Pusher Trailer (new build)

lowracer

Member
Local time
8:13 AM
Joined
May 1, 2008
Messages
612
Location
Charleston, SC
Having had this engine on the front wheel, then on the rear wheel, then on some skateboard wheels(bad idea), then back on the front wheel, I decided to do a pusher trailer.
I invite any and all opinions on the best methods of trailer hookup?
This is geared for the ~50 mph range but will rarely get pushed that fast.
I did some research & still haven't settled between seatpost mount or axle mount.
The tandem brake cable came in the mail a few days ago, so the throttle hookup & bike interchangeability will be a snap.
Here is what I've got put together so far.
-Lowracer-
 

Attachments

  • IMG00245-20101230-0904.jpg
    IMG00245-20101230-0904.jpg
    78.3 KB · Views: 5,605
  • IMG00246-20101230-0905.jpg
    IMG00246-20101230-0905.jpg
    87.8 KB · Views: 3,981
I'm working on one now that will be axle mounted. I will be using a 10mm threaded rod (McMaster #98861A530) to replace the hollow axle in my Shimano rear hub. The trailer will attach with 10mm rod ends (McMaster #59935K84) slipped over the threaded rod. A vertical pivot will be located between the bike and trailer. The result will be similar to this Nashbar trailer
 
bodged bikes,
Very cool...I get stuff from Mcmaster Carr & love that company.
Here are a few more pics as I've just about completed it today.
Using just bike parts, scrap metal, nuts & bolts & a skateboard wheel for belt tensioner. Yeah its a carbon road fork...lol
Just need to hook up the throttle cable & re-install the muffler.
I took it for a test drive unmotored & everything is functioning properly as far as turning & bumps go.
-lowracer-
 

Attachments

  • IMG00247-20101230-1535.jpg
    IMG00247-20101230-1535.jpg
    94.9 KB · Views: 4,918
  • IMG00249-20101230-1535.jpg
    IMG00249-20101230-1535.jpg
    109 KB · Views: 2,138
  • IMG00250-20101230-1536.jpg
    IMG00250-20101230-1536.jpg
    109.6 KB · Views: 2,147
  • IMG00248-20101230-1535.jpg
    IMG00248-20101230-1535.jpg
    97.3 KB · Views: 2,417
BB,
Thanks.
I really like trying to come up with ways to use old bike parts that are littering up the garage in ways to solve mechanical challenges. I may switch the mounting system to rear axle to see how it handles & 'feels'. The long arm connecting trailer to seatpost has a bit of flex either in the arm itself or the mount to the trailer which is another bike stem (or a combination of the two) which I'm not comfortable with especially if I go fast. If I dont go axle mount, I'll definitely shorten up the distance I got it at now since its a bit long. Always easier to remove than add I always say...lol
-lowracer-
 
Rode the bike w/motorized trailer today after tightening the tongue area up.
Hate to say it , but I'm not loving the pusher trailer layout & will be taking it all apart again. Feels like driving a tractor trailer (or maybe a tandem bicycle) & not what I expected. It was cool to build & test it out however.
-lowracer-
 
The engine is mounted to high. You'll have problems with the ergonomics. Use a smaller wheel and lower the engine, that will help with stability performance.
 
Having had this engine on the front wheel, then on the rear wheel, then on some skateboard wheels(bad idea), then back on the front wheel, I decided to do a pusher trailer.
I invite any and all opinions on the best methods of trailer hookup?
This is geared for the ~50 mph range but will rarely get pushed that fast.
I did some research & still haven't settled between seatpost mount or axle mount.
The tandem brake cable came in the mail a few days ago, so the throttle hookup & bike interchangeability will be a snap.
Here is what I've got put together so far.
-Lowracer-

I like your set up. How does the cycle wheel compare to a smaller driving wheel? I am looking at a 35cc pusher motor. What is the best HP output and size for a pusher load 75kg plus pusher and bike? The toothed belt loooks efficient is it?
 
Back
Top