The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Kayak Trailer for your Bike
Transporting your small watercraft with no car can be a challenge. We explore everything you need to know to find the best kayak trailer for your bike.
If you're a kayaking enthusiast who also loves to bike, you know that transporting your small watercraft can be a real challenge. Luckily, there's a solution that can make your life a lot easier: a kayak trailer for your bike. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know to find the best kayak or canoe trailer for your bike.
What is a bicycle kayak/canoe trailer?
A bicycle kayak trailer is a device or set of devices that allows you to tow your kayak behind your bike. It typically consists of a lightweight aluminum frame, two wheels, and a kayak carrier that attaches to the frame. These trailers are designed to be easy to use and transport, and they're a great way to transport your kayak, as well as bring it along for longer trips.
How to Choose the Best Kayak Trailer for Bike
When choosing a kayak trailer for your bike, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important:
Capacity
It may sound like a no-brainer, but make sure the trailer can carry your kayak. Most kayak trailers can accommodate kayaks up to 16 feet long and around 100 pounds in weight. Triple check your owner’s manual of your kayak or canoe to find out what it weighs. You will also want to consider the other items you will be taking with you on your adventure, will they add a lot of extra weight? Can you cycle safely with the added weight? Be sure you know the answers to these questions before making your decision.
Material
Look for a trailer that is made from lightweight materials such as aluminum, which will make it easy to tow behind your bike. You want to make sure that the trailer is lightweight enough to be pulled by your bike without too much effort, but also durable enough to withstand rough terrain and heavy use. Look for trailers made from high-quality materials like aluminum or steel. Take into consideration that a steel trailer is heavier than an aluminum trailer; you’ll be pulling that added weight everywhere with you.
Wheels
Choose a trailer with large, sturdy wheels that can handle rough terrain. Spoked bike wheels allow for the most maneuverability and stability. You never know where your watercraft adventures will lead you, so be sure you are prepared for anything. You wouldn’t want to get to a portage access and find out your wheels can’t handle the terrain down to the water.
Hitch
Make sure the hitch style is appropriate and suits your bicycle. Seat-post mounted hitches tend to be ideal for kayak and canoe bicycle trailers, as they alter the centre of gravity to assist with the ‘top-heaviness’ of a kayak or canoe bike trailer. An axle-mounted hitch will also work, just be sure to take it a little bit slower to prevent your trailer from tipping.
Fastening
Ensure that the fasteners that come with the kayak trailer will actually fit your kayak or canoe. Is your kayak or canoe wider than average? Be sure the straps of the cart can securely hold the boat. Additionally, ensure that the hitch you are using can attach to the boat. For example, our Smartstick is designed to attach to a bow handle or eyelet on a kayak or canoe, and if your boat doesn’t have one, then the Smartstick is not the right choice. Our Towing Tee is designed with larger boats in mind, however the fastening straps allow you to tie off to a seat or eyelet inside the boat if you don’t have a bow handle. The arms of the Towing Tee hug around the gunnels for an extra secure towing experience.
The Ultimate Adventure Trailer
With a kayak or canoe bicycle trailer, the possibilities truly are endless. You are the master of the road as well as the water, with a whole boat to store your stuff. Cycling and kayaking are two of the best ways to get out into nature and get away from the business of modern life. If you’re interested but don’t know where to start, reach out to our friendly customer service team for assistance in choosing the best kayak or canoe trailer for your gear.