Utility Cycling - Trailer On Alu Race Frame

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Thomas_CAAD9
04-12-09, 02:23 PM
Might seem like a silly question but I'm wondering if my alu framed Cannondale CAAD 9 racer will be able to tow a trailer or if it would strain the frame too much.

I do amatuer races but can only afford one bike so it tends to be used as a commuter/shopper as well.

Any help would be appreciated:)

crackerdog
04-12-09, 03:41 PM
Are axles extra weak on racers? If not, you can use a trailer. For the most part a trailer is great at removing most of the strain on a bike unless you are thinking of something really heavy.
Thomas_CAAD9
04-13-09, 03:50 AM
These are the wheels i'm using at the moment.

http://bike.shimano.com/publish/content/global_cycle/en/us/index/products/wheels/road_wheels/product.-code-WH-RS20-S.-type-.html

Should be ok i was more worried about stressing the frame as I can't affford to be without a bike really as I rely on it for commuting

crackerdog
04-13-09, 10:34 AM
How much do you plan to haul?
Thomas_CAAD9
04-13-09, 12:56 PM
Weeks worth of groceries/recycling.

Possibly a suitcase for longer tours.
Fonk
04-13-09, 02:13 PM
I used to haul my daugher home from daycare on my lightweight aluminum race bike, and with some significant climbing. I never experienced any problems.
Thomas_CAAD9
04-13-09, 02:50 PM
Sounds like I should be ok then.

Foldable trailer you can take into the store and a bike sure makes parkig a whole lot easier.

Plus I know I'm not contributing to air pollution in my neighbour hood.
Cyclaholic
04-14-09, 07:54 AM
I have the same bike, a CAAD9 Optimo 1. I've towed a trailer before whose hitch mechanism mounts under the rear QR, with no problem. It shouldn't be a problem as it's one of the strongest, if not the strongest point on the whole frame.