but it sure is miles ahead in terms of pockets. I mean, take a look at the picture above. You can clearly see there are multiple pockets.
On the right side, you’ve got a mesh pocket and a zippered pocket. On the front, there’s a large pocket where you can put the shoulder straps. On the left side, there’s another zippered pocket.
On the WICKER basket, however, you’ve only got the main compartment to work with. No pockets. Nada. Zero.
Winner: DELUXE
3) Sunshade
Both these baskets have a sunshade. However, this is where the similarities end.
The WICKER basket has a removable sunshade, but it’s not foldable. It’s easy enough to install, just put it on top of the basket and it will ‘lock’ into the side grooves. But unfortunately, it doesn’t fold.
So, before you leave on your bike, you need to decide if you’re going to be using the sunshade or not. Also, the sunshade is made of wicker. So, if it rains, it’s going to be of no use because the water’s just going to go right in.
On the other hand, the DELUXE basket’s sunshade is not only removable, it’s also foldable. This means you can just store it in one of the pockets, but the pointy ends may injure your dog. So, you can lift up the floor mat and hide the sunshade underneath it.
Awesome, right? This means you can always bring the sunshade with you and not worry about storing it someplace later. With the sunshade being made of nylon, it offers overhead protection against sun and rain (unlike the wicker).
Winner: DELUXE
4) Basket Liner
The faux sheepskin liner on the WICKER basket lends it an air of elegance. It matches really well with the wicker and you can expect to get a lot more compliments on it than the DELUXE version.
However, due to its off-white color, it’s quite easy to get it dirty. Fortunately, cleaning it is a breeze. You can just remove the liner and throw it in the washing machine for a quick spin and let it air dry.
The DELUXE basket on the other hand uses a nylon lining. It’s a more practical material as cleaning it is just a matter of giving it a quick wipe or two. And that’s practically it!
Winner: DELUXE
5) Safety
When it comes to your dog’s safety, both baskets actually do a great job as both have safety hooks / leash holder inside. This means you can attach the short leash to your dog’s collar or harness (I recommend you go with the harness though).
That said, the DELUXE version does have an ace up its sleeve. And that is the reflective stripe at the front. This is great when cycling in the dark as it lets other people/drivers know you’re there. Unfortunately, the wicker basket has no such feature, so you may want to think about purchasing a third-party reflective stripe.
Winner: DELUXE
6) Versatility
Both of these baskets come with a shoulder strap which means you can convert it into a portable pet carrier. However, this is where the similarities end.
The wicker basket has a padded faux-leather shoulder strap which is pretty comfortable. The deluxe basket’s strap, on the other hand, comes with no such pads so it’s going to be more uncomfortable to lug around.
Winner: WICKER
7) Price
Both baskets are actually quite affordable, but the wicker is just a tad more expensive. It’s really no wonder both baskets are so popular. The value to price ratio is great and no matter which basket you end up getting, you’ll be getting your money’s worth.
Winner: DELUXE
Final Words
Alright, so you’ve finally made it to the end of this review. And I guess by now you’ve already made your choice. Both are great baskets made by a reputable company. The one-year warranty will also help put your mind at ease.
That said, who should buy the wicker basket and who should buy the deluxe basket?
Well, I think the WICKER basket is best for people who care about appearance. They want a basket that will look good no matter where they go cycling.
The DELUXE basket, on the other hand, is for people who are more practical. Folks who care more about features and overall usefulness over mere looks.
I hope this comparison article helped you out. If either basket is not to your liking, check out our review of the best dog bike baskets and trailers.