Hi guys, with this mail i would like to put down all the points, questions and requirements regarding the possibility to build a WVU Cycling bike trailer. Every single person is strongly encourage to comment and criticize.
-Technical Chapter: 1) the trailer needs to be big enough to transport at least 10 bikes (approx. 10 ft long) but not too heavy in order to be used even by sedan car. 2) the best configuration is to put the bikes transverse the longitudinal axis of the trailer. 3) it could be possible to use a flat bed, or with low profile sidewall. In the second case it needs to be at least 8ft wide in order to be able to accommodate a 29er with wheels without disassemble it. 4) a big plastic box could fitted on the tongue of the trailer to be used as an additional storage during trips. 5) each pair of bikes is going to be fitted to a vertical steel structure, such a a rack, in order o guarantee a proper solid anchor point ( in this way either road or mountain bike can be fitted easily) 6) - Economical Chapter: 1) the cost of a brand new flatbed with sidewall (8'x10') is in the range of 1300$ (most expensive solution) 2) the cost of a used flatbed in good condition (6'x10') is in the range of 700$ (lest expensive solution) 3) it could be possible to contact trailer manufacturer or sponsorship ( I can try to look for something, but the marketing guy have o contact them) 4) Steel necessary for the structure is 200$ 5) Paint 150$ 6) tie-down and harness and miscellaneous 100$ 7) plastic box 100$ 8) Registration fee 80$ tot: 1930$ (worst case) or 1330$ (best case) or 630$ with sponsorship - Construction 1) I have the experience to design and build the structure, the team is composed of a lot of mechanical engineers who are able to review the design and verify the quality of the construction (for safety reasons) 2) it can be build in my garage with my tools, and use at the same time the machining shop of mechanical engineering - Maintenence 1) this kind of utility trailer require very little maintenance, which is possible to identify in 150$ per year at most 2) the maintenence involes: brake pads (if equipped), tires and lights - Property and Parking: 1) Parking the trailer is a delicate and serious topic which needs to be discussed in the next meeting. But I truly believe that someone in the team has a free parking spot or we can directly ask to WVU is they can provide a parking spot for free within the campus. 2) If the WVU cycling team is a juridical personality the ownership is not a problem. If not I suggest to be the owner of the trailer one of the leading figures within the team - Liability 1) the damages provoked to people of structures by the trailer are going to be covered by the insurance of the car towing it - Usage 1)it can be used for racing or for rides by the people's team thanks!
