How to Hitch a Bike Trailer: A Complete Guide for the Burley Bee Double
How to Hitch a Bike Trailer: A Complete Guide for the Burley Bee Double
If you're a parent who loves cycling or just need extra cargo space, a bike trailer like the Burley Bee Double is a fantastic investment. However, hitching it properly to your bike is crucial for safety and smooth rides. In this guide, we’ll cover how to attach the Burley Bee Double to different bike models and any modifications you might need. Burley Bee bike Trailers Hire in the High Peak. – Peakbikestation
Standard Hitching Instructions for the Burley Bee Double
The Burley Bee Double comes with a universal hitch that works with most bikes. Here’s the basic setup:
What You’ll Need:
Burley Bee Double trailer
hitch arm (included)
A bike with a rear axle or frame mounting point
Step-by-Step Installation:
Locate the Hitch Point – The Burley Bee hitches to the rear axle or frame of your bike.
Remove the Rear Wheel Nut – Unscrew the quick-release or axle nut on the non-drive side (left side) of your bike.
Attach the Hitch Arm – Slide the hitch arm’s clamp between the bike frame and the axle nut, then re-tighten the nut securely.
Connect the Trailer – Align the trailer’s hitch coupler with the hitch arm and push down until it clicks into place.
Secure with Safety Strap – Loop the safety strap around the bike’s chain stay or seat stay for extra security.
Pro Tip: Always give the trailer a gentle tug after hitching to ensure it’s locked in place.
Hitching to Different Bike Models
Not all bikes are the same—some require slight adjustments or additional parts. Here’s how to hitch the Burley Bee to different bike types:
1. Mountain Bikes (MTB) & Hybrid Bikes
Most MTBs and hybrids have standard rear axles, making hitching straightforward.
If your bike has thru-axles, you’ll need an adapter (Burley sells a thru-axle conversion kit).
2. Road Bikes (Thin Frames & Quick-Release Wheels)
Road bikes often have narrow rear stays, which may interfere with the hitch clamp.
Solution: Use a Burley Hitch Adapter for Road Bikes or a seat post-mounted hitch if axle mounting isn’t possible.
3. Fat Bikes (Extra Wide Axles)
Fat bikes have wider rear axles (up to 197mm).
You’ll need a Burley Fat Bike Hitch Kit to extend the hitch arm’s reach.
4. E-Bikes (Electric Bikes)
Many e-bikes have motorized rear hubs, which can complicate hitching.
Check if your e-bike has a standard axle or requires an offset hitch adapter.
Avoid hitching to bikes with mid-drive motors if the hitch interferes with the chain stay.
5. Bikes with Fenders or Racks
If your bike has fenders or a rear rack, ensure the hitch arm has clearance.
Some riders modify the fender mounting points or use a hitch extension to avoid interference.
Modifications & Accessories
Sometimes, the standard hitch setup doesn’t work perfectly. Here are some useful modifications:
1. Hitch Stabilizer Kit
Reduces trailer sway on rough terrain.
Useful for cargo-heavy loads or off-road biking.
2. Extended Hitch Arm
Needed for fat bikes or bikes with unusual axle widths.
3. Seat post Hitch (Alternative Mounting)
If your bike frame doesn’t allow axle mounting, a seat post hitch is a great alternative.
4. DIY Solutions
Some riders fabricate custom brackets for unique bike frames.
Always ensure DIY modifications are secure and load-tested before riding.
Final Safety Checks
Before every ride:
✅ Confirm the hitch is fully locked (listen for the click).
✅ Check that the safety strap is properly secured.
✅ Ensure the trailer wheels are properly inflated.
✅ Test the setup with a short, slow ride before going full speed.
Conclusion
Hitching a Burley Bee Double trailer is simple once you know the right method for your bike. Burley Bike Trailer Hitching. Whether you have a road bike, mountain bike, e-bike, or fat bike, there’s usually a way to make it work—sometimes with a small adapter or modification.
Happy (and safe) riding! 🚴