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This a review of my AOSOM bike trailer previously used in my LED build episode.
I’ve used a few times a week for grocery runs for a year.
Unlike most bike trailers, this one uses a unique seatpost connector that I really appreciate.
But it’s not perfect; the linkage itself is very secure but there is no quick way of
removing it from the bike.
If you’re using this on a trail, you may find it difficult to drop the seatpost. Hydraulic
dropper posts might not appreciate the forces at all.
Hooking it up is simple, though initially you might find securely clicking it in place
to be awkward. Once it clicked in, however, it hasn’t accidentally disengaged.
It isn’t too easy to remove, but you don’t want it to be.
The linkage is essentially a massive spring that gives it a wide range of motion; super
tight turns won’t be a problem; but the connecting arm will rub against larger tyres
when going off a tall curb.
The canvas cover comes with straps but I don’t use them, as it seems secure enough on its
own. The canvas is so tight that it’s worn some holes in the corners, and I’ll probably
patch them someday.
The trailer is easily removed from its frame, but the trade-off is a rattling noise. Some
people strap it in to reduce that. When it’s carrying weight, it’s very stable and quiet.
When it’s unloaded, hitting smaller bumps at speed can cause it to flip over and the
handle can contact your wheel, potentially spokes. There is probably some design flaw
here.
A bolt fell out of mine because I didn’t use threadlocker, but a ring clamp solved
that problem. It’s been through the most abuse recently while being pulled down the
trail carrying a 23lb battery.
It’s barely wider than me and the bike are, but like driving a tractor-trailer, make wide
turns or risk disaster.
The canvas lid is actually very good at keeping the inside dry. Water can pool up for quite
some time with no seepage.
As a kid, I always thought it would be so cool to have.. You get used to its quirks,
and I don’t think I could live without one now that I’ve used it for so long. It’s
easier to pull than you’d think, and adds momentum
on downhill.