Bike Trailer Features
3 Sizes To Choose From
Like the truss-frame trailer models it replaces, our channel-frame trailers come in three sizes:
| model 32A | model 64A | model 96A |
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| cargo bed length: 32" (81 cm) | cargo bed length: 64" (1.62 m) | cargo bed length: 96" (2.43 m) |
| weight capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg.) | weight capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg.) | weight capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg.) |
| empty weight: 27 lbs (12 kg.) | empty weight: 35 lbs (16 kg.) | empty weight: 43 lbs (20 kg.) |
Adjustable Length
An important feature of the channel-frame trailer is its modular design. The trailer frame bolts together in sections:
- heavy-duty towbar and front crossmember
- one or two optional 32" (81 cm) long frame sections
- one 32" (81 cm) frame section with axle and wheels
- rear crossmember
Because the trailers are modular, you can change the length of the trailer by adding or removing frame sections:
Carries Extra-Long Loads
When using a trailer, it is critical that the load be distributed so that most of the weight is over the axle. Otherwise, the trailer handles poorly. The channel-frame modular design makes it possible to configure the trailer with different axle positions when you need it. This allows you to carry loads significantly longer than the trailer, like ladders or lumber:
| trailer model | configuration | use |
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| model 32A |
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for heavy, short loads less than 40" (1.02m) long |
| model 64A |
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for heavy, short loads less than 5' 6" (1.67m) long |
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for loads from 5' 6" to 9' (1.67m to 2.44m) long | |
| model 96A |
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for heavy loads less than 8' (2.44m) long |
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for lighter loads from 8' to 12' (2.44m to 3.66m) long | |
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for lighter loads from 12' to 15' (3.66m to 4.57m) long |
Carries Extra-Wide Loads
Carrying a wide load like plywood or furniture can be difficult on most trailers because it won't fit between the trailer's wheels. The channel-frame trailers overcome this problem using 1/8" (3.2 mm) thick aluminum fenders that cover the wheels. These fenders will support a load of up to about 200 lbs (91 kg), allowing you to carry an extra-wide load by resting it on the fenders.
Wide Model Available
The trailers come in two widths. The standard channel-frame trailers have a cargo bed interior width of 19-1/2" (49.5 cm). It is best suited for carrying cargo containers (including most kennels), toolboxes, lumber, ladders, etc. A wide model (the model 64AW) is available for carrying lawnmowers and other wide equipment at a slightly higher cost. It has an interior width of 27-1/2" (70 cm).
Optional Plywood Floor
For carrying large objects like containers, ladders, kayaks/canoes, a floor isn't necessary and only adds weight. However, a floor is often useful to have when carrying cardboard boxes or lawnmowers. For this reason, a 1/4" (6 mm) plywood floor is available as an option. To save on both manufacturing and shipping costs, though, we encourage customers to make their own using plywood available from any local lumberyard.
Rugged Design
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The backbone of the trailer is its custom-extruded 6061-T6 aluminum frame channel. This channel has several features:
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The trailer attaches to the bike via a TIG-welded stainless steel hitch. It uses a secure, 3-point attachment system to keep the hitch tightly fastened to the frame regardless of the load being pulled. |
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The oversize towbar is 2-3/8" (6 cm) in diameter--more than twice the diameter of most other trailers. Its stout size prevents flexing from occurring when pulling heavy loads. |
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The trailer rolls on tough, 5-spoke Skyway pneumatic wheels equipped with precision cartridge wheel bearings. The wheels are mounted on the ends of a welded galvanized steel axle. This produces a low-maintenance, rugged wheel system that stands up under the heaviest loads. |
Easy to Use
The hitch fits almost all bikes, including often hard-to-fit bikes like those equipped with:
- disc brakes
- drum brakes
- oversize frame tubes (including those made of aluminum)
- round, square, or oval chainstays and seatstays
- most styles of rear suspension
- monostay frame designs (found on some models of recumbents) or
- rear suspension designs where the seatstay and chainstay are not brazed or welded together (i.e., are connected by a pivot)
It will also fit most models of tadpole trikes (Greenspeed, WizWheels, etc.), but requires a slightly different geometry. We can make the necessary modifications to fit these trikes at no extra cost.
The hitch attaches to the frame of the bike using standard stainless steel band clamps. Once the hitch is attached, the trailer can be removed or attached in seconds by simply pulling or inserting the hitch pin.
The hitch is designed to allow full freedom of movement between the bike and trailer. This allows you to lay the bike on its side when loading or unloading.
The trailer uses standard 16" bicycle tires and tubes for a smooth ride. Fixing a flat is easy since the wheel doesn't have to be removed to patch or replace a leaking tube.
Shipping Cost
Each of our standard trailer models--even the 8' long model 96A--ships in one small box for about $30 or less, depending on the trailer model and your location. Domestic shipping options include FedEx Ground, FedEx Ground Home Delivery, or the U. S. Postal Service. (UPS service is available by special request.) Shipping the wide models will cost slightly more, due to the larger size box or multiple boxes required.
Every model can also be shipped worldwide via the U.S. Postal Service's Priority Mail International service. This service is generally the least expensive shipping option, takes 6-10 business days for delivery, and has minimal brokerage fees. Shipping using this method costs about $180-210 (more for the wide models).
Easy to Assemble
Package size limits require us to ship the trailers unassembled. Assembly is easy, however, using the complete, easy-to-follow instructions and two stamped steel wrenches that are included with each trailer. Each model can generally be put together in under an hour. No other tools are required.
