How to Hook Up a Bike Trailer

Last Updated on September 11, 2021

Mountain bikes are undoubtedly one of the best ways to get fit. You can ride around your local trail, go on long cross-country rides, or just take a ride around your neighborhood for a sip of fresh air.

You can do all those. But little do people know that you can also make greater use of your bikes. How? Well, by hooking up a bike trailer!

These come in handy because you can use this as storage or container if ever you want to haul something from one place to another. It’s an efficient way to bring something to another place while enjoying the benefits of riding a bike.

Read on to know the right way on how you can hook up a bike trailer.

How to attach a bike trailer to an axle?

Step 1: Attach to the coupler

Get a wrench and use it to loosen the rear tire nut. Remove the thru-axle rod and then place the receiver of the coupler on the side of the rear axle.

Make sure that the washer is also there in the same area. Bring back the rod to the original spot and then make sure that this goes directly through the receiver and washer of the coupler. Lock them securely with the rear axle nut.

Step 2: Extend the trailer arm

Double-check the connection and make sure that they are securely locked in place. Then hold the tow arm below the trailer. Gently extend it out and then lock it using the retaining pin attached to the bike trailer.

Step 3: Connect the arm to the coupler

Locate the hole found in the arm and coupler of the trailer. Make sure that these two holes are aligned with one another as well as with the rear wheel.

Once they are, you can then insert the retainer pin directly into them. You will find a clasp below the pin that will secure its connection. Wrap the strap of the arm around the frame of the bike and slowly clip it directly on the arm’s D-ring.

How to attach a bike trailer to a seat post?

Step 1: Install a receiver

Remove your bike’s seat post and gently slide it directly on the receiver to attach bike trailer. Then return the seat post to its original spot and secure the seat’s adjustment. It should be hanging on the proper height of your bike and trailer.

Step 2: Attach the bike to the hitch

Put the receiver in place and install the trailer hitch directly into it. Then align the trailer hitch directly onto the holes and through the receiver. Slowly insert the bolt onto them and adjust its washer accordingly when attaching bike trailers. Adjust it as tight as possible until the nut is firmly secured on the hitch.

Step 3: Use a safety strap

There are bike trailer hookups that have their safety strap. You can use them as a wrapping layer on your bike frame so that they are securely clipped on the trailer arm or to ensure that you properly attach a bike trailer. This also prevents your bike frame from chipping or flaking once it hit a metal object if you attach bike trailer to a bike trailer coupler.

Different Types of Bike Trailers

Children’s trailer

This is one of the most common bike trailers you’ll find roaming around. These serve as child bike seats where up to three babies or toddlers can fit in.

They also have an additional storage room where you can place bags, bottles, or other things associated with babysitting. Kids’ bike trailers also usually have two wheels.

There are even some models which can be converted into strollers that have a detachable handle and another wheel upfront. What’s great about these is that you can bring around your kids with you while mountain biking.

Luggage trailer

This kind of bike trailer is built as storage for objects like luggage and bags. They are made to transport heavy objects using your bike.

They are also usually lighter and smaller compared to children’s trailers. They also usually have just a single wheel instead of two. However, they aren’t that stable or secure because they are just meant to hold and store objects.

Also expect that mud and dirt can be thrown from the back wheel onto the inside of the trailer. This is why it’s important to wrap your luggage or objects in the trailer with plastic or some other cloth.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Bike Trailer

Size

The first thing you should consider is the size so that there will be no problem if you want to bring one, two, or maybe three kids with you.

Most child trailers are two-seaters. But their measurements can still vary greatly. Make sure that you check these measurements to ensure the utmost safety of the child.

Materials

Most bike trailers have connections built with steel, which are the ideal material because of their strength and durability.

Meanwhile, the carriage of the trailer should be made of premium materials which are usually premium fabric, plastic, wood, or metal, depending on the kind of trailer you’re getting, especially if you have a quick release bike.

Storage

Make sure that your trailer has enough storage for your luggage, just like the Schwinn bike trailer. Some models can be folded into a smaller size so you can stow them away when not used.

Safety 

Safety is an important consideration to make. Make sure that the bike trailer has a low position if it’s a kid’s bike trailer.

There should also be straps to secure them in place, as well as soft sides to prevent injuries in bumps. You should also look for the ASTM safety standard seal that ensures it is safe to use.

Conclusion

Bike trailers are very useful because you can bring with you objects while you ride your bike. You can even bring your child with you if you have a children’s trailer.

Just make sure that you know the right way on how to hook the trailer on your bike. And always consider safety above anything else.