Single or Dual axel trailer for bike ??
#21
02-13-2012, 05:32 AM
Road Master
A harley can't weigh more than 900 lbs. A tandem is overkill even for an enclosed trailer. Also a single axle does NOT bounce more than a tandem. Nor does it sway more. And it doesn't add anything to safety either. But it does add to the cost. You'll need new tires every 5 to 6 years regardless of mleage. Two tires are cheaper than four tires. The only reason for two axles is to carry more weight. Much more weight.
Get a dual axle, they DO ride smoother, the singles DO have a tendency to sway more, a tandem DOES add to the safety. You'll need new tires every 5-6 years with any trailer. I have a 12' Haulmark low hauler, it's an excellent towing trailer...and yes it does have tandem axles and needs it.
#23
02-14-2012, 07:26 PM
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#24
02-14-2012, 07:42 PM
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A harley can't weigh more than 900 lbs. A tandem is overkill even for an enclosed trailer. Also a single axle does NOT bounce more than a tandem. Nor does it sway more. And it doesn't add anything to safety either. But it does add to the cost. You'll need new tires every 5 to 6 years regardless of mleage. Two tires are cheaper than four tires. The only reason for two axles is to carry more weight. Much more weight.
I as at the bike show here last weekend and looked at a 8x12 single for 3995.00 but passed on it for now
#25
02-14-2012, 08:00 PM
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#26
02-14-2012, 08:13 PM
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I go with dual axles and electric brakes for the handling and safety. I will only tow with weight equalizing hitch and sway bars. I have towed in the winds across the Dakotas and didn't even notice.
The best advice that I could offer is to understand the weight loading requirements of a trailer. 60% of the load in a single axle should be ahead of the axle and 70% ahead with dual axles.
Much of the swaying of any trailer is due to how it is loaded. I have been towing all sorts of trailers since the 70's and learned many lessons.
This is my current enclosed trailer a Haulmark 8.5 by 20 to haul three bikes and living accommodations.
The best advice that I could offer is to understand the weight loading requirements of a trailer. 60% of the load in a single axle should be ahead of the axle and 70% ahead with dual axles.
Much of the swaying of any trailer is due to how it is loaded. I have been towing all sorts of trailers since the 70's and learned many lessons.
This is my current enclosed trailer a Haulmark 8.5 by 20 to haul three bikes and living accommodations.
Last edited by lh4x4; 02-14-2012 at 08:15 PM.
#27
02-14-2012, 08:16 PM
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#28
02-14-2012, 08:19 PM
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#29
02-14-2012, 08:20 PM
#30
02-14-2012, 08:24 PM
I have a Haulmark low hauler, dual axle with rubber torsion axles. A single definitely pulls easier. I got too good a deal to pass this Haulmark up, but it has a constant chop with the dual torsion axles. I use a weight equalizing hitch just to try to damp that out of it. Someone else had it right - sway is all in how it's loaded - insufficient tongue weight and the trailer will yank a vehicle all over the place. Only get dual axles if you need to haul weight, otherwise a single is just fine.
