E Bike Trailers present an interesting approach to electrifying your ride, especially for those seeking versatility across different bicycles. My own experience with a DIY e bike trailer setup over a decade ago highlighted both the potential and limitations of this system, particularly when comparing road versus trail applications.
Initially, my foray into motorized biking involved a gas-powered 35cc Honda engine mounted on a kid’s bike trailer, attached via the seatpost. This setup, while functional, introduced some quirky handling, especially in corners. Transitioning to electric, I opted for a 1000w Golden Motor paired with a LiFePo4 battery, mounted on a BOB Yak trailer. This time, axle attachment proved to be a significant improvement, offering more stable and predictable handling compared to the seatpost-mounted trailer, although aggressive cornering still required caution.
The core advantage of an e bike trailer system lies in its adaptability. By housing the motor and battery on the trailer, the bicycle itself remains largely unmodified, requiring only a throttle and wiring. This modularity allows the trailer to be used with various bikes, enhancing its versatility. Furthermore, trailer systems naturally lend themselves to throttle-only operation, simplifying the electrical integration, although implementing Pedal Assist System (PAS) is technically possible but adds complexity.
For road riding, my e bike trailer proved to be exceptionally capable. It tackled steep inclines with ease, and traction was surprisingly good, aided by the weight of the battery (housed in a nylon ammo can within the trailer) providing additional downforce. While occasional bumps could momentarily disrupt traction, it was not a persistent issue.
However, my current focus on trail and logging road riding reveals the limitations of e bike trailers in more demanding terrains. The very characteristics that make them versatile for road use—the trailing nature and potential for bounce—become drawbacks off-road. For trail riding and uneven surfaces, a more integrated e-bike system, where the motor and battery are part of the bike frame, offers superior control and responsiveness.
In conclusion, e bike trailers present a viable and fun option, particularly well-suited for road-based electric biking due to their versatility and power delivery. However, for those prioritizing off-road adventures and technical trails, integrated e-bike designs are generally more practical and effective.
