GetUpnGo

Two questions:

1) How much easier is it to tow a trailer than to haul the load in panniers? I'm referring only to the ***effort required,*** not to handling factors like cornering.

2) I have a mechanic who can build me a trailer. Anyone have a nice design for a light, strong, two-wheeled trailer?

Thanks!

staehpj1

My guess would be that it would be slightly harder due to the rolling resistance of another tire or tires and another set of bearings, but not noticeably so. This is assuming the same weight. Depending of your pannier choices vs your trailer choices, the trailer is likely to be heavier. That would make it noticeably harder on climbs and when starting from a stop or otherwise accelerating.

Aerodynamic drag would also depend on the specific setup, but I think a single wheel trailer may have an edge in this regard. Some trailers may draft well and others not.

BTW, if you ride in a group it is a pain to draft behind most trailers.

GetUpnGo

Thank you. I'm surprised; I thought there would be no increase in rolling resistance but I googled this and you're right, a trailer increases rolling resistance. In that case perhaps I don't need a trailer. As a backpacker I have a fairly light and compact tent, mattress, and sleeping bag.

Big Lew

Check put the single wheel "Extra wheel" trailer, it's very light, pulls and follows about the best of all trailers.