Trailer conversion mini-project

[bissona]

Hi all,

We're looking at converting an existing small trailer (Norauto 65) to take 3x eMTBs (all Focus JAMs) and have started drawing up conversion spec, but were keen to poll for ideas before pressing ahead. The current spec is as follows:

• Trailer load area is 1940mm x 1130mm, so space is very tight
• 1 or 2 x AGM batteries, probably Optima yellow-tops on the basis I have a spare one already
• 2 x inverters (not sure which ones, so any advice welcome) to allow for redundancy
• 3 x Focus chargers
• 1 x hook-up with split-charging for batteries
• 2 x solar panel (I have a spare 10w, and an old Oxford products one, both of whichI hope to use for trickle charging)
• 1 x pressure sprayer (hand-pumped) to get the worst of the mud off before loading
• Helmet / boot rack, if space allows

Things we're not sure about yet include;

1. Whether to go full/part fibreglass for the cover, or heavy-duty canvas (security concerns vs ease of access)
2. Whether to stick all of the electrics in a removable box (possibly dependent on available space)
3. Whether to twist the handlebars (of one or more bikes) to allow for closer stacking of bikes

The longest of the JAM2s going in there is 1950mm, so current intention is to reverse them in, front wheel off, and use the front axles to mount to floor blocks, as we currently do in the van. This should allow them to be staggered in a line, while still allowing 12"-14" of useable space in two opposing corners of the load area. In theory....

The trailer is mostly to be used for longer distance trips in UK and abroad, in conjunction with the camper van, so likely to act as a base for daily trips up into various mountains. The van has fridge, cooker, etc, so no need to duplicate those on the trailer.

Any thoughts, input gratefully received!

Cheers.

 

[Gary]

if staggering them doesn't work putting the longest bike in the middle and having it's front axle mount at a different height to the bikes either side might be an idea. (possibly mounted ontop of the box you build for your battery/inverters. That or having the centre bike facing backwards.
You're also going to need a secure place to mount/hold the front wheels.
15mm Axle mounts are available to buy but they're pricy for what they are and wouldn't be too dificult to make a few from 15mm ID alu pipe and brackets..
If going with batteries in the trailer I think I'd add a DIY 12v electric pressure washer/pump. (£15-30 on amazon) and a large
I'd definitely be wanting a full solid cover for the trailer if you plan on stopping anywhere with the bikes out of view for more than 30seconds.

Cool project but you might be cheaper just selling the trailer you have and buying a small S/H box trailer and bolting all your stuff inside that. (it'd give you way more storage space for clean and manky biking kit etc. too)

 

[bissona]

Thanks Gary. We did considering selling / buying, but the trailer needs to be disassembled on return from trips, at least to a certain extent, so it can keep a low profile in the garden. This almost rules out a full box unless it could be collapsed into panels when we get back. Were thinking of an angled front panel to take the worst of the weather, with canvas back section, but no what you mean about stressing over security. Bikes will be chained down to large welded eyes on the box, but security for us is more going to be a question of location than anti-theft devices.

The axle mounts we've made before from wood, screwed to a WBP baseboard. Doesn't damage the forks / axles and is both light & strong.

Like the idea of a 12v pressure washer, will investigate options.

Manky biking kit is a concern.... we've been using gorilla tubs to date, but there will be three of us on future trips and it's going to stink the van out!

 

[R120]

I looked into one of these a long time ago, or something similar, I like your thinking on one you can dismantle.

Trailer Cycle Carriers WhyCycle? - The impartial cycling advice site

at the moment toying with the idea of some sort of trailer box, as I don't like the bikes being exposed to road crap, and am currently vanless.

 

[R120]

I have a Worx Hydroshot, with a 20 later jerry can. Great bit of kit for a quick clean on the go.

 

[bissona]

First tentative steps today towards our trailer conversion, proper Bodgit & Scarper stuff!