How to Install a Schwinn Bike Trailer

Bike trailers are a boon to the bicycle-loving parent. Now a parent and small child alike can enjoy a bicycle ride simultaneously. The Schwinn trailer attaches to an average bicycle by virtue of tow bar, a secure metal arm that allows the trailer to follow behind the bicycle. Assembly requires little effort and, depending on your bike model, just your hands to install.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench (as needed)

Instructions

1. Loosen the left side, rear bicycle wheel axle nut. If the bike is outfitted with a quick-release skewer, simply open the arm of the skewer on the ride side of the axle and unthread the left side nut. If the bike does not have a quick release, use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the left side nut from the axle.

2. Slide the plastic tab washer included with the trailer over the left side of the axle. It should fit flush against the frame of the bike.

3. Fit the included coupler plate on the left side of the axle so that the tab at the back of the plate fits into the holes on the plastic tab washer. Once installed, the large hole in the coupler plate will be located below the axle.

4. Replace the nut on the end of the axle. For quick-release skewers, tighten the nut with your fingers and then close the lever on the right side of the skewer. For wheels without quick-release skewers, thread the nut on by hand and then tighten fully with the adjustable wrench.

5. Slide the end of the trailer tow bar into the large hole on the coupler plate. Secure the bar in place by installing the fastening pin, also included, through the eyelet in the coupler plate.

6. Loop the safety strap attached to the tow bar around the tube of the frame extending vertically from the axle, which is called the seat stay. Clip the end of the strap in place on the D-ring on the two bar.

References

• InStep: Bike Trailers

Resources

• SchwinnBike: Bicycle Trailers