Utility Cycling - Can my carbon frame hybrid pull a trailer?

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johnread
09-16-12, 05:48 AM
I have a Specialized Sirrus Limited with a carbon frame and am considering the purchase of a Burley Tail Wagon trailer. It's a pet-specific trailer that the hitch attaches to the left side wheel skewer. I'm wondering if my bike, with carbon fiber seat stays and chain stays will be strong enough to handle the load of the trailer. Does anyone have any experience with pulling trailers with a carbon framed bike?

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/pj6354/Sirrus%20Limted/file-9.jpg

crackerdog
09-16-12, 08:30 AM
I would only be concerned about the connection not harming the frame but other than that, it will be fine. Pulling from the axle doesn't put much strain on a bike as far as I can see.
fietsbob
09-16-12, 11:54 AM
If the connection is to the wheel axle , under QR.. not the frame,
I don't see much of an issue..

Burly's forged aluminum F shaped hitch should be OK.

johnread
10-04-12, 06:01 PM
Update: We purchased the Burley dog trailer and had it out on the road over the weekend. The carbon-framed Sirrus Limited pulled the trailer with no complaints at all. I think it's a pretty good combination. Forgot to take pictures though (maybe next time!)
Ranko Kohime
10-05-12, 02:18 PM
I would suggest buying a spare QR skewer now, and carrying it with you anywhere you would rather not walk back home/to car from.

I've had a QR skewer snap from having a basket on the front for only 2-300 miles, (after this same skewer had done 4,000 medium-duty miles already) and a trailer puts at least as much strain on the skewer as well.