Why the BOB Trailer Was Great—And What to Use Instead Now

Last Updated: March 2026

That’s my BOB trailer behind a Specialized Diverge somewhere out on a Texas highway.

Important Update: The BOB trailer is no longer being manufactured. The company has shifted its focus to strollers, and new bicycle trailers are no longer available through normal retail channels. Most listings now are used—and often priced high enough that they’re simply not worth it.

After riding well over 155,000 miles through deserts, mountains, and long stretches of open road, I’ve learned one thing the hard way—gear matters.

And for years, one piece of gear I trusted more than almost anything else was the BOB trailer.

That trailer has been with me across New Mexico, across Texas, and all the way to Florida. It carried everything I needed and never once failed me.

But if you’re planning a tour today, you need to know the truth—it’s no longer a realistic option for most riders.

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Why the BOB Trailer Was So Good

• Simple and stable: It tracked directly behind the bike, making handling predictable and easy.
• Built to last: Mine handled rain, gravel, heat, and thousands of miles without a single repair.
• Massive carrying capacity: Perfect for hauling tents, food, water, and gear on long self-supported tours.

On long rides, you almost forget it’s there—until you realize how much weight it’s carrying for you.

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The Reality Now: It’s Gone

The BOB trailer isn’t just hard to find—it’s discontinued.

And the used market? Prices are often pushed so high that it doesn’t make sense anymore.

That means if you’re starting fresh, you need a better plan.

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Best Modern Trailer Alternatives

Touring Trailer Options Available Today:

• 👉 Burley Coho XC Single-Wheel Trailer – Closest modern equivalent to the BOB trailer
• 👉 Retrospec Hauler Cargo Trailer – More affordable option for lighter loads

If you liked the BOB concept, the Burley Coho XC is the closest thing out there today.

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Best Pannier Setup (Simpler Option for Most Riders)

Reliable Pannier Gear:

• 👉 ROCKBROS Waterproof Bike Panniers – Durable and budget-friendly
• 👉 Ibera Bike Rack + Bag System – Easy setup for touring beginners

For most riders today, panniers are simpler, lighter, and easier to live with—especially when stopping, turning, or navigating towns.

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Trailer vs Panniers (Real-World Difference)

• Trailers: More capacity, easier packing, better for bulky gear
• Panniers: Lighter, simpler, easier handling in tight spaces

There’s no wrong choice—just what fits your ride.

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Final Thoughts

The BOB trailer earned its reputation on real roads over real miles.

I trusted it for years, and it never let me down.

But if you’re building a touring setup today, your best move is to choose gear that’s still available, supported, and priced realistically.

There are still great options out there—you just have to adjust.

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Related Posts

• Two Things You Need on a Long Distance Bicycle Tour
• Your First Multi-Day Bicycle Tour: FAQs for New Cyclists
• Best Touring Bikes for Long Distance Riding

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