Surly Bill & Ted Cargo Bike Trailers – Durable Versatile Utility Hauling

Surly's Bill & Ted trailers redefine versatility and durability in the world of bike trailers. Designed to bridge the gap between lightweight utility trailers and bulky cargo bikes, these trailers offer a robust solution for hauling a wide variety of loads—from groceries and luggage to larger, heavier items—without the hassle of owning a specialized cargo bike. With two bed lengths available, Bill for longer loads and Ted for shorter, you can select the perfect size to meet your specific needs.

Crafted from TIG-welded 4130 CroMoly steel, the frames provide exceptional strength and longevity, while corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel hardware ensures your trailer withstands the elements for years to come. The thoughtful engineering extends to the 16" wheels, which keep cargo low and stable, and the custom hubs, double-wall rims with stainless eyelets, and radially laced stainless steel spokes guarantee a smooth and reliable ride. The sturdy 1.95" tires complete the package, built to handle the demands of heavy loads with ease.

The innovative hitch system is a standout feature, designed to be as universal as possible—compatible with a wide range of bike frames including those with full suspension, disc brakes, rear racks, and fenders. This system attaches via a proprietary axle skewer or thread-on axle nuts, allowing it to fit hub widths from 120 to 145mm and wheel sizes ranging from 20" to 29". This adaptability ensures the trailer stays level regardless of the bike configuration, which is crucial when transporting long or awkwardly shaped items like lumber or ladders.

Using the Bill & Ted trailer is straightforward once you understand the basics of load distribution—placing weight over the axles for optimal balance and avoiding excessive tongue weight or rear overhang to maintain safe handling. While these trailers excel at hauling cargo, Surly advises against carrying people or pets to ensure safety for all involved. Finished with durable powder coating, these trailers are built to last and ready to tackle your toughest hauling jobs.

What It’s Good For

• Hauling a wide range of cargo including groceries, luggage, and bulky items with ease
• Providing strong, durable construction for long-lasting use in various weather conditions
• Compatibility with many types of bikes, including full suspension and those with disc brakes
• Maintaining stability and control thanks to low cargo position and balanced weight distribution
• Adjustable hitch system that fits different hub widths and wheel sizes for versatile use
• Customizable bed with threaded eyelets for adding decking, posts, or accessories

What It’s NOT Good For

• Transporting passengers or pets, as safety cannot be guaranteed in these scenarios
• Bikes without gears, since hauling heavy loads requires gear assistance for easier riding
• Handling improperly loaded cargo that causes imbalance and affects bike control
• Use on bikes with hub widths or wheel sizes outside the 120-145mm and 20"-29" range
• Situations where compact storage is a priority, as trailers require dedicated space when not in use

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Surly Bill & Ted trailers fit my bike?
Our hitch design is highly adaptable, fitting most bike frames including those with full suspension, disc brakes, rear racks, and fenders. It accommodates hub widths from 120 to 145mm and wheel sizes from 20" to 29", ensuring broad compatibility.

Can I carry my dog or child in the trailer?
Surly does not recommend carrying people or pets in these trailers. They are designed specifically for cargo, and using them to transport living passengers may lead to injury.

How do I ensure my cargo is loaded safely?
Balance is key. Load weight over the axles to avoid excess tongue weight or rear overhang, which can affect bike handling and safety. Using a bike with gears also helps manage heavier loads.

Are there options to customize the trailer bed?
Yes, the trailer beds feature threaded eyelets allowing you to bolt down decking, corner posts, or other accessories, giving you flexibility to tailor the trailer to your needs.

What materials are used in the construction?
The frame is made from TIG-welded 4130 CroMoly steel for strength and durability, with 304 stainless steel hardware to resist corrosion. The wheels feature stainless steel spokes and double-wall rims with stainless eyelets for added robustness.

Explore the full range of Surly products and consider adding complementary accessories to maximize your cargo hauling experience.