Folding Bikes - Impressions of a "Trailing" Tikit

Hi folks,

Had a chance to finally test out my Tikit with BF trailer system last weekend for a short touring trip. This is basically an ingenious Samsonite standard F'Lite suitcase (which the Tikit fits in comfortably), modified with 2 Big Apple wheels.

I had over 20kg of stuff in the trailer as I volunteered to carry 5 people's overnight luggage. It rides surprisingly well as the Centre of Gravity is carried really low. The handling remains as sharp as ever. But speed wise, I think you lose about 20% and it takes about 10% more effort on the flats. Over bumps, it remains very compose but speed humps will see the trailer giving it a slight tug.

All in, thumbs up!



http://i98.photobucket.com/albums/l260/oldiesonfoldies/TrailerPaulr.jpg

That looks like a fine system. I can imagine presenting myself for a flight with the bike in the trailer case, my luggage in my back- pack and at the other end, putting the back-pack into the trailer and riding off. Fantastic, and the trailer sounds very effective on the road. Touring with luggage will always slow you down - especially 20 kg, but normally the extra weight high up makes the bike feel bad.

This system looks great. How much is the trailer?

I have the same system for my Birdy. If you already own an Oyster suitcase and a drill, you can easily attach one to the trailer. They are $200 new and run about $100 refurbished in eBay. (Good for you Brits.)

If you don't own a Bike Friday, be sure to ask for a "C" clamp or the non-Bike Friday clamp. Their website (a bit ghetto) is: http://www.bikerev.com/

My impressions are the same as Oldies. The wheel bearings roll better than my Chris King hubs, or any hubs I own, for that matter. On the other hand, they don't seem perfectly sealed, so it might be best for dry weather.

By the way, there is an article on protecting your luggage in the NY Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/21/business/21bagbox.html

Can you give directions for making a trailer out of the suitcase and a materials needed? Thanks

Can you give directions for making a trailer out of the suitcase and a materials needed? Thanks

Wike sell a trailer kit, that might help you on the way.. They're Canadian, but also have a US website:
http://www.wicycle.com/trailer.htm

One more advantage of using a trailer - giving other "tired" bikes a lift... :)

http://i98.photobucket.com/albums/l260/oldiesonfoldies/TrailerwCMcarriedr.jpg

I have the same system for my Birdy. If you already own an Oyster suitcase and a drill, you can easily attach one to the trailer. They are $200 new and run about $100 refurbished in eBay.

In fact, there's one on eBay now. Do a search for item #280174498247