A bicycle is a wonderful means of locomotion. It becomes even more so when it's transformed into a veritable freighter! Whether you're going on a long trip, a long ride or a vacation, you'll need a bicycle trailer. luggage racks and panniers provide excellent service, but the trailer allows you to take the experience even further, by multiplying your loading capacity! Its great advantage: it's close to the ground and doesn't raise the center of gravity. As a result, the bike remains well-balanced, and loading is quick and easy.
ALL ABOUT BIKE TRAILERS
Cargo trailers are ideal for transporting goods or equipment on a cycling trip. They usually consist of a tubular steel frame and one or two wheels, e.g. 16". The trailer is usually attached to the bike's rear wheel using a special quick-release clamp.
Manufacturers sometimes supply a custom-made, waterproof and resistant bag to store the items transported. Some trailers are suitable for use on rough trails, thanks to a solid, cramponed tire and sometimes a shock absorber!
The payload of a cargo trailer can easily reach around 30 kilos. Accessories include mudguards, rear lights, reflective elements and safety flags. Trailers can be folded for easy manual transport or storage.
Two-wheeled models are particularly well suited to manual transport: a third wheel and a handle are sometimes included!
Which bike trailer to choose?
First of all, check the trailer's compatibility with your bike. Manufacturers indicate compatible wheel sizes, such as 26" or 700c. Most trailers today take into account the most common wheel sizes and offer multi-compatibility.
Bicycle trailers are usually only suitable for use on roads, city streets or very smooth trails. Some models offer a more off-road orientation (reinforced frame, shock absorber, oversized tire), but whatever the equipment, don't expect to tackle rocky outcrops with complete peace of mind with a trailer! For true mountain-biking use, suitable luggage, attached directly to the bike or to a luggage rack, is more appropriate.
If you make regular trips into town, for example, to deliver goods, consider your preferred routes and their constraints before choosing your trailer. It needs to be adapted not only to what you're transporting, but also to the width of the bike lanes you'll be using! If your routes are winding and busy, with changes of pace and therefore relaunches, a lightweight single-wheel trailer will put you more at ease. If, on the other hand, your journeys are mainly on wide, fast lanes, at constant speed, a heavier two-wheel model will offer you greater stability without wearing you out.
Don't neglect safety:
A trailer is low to the ground, and many motorists may not be able to see it. A high-mounted warning flag is a must, as well as adding a touch of fun to the machine! Headlights, reflectors and retro-reflectors, plus flashy colors on the fabrics of the cab or loading bag, complete the safety features.
Finally, although trailers can carry 30 kilos or more without any problem, don't forget that the trailer itself can already weigh more than 10 kilos. The weight of the whole convoy can reach an impressive figure! To keep the fun going, load only what you need!
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