Written By: Jonathan
Fact Checked By: Caroline Dezendorf
Reviewed By: Matt Tanner
There is an easier way available as most modern bike trailers are now designed with a user-friendly folding system that really makes transportation and storage a lot easier.
Whether you want to take it with your kid, pet or for cargo purpose along with your trainer, you should know how to fold it properly which actually saves a lot of space and also protects the trailer from damages and in fact increases its lifespan.
Not only that, there are several popular bike trailer brands available like Burley, Schwinn, and Thule, which come with new features called quick-release wheels and collapsible frames, which actually fold up in less than a minute.
When you know the correct and ideal method on How To Fold a Bike Trailer, you can fold it easily which provides better access to the internal joints and frame.
Fold Down the Canopy and Remove the Wheels
Many bicycle trailers are available with a canopy or sunshade that protects children or luggage from sun, wind or light rain.
So you’ll need to drop the canopy before you can fold the trailer.
Just look for the Velcro straps, zipper, or snap-on buttons that actually hold the canopy in place.
And then gently open or unfold these parts and carefully fold the canopy down, this will actually protect the fabric from getting torn or pinched during the folding process.
Now, it’s time to remove the trailer wheels: since most modern bike trailers use a quick-release system, which means you can press a button in the center of the wheel or you can simply pull a small lever to unlock the wheel.
Therefore, place the wheels in a safe place, such as on a soft surface, to avoid scratching the rim.
Collapse the Trailer Frame
Now that you have folded the canopy and removed the wheels, the next step is to close the main frame of the bicycle trailer, and there is a folding frame system available for most bike trailers that includes one or more hinges, locking pins or release levers.
You can find them in the middle of the trailer or near the rear support bar, and then look for colored tabs, metal clips, or plastic levers, and you may even see labels there like: “Press,” “Unlock,” or “Fold Here” to make it easier for you.
Now all you have to do is press or pull these mechanisms as instructed in your manual or whatever it may be.
So, once you have the hinges open, you now need to fold the sides of the trailer inwards towards the centre, also most models are designed to fold like a flat suitcase so you can fold them easily and they are really convenient for storage.
Then you also have to fold the rear support bar, which is the part near where the wheels are and then finally you can easily fold the front frame, if your model has this option.
Yes, it depends on the turning direction: Burley trailers actually turn from the top inward, but Allen Sports trailers actually turn from the back inward to the front.
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Conclusion
Folding a bicycle trailer is a very simple thing, and yes, you have to fold it back after using it as it is very important to protect it from unnecessary damage and actually it saves a lot of space when it is folded properly.
Also, users who actually fold and store their bicycle trailer in the proper locations have a 50% chance of experiencing frame or joint problems with their bicycle trailer over time, so this is a good habit to follow.
Not just that, folding trailers like the Travoy are actually praised for their portability and versatility as you can carry them around in urban commutes as Burleigh actually shows, the Travoy can be folded and unfolded in just 1 to 2 minutes, making them extremely quick to fold and unfold.[¹]
If you still have confusion about How To Fold a Bike Trailer, just comment below.
FAQ’s On How To Fold a Bike Trailer
Q1. Do All Bike Trailers Fold the Same Way?
Answer: The quick and real answer is no, because each brand and model may have different folding mechanisms, so you need to refer to the manual first and then follow this guide to fold the trailer safely and quickly.
Q2. How Should I Store My Folded Trailer To Keep It In Good Shape?
Answer: You should always look for a dry, cool and properly clean place and there can be many places available for this like: cupboard, garage shelf or even under the bed.
References:
[1] Folding Trailer for Folding Bikes: Compact Cargo Carrier
https://www.wired.com/2010/03/folding-trailer-for-folding-bikes-compact-cargo-carrier/
Jonathan, the passionate owner of Bicycle Time, brings a lifelong love for bikes and automotive craftsmanship, that reflects into every corner of the shop. With deep passion in both cycling and automotive accessories, Jonathan is more than just an expert.