Dedicated to the movement of cargo, passengers and yourself.
Getting Started
Longtails are an evolutionary, logical next step in the utility cycling movement. If you're looking for trailer utility but don't want the hassle of hitching up a trailer, a longtail may be just what you're after. Longtails, usually based on Xtracycle's open-source design standard, bridge the gap between trailer and bike. Handling more like your bike normally would, longtails are available as both conversion kits for your existing bike as well as complete bikes. Both accept myriad accessories such as blenders, electric assists, and cargo add-ons for loads as diverse as ladders, surfboards, and people!
Features to consider
- Wheels and Brakes: Longtail kits are available for both 700c and 26" wheeled bicycles and support both disc and v-brakes. The kit attaches to your bike's rear dropouts and to the chainstays, just behind the bottom bracket, extending your wheelbase by about 14 1/2" and creating all kinds of opportunity for expansion. Two vertical and two horizontal ports on either side of the kit form the foundation of the system, accepting a variety of racks, creating a whole rainbow of cargo carrying configurations.
- Accessories: If the longtail kit is the blank canvas, it's the accessories that you use to paint your masterpiece. Using the vertical ports, you can install the venerable V-Racks, which form the foundation of the system. Or you can plug in a set of Adventure Racks and take advantage of those panniers. To these racks you can attach FreeLoader saddlebags or some DryLoader drybags. The icing on this cargo cake comes in three flavors: SnapDeck, TekDeck, or MagicCarpet. The SnapDeck is the jack of all decks, allowing you to carry passengers, boxes, or whatever. The TekDeck is more minimal, designed to hold the system together without adding a lot of weight. And the MagicCarpet is meant to protect your most precious cargo, your friends and family.
- Horizontal Ports: The horizontal ports are meant for WideLoaders, LongLoaders, KickBacks, a TrayBien, or everyone's favorite, Footsies. WideLoaders support cargo that doesn't fit well into the FreeLoader saddlebags. LongLoaders piggyback onto the WideLoaders, allowing you to carry longer items, like ladders, without interfering with your pedal stroke. The KickBack is a motorcycle-style kickstand strong enough to hold up your whole cargo rig. The TrayBien is a convenient way to carry another bike on your bike, 'cuz you never know when you need a spare. And Footsies, of course, are the most comfortable way to haul your human cargo.
- Want to Bring More?: Something to keep in mind is that longtails are fully compatible with most two-wheeled bike trailers. So if you have an insatiable appetite for cargo capacity, don't fear, just hitch up a trailer and take along whatever you want. This is also very handy when you need to transport your child and cargo.
