About the Bike and Trailer

The Bike

In reaction to the signs I’ve placed on the trailer, a common exclamation I’ve heard is: “You came all the way from Montreal on that thing?!” 

As you can imagine, it’s the “that thing” that hits me each time.

For some, it’s the fact that it’s an actual pedal bike that stuns them, electronic-anything not applicable to anything that drives the bike forward.

For some, it’s the apparent weight I seem to be lugging around that’s the surprise, having done so over an already long distance.

For others, it’s the non-sleek and non-fancy, non-expensive looking vibe of it all. Surely, were I serious, I’d be pedaling and towing what looks like $20,000 worth.

One person said it best: “…on that thing?!” he said, clarifying his stupefaction with: “I mean…uh…it looks like such a mediocre bike!”

Indeed, it’s a mediocre bike. And I’m towing a mediocre trailer, to boot.

And this is a part of the appeal. At least, from my point of view.

I’m currently riding a Giant “Escape”. On many levels, it comes nowhere near matching the plusses of the Cannondale “Road Warrior” I’d loved for 17 years. But it’s no slouch; it’s a great little work horse, so who am I to complain about its colour.

Purchased used for CDN150  

The Trailer

Rather than pulling the model and brand I’d initially tried ordering straight from the manufacturer, a goof and its circumstances translate into the one that’s following me on my journey having been the best option I could find within a limited timeframe and budget.

There’s definitely lots to point out in the “minus” column, but it managed to serve me well up to this point, so I prefer not voicing my grievances, though I will mention two aspects that worth addressing:

1.       A larger wheel circumference would be far better;

2.       All rests on canvas; there are no reinforcements to the base within the rectangular frame that forms the metal skeleton.

 Purchased used for CDN150 (plus $25 for delivery—offset by sale of tools to seller)

Below are the details re parts and maintenance: