Love this trailer, so much I bought a second one. Take note there are two versions of this trailer sold on Amaon, one in the $300 range, the other in the $200. This trailer in particular I believe is better for touring because of its features. It's lighter, has a solid panel back door with a large pocket. The wheels are quick release and seem to be of a better overall quality.
On its maiden voyage I took it on a two week trip going through several National Forests, National Parks and state parks. The paved roads weren't very good and about a 1/3 of the trip I was on dirt or gravel. I was surprised how well it held up and it seems impervious to dirt, after 6 weeks on the road (I stayed a month at one site) it looked brand new. Even the wheels.
It is very well made, the quality of the design and ease of use is excellent. You can tell a lot of thought went into the design.
The padded base of the front door, brilliant. Not only is it more comfortable for the dog it also reinforces and adds protection to the zipper. My dogs likes to rest her head on it. Safety leashes that are attached to the interior are a great feature. I harness my dogs and adjust the leashes so they can lean out but not jump out. It's useful to have the small 'sun roof' front door option built within the front door panel. When I'm on busier roads or want to be extra safe I just have the "sunroof" door open for them to pop their heads out.
The pocket on the backdoor is very handy. I store their water, bowls, snacks, food, leashes, toys, and other items that I want to quickly access.
My dogs were very reluctant at first to get in it even though they are both crate trained. I ended up taking them out separately on short trips. Lured them in with treats. After two trips each they were sold. Once we started touring, they were hooked. My Jack Russell loves to just hang out in it once we get to camp, her choice. The bigger dog fancies the tent for her space. They probably want a little space after spending time in the trailer.
On flat terrain I hardly notice the trailer, though it's obvious I'm going a lot slower than without it. Uphill it's a good work out. Going over steep paces, oy. This when one or both dogs get out, are leashed, and walk along side me as I push up the pass. They also take turns trotting alongside the bike to get a little exercise. I have one of the dog bars that attaches to the bike stem so that they can trot alongside.
The dogs are 18 and 42 pounds. They have ample room to either sit or lie down comfortably.
I've looked at other trailers, and if I was rating this trailer to the other trailers I looked at I'd give it 5/5 stars. I'm rating it against its potential.
UPDATE: 1200+ and counting. I'm planning my third trip, the Pacific Coast Bike Route, in a month. This trailer has exceeded my expectations. It's been outside for most of the time I've owned it and there is only a little fading on one of the top panels. Other than that it looks pretty darn news. 1200+ miles and only one flat tire, from a goat head, an evil spiky seed that can pierce the soul of a shoe. When I went to get the tube replaced I asked the bike mechanic if I should upgrade the tires now that I was in goat head country, he said no, they were the best tires on the market for trailers. He put goo in the tire tube and I haven't had any flats since, the flat was at about 700 miles.
This is an incredibly well designed trailer with excellent materials. I love that I can turn it into a travel kennel and that it can fold up flat. When panniers aren't enough I use the trailer to run errands, very handy.
| Brand | DoggyRide |
|---|---|
| Color | Urban Red/Black |
| Item Weight | 30 Pounds |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 110 Pounds |
| Seating Capacity | 1 |
| Harness Type | quick release |
| Maximum Height Recommendation | 25.5 Inches |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 34.8 x 25.8 x 10.6 inches |
| Package Weight | 31.2 Pounds |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 54 x 30 x 33 inches |
| Brand Name | DoggyRide |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Warranty Description | The product comes with a standard 1 year warranty on some parts, like the fabric, but the frame is warranted for 5 years. Please consult the user manual for product warranty details. Parts that have normal wear, such as tires and tubes, are excluded from warranty. |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Manufacturer | Dutch Dog Design |
| Part Number | DRNVTR09-RD |
| Outer Material | 600 denier nylon, aluminum alloy |
