Trailers???

[afterbooster]

Hey, So I'm currently an Industrial Design student at University Wisconsin Stout, and for my final design project I am attempting to build a trailer to tow behind a sport bike... If you've ever pulled one or have some advice or pictures no matter what bike, I'm interested in any input!
Thanks,
Booster

Not to haul the bike but for the bike to haul stuff...

[adidasguy]

[shadow247]

http://www.harborfreight.com/1195-lb-capacity-48-inch-x-96-inch-heavy-duty-foldable-utility-trailer-with-12-inch-wheels-90154.html

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200244874_200244874

These two items will get you set up for less than 500 bucks!

Forget about building one.  These little trailers are known to work great and are cheap enough to buy that it's just not worth your time to mess around building one from scratch.  You will spend almost that much just in parts, and end up with a trailer that doesn't work nearly as well as this set up.

[steezin_and_wheezin]

my roommate built one for bikes and other small stuff. it works really well, i've pulled 2 gs' on it. one ~1hr and the other ~7hrs





can get you some better photos and more info if you want

[Big Rich]

Steezin: glad to hear that trailer worked out for you, but be careful with the straps going over wood like that. Two reasons: the wood can fray the strap, and with enough pressure/time the wood can crack and loosen the straps.

Booster- I recommend multiple tie downs through the floor and into the frame. Whether they are eye bolts, D-rings, or the flip up type, the more the merrier. A couple pieces of wood screwed into the floor on each side of the rear toys will prevent it from bouncing left & right. Obviously, wheel chocks should be used up front. A built in ramp or two on the rear is great, but not always needed.

[afterbooster]

shoot, I should probably clarify, It would be pulled by the bike for storage and stuff for long trips...

[Big Rich]

Oh.......well thats a whole other story.

And you have to build it as a project, correct? I've never really looked at that type of trailer, but the mounting point to the frame would have to be pretty sturdy. Obviously the axle would have to be centered or even slightly rearward as to not over load the bikes rear suspension. I'm pretty much at a loss for any other advice......

[noworries]

Hi afterb

Here are an Aussie crew making a nice bike trailer:

http://www.bandicoots.com.au/default.aspx

they've got some good technical ideas on their site including stuff on weight distribution and hitches. Their trailers are designed to be towed behind yr bike and also behind yr car if you want...neat., eh?