Originally Posted by
Phatman
hmm. It seems that the main arguments are between air resistance (panniers) or rolling resistance (BOB trailer). Which is bigger?
It isn't that simple. The trailer's weight is more of a handicap on the climbs and that IMO is where it matters.
In my case the weight difference is fairly substantial between my trailer and my racks an panniers especially if you add in the extra tube. The trailer is a lot heavier given the racks and panniers that I am using. If you are using heavier racks and panniers it could be close to a wash.
One thing that may or may not be an issue to you is drafting. It is hard to draft behind a rider pulling a trailer. If you are traveling with a group this can be an issue.
Trailers are hard to get up stairs or around tight corners on closed in walkways (no problems with turns on the road).
Some people swear by one or the other.
I own both and my trailer hangs on the wall unused until I decide to do some off road touring on my mountain bike at which point I may or may not decide to use it.