>>1015091I own a bob trailer. I like to use it with my hybrid bike for carrying tools and spare parts to work when i'm not in the mood to use my work truck.
In most scenarios, just using rack mounted or other bags is better. Here are some scenarios that would warrant a bob trailer.
- trail grooming to carry your chainsaw, bucket and other tools. Then you can detach and test the section you just groomed without unloading your entire bike.
- hauling firewood in large bundles to a remote campsite, if the surrounding area could not provide adequate burning material.
- visiting parks with good biking trails. I could detach the trailer at basecamp and go have fun unhindered.
- any small or medium sized dog can sit or lay down in the trailer (bed added) and have a chill time. Just attach fender-like material to keep doggos paws out of your spokes.
- riding bikes that cannot support a rack, such as a full suspension. even then i would probably use handlebar bags, and a rear seatpost bag like a revelate vicshasa.
Having a bob trailer is like owning tools. each tool can be used for a few things but is not a be-all end-all solution to everything. The bob is a log of extra weight for any load under 20lbs because your bike could support that as is. If you need to carry something bulky/heavy and dont want the weight so high up (center of gravity) then yes its worth it.
My recommendation is get a rear rack, frame bag, handlebar stuffsack, and another stuffsack for the top of the rear rack. save yourself having to cart a dry weight of 20llbs up hills. Buy lightweight and just keep things compartmentalized in bags to stay dry.
Handlebar bag - tent / hammock / bivy setup, gloves, spare socks
Frame bag - water bladder / tools for fixing bike / spare parts for fixing bike
rear panniers - food, medkit (on top), changes of clothes / camp clothes. cook kit, water filter, electronics
stuffsack - sleeping bag / top quilt and quick layer change clothes like jacket.
