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a trailer - behind the Honda
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j3gq_imp Offline
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a trailer - behind the Honda
#1



I really don't like saddle bags, not small, not large, and certainly not those big aluminum boxes you find mounted on X-Sahara Enduros.

But I'd like to carry my tent and a few other things every once in a while. Has anybody (in particular in the US or Canada) seen or used a one-axel, one-wheel trailer for the CB1100 ? Please ignore legal and safety issues for a moment. I am thinking of a strong little thing, with one wheel, mounted on the rear or on the carrier rack, which leans into every curve with the bike, good for up to 60 miles/h and carrying a small aluminum box say 30" by 15" by 15", the center bar no longer than 50".

Has a similar trailer been seen ? Any descriptions, snapshots, any good advice ? If not, any related ideas which might complement my (to be detailed) design before it goes to the shop ? In particular what pre-fab parts (wheel, hook) could be used in order to reduce production cost ?

Always safe rides to all !!


10-11-2020, 12:06 AM
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Lord Popgun Offline
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RE: a trailer - behind the Honda
#2



I haven’t seen anybody on the board who has done a trailer. Sidecars, but not trailer on the CB.


10-11-2020, 12:26 AM
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j3gq_imp Offline
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RE: a trailer - behind the Honda
#3



(10-11-2020, 12:26 AM)Lord Popgun_imp Wrote: I haven’t seen anybody on the board who has done a trailer. Sidecars, but not trailer on the CB.

Glad you mention it, I like "new" projects. Here are some benefits which I forgot to mention:
- doesn't move the bike's COG up or rear (or very little),
- less limited in size than a saddle bag,
- less dangerous for rider and co in an accident compared to hard saddle "boxes",
- takes almost no space in the garage, just hang it on the wall.
Just thinking loud ...


10-11-2020, 12:39 AM
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Roper_imp Offline
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RE: a trailer - behind the Honda
#4



Check out Uni-go trailers. I met a guy in TX who had one for his ST1300. I don't know if you need a specific hitch or if it's universal. They're expensive.

I see a lot of Goldwings with trailers, but they're usually two-wheeled and much wider.


10-11-2020, 12:45 AM
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rotor Offline
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RE: a trailer - behind the Honda
#5



(10-11-2020, 12:06 AM)j3gq_imp Wrote: I really don't like saddle bags, not small, not large, and certainly not those big aluminum boxes you find mounted on X-Sahara Enduros.

But I'd like to carry my tent and a few other things every once in a while. Has anybody (in particular in the US or Canada) seen or used a one-axel, one-wheel trailer for the CB1100 ? Please ignore legal and safety issues for a moment. I am thinking of a strong little thing, with one wheel, mounted on the rear or on the carrier rack, which leans into every curve with the bike, good for up to 60 miles/h and carrying a small aluminum box say 30" by 15" by 15", the center bar no longer than 50".

Has a similar trailer been seen ? Any descriptions, snapshots, any good advice ? If not, any related ideas which might complement my (to be detailed) design before it goes to the shop ? In particular what pre-fab parts (wheel, hook) could be used in order to reduce production cost ?

Always safe rides to all !!
I find the idea appealing, and was thinking about it even before seeing your post, somewhat along these lines:[ul] [li]Single small diameter BMX/mountain bike axle and wheel.[/li] [li]Mass: total of 70 kilograms, with 40 kilograms max. cargo load.[/li] [li]If the above can be achieved no need for breaks, but some back/fore and up/down springs and shock-absorbers would be required.[/li] [li]No hard boxes, to minimize the mass. What has to be kept dry goes into heavy plastic bags/pouches. Cargo is strapped to two vertical frames on both sides of the wheel.[/li] [li]Aluminum alloy structural members and steel parts, produced, packaged and sold as a kit for customer/rider assembly. User is responsible for any legal compliance while on public roadways.
[/li][/ul]


10-11-2020, 01:58 AM
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pekingduck Offline
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RE: a trailer - behind the Honda
#6



Uni-go and Trail-tail trailers, and probably most others, use smaller 10"-13" wheels with scooter tires that are not rated for higher speeds. Remember that they will be spinning a lot faster than a larger wheel at the same speed, and more affected by potholes. Also remember that in the US, some states reduce the speed limit with a trailer, prohibit riding in carpool lanes, and limit which lanes it can be ridden in.

I would stay away from bicycle components, as they just aren't up to the speed and safety needs. And I'd use a cast 17" front wheel with a tubeless tire. I would also recommend giving it suspension, as otherwise it would be like bolting luggage to your swingarm.


10-11-2020, 02:51 AM
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GoldOxide_imp Offline
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RE: a trailer - behind the Honda
#7



There is the Sherpax solution used by some ADV'ers:

https://kipmoto.com/pages/sherpax

... a demo flick ...

https://youtu.be/xHQ1uWLAuus


Here is a flick of an Africa Twin owner who recently added the Sherpax to the rear of his beast:

https://youtu.be/35CXkCOy2vw

... and some still pic references ...

https://www.africatwinforum.com/threads/...ost-333150

The owner appears quite satisfied with his trailer.


I think it would blend reasonably with a CB1100.


10-11-2020, 02:51 AM
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j3gq_imp Offline
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RE: a trailer - behind the Honda
#8



(10-11-2020, 01:58 AM)rotor_imp Wrote:
(10-11-2020, 12:06 AM)j3gq_imp Wrote: I really don't like saddle bags, not small, not large, and certainly not those big aluminum boxes you find mounted on X-Sahara Enduros.

But I'd like to carry my tent and a few other things every once in a while. Has anybody (in particular in the US or Canada) seen or used a one-axel, one-wheel trailer for the CB1100 ? Please ignore legal and safety issues for a moment. I am thinking of a strong little thing, with one wheel, mounted on the rear or on the carrier rack, which leans into every curve with the bike, good for up to 60 miles/h and carrying a small aluminum box say 30" by 15" by 15", the center bar no longer than 50".

Has a similar trailer been seen ? Any descriptions, snapshots, any good advice ? If not, any related ideas which might complement my (to be detailed) design before it goes to the shop ? In particular what pre-fab parts (wheel, hook) could be used in order to reduce production cost ?

Always safe rides to all !!
I find the idea appealing, and was thinking about it even before seeing your post, somewhat along these lines:[ul] [li]Single small diameter BMX/mountain bike axle and wheel.[/li] [li]Mass: total of 70 kilograms, with 40 kilograms max. cargo load.[/li] [li]If the above can be achieved no need for breaks, but some back/fore and up/down springs and shock-absorbers would be required.[/li] [li]No hard boxes, to minimize the mass. What has to be kept dry goes into heavy plastic bags/pouches. Cargo is strapped to two vertical frames on both sides of the wheel.[/li] [li]Aluminum alloy structural members and steel parts, produced, packaged and sold as a kit for customer/rider assembly. User is responsible for any legal compliance while on public roadways.
[/li][/ul]

That is exactly what I had in mind when it comes to 'approval'. Anything else hard to imagine when a reasonable response-time and cost efficiency is required.
Here in Europe the weight requirements for trailers without "papers" are different from country to country - another reason to stay low in empty weight.
(10-11-2020, 02:51 AM)pekingduck_imp Wrote: Uni-go and Trail-tail trailers, and probably most others, use smaller 10"-13" wheels with scooter tires that are not rated for higher speeds. Remember that they will be spinning a lot faster than a larger wheel at the same speed, and more affected by potholes. Also remember that in the US, some states reduce the speed limit with a trailer, prohibit riding in carpool lanes, and limit which lanes it can be ridden in.

I would stay away from bicycle components, as they just aren't up to the speed and safety needs. And I'd use a cast 17" front wheel with a tubeless tire. I would also recommend giving it suspension, as otherwise it would be like bolting luggage to your swingarm.

In general I agree with everything you say. Nevertheless I would first aim for something much simpler than a large wheel and suspension, and limit use to low(er) speeds, use a small size scooter wheel, and high quality axle and bearings. Instead of real suspension something (?) else, lighter in weight and rugged, tbd ... In the end you may be right, and that's not good enough, but I would try Wink


10-11-2020, 04:00 AM
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pekingduck Offline
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RE: a trailer - behind the Honda
#9



(10-11-2020, 04:00 AM)j3gq_imp Wrote:
(10-11-2020, 01:58 AM)rotor_imp Wrote:
(10-11-2020, 12:06 AM)j3gq_imp Wrote: I really don't like saddle bags, not small, not large, and certainly not those big aluminum boxes you find mounted on X-Sahara Enduros.

But I'd like to carry my tent and a few other things every once in a while. Has anybody (in particular in the US or Canada) seen or used a one-axel, one-wheel trailer for the CB1100 ? Please ignore legal and safety issues for a moment. I am thinking of a strong little thing, with one wheel, mounted on the rear or on the carrier rack, which leans into every curve with the bike, good for up to 60 miles/h and carrying a small aluminum box say 30" by 15" by 15", the center bar no longer than 50".

Has a similar trailer been seen ? Any descriptions, snapshots, any good advice ? If not, any related ideas which might complement my (to be detailed) design before it goes to the shop ? In particular what pre-fab parts (wheel, hook) could be used in order to reduce production cost ?

Always safe rides to all !!
I find the idea appealing, and was thinking about it even before seeing your post, somewhat along these lines:[ul] [li]Single small diameter BMX/mountain bike axle and wheel.[/li] [li]Mass: total of 70 kilograms, with 40 kilograms max. cargo load.[/li] [li]If the above can be achieved no need for breaks, but some back/fore and up/down springs and shock-absorbers would be required.[/li] [li]No hard boxes, to minimize the mass. What has to be kept dry goes into heavy plastic bags/pouches. Cargo is strapped to two vertical frames on both sides of the wheel.[/li] [li]Aluminum alloy structural members and steel parts, produced, packaged and sold as a kit for customer/rider assembly. User is responsible for any legal compliance while on public roadways.
[/li][/ul]

That is exactly what I had in mind when it comes to 'approval'. Anything else hard to imagine when a reasonable response-time and cost efficiency is required.
Here in Europe the weight requirements for trailers without "papers" are different from country to country - another reason to stay low in empty weight.
(10-11-2020, 02:51 AM)pekingduck_imp Wrote: Uni-go and Trail-tail trailers, and probably most others, use smaller 10"-13" wheels with scooter tires that are not rated for higher speeds. Remember that they will be spinning a lot faster than a larger wheel at the same speed, and more affected by potholes. Also remember that in the US, some states reduce the speed limit with a trailer, prohibit riding in carpool lanes, and limit which lanes it can be ridden in.

I would stay away from bicycle components, as they just aren't up to the speed and safety needs. And I'd use a cast 17" front wheel with a tubeless tire. I would also recommend giving it suspension, as otherwise it would be like bolting luggage to your swingarm.

In general I agree with everything you say. Nevertheless I would first aim for something much simpler than a large wheel and suspension, and limit use to low(er) speeds, use a small size scooter wheel, and high quality axle and bearings. Instead of real suspension something (?) else, lighter in weight and rugged, tbd ... In the end you may be right, and that's not good enough, but I would try Wink

An unsuspended/undampened trailer will bounce and get airborne fairly easily from something as unsuspecting as dips in the road. Anyone who has ever witnessed an empty Tow-Dolly going down the road will know what I mean - and that's something that weighs 400-500 pounds.


10-11-2020, 05:15 AM
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GoldOxide_imp Offline
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RE: a trailer - behind the Honda
#10



(10-11-2020, 04:00 AM)j3gq_imp Wrote:
(10-11-2020, 01:58 AM)rotor_imp Wrote:
(10-11-2020, 12:06 AM)j3gq_imp Wrote: I really don't like saddle bags, not small, not large, and certainly not those big aluminum boxes you find mounted on X-Sahara Enduros.

But I'd like to carry my tent and a few other things every once in a while. Has anybody (in particular in the US or Canada) seen or used a one-axel, one-wheel trailer for the CB1100 ? Please ignore legal and safety issues for a moment. I am thinking of a strong little thing, with one wheel, mounted on the rear or on the carrier rack, which leans into every curve with the bike, good for up to 60 miles/h and carrying a small aluminum box say 30" by 15" by 15", the center bar no longer than 50".

Has a similar trailer been seen ? Any descriptions, snapshots, any good advice ? If not, any related ideas which might complement my (to be detailed) design before it goes to the shop ? In particular what pre-fab parts (wheel, hook) could be used in order to reduce production cost ?

Always safe rides to all !!
I find the idea appealing, and was thinking about it even before seeing your post, somewhat along these lines:[ul] [li]Single small diameter BMX/mountain bike axle and wheel.[/li] [li]Mass: total of 70 kilograms, with 40 kilograms max. cargo load.[/li] [li]If the above can be achieved no need for breaks, but some back/fore and up/down springs and shock-absorbers would be required.[/li] [li]No hard boxes, to minimize the mass. What has to be kept dry goes into heavy plastic bags/pouches. Cargo is strapped to two vertical frames on both sides of the wheel.[/li] [li]Aluminum alloy structural members and steel parts, produced, packaged and sold as a kit for customer/rider assembly. User is responsible for any legal compliance while on public roadways.
[/li][/ul]

That is exactly what I had in mind when it comes to 'approval'. Anything else hard to imagine when a reasonable response-time and cost efficiency is required.
Here in Europe the weight requirements for trailers without "papers" are different from country to country - another reason to stay low in empty weight.
(10-11-2020, 02:51 AM)pekingduck_imp Wrote: Uni-go and Trail-tail trailers, and probably most others, use smaller 10"-13" wheels with scooter tires that are not rated for higher speeds. Remember that they will be spinning a lot faster than a larger wheel at the same speed, and more affected by potholes. Also remember that in the US, some states reduce the speed limit with a trailer, prohibit riding in carpool lanes, and limit which lanes it can be ridden in.

I would stay away from bicycle components, as they just aren't up to the speed and safety needs. And I'd use a cast 17" front wheel with a tubeless tire. I would also recommend giving it suspension, as otherwise it would be like bolting luggage to your swingarm.

In general I agree with everything you say. Nevertheless I would first aim for something much simpler than a large wheel and suspension, and limit use to low(er) speeds, use a small size scooter wheel, and high quality axle and bearings. Instead of real suspension something (?) else, lighter in weight and rugged, tbd ... In the end you may be right, and that's not good enough, but I would try Wink

That is exactly what I had in mind when it comes to 'approval'. Anything else hard to imagine when a reasonable response-time and cost efficiency is required.
Here in Europe the weight requirements for trailers without "papers" are different from country to country - another reason to stay low in empty weight.
(10-11-2020, 02:51 AM)pekingduck_imp Wrote: Uni-go and Trail-tail trailers, and probably most others, use smaller 10"-13" wheels with scooter tires that are not rated for higher speeds. Remember that they will be spinning a lot faster than a larger wheel at the same speed, and more affected by potholes. Also remember that in the US, some states reduce the speed limit with a trailer, prohibit riding in carpool lanes, and limit which lanes it can be ridden in.

I would stay away from bicycle components, as they just aren't up to the speed and safety needs. And I'd use a cast 17" front wheel with a tubeless tire. I would also recommend giving it suspension, as otherwise it would be like bolting luggage to your swingarm.

In general I agree with everything you say. Nevertheless I would first aim for something much simpler than a large wheel and suspension, and limit use to low(er) speeds, use a small size scooter wheel, and high quality axle and bearings. Instead of real suspension something (?) else, lighter in weight and rugged, tbd ... In the end you may be right, and that's not good enough, but I would try Wink
What do you think of this on the CB1100?

http://cb1100forum.com/forum/showthread....#pid277918


10-11-2020, 05:52 AM
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