The best places to buy a Burley bike trailer depend on your priorities: convenience, price, selection, or specialized service. Online retailers like Amazon and REI offer vast selections and often competitive pricing, while local bike shops provide expert advice and assembly assistance.
Understanding Your Burley Bike Trailer Needs
Before diving into where to buy, it’s crucial to understand which Burley trailer best suits your needs. Consider:
- Intended use: Will you primarily be hauling children, pets, cargo, or a combination?
- Terrain: Will you be riding primarily on paved roads, gravel paths, or more rugged trails?
- Budget: Burley trailers range in price, so knowing your budget beforehand will help narrow your options.
- Capacity: How much weight and how many children (if applicable) do you need to carry?
- Storage: Consider the trailer’s folded dimensions and storage requirements.
Once you’ve answered these questions, you’ll have a clearer idea of the specific Burley model you’re looking for. This makes finding the right retailer much easier.
Top Retailers for Burley Bike Trailers
Online Retailers
- Amazon: Offers the widest selection of Burley bike trailers and accessories, often with competitive pricing and free shipping for Prime members. Check reviews carefully and ensure the seller is reputable.
- REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.): A trusted retailer known for quality outdoor gear. REI offers a curated selection of Burley trailers, expert advice, and a generous return policy. They also offer in-store pickup and assembly services for online purchases.
- Burley.com (Official Website): Buying directly from Burley guarantees you’re getting authentic products and access to the latest models. While they may not always have the lowest prices, you benefit from direct support and warranty coverage.
- Backcountry.com: Specializes in outdoor gear and frequently offers discounts on Burley bike trailers. They have a knowledgeable customer service team and a good return policy.
- Etsy: Surprisingly, you might find small bike shops or individuals selling new or gently used Burley trailers on Etsy. Be sure to vet the seller carefully and read reviews before making a purchase.
Local Bike Shops (LBS)
- Benefits: Local bike shops offer expert advice, professional assembly, and personalized service. They can help you choose the right Burley trailer for your needs and ensure it’s properly installed. Many shops also offer maintenance and repair services.
- Considerations: Prices at local bike shops may be higher than online retailers. However, the added value of expert service and support can be worth the extra cost.
- Finding a Reputable LBS: Look for shops with knowledgeable staff, a wide selection of Burley products, and positive customer reviews. Ask about their assembly and service policies.
Sporting Goods Stores
- Dick’s Sporting Goods: Often carries a limited selection of Burley bike trailers, particularly the more popular models. They may offer competitive pricing, especially during sales events.
- Academy Sports + Outdoors: Similar to Dick’s, Academy may stock a few Burley trailer models. Check their website for availability and pricing.
Used Marketplaces
- Craigslist: A great place to find used Burley bike trailers at discounted prices. Inspect the trailer carefully before purchasing to ensure it’s in good condition.
- Facebook Marketplace: Similar to Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace offers a platform for buying and selling used goods. Be cautious and meet the seller in a public place.
- eBay: Another option for finding used Burley trailers. Be sure to check the seller’s feedback and read the product description carefully.
Key Considerations When Purchasing
- Warranty: Ensure the Burley trailer comes with a valid warranty. Check the warranty terms and conditions before making a purchase.
- Authenticity: Buy from reputable retailers to avoid counterfeit or substandard products.
- Shipping and Return Policies: Review the retailer’s shipping and return policies before ordering.
- Assembly: Consider whether you’ll assemble the trailer yourself or pay for professional assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the different types of Burley bike trailers available?
Burley offers a range of trailers, including: child trailers (single and double), pet trailers, cargo trailers, and even a walking/jogging stroller convertible trailer. Child trailers often feature padded seats, safety harnesses, and roll cages. Pet trailers are designed for comfortable and secure transport of your furry friends. Cargo trailers are ideal for carrying groceries, camping gear, or other heavy items.
2. How much do Burley bike trailers typically cost?
The price of a Burley bike trailer varies depending on the model and features. Entry-level models can cost around $300-$400, while higher-end models with advanced features can cost $800 or more. Pet and cargo trailers often fall in a similar price range.
3. What safety features should I look for in a Burley bike trailer?
Essential safety features include: a sturdy roll cage, a five-point safety harness, reflective materials, a safety flag, and reliable braking system. Also, ensure the trailer meets relevant safety standards.
4. Are Burley bike trailers easy to attach to a bicycle?
Yes, Burley trailers are generally easy to attach to a bicycle using a hitch system. The hitch attaches to the bike’s rear axle, and the trailer connects to the hitch. Burley provides clear instructions and videos for installation.
5. Can I use a Burley bike trailer with any type of bicycle?
Burley trailers are compatible with most bicycles, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and e-bikes. However, it’s essential to ensure the hitch is compatible with your specific bike frame. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
6. How much weight can a Burley bike trailer carry?
The weight capacity of a Burley trailer varies depending on the model. Child trailers typically have a weight capacity of around 100 pounds, while cargo trailers can carry up to 100 pounds or more. Pet trailers usually have a lower weight limit. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s weight limit.
7. Are Burley bike trailers waterproof or water-resistant?
Most Burley trailers are water-resistant, but not fully waterproof. They can withstand light rain and splashes, but prolonged exposure to heavy rain may require additional protection, such as a rain cover.
8. How do I clean and maintain my Burley bike trailer?
Regular cleaning and maintenance will extend the life of your Burley trailer. Use mild soap and water to clean the fabric and frame. Lubricate moving parts and check tires regularly. Store the trailer in a dry place when not in use.
9. Can I convert a Burley bike trailer into a stroller or jogger?
Yes, some Burley trailers can be converted into strollers or joggers with the addition of conversion kits. This adds versatility to the trailer and makes it useful even when you’re not biking. These kits are usually sold separately.
10. What is the warranty on Burley bike trailers?
Burley offers a limited warranty on its trailers. The specific terms of the warranty vary depending on the model and the component. Check the Burley website for detailed warranty information.
11. How do I find replacement parts for my Burley bike trailer?
Replacement parts can be purchased from Burley’s website, authorized retailers, or online marketplaces like Amazon. Be sure to have your trailer’s model number handy when ordering parts.
12. What are some common problems encountered with Burley bike trailers, and how can I fix them?
Common problems include: tire punctures, loose hitch connections, and fabric tears. Regularly check tire pressure, tighten the hitch connection, and repair any fabric tears promptly. Consult the Burley owner’s manual for troubleshooting tips. If you encounter a more serious problem, consider taking your trailer to a local bike shop for repair.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing where to buy your Burley bike trailer requires careful consideration of your needs and priorities. Online retailers offer convenience and competitive pricing, while local bike shops provide expert service and support. By understanding the different types of Burley trailers, key safety features, and maintenance requirements, you can make an informed decision and enjoy countless adventures with your family, pets, or cargo. Ultimately, the best place to buy is the retailer that offers the best combination of price, selection, and service for you.