Haul an Extra Bike on the Xtracycle - Easy Fork Mount Carrier

Intro: Haul an Extra Bike on the Xtracycle - Easy Fork Mount Carrier

Too much fun with the Xtracycle http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mbgqsGwZj4s&feature=g-upl

The Xtracycle cargo bike is famous for hauling everyone and anything.  Occasionally you also need to haul an extra bike.   But normally carrying a bike on a bike is typically somewhat awkward even for a longtail cargo bike.  You can see some other nice solutions on the Xtracyle gallery here: http://www.xtracyclegallery.com/2010/10/519-mike-xtracycle.html or http://www.flickr.com/photos/grrsh/4438906597/. 

Here is a simple solution using a commercial fork mount carrier adapted to fit the side tubing of the Xtracyle.

Parts list -
1. Fork Mount Bike Hitch available through Amazon 
http://www.amazon.com/Delta-Cycle-Bike-Hitch-Lockable/dp/B0055R3PB4/ref=pd_sim_sbs_sg_2

or many others including Niagra http://www.niagaracycle.com/product_info.php?products_id=801159

Quantity 1                         -                                                                                                                                            price ~  $15

2. Piece of ~12 inch by   7/8 inch (22.2 mm) exterior diameter pipe
Quantity 1               Home depot, Loews                                                                                                                  scrap or $5  

3.  Bolts 1.5 inch long, 5 mm or larger
Quatntiy 3                 Home depot, Loews                                                                                                                scrap or $2.00

STEP 1: Step 1 - Drill and Bolt

1. Drill 2 holes to mount the fork hitch carrier to the pipe
2. Bolt the fork hitch carrier to the pipe.
3. Drill a 3rd hole to mount the pipe to the Xtracycle front tube

STEP 2: Step 2 - Mount the Bike Carrier to the Xtracycle

1. Insert the bike carrier pipe into the Xtracycle front tube.
2. Bolt the bike carrier pipe hitch to the Xtracycle tube.
3. Remove front wheel from bike to be carried.
4. Place fork in carrier.
5. Tighten quick release bolt.
6. Test for stability and ride.

Comments

[pobriant]

Excellent comment. And I totally agree. Placing the carrier in the rear is a better idea.
The only advantage of using the front tube of the Xtracycle is to keep the "train" a little shorter but as it is fairly long anyway, another two feet does not make much difference.

Thanks,
Pat

[jdockery1]

I think adding the bike carrier to the rear of the bike would be more effective. and if you are helping someone out they can ride while you tow their bike.

[fungus amungus]

Nice trick. I had an xtracycle for years and hauled ridiculous amounts of stuff with it.