How to Hitch a Bike Trailer: A Complete Guide for the Burley Bee Double
The sun is up, the flasks are filled, and the kids are ready. You're about to set off on the Longdendale Trail from Hadfield — one of the Peak District's finest family cycling routes. The only thing standing between you and the open trail is getting the Burley Bee Double hitched correctly to your bike. This guide will have you sorted in minutes.
For a full review of why we rate the Burley Bee Double so highly for Peak District family rides, read our guide: Why the Burley Bee Double Trailer is a Game-Changer. And if you'd rather hire than buy, Peak Bike Station offers Burley Bee Double trailer hire in the High Peak.
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:
1. Locate the Hitch Point – The Burley Bee hitches to the rear axle or frame of your bike.
2. Remove the Rear Wheel Nut – Unscrew the quick-release or axle nut on the non-drive side (left side) of your bike.
3. Attach the Hitch Arm – Slide the hitch arm's clamp between the bike frame and the axle nut, then re-tighten the nut securely.
4. Connect the Trailer – Align the trailer's hitch coupler with the hitch arm and push down until it clicks into place.
5. 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 before you set off on the trail. For official hitching documentation, see the Burley support page.
Hitching to Different Bike Types on Peak District Trails
The trails of the Peak District attract all kinds of riders — from hybrid bikes on the Tissington Trail to e-bikes on the Monsal Trail. Here's how to hitch the Burley Bee to different bike types:
1. Mountain Bikes & 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
Road bikes often have narrow rear stays which may interfere with the hitch clamp. Use a Burley Hitch Adapter for Road Bikes or a seat post-mounted hitch if axle mounting isn't possible.
3. Fat Bikes
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
Many e-bikes have motorised 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
Ensure the hitch arm has clearance. Some riders modify fender mounting points or use a hitch extension to avoid interference.
Useful Modifications & Accessories
Hitch Stabilizer Kit
Reduces trailer sway on rougher trail surfaces — useful if you're venturing beyond the smooth tarmac of the Tissington Trail onto more varied terrain.
Extended Hitch Arm
Needed for fat bikes or bikes with unusual axle widths.
Seat Post Hitch
A great alternative if your bike frame doesn't allow axle mounting.
DIY Solutions
Some riders fabricate custom brackets for unique frames. Always ensure any DIY modification is secure and load-tested before heading out on the trail.
Final Safety Checks Before You Hit the Trail
Whether you're heading out on the Longdendale Trail from Hadfield, the Monsal Trail from Bakewell, or the Tissington Trail from Ashbourne — run through these checks before every ride:
✅ Confirm the hitch is fully locked (listen for the click)
✅ Check the safety strap is properly secured
✅ Ensure trailer wheels are properly inflated
✅ Do a short, slow test ride before going full speed
Ready to Ride the Peak District?
Hitching the Burley Bee Double is simple once you know the right method for your bike. For further technical support, visit the Burley support page. For route ideas across the Peak District's best family trails, Peaks and Puddles and the Sustrans National Cycle Network are brilliant starting points.
Based in Hadfield at the start of the Longdendale Trail, Peak Bike Station offers Burley Bee Double trailer hire so your family can explore the Peak District in style. Happy (and safe) riding! 🚴