Originally Posted by
Tourist in MSN
...if your trailer separates from the bike, the trailer could travel to places you do not want it to travel too, since much or most of the weight in the trailer would be on wheels.
Four years ago I bought my first bike trailer which has the same hitch as the one I just bought. There is a strap to prevent losing the trailer if the hitch pin falls out (very small chance). The bigger risk is the pipe breaking or failing. And if that happens, yes, the trailer may roll on a ways. I'm not sure how sturdy this will be, but it won't have to carry much weight...carry-on bag and a backpack.
Originally Posted by
john m flores
Interesting. Will there be larger wheels attached to the frame you are building or are you relying upon the suitcase wheels?
Not the suitcase wheels...they will be too small. My utility trailer has 20" pneumatic bicycle wheels with spokes, but they are too big to pack with this 16" folder (Dahon Getaway), or the 20" Boardwalk. I will test the suitcase with cheap solid rubber wheels. I think 10" wheels would be able to stand up in the suitcase and also act to keep the sides from pinching in. Thin 12 or 14" wheels may be able to lay flat on top the bike. I think 8" is as small as I want to go. Also, if this works and the suitcase trailer is sturdy enough, I will upgrade to wheels with bearings. Ideally, 8" pneumatic dolly tires with bearings are only $9 at Harbor Freight, although some of those seem heavy and I'd want to keep the who package under 50lbs.
If the frame is sturdy enough, I could bolt a tote on it and have a smaller, lighter trailer versus my large utility trailer.