How to choose the right bicycle?

I think there are a few options and a lot of questions. How old are your kids? Do they need to be pulled or can they ride on the bike? I see a lot of modified bikes with "baskets" that hold kids on the bike (both front and back...they kinda look like a delivery bike), then you have all the tow trailers that are on the market for 1 or 2 kids (craigslist is a great place to look for that). Do you plan to just hit flat bike trails, the road? around town? long weekend rides?

Hit up your local bike store, many have rental services and I'd try some options out. You don't need to buy from them, they are also a really good resource for what's out there in your town. Serious cyclists are loyal to their store, if they know who is upgrading or selling, they may share that with you or keep their eyes open. It helps them to help you, because you'll return again and again for their services.

towing 2 kids is tough. towing 1 kid is tough. I will tell you get a helmet for yourself and your kids, new. I shouldn't be surprised, but was, when I shelled out $70 for my kid's helmet just the other day, but I think they can be had for cheaper at a X-mart type store (I wouldn't get my bike from there, with the exception of an REI type of larger retailer). Mine is used for racing, so defo in a different price range.

a "cargo" bike: http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=cargo+cycle&view=detailv2&&&id=D38D9EADC09EA108E06F1C1AE9C49D5BF6F25979&selectedIndex=52&ccid=jvjBrj1v&simid=607989914473204175&thid=HN.607989914473204175&ajaxhist=0

I would recommend going to a bike store and having a conversation with them...they will go over what kind of riding you intend to do, etc. My guess would be that a hybrid bike is likely in your future if you are just looking to ride for general recreation and not planning on doing any kind of cycling events and what not.

I would also recommend staying away from places like Wal-Mart and such and purchase a "real" bike...you will spend a bit more, but it is worth it...riding a nice bicycle is a completely different and far more enjoyable experience than riding a cheap bike. I would look to spend around $500 for a good, but entry level hybrid bike. If you don't have the money right off, I would highly recommend saving up a bit...like I said, it's night and day riding a good quality bike vs a cheap bike. When I got back into things, I bought a cheapo and ended up not riding it a whole lot because I simply didn't enjoy the experience...I upgraded to a nice, but entry level Giant CX bike and now I ride a good 60-80 miles per week and love every second of it. A nice bike makes a world of difference.

You could probably find some deals on CraigsList, but just be careful that you know what you're actually buying.

For two kids, you pretty much have to with a trailer. I have this cheap one:

http://www.amazon.com/InStep-Take-Double-Bicycle-Trailer/dp/B002QAVQ14/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1428685932&sr=8-2&keywords=bike+trailer+for+children

I would have liked to get something like this

http://www.amazon.com/Weehoo-Along-Child-Bicycle-Trailer/dp/B00S72SX9I/ref=sr_1_70?ie=UTF8&qid=1428686018&sr=8-70&keywords=bike+trailer+for+children

but it too expensive for how much I use it.

The one problem is that the trailer has a weight limit for each child at 40 lbs. My daughter is now 45 lbs and we still use it, but the straps are getting snug.

What is your price range?

It depends on your budget. I have a Yuba Boda Boda. Definitely the best way to pick one kid up from school, groceries, and commute to work. The Yuba Mundo which will hold two kids is one heck of a big bike though. About 75 lbs worth. The Boda Boda is about 55 lbs when all the accessories are added.

I would suggest the xtracyle edge runner if you are looking at a cargo bike, http://www.xtracycle.com/edgerunner-cargo-bike/ or

If your budget is small, a mountain bike/hybrid with a trailer will work. Test ride a number of bikes at the bike shops and then look on Craigslist for those brands.