Versatile trailers, multiple solutions
8.6.2019
Translation: machine translated
Your bike isn't just for getting from A to B. Children, shopping, luggage or even pets will all fit easily on board a suitable trailer. And thanks to a modular system, you'll be ready for your next trip in no time.
It's one thing to have a trailer, but it's also important to take into account all the elements that will guarantee safety and pleasure during your journeys. A not inconsiderable point to take into account: being able to handle a bike to which extra weight has been attached without any problems. The bike should have a sturdy frame, a well-distributed and highly efficient hydraulic braking system and an easy start-up speed, so that you remain in control at all times. Ready to go? Here we go!
Trailers for children
With children, getting around quickly becomes a major logistical challenge. Trailers will do just that, as they adapt - in a jiffy and with the right accessories - to your activities such as walks, running or even other sports. To top it all off, they come with safe seats, plenty of storage and lots of comfort. Thanks to the special baby accessories, even the tiniest tots can take a seat on board from the age of 3 months. To choose your trailer carefully, ask yourself these questions:
- First of all, the simplest one; do you want a single-seater or two-seater trailer? The narrower single-seater trailer fits everywhere, through doors and supermarket checkouts. The second child can travel on a seat attached to the luggage rack.
- A trailer to attach to an electrically-assisted, fast bike or one that travels over rocky paths? Suspension worthy of the name is therefore, in this scenario, paramount. A low centre of gravity will also contribute to riding stability;
- Do you want your trailer to double up as a pushchair?Then a built-in manual brake may come in handy, because with two children, luggage and the weight of the trailer, you quickly reach 50 kg;
- Which trailer for which use? Dimensions, storage, modularity and weight are all factors to consider when choosing.
The perfect all-in-one trailer has yet to be invented. Instead, there are several designs to suit different types of need.
Croozer Kid Plus
Target audience: those looking for a complete solution
Two universal attachments, pushchair and jogging modes. Changing configuration is a breeze. The suspension-damper system has the advantage of adapting automatically to the load and requires no adjustment or maintenance. The integrated sensor lighting switches on automatically when it gets dark. What's new on the 2019 version? Removable air intake, floor mat tray and cushion.
Thule Chariot Sport 2
Target audience: sports users looking for a variety of uses
The Thule Chariot Sport 2 - weighing 15.9 kg (two-seater) or 14 kg - (single-seater) is lightweight. A two-in-one trailer - bike and pushchair modes - also offering systems sold separately that allow jogging and winter sports such as cross-country skiing. Leaf spring suspension and a manually-operated disc brake improve handling on steep terrain.
Leggero Vento R Sail Pure
Target audience: those looking for reasonable value for money without giving up aesthetics
Resembling the sail of a boat, this functional two-seater stands out from its counterparts. But it also has a lot to offer in terms of functions. Made in Switzerland, this trailer features a flexible seat system that allows a child to be placed in the middle for better weight distribution. The seat also reclines backwards for greater comfort. The Leggero Vento has a suspension system and a sturdy shell offering good storage space.
See overview of our children's trailers
Trailers
You don't have to have children to own a trailer. Whether it acts as a wheeled tote, hand truck or suitcase trolley, the Burley Travoy trailer - compact and malleable - comes complete with loading straps and a fixing system to suit virtually any seatpost. When folded, it takes up the space of a briefcase.
Comparable to a "trunk", the Croozer Cargo Campfire measures 70 x 45 x 41 cm for a maximum load of 40 kg. A true travelling companion, the Bob Yak - streamlined, sleek and lightweight - is a single-wheel trailer. With a capacity of 94 l, the waterproof bag with roll-up closure will suffice for a short trip.
See overview of all transport trailers
Dog bike trailers
Most dogs don't need us to get around and love to go out for a ride. But once they reach a certain age, your pooch will be delighted to take a seat on board for long, strenuous tours. What's more, if your faithful companion stays at home, you can then use your trailer to transport whatever you want.
The Burley Tail Wagon has an interesting design; it's mounted upside down compared to the competition for rear-entry access. Weighing just 10 kg, the trailer is lightweight and can carry a load of up to 34 kg. With 77cm of headroom for larger dogs, the Croozer Dog XL offers a particularly low threshold of just 14cm.
See overview of bike trailers for dogs
First published in May 2018, this article features updates on new models.
Michael Restin
Senior Editor
Michael.Restin@digitecgalaxus.chSimple writer and dad of two who likes to be on the move, wading through everyday family life. Juggling several balls, I'll occasionally drop one. It could be a ball, or a remark. Or both.
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