Table of Contents
- Why Use Bike Trailers?
- Bike Trailer Design
- Weight
- Criteria for the Best Bike Trailers For Touring
- Adventure CT1
- Aevon KIT L80
- Aevon STD 100
- Aevon UNO 100
- BOB Ibex Bike Trailers
- BOB Yak Bike Trailers
- Burley Coho XC
- Burley Nomad
- Extrawheel
- FarFarer
- Free Parable T2
- Maya Bike
- Radical Design Cyclone IV
- Topeak Journey
- Topeak Journey TX
- Tout Terrain Mule
- Weber Monoporter
- Sentier
Like the clip-in vs. flat pedal debate, bike trailers are very polarising amongst cyclists. There tends to be the perception that bike trailers add a lot of weight and can be cumbersome to use. While somewhat true – when you match a trailer perfectly to your use, you may find it’s better than using panniers.
This article will look at the best bike trailer options for touring… but first, a little intro about bike trailers and trailer design.
Why Use Bike Trailers?
This is just a few reasons to ditch the panniers…
To Use A Lightweight Bike
Trailers eliminate the need for heavy-duty frames, forks and wheels. This not only allows you to use lighter weight bikes and components, but permits the use of mountain, road, cyclocross and folding bikes (as touring bikes).
Carry a Hiking Pack
If you’re biking and hiking, it can be awkward to carry a decent-sized hiking pack on the bike. Trailers are able to easily cradle large bags.
Carry Bulky Items
Given the large single storage space of trailers, you can fit long tent poles and other bulky items into trailers.
One Drybag Instead of Four Panniers
It’s often easier to cart around one bag off the bike rather than the complete suite of panniers. The Sentier Trailer/Trolley (above) even has a retractable handle and trolley wheels built-in!
Bike Trailer Design
Axle Mount
The rear axle is the most common mounting location and is often the quickest for trailer installation and removal. Despite what you may be thinking, trailers put a surprisingly low-stress on bike frames. Got a 12mm rear axle? Check out any of the ‘seatpost mount’ trailers (more below), the Topeak Journey TX trailer, the Burley Coho XC trailer, and the aftermarket axles from The Robert Axle Project for BOB trailers.
Seatpost Mount
The key advantage of seatpost mounting trailers are that they offer a tighter turning circle as they pivot closer to the front of the bike. The disadvantage is that the rear wheel cuts corners when you turn, so it’s impractical on off-road trails.
Single Wheel vs. Two Wheel
You’ll notice that most bicycle touring trailers listed are single wheel. This is because they are generally narrower, lighter, have a lower rolling resistance, are more manoeuvrable (as they lean with the bike), have one less wheel to puncture and can better avoid potholes. Two wheel trailers tend to be better for around town as they’re easier to load and are more stable at low speeds.
Foldable
Some trailers have been designed to fold into a small package so that you can pack them away into a bike box with your bike.
Weight
One of the reasons people avoid trailers is due to their weight. But you may find that the true weight difference is quite negligible.
For example:
Ortlieb F+R 65 litre Pannier set – 3500g
Tubus F+R Steel Rack set – 1000g
Total = 4500g
Free Parable 75 Litre Drybag – 1200g
Free Parable T2 Trailer – 3600g
Total = 4800g
When comparing like-for-like in terms of storage and waterproofing, there’s no doubt that trailers add a bit of weight. But it’s probably not as much as you’d think: it can be as little as +300g over a set of racks and panniers. To put this weight into perspective, I’ve determined that a kilogram is worth no more than a few seconds on a hilly day of bicycle touring.
Criteria for the Best Bike Trailers For Touring
Under 10kg / 22lb
You already lug around enough weight when you’re bicycle touring. I’ve capped the trailer weight to 10kg because the below trailers have an adequate carrying capacity of 30kg+.
Reputation
Almost all of the below trailers have been tested extensively by bicycle tourers around the world. I’m happy to add other options if enough people have firsthand experience with other bike trailers.
Ok, let’s take a look at the best bike trailers for bicycle touring.
Adventure CT1
Adventure Outdoor Co. make this single wheel bike trailer which can fold flat for storage or plane travel. The rather affordable CT1 is supplied with a large drybag and flag to get you on the road without fuss. A recommendation by users is that the low-quality rear tyre is replaced for something a bit harder wearing.
Weight – 6.5kg / 14.3lb
Capacity – 35kg / 77lb
Price – £249
Aevon KIT L80
Aevon are well-known in Europe for producing some of the best bike touring trailers. The KIT L80 is their lightweight option which can actually fold quite flat given the lack of frame; great news for those who travel with planes. All of the Aevon trailers use a seatpost mount making them quite manoeuvrable as they pivot from a mid-point on the bike. Up the back is an adjustable air shock to dampen vibrations on rougher surfaces.
You can read my review of this trailer HERE and watch me ride 2500km across Japan with it HERE.
Weight – 5.5kg / 12.1lb
Capacity – 35kg / 77lb
Price – 755€
Aevon STD 100
The STD 100 is the biggest and most heavy-duty Aevon trailer option. It can carry an additional 20 litres and 10 kilograms over the KIT L80 and still incorporates the shock for off-road use. With the STD 100, there’s also a more substantial side frame for additional drybag support.
Weight – 7.0kg / 15.4lb
Capacity – 45kg / 99lb
Price – 695€
Aevon UNO 100
The UNO is the low-cost Aevon model designed for road-only use. The UNO omits the rear shock which generally isn’t necessary on smooth surfaces. This model will still carry the same 100 litre drybag as the STD.
Weight – 7.0kg / 15.4lb
Capacity – 35kg / 77lb
Price – 355€
BOB Ibex Bike Trailers
BOB bike trailers have got to be the most popular option for bicycle touring due to their relatively low cost and good build quality. The Ibex model employs a coil shock to reduce vibrations and make it more suitable for off-road use. All BOB trailers use axle mounts to make connecting and disconnecting a breeze.
Weight – 7.7kg / 17.0lb
Capacity – 32kg / 70lb
Price – US $409 (Amazon Special US $318)
BOB Yak Bike Trailers
The BOB Yak is the most affordable model in the BOB trailer range. The side frames do a good job of supporting the big BOB drybag and up the back is a tight fitting fender to keep everything clean.
Weight – 6.1kg / 13.4lb
Capacity – 32kg / 70lb
Price – US $329 (Amazon Special $303)
Burley Coho XC
Fresh from receiving a 2018 Eurobike Design Award, the Coho XC is one of the most versatile trailers in this list. For the off-road riders, the trailer will fit a fat 16 x 3.0″ wide rear tyre, and it has a coil rear shock which should help on the rougher trails. A handle at the front of the trailer has been built with a neat release button for removing the Coho quickly and easily from your bike’s rear axle. A feature uncommon on most single wheel trailers is the built-in double leg stand which is actually stable enough to hold your bike up too. In addition, the Coho XC ‘folds’; you can pack the trailer’s parts away into its cargo area without tools, which will be handy for those flying or storing their trailer in the garage. A long platform at the rear helps you stow objects longer than the cargo area (as shown in the picture). And finally, all rear axle sizes including quick release and 12mm can be accommodated, however, the trailer only comes with the quick release 9mm axle. It will fit on all rear end widths from 126mm (retro road bikes) through to 197mm (fat bikes).
Weight – 9.7kg / 21.5lbs
Capacity – 32kg / 70lbs
Price – US $419 (Amazon Special HERE)
Burley Nomad
The Burley Nomad is one of the only two-wheel trailers on the list. The magic of this trailer is that it folds flat for travel, or alternatively you can remove the wheels and check-in the trailer as a separate piece of baggage. The Burley Nomad actually works out to be competitive in weight, price and still offers a huge carrying capacity.
Weight – 6.5kg / 14.3lb
Capacity – 45kg / 99lb
Price – US $339 (Check the best price on Amazon)
Extrawheel
The Extrawheel trailer is unique in design as it creates a second rear rack for two additional panniers. It has a much larger wheel than most trailers which allows it to float over uneven terrain in a more efficient manner than many of the others listed here. The Extrawheels come in multiple wheel wheel sizes: 26″, 29″ or 700c.
Weight – 4.8kg / 10.6lb
Capacity – 35kg / 77lb
Price – US $299
FarFarer
The USA-made FarFarer is a seatpost mounted option that’s ultra versatile given its seatpost mount and small turning circle. It uses a hammock-style bag to carry goods which unfortunately isn’t waterproof like the rest of the options. The most impressive feature is the ability to sling the trailer over your handlebars for technical sections of trail.
Weight – 4.5kg / 9.9lb
Capacity – 35kg / 77lb
Price – US $550
Free Parable T2
The Free Parable T2 is the lightest trailer listed with the smallest fold and the smallest wheel (perhaps less suitable for off-road use). The T2 uses a series of ‘ribs’ under the 75 litre drybag to keep the bag stable and the weight down.
Weight – 3.6kg / 7.9lb
Capacity – 30kg / 66lb
Price – US $645
Maya Bike
The Maya Cycle Bike Trailer is the cheapest trailer on this list. The construction quality isn’t quite to the same level of the other options, but from all reports it still does a great job. Unfortunately, it doesn’t use a drybag so you’ll need to ensure your gear is in waterproof bags.
Weight – 5.9kg / 13.0lb
Capacity – 30kg / 66lb
Price – US $249 (Amazon special $239)
Radical Design Cyclone IV
The Radical Design Cyclone is the lightest two wheel trailer on this list. It uses better quality materials than the Burley Nomad, but this is of course reflected in the price. Like other two wheel designs, it folds flat and can be checked onto an aeroplane is baggage. A really nifty feature is that you can move the two wheels to a rear slot location (see pic) so that it’s portable off the bike. The bag isn’t waterproof, but the trailer is instead provided with a rain cover.
Weight – 5.5kg / 12.1lb
Capacity – 40kg / 88lb
Price – 549€
Topeak Journey
Renowned bike component manufacturer Topeak makes one of the only sub-5kg trailers. Using aluminium instead of steel, they’ve managed to shave off 15-30% when compared to similar designs. The Topeak drybag (1.6kg extra) is designed specifically for the trailer, strapping in at multiple points along the frame.
Weight – 4.85kg / 10.7lb
Capacity – 32kg / 70lb
Price – US $499 (Amazon special $446)
Topeak Journey TX
Topeak also makes a wider yoke model for those with rear 12mm thru-axles on their bikes. The trailer is good for the 142mm, 148mm, 157mm and 177mm axle widths, which means only a handful of fat bikes cannot fit it (but many can, check the dropout specs). Otherwise, the trailer and drybag (1.6kg extra) remains the same.
Weight – 5.35kg / 11.8lb
Capacity – 32kg / 70lb
Price – US $499
Tout Terrain Mule
Tout Terrain may be famous for their touring bikes, but they also make a touring trailer called the Mule. The seatpost mount provides a tight turning circle and the air shock takes the edge off bumps on rough roads. The complete package is comparable in weight (and price) to the Aevon Kit L80.
Weight – 6.7kg / 14.8lb
Capacity – 45kg / 99lb
Price – US $700
Weber Monoporter
The Weber Monoporter is another trailer option that folds flat. Its name is derived from the fact that the wheel attaches from just a single side. This trailer works out to be quite lightweight too as it doesn’t use a side frame to stabilise the bag on the sides.
Weight – 5.7kg / 12.6lb
Capacity – 25kg / 55lb
Price – US $549
Sentier
The soon to be released Sentier is the only convertible trailer/trolley option. Within 23 seconds you’re able to convert your trailer into a travel trolley and vise versa. The only downside to this design is the additional weight; it works out to be about 25% heavier than a BOB trailer and drybag.
Weight – 9.0kg / 19.8lb
Capacity – 30kg / 66lb
Price – 549€
Have You Had Any Experience With One Of These Trailers?
One of the biggest disadvantages of bike trailers imho are the uncomfortable way if you travel with train and bike or have to carry your bike. I believe the future is bikepacking. Ok, and if you have to carry more weight, maybe cargobikes are still an option.
But if you’re two on a tandem, that shouldn’t be a problem.
The ct1 adventure folding trailer is worth checking out as a bobalike. Managed surprisingly well over my last 20k even. Much cheaper than most of these at 250 euro and the provided drysack is fine!
We found the biggest advantages to having the trailer were 1 cars giving more space and 2 attracting many admirers/selfies/gift givers!
We were on tandem but worth mentioning no ‘tail wagging the dog’ even at 80+kph.
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/fbc7cc0e635e069f0fb9e709122d13b6df52f3b4cee3fee284ac015f568f7c5c.jpg
The Adventure CT1 looks great – I’ll add it to this list. Thanks!
Got mine years ago and only used extensively this year (with throughaxle: nuts from sjs). Goggled when posting the above to see it at current price from amazon seller… but checked again now and see ebay sells units v similar for 66 euro (!) with suspension thingie.
I can’t attest for either these or the ct1 units from amazon… Only my experience:
pros-
*speaking with someone using an old bob the ct1 attachment is 10 times easier
*through axle or qr compatibility
folding-great on flight
*that price!
Cons-
*supplied tyre poor
*skewer wears and eventually brakes if bad roads+45kg!
(tip: take a spare squewer on longer tour + wheel bearings if on v grimy roads. Maintain/locktite bolts on spring fastener- I replaced mine with larger for better fit after 10km wear- now better)
We have used the Extrawheel bike trailer on the back of our tandem for a couple of 600 mile tours. Got it used for a reasonable amount so thought it was worth a try. My thinking is that it helps remove some weight from the tandem with the hopes of less wear-and-tear on the components. We use a wheel with a dynohub to generate some charging capacity for our electronics. So far it has worked great, and there are many times I look over my shoulder to make sure it is still there since I rarely feel it through the bike nor hear it. It is no wider than the bike with panniers on and trails behind us quite nicely. I have no problems maneuvering, at least as much as you can with a tandem. Yes, we are quite the sight, and draw a lot of attention, but that is all part of the fun. Haven’t tried traveling with it by train or plane yet, but with a tandem it’s not going be so easy anyway (even with the couplers). We love touring with it.
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/568737ebab40ac0c1c673385fbba24a996f63b1718c06411f98a9863b01d5a40.jpg
I was in the middle of an 11k mile tour and switched from my BOB Trailer to panniers and almost immediately regretted it. I started breaking spokes because of the added weight on the bike and more wind resistance with the front panniers (and there was a lot of headwind). But the downside was traveling with the BOB and and extra tubes, tires and bearings. I have since stuck with panniers but seeing the foldable models does spark new interest.
Thanks for another great article and informing me brands I never knew existed.
It’s great to hear your thoughts, Paul!
The tail wagging was about the only thing I didn’t like about the BOB. I had to swerve lightly back and forth, especially on long descents, to counteract the effect. The CT1 must be more rigid throughout.
Love backpacking too but this doesn’t look very uncomfortable…: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyOlTUrTI2I
To prevent sway when pulling a Bob trailer:
Cut an old mountain bike inner tube and tie it to the top center of the front side rail and wrap it in a figure eight configuration to the top of the yoke, like wrapping a sprained ankle. Don’t wrap it too tight nor too loose. Yes, its an effective cheap anti-sway trick.
On downhill pavement, the Bob Ibex, with the suspension doesn’t seem to sway. Using the anti-sway inner tube trick, I don’t notice a sway at all when the trailer is loaded with 15 pounds or more. I live in Colorado, USA, and have gone down some long steep, paved and gravel mountain roads and have never experienced any sway. I never go over 25 miles per hour, yes, the disk brakes get pretty hot.
Make sure you don’t stand up to power pedal or else it will become a heavy dog’s tail. This is what the people that experience sway must be doing. Also, after many downpours, the inside of the dry bag is indeed dry. This trailer was money well spent and solved a problem. My wife will tour with me only if I carry all the camping gear and food. Yup, I’m the mule. Anyway, I fully recommend the Bob Ibex.
Thanks for tip!
I’ve toured a fair bit with a frances / farfarer, and use it around town quite frequently. Honestly it is one of the best cycling inventions in decades, and the description here doesn’t do it justice. Most trailers place the load on the rear axel. By placing the load on the seatpost the farfarer prevents almost all of the lateral flex that characterize most trailer touring (“speed-wobbles” but also poor handling and large turning radius). I put my 5 year old in it frequently, without issue, and even ride dirt that way. Especially recommended for folks who consider touring on and off of roads. Contrary to the comment here about not being “water proof” the open hammock design makes it fast to use and easy to access stored items and snacks, and when touring I just shove all my gear in a dry-bag, which is cheap and easy to replace. In full disclosure, the inventor (Quintin) and fabricator (Josh) are some of my closest friends, but seriously, this trailer rules.
Thanks for the comment – it’s great to hear good things about this trailer design.
Alee, finaly you’ve touched subject of trailers 🙂 My both thumbs go up!
My vote goes to Extrawheel.
Yes, I have experience traveling with it by train. I confirm: it’s possible and easy. In my part of world (Central Europe) usually these days there are special hooks to place bicycle in special compartment, usually close to doors of wagon. If there are not so many travelers with accompanying bicycles I hang Extrawheel at additional of such hooks. If not, it’s so small I can leave it anywhere. Usually I use portable tourist lock to connect it to bicycle frame.
My review of this trailer is available here: http://mslonik.pl/rowery/turystyka/879-przyczepka-rowerowa (please don’t afraid of Polish – in top right corner of the page you may find raw of map icons, just pick up one feasible for you, e.g. British one and supported by Google translator engine magic will take place). One more word: sales and after sales support of Extrawheel producer is just superb. Not only astonishing quick, but also really supporting. It was the case they’ve provided me with spare parts free of charge (including free delivery!) which theoretically were not present as official item in their Internet shop. Also worth of mentioning is very good contact with support. This is what I call Support with capital “S”.
At last but not least, this is one of the cheapest, the most affordable trailers and the lightest at the same time. Just compare above numbers collected by Alee, and still there is some room for modification and invention. One may use whatever wheel, not necessary the one from stock. This is normal size wheel, what gives advantage that may work as a spare part (!) if necessary in your bicycle. I did some modifications (see my article) and I’m happy with that. Regards.
Thanks for letting us know about the Extrawheel. 🙂
Can you post a picture please. Or send me one…
optimisticchris@gmail
Cheers,
Chris
FWIW, add a Portage Pack, a Dry bag with shoulder straps and you can wear the trailer, to climb steps, walk over mud slides , etc..
And lift your unladen bike in your hands..
Can you clarify what you mean? Are you talking about a trailer in particular, or a mod that can be used with any of them?
If it takes a dry bag one can potentially add shoulder straps ,
Some of the ones I am familiar with are
a Burly Flatbed , the open cargo version of the Nomad, The BoB trailers
and the Carry Freedom City trailer … their ‘Y’ trailers also have potentials
IDK much about the others not sold in the US,,
In General,
To not make sewn holes, in the bag, you can use girth straps, around the bag,
and use those, to sew on D rings , to add clip on shoulder straps..
A bag I got that inspired this Idea was From Cascades Designs, the ‘thermarest’ company
in Seattle
but a Canoeist who tours, would be familiar with a bag they could wear, for their gear,
while they carry their canoe between lakes and streams…. over their head.. walking.
. a canoe has a ‘Shoulder Thwart.’ to do this, It’s a cross brace, at the balance point..
Portage is the act of carrying your canoe between bodies of water.
Easily the biggest bonus of a bike trailer is what was mentioned in the intro, the fact that you can use your current bike! No need to buy an entirely new bicycle plus you have ssentially 2 bikes wherever you go , one is for touring ,the other is your fancy road bike or your mountain bike which can add greatly to any trip,
Compared to panniers the weight savings and cost can be negligable also which leaves just ride quality and transport.
Undoubtedly, having a trailer would be more of a hassle if train hopping etc so these are things you need to consider ahead of time.
Ride quality is arguably superior in all ways but up hill.
My Yak is surprisingly unnoticable until a hill, its really quite a surprise. Oh, and stopping takes a bit getting used to with a single wheel.
Like with everything there is no one way is better than the other because it all depends on what you are doing and what is most important to you.
Bikepacking has exploded and I think its graet but that really is more of a light weight minimalist style. Not everyone wants to have to go out and buy all new equipment that will fit. This whole light weight trend is really opular and I get that but not everyone likes this. I like the camp part and if you are a minimalist the camp part is not going to be all that unless you are some super bushcrafter who can get by with just a Mora.
Thanks for providing your impressions of the Yak!
. I put my money into a Tout Terrain Mule. I did so mostly because I bought the TT Panamericana also. Although I highly prefer a trailer that connects to the seat post rather than the rear axle, I can turn on a dime still. and with a full load too. Love the hardware, hate the company. Just plain bad customer relations, but then I live in the USA so why would they care, right? I currently ride with full front Arkel Dolphin 32 panniers, containing 20 pounds per. A over full Arkel bar bag, varying from 5 to 10 pounds, maybe more at times. The bike also carries water bottle, GPS, headlight, umbrella, machete, K-Bar, cameras, folding camp chair, Fugoo XL Bluetooth speaker and digital Walkman, cable locks, a front dynamo and Rohloff Speed-hub, plus a 750w Bafang center drive and one of two 17 pound 1+ kilowatt Li-ion triangle battery packs using the newest Samsung LJ1 cells. The trailer carries about 70 additional pounds of gear to make things comfy, oh yeah, and the additional battery. As I learn and grow more capable I will be able to mount the rear Arkel Dolphin 48 panniers on the bike too, giving me 40 more pounds of gear. The mule handles it well, stay balanced, doesn’t shimmy and really can turn on a dime. The liner that comes with the trailer is ok at very best, but seems like more of an afterthought than a well-designed accompaniment to the Mule. It took a few visits to a tactical tailor to make it worthwhile. I use a large Exped waterproof expedition bag to hold the gear and stretch a x-large Sea-to-Summit backpack cover over all to keep things clean and dry when necessary. Expedition grade from start to finish. With a bow, slingshot, rod and reel and great water filtration system the only addition item I need to stay off the grid and out of towns indefinitely is a 300w portable folding solar panel. Magruder corridor here I come.
Sounds like quite the rig, Brian. Have you got any photos? And many thanks for your impressions on the Mule.
I added photos and assume they are in the process of being approved now. Here is a link – http://imgur.com/a/LfW9F
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/894f5b6580e92ecaf4d06ef570dafc1cfaee2f47c99b37973cf0713e3d10725c.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/247f595df8b5e8257d2ede883231496851a56354fdffd13cd74ec3289295f737.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/910af2c3250d7a3f4bedf5f575a7491f6ea39ef6f867b91b52791039bb1a85ff.jpg
As a small person riding a small bike, I find the two wheeled Burley Nomad is excellent. Having full touring weight in panniers results in a bike too heavy for me to lift if it is lying down, and one-wheel trailers would not help that. Did a self-contained Transam with my Burley Nomad and it worked very well. My main issue with it is that it is not waterproof; however it is possible to pack internally in smaller drybags or take off the cover and the top cross-bar and use a large drybag.
I use the BOB Yak. I would say I push it to its limits. It has held up for the most part carrying anything i could pile on it.
Some of the other designs in this article look interesting and well built. But they all miss one mark; Low centre of gravity.
All the seat post yolk designs fail because of this, they make handling with heavy loads quite dangerous. The BOB Yak has the best overall design because of this, but i wish they were just a little more robust. After 20,000kms of touring with mine loaded like the picture below, I have had to re-weld the bottom cage and it is failing a second time.
But that isn’t really the Yak’s fault, I have it weighed down over its rated capacity and to make things worse I use straps with quite a bit of pressure to hold my instruments down, pushing on the lower cage…
I have already rebuilt the front-upper part of the frame to accommodate my Sitar case and I am at the point now where I will just build my own from scratch based on the bob design. https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/1261ea7e7a28285767a65f233f6beb40e8c93c709e31b9e951dcd119af8baff2.jpg
A great point with regards to picking a heavy bike up, and thanks for letting us know how you got along with the Burley Nomad!
Great to hear your thoughts and experience with the Bob Yak! I’d like to add that I’ve been using the Aevon KIT L80 (seatpost mount) over the last 2500km and have had no problems with handling whatsoever. I’ll have a review coming up soon after I’ve spent a bit more time with an axle mount trailer like the BOB. 🙂
I have a Aevon KIT L80 trailer to which I have installed an electric wheel. Unfortunately my knees are not up to long days of touring any more. The trailer now makes it possible to do 60-100kms between charges, fully loaded.
When I need to travel by train I pull the L80 apart and it fits in a extra large duffel (including battery) with about two thirds of my equipment, this takes me about 20 minutes. The rest I carry in a Ortlieb Rackpack which I can strap to the top of the trailer. As long as most of the weight is in the trailer’s bag I have no “speed wobbles”.
I would also be interested in a picture please. My email is robert@tomgrower.co.uk
I’ve just been ejected pulling a CT1 trailer. I think it happened because the correction took place at the peak of the swing so the correction amplified the movement, just like you push an ordinary child’s swing. Researching, all modern caravans have a device to prevent such swinging occurrences. Having experienced the painful result with a bike trailer, there has to be a way to solve the problem!
Hi. Missed one. Burley Travoy.
Did a quick tour of the Lesser Caucasus this summer. Nothing too long. 500 km. Will do more in the future there. I used the Topeak Journey. Light weight and strong. No problems at all. Quality is extremely good. Loaded the trailer with my and my friend’s equipment and never noticed any handling problems whatsoever. Loaded descents were no problem whatsoever. No fishtailing or swerving. Some descents were done at speeds up to 67 km/h, not recommended but it was rock solid. Highly recommended.
Bike is a Charge Cooker 1. Also recommend the bike for rough road touring or bikepacking. https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/2ab249e7e362e6f60d8213917cbe2a555419fa407129f303829afa65ebf78632.jpg
Just looking at the blow up picture and forgot that the plastic skids on the trailer did pop off, so there is that problem. Before I our my friend who toured with me use the trailer again I will most likely wrap the aluminum tubes nearest the bike’s rear tire with some thin strips of leather or some other improvised protection. That said, great trailer.
I’m looking to convert a BoB Ibex for bike/dog-packing trips. I ride a fatbike with a Rohloff XL, so we’re spreading the yoke to accommodate that. Then the rear wheel “fork” will be removed to allow fitment of a 26″ x 4.8″ tyre on an 80mm wide rim (with 150/15 dynamo hub). This will be achieved using a cro-moly fatbike fork as the basis for the swingarm “frame”.
Then a padded “tub” for my 3yo Samoyed (see pic) to ride in when he’s taking a rest. A rear rack over the trailer wheel will take small panniers (positioned low and just forward of the axle) for his food and water needs and a rack bag up top for items being charged via the dynamo, plus his puppy first aid kit and leads etc.
We’re also planning to add a “drag brake”. Using a mechanical disc caliper on the swingarm/fork “leg”. This will be activated by an old XT thumbshifter on the handlebars and a cable joiner/connector positioned at the rear dropout of the fatbike itself.
We’ve come up with ideas for using corflute (real-estate signs), on the inside of the rear rack and inside the front yoke to keep his tail and paws away from the bikes rear wheel and the trailer wheel.
Ultimately… his comfort and safety are my first consideration.
have you done a test on the efficiency of carrying weight with a trailer compared to racks? You know, how you compared efficiency of gearboxes. I’m curious for a given weight, which of the two would be more efficient? and I’m wondering what difference would it make when going uphill and downhill?
Hi Juan. I haven’t tested it yet, but I’m hoping I have time before I go away to Argentina. If I were to guess, I would say the outcome would be roughly the same.
sounds good! going to Argentina for bike touring? I’m from Argentina!!! let me know if I can help you in any way!
Hi, I’ll tell you something interesring.
I have a trek domane slr 9 58 cm.It weighs around 8.00 kg without any bags.I have a freeparable t2 trailer wieghs about 3.6 kg.So 8+3.6 kg=11.6.
If i put panniers the front and rear racks in totla weigh about 1.00 kg and the panniers (front and rear) weight without luggage is 2.5kg, so, 8.00+1.00+2.5=11.5
basically the difference is just 100 grams and my bike does not have rack mounts, I have to use a trailer.
Anyone have a recommendation for a bike trailer that is safe for a carbon frame mountain bike with a dropper seat post? I think I’ll end up having to make it myself with a tig welder. I haven’t seem many out there that I’ve been impressed with.
Do you have a bolt up rear axle, or quick release? Any room under the ‘dropper’ section of your seatpost?
My I suggest this one made in France:TZC-R1.
There are 2 sizes: 100L and 140Liters.
We own a 140L and love it! Water proof, can be locked, 20” Wheel, 7kg.
2 Options: 1) Fiberglass or 2) Carbon Fibre.
https://sites.google.com/site/tzcsite/remorque-velo-globe-trotter/caracteristiques-et-prix https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c4621489397e1ca8ef0d5afce8916beb82ab3a71931b1062712c4d3777c940e5.jpg
Our friends are currently riding Alaska to Ushaia from April 2016. Currently in Chile. http://www.schnellyss.com/fr/accueil/
Great article. I own a trailer (can’t remember the brand name) but it is essentially identical to the Adventure CT1 Bike Trailer mentioned in this article. While I’d say it’s a decent trailer for light-duty use, I can’t really recommend it for heavy-duty long term use. While mine hasn’t failed me in any way, the build quality just doesn’t seem to be robust enough for long term, heavy-duty use. Also, there’s a bit of flex in the frame which becomes more and more apparent the more the trailer is loaded (this can affect handling performance and be felt in turns and slight directional changes). That being said this trailer is a great low-cost option if you just need it for light-duty use, won’t be going long distances with it, and don’t want to spend a bunch of money (you can get them on eBay new for under $90-100USD!!!)
I’ve since upgraded to the Topeak Journey trailer (also mentioned in this article). In my opinion (and for what it’s worth), the Topeak is hands down the best trailer out there of any model available. It’s at least 2-3 lbs lighter than most of all the other brands including the most popular BOB Yak trailers, and has the largest cargo area. It tows like a dream The frame is stiff with zero flex. I hardly even know it’s back there (until I have to climb a hill or go over big bumps, otherwise it just glides along smoothly and silently). The Topeak has a very rugged and robust twin spar aluminum frame design, so it’s light while durability is second to none. The custom-fit drybag is exceptionally made as well. The only downside to the Topeak is that the hitch is only compatible with standard quick release axles, so you’re out of luck if you have a bike with a thru-axle of any kind. And as far as I know, there are no aftermarket solutions (like the Robert Axle) or otherwise to adapt the Topeak to Thru axles. I’ve pushed my Topeak to the limit on 80-100 mile days off-road through nearly every type of terrain and weather condition imaginable. I’ve towed it over miles of paved roads as well as miles of off-road singletrack and everything in between, loaded with 45-50 lbs of gear (I even rode a few miles of railroad track with it once!) In a word, it worked GREAT, and is my personal top recommendation for anyone looking for a serious piece of kit in terms of a bike trailer. Check out one of the adventures I did with it here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6i5bgy9Y_exCfoEinolqnaWihXdB1QqC
Does anyone have a recommendation specifically for mountain biking on fire roads and single track? Ideally with camping gear?
It’s best to steer clear of the singletrack where you can because a bike with a trailer is really long! Otherwise, pick a trailer with a rear shock. They make a huge difference on rougher surfaces. The Aevon KIT L80 I reviewed was really good in the dirt.
Hi! I’m looking for the interior dimensions of the Tout Terrain Mule. A few of the pieces that I’ll carry are 31 inches long and I’m wondering if they’ll fit. Thank you.
You’ll want to get in contact with Tout Terrain on that one…
Have had a BOB Yak for more than ten years and have done between 500 and 1000 miles a year of bike camping with it. Three advantages of the axle hitch:
*Lower center of gravity makes riding more stable
*Trailer wheel tracks rear wheel very closely so you can move through tight spaces with ease
*Does not tend to pull the bike over during handling/parking
Best thing about a trailer is being able to carry all the comforts of home – 70 pounds of tent, tarp, hammock, camping chair, stove and cast iron skillet etc. Perhaps bike glamping?
Have never had a problem with tail wagging and have been on long winding descents at >45MPH, I sit and spin up hills so perhaps this is why.
Oh yeah, put a Schwalbe Big Apple 2″ tire, no flats on that tire, smooths out the bumps off road and rolls easier on the road as well.
IMO bikepacking and trailers are 2 very different styles. Neither is better just different.
Its like declaring ultralight backpacking is best…ut isnt.
It comes down to simply what is important to the individual and what they plan to do.
If you want to camp more comfortably or bring some luxury items or simply do not have a bunch of lewer minimalsit kit than a trailer is a great option.
My self, I bought a used Bob Yak for $100 and was able to use my existing non UL backpacking kit . To go bikepacking would mean a lot of money spent on the bags and light weight gear.
I was surprised how easy the trailer was to pull to be honest.
Actually, your “issue” with the Yak being welded raises another benefit, that it can be easily repaired. The fact you load it that much AND have that kind of milage speaks greatly to the durability of the design. I wonder if the other pricier alumium trailers would have faired. They certainly would be more difficult to repair if cracked vs steel. The smaller diameter cromo tubing should flex more and withstand much more in terms of fatigue vs aluminum which hates flexing.
Why carry a helmet if to put on handlebar. Unnecessary weight to save for your next trip! Just pulling your leg!!!
Own a BOB trailer and it’s been good to me since the day I got it. Lost the rear reflector but that about it with the mishaps. Plan on switching from a 16” to a 20” wheel, and a dynamo hub, mayby a rear rack for extra load, I don’t know, help me! But in retrospect, a strudy steed!
In my defence it was 48c with little traffic, but I ought to be more sensible on next trip 🙂