karmantra

Went to my local REI and noticed that they had the new redesigned 2007 Burley D'Lite trailers in stock, as well as closeouts on the '06 D'Lites. The new D'Lites (and Encores?)
use the same folding procedure as the Solo and Cub trailers--the new D'Lites no longer have the wheelguards that they always have had in the past and no longer fold side to side, which was always easier on the side windows for storage (no creases in the window). Burley now says that their trailers are stronger than ever, that they will withstand a vertical force of 300 lbs.--that may be important if an object falls from above, but I would be more concerned about side impact from a vehicle rather than something falling on the trailer! Those wheelguards were an added safety feature that the new trailer does not have. They have changed the hitch design as well, apparently to fit more bikes. Price has jumped to $459, from $449 and the Solos are now $359, up from $319. I'm looking at picking up a closeout '06!

masiman

That vertical crush resistance is a good thing, especially if involved in some type of rollover accident. Preventing the collapse of that compartment will decrease the chance of injury.

I had a Burley before but I like the features on the Cycletote and Chariot better.

Good luck with getting the closeout.

That Guy

I just ordered a Solo on the REI website. Closeout priced at $250, minus my dividend, and free shipping to the local store.

masiman

I just came from my local REI. They did not have the 07 model. They did have the '06. It was on closeout for $359 or something like that.

They also had a Chariot Cougar. Nice construction but significantly more nose heavy.

karmantra

Masiman's got the correct info on the REI closeouts: $360 for the '06 D'Lites and $255 for the '06 Solos.

Phantoj

Are the new trailers still US-made?

I like the hitch redesign...

karmantra

I read that sewing is now done in Portland, Oregon and some sub-assemblies of trailers are outsourced, but the final assembly & quality control is done in Eugene, Oregon, so still US-made.

professorkev

What are the main differences between the Chairoit cabriolet and the courgar? I have a 2 year old and another on the way and having a tough time to decide on a 2 seater or a 1 seater. any thoughts?

karmantra

I'm assuming you mean Cabriolet and the Cougar 2, since both are set up for 2 children--the Cabriolet sells around $460 US while the Cougar 2 sells around $500 US, plus another $50 for the Cycling Kit. The Cougar has some refinements such as adjustable 'shocks' but has a bit less storage room and does not fold up quite as compactly as the Cabriolet. Both use interchangeable CTS systems--bike, jogger, stroller, and hiking modes. The Cougar 2 also has a XC Ski Trailer option. If you're looking for strictly a bicycle trailer only, then going with the Cabriolet might be your most economical choice--however, the Cougar 2 will definitely do better on the resale (high demand!) when you sell it.

professorkev

THanks Karmantra. I found a barely used CX2 with all attachments (but ski) for $600. Ialso found some burley d'lite 3 year old models for about $250-325. SOo now I have more options (ugh!) I am concerned somewhat for resale value. The only thing I don't like about the older models of Burley, they look more like a gardencart.