Thule Compact Bike Trailer for Members who like to Weld/Fabricate

[Alberta Patriot]

Bored and needed to keep my mind occupied/sharp, so I did this up on Sketchup
The Thule Car Topper is based on the "Sidekick"  Specs... 54" L, 25" W and 16" D
16 pounds empty with a 110 pound maximum load capacity.
Torsion Axles are based on the 425 pound per pair max load Flexiride half axles with 8"x 5 lug rims
Total length-about 65"   Total Width-about 36" Total Height-about 25"
I think it would probably end up around 100 pounds total...around 225 pounds loaded.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Thule-682-Sidekick-Roof-Box/323060267793?epid=1322955902&hash=item4b37e47b11:g:zDQAAOSwExlae5E3&vxp=mtr

https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/category_tires-wheels+high-speed-trailer-tires-wheels+8in.-high-speed-trailer-tires-wheels

https://www.easternmarine.com/flexiride-torsion-half-axles-ff-425-2a-s

[Gavin_Sons]

Enlarge those wheels to 12" and you have a very solid trailing trailer. If I had an option and was building for myself I'd go with 12". Otherwise looks great.

[Alberta Patriot]

Enlarge those wheels to 12" and you have a very solid trailing trailer. If I had an option and was building for myself I'd go with 12". Otherwise looks great.

The thought was as low a C of G as possible with the 8" rims, and I guess with the adjustable swing arms it would be easy to lower the whole thing for 12" rims anyway.

[sandy]

I think you'd have to use 12" wheels. I've never seen 8" wheels with 5 lugs. 12" wheels can be had in both 4 & 5 lug.

[Alberta Patriot]

I think you'd have to use 12" wheels. I've never seen 8" wheels with 5 lugs. 12" wheels can be had in both 4 & 5 lug.

I guess you didn't look at the link to the wheels
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/category_tires-wheels+high-speed-trailer-tires-wheels+8in.-high-speed-trailer-tires-wheels

[Rams]

I like it.  I agree with those suggesting larger wheels/tires, I don't see the height being a huge issue.

But, when I consider how much my older trailer cost (purchased used)'and how much it gets used, I can't see building one costing more than twice as much.     But, I do like the concept and the design.

Currently, I'm trying to find an old junk RV (fifth wheel or gooseneck) trailer to rebuild into a specific purpose utility trailer.   So, I like doing such projects.  Keeps the mind and body active.  

Rams

[Bigwolf]

That looks like a really nice trailer.  I too would go with 12 inch wheels.

Bigwolf

[Alberta Patriot]

Yep...12" rims would give you many aluminum trailer wheel options that are not available with the 8" ones. With a light trailer like this you want to keep un-sprung weight down to a minimum, like using 4.80-12 tires. Pretty sure they would last forever with a max 225 pound trailer.

[Bigwolf]

With a light trailer like this you want to keep un-sprung weight down to a minimum, like using 4.80-12 tires. Pretty sure they would last forever with a max 225 pound trailer.

That is true.  However, I believe that there is a huge difference in the impact delivered when an 8 inch wheel hits a pot hole or bump vs a 12 inch wheel.  To me, it is worth the sacrifice in un-sprung weight.
Also, be very careful buying 4.80 - 12 tires.  Most of those are rated for UNDER 40 mph.
To me, something like Bushtec uses is ideal but man,....those wheels are expensive!

Bigwolf

[Rams]

Well shoot, if we're gonna go first class, then make it tandem axle, tilt bed with lots of lights......   

Rams

[Alberta Patriot]

Well shoot, if we're gonna go first class, then make it tandem axle, tilt bed with lots of lights......   

Rams

Diamond Plate Platform out back for the Cooler that holds a 24 Pack