Hints: choosing a trailer

What to look for when buying or constructing a bike trailer

• Firstly, bikes were not originally designed with towing trailers in mind, so the weight of the trailer is an important consideration. With this in mind, the box section of Bandicoot trailers is made of aluminium, and overall they are a very lightweight trailer. Aluminium of course has other advantages, such as it doesn't rust or crack, it lends itself to attaching fittings, and any accident damage can be readily repaired. 
• A 360 degree swivel hitch must be fitted to a trailer to allow the tow bike to lean into corners safely.
• Hitch height should match the tow bike’s wheel spindle height as near as possible.
• Axles can be positioned slightly rear of centre to aid weight distribution and provide a bias weight or loading of around 10 percent on to the bike's tow hitch (see hints for loading trailers).
• The trailer should have a low centre of gravity to keep the weight low down.
• Twin cross over safety chains should be fitted to support the trailer in case the unspeakable should ever happen and the trailer hitch fails or decouples.
• Any support or jockey stand fitted should fail safe in the up position.
• A separate tray to carry an esky on the trailer draw bar helps keep contents cool. Allow for this extra weight when loading the trailer.
• A good quality lock to keep any valuables safe is a good idea (sadly), as is a padlock to lock the hitch when the trailer is left unattended.
• A power socket fitted to the trailer interior will earn its keep, as will an interior light for those old enough to stay out after dark.
• A set of mud flaps shows consideration for following road users.
• The trailer should be equipped with ADR approved lighting.