How to Transport Objects on a Bike
Build a bicycle trailer., Find a set of wheels that include an axle if there is one available., Buy or salvage a piece of plywood or some lumber that will function as the bed, or deck of the bike trailer., Use clamps to attach a piece of pipe under...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Build a bicycle trailer.
You can use small lawnmower wheels, old training wheels, or other junk parts, some surplus lumber, and some imagination and build one inexpensively. , Some high wheel type lawnmowers have a back axle that can be modified easily to adapt to a trailer, but you may find wheels on toddler's bikes, garden carts, tricycles, or other things around the house that will work. , You will need a piece of pipe for the axle housing, and another for the trailer tongue also, so while you are looking, keep an eye out for these items too. , If you have no clamps, simply driving nails into the bottom of your bed and bending them over the pipe will work, at least temporarily. , Note that the axle must be at least a couple of inches longer that the width of the bed.
Fasten the axle with the bed centered between the wheels by drilling a hole just outside the pipe sleeve it fits through on each side of the bed and putting a pin in these holes. ,, You can drill a hole through this tubing at the upper end and use a wire obtained from a common coat hanger to tie the tongue of your trailer off, or you can build a hitch with a removable pin if you like. , You need to remember that adding weight to the rear of the bike will change the bike's turning radius and feel, so do not attempt to tow your trailer where there is traffic until you are comfortable doing so. , Optionally, for small cargo, you may want to use a large trash bag for a weatherproof covering while towing., These are available at bike shops, but also can be improvised if you can't afford one or only need it for one use. -
Step 2: Find a set of wheels that include an axle if there is one available.
Sometimes they are available from distributors who discard them when they sustain minor damage, and sometimes you may find one in a local junkyard, if you are an adventurous type.,, -
Step 3: Buy or salvage a piece of plywood or some lumber that will function as the bed
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Step 4: or deck of the bike trailer.
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Step 5: Use clamps to attach a piece of pipe under the bed you have built for your trailer.
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Step 6: Remove one wheel from your axle assembly
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Step 7: and slide the axle through the pipe underneath the trailer bed.
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Step 8: Attach a piece of thin pipe or tubing
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Step 9: 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) galvanized metal electrical conduit should work
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Step 10: to the center front of your trailer bed
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Step 11: either with clamps
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Step 12: or nails.
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Step 13: Bend the front tubing upward
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Step 14: ideally
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Step 15: without kinking it
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Step 16: at an angle which will allow you to attach it to the bike's frame just underneath the seat.
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Step 17: Set the cargo you need to haul on your makeshift trailer
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Step 18: and find a safe place to practice towing it.
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Step 19: Use string or cords
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Step 20: or build side rails on the makeshift trailer to keep your cargo in place.
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Step 21: Mount a front handlebar basket on your bike for carrying smaller items.
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Step 22: Locate a plastic milk crate or other lightweight plastic or wire mesh basket from a handy source.
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Step 23: Attach this basket to the handlebars with nylon zip ties or wire
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Step 24: and fashion support legs to the outer end of the front axle
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Step 25: or to the front wheel fender if it is strong enough to support the weight.
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Step 26: Check to make sure your basket doesn't interfere with your bike's steering before heading into traffic.
Detailed Guide
You can use small lawnmower wheels, old training wheels, or other junk parts, some surplus lumber, and some imagination and build one inexpensively. , Some high wheel type lawnmowers have a back axle that can be modified easily to adapt to a trailer, but you may find wheels on toddler's bikes, garden carts, tricycles, or other things around the house that will work. , You will need a piece of pipe for the axle housing, and another for the trailer tongue also, so while you are looking, keep an eye out for these items too. , If you have no clamps, simply driving nails into the bottom of your bed and bending them over the pipe will work, at least temporarily. , Note that the axle must be at least a couple of inches longer that the width of the bed.
Fasten the axle with the bed centered between the wheels by drilling a hole just outside the pipe sleeve it fits through on each side of the bed and putting a pin in these holes. ,, You can drill a hole through this tubing at the upper end and use a wire obtained from a common coat hanger to tie the tongue of your trailer off, or you can build a hitch with a removable pin if you like. , You need to remember that adding weight to the rear of the bike will change the bike's turning radius and feel, so do not attempt to tow your trailer where there is traffic until you are comfortable doing so. , Optionally, for small cargo, you may want to use a large trash bag for a weatherproof covering while towing., These are available at bike shops, but also can be improvised if you can't afford one or only need it for one use.
Sometimes they are available from distributors who discard them when they sustain minor damage, and sometimes you may find one in a local junkyard, if you are an adventurous type.,,
About the Author
Denise Stokes
Creates helpful guides on DIY projects to inspire and educate readers.
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