Trailer advice

[Broad-Arrow]

Hi

I'm in the market for a trailer to serve two purposes - haul two VMX bikes around and when not doing that, being used for general use (garden waste removal, moving stuff etc).

At this stage I have zeroed in on either a single axle 8x5 or 7x5 with high sides.  Will the 7 foot length accommodate dirt bikes from VMX to modern (the bike bug has bitten hard again, so I may end up buying a new KTM or something)? Or should I go for the extra foot?  What type of inserts should I use to stabilise the front wheels during transport (something that can be easily fitted and removed when I need to use the trailer for other purposes)?  What do you recommend with regard to a ramp (I was thinking a folding aluminium ramp - any recommendations in terms of brands)? Any other advice regarding a dual use trailer purchase would be most welcome. 

Finally, I'm looking at buying a  new trailer, but if anyone has an excellent condition used trailer around Canberra region then let me know.

TIA.

cheers, Ken

[Lozza]

7x5 bolt channel to the floor for the front wheels

[80-85 husky]

ol mate had a 7x5 with a 3 piece front wheel bracket that slotted into some holes so he could easily convert from general trailer to bike trailer in 2 mins

[Mick D]

ol mate had a 7x5 with a 3 piece front wheel bracket that slotted into some holes so he could easily convert from general trailer to bike trailer in 2 mins

That's the go, saves the nut and bolt gig.

Ken, this is what a young bloke down the road has. His needs are as yours.
I have seen him rip the dump and furniture cage sections off in a few seconds with a rubber hammer too.


One of things I will never have again is a NON-GALVANISED box trailer.
The rot sets into painted box trailers very quickly, no matter what. The one above is only a couple of years old and well on its way.
8 x 5 trailers aren't much dearer given that sheet stock sises comes in 8 x 4 to start with.
Make sure its draw bar is an A frame long enough to fit one of those large aluminum boxes to.
In NSW if the empty unladen tare weight is under 250kg then your yearly rego fee is only $60, but the moment it goes over 250kg it jumps to $160, even if it is still a 750kg gross with-out brakes.

So now a combination of Galvanized Aluminum trailer under 250 tare will pan out to be a great investment and they are not very dear either and plenty of local manufactures to choose from these days.
Maybe a couple of jerry-can holders to, one for water and one for fuel.


http://www.ebay.com.au/sch/i.html?_odkw=&_osacat=66468&_from=R40&_trksid=p2045573.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.H0.Xaluminim+box+trailer.TRS0&_nkw=aluminim+box+trailer&ghostText=&_sacat=66468
 

[80-85 husky]

look at a machinery (rider mower type) trailer if $$ are no issue and just make up a cage for it for rubbish and a set of bike adaptors as well. great to have a nice spring loaded ramp at the end of a tough days riding

[Mick D]

Yes there are some good ones like that around too.
It makes sense to by one that is matched to the hubs and wheels to your tow vehicle as well.

[Rossvickicampbell]

I bought an 8/5 trailer and fitted a "bike Vice" from Smart Arse Designs - worked perfect for me - comfortably fit 3 bikes and all the gear in it - single axle.

[Broad-Arrow]

Thanks for all the responses.  Very useful advice.

Thanks Mick for the advice regarding tare weight, I was not aware of that.

Funnily enough I have had experience with a converted "plant trailer" into a bike trailer (I hired a trailer that had this done).  The problem with this approach is plant/machinery trailers are very heavy and the ramp catches the wind on the freeway (dramatically increases fuel consumption).

I would like to get a ute, but it's difficult to find a nice one with a bench seat (a 69 El Camino would be ideal…).  Back in the day (when I had hair on my head instead of in my ears) I drove an XC Ford ute….

[oldyzman]

you need at least 8 x 5. I sold my 7 x 5 - not big enough

[Tomas]

Get polymate. Mate! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5vBjayRWPQ   

[Tim754]

I still drive a 77 Holden HZ one tonner..... Tim754