Towing The Elio / Towing With The Elio

[JEBar]

Outsyd--- if your hitch can support 150 lbs. You don't need a trailer. Just mount a box to the hitch.

with the rear frame and cowling it may or may not be possible to mount a small receiver for a trailer hitch .... this link http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/41775/i/khrome-werks-1-1-4-receiver-trailer-hitch shows one for standard motorcycle that shouldn't fit an Elio but can illustrate what I'm referring to .... one could be used to mount a hitch for a trailer or a small carrier .... with a carrier my concern would be the force exerted on the Elio's frame as the rig bounces down the road

Jim

 

[Rickb]

Interesting MC hitch option that might be Elio adaptable.

 

[skygazer6033]

Rickb---I've never been a fan of single wheel trailers but this is cool. It would also make dodging potholes and road debris easier than having 2 extra wheels.

 

[outsydthebox]

Outsyd--- if your hitch can support 150 lbs. You don't need a trailer. Just mount a box to the hitch.

Yes, that Is possible, as long as the carrier does not extend past the sides. which limits (IMO) the size to about 2'x2'x2' ...or 8 cu. ft. It "could" create almost zero added drag as it could become an extension to the body. And I do like that as an option. Great for a small/medium grocery run. But It also puts ALL of the weight on the rear suspension.
As to what "the hitch can support"? I will be fabbing it myself (It will be over engineered) , and bolted it to the frame, or possibly, bolted to tabs that are welded to the frame. An access hole will need to be cut in the plastic wheel shroud.

 

[outsydthebox]

RickB, that is exactly what is needed for a hitch.
http://www.elioowners.com/attachments/image-jpg.2464/

 

[skygazer6033]

Ok sorry to sound pessimistic (especially on something I really like the looks of) but I don't think a single wheel trailer is such a good idea after all. The problem is roll control. The Elio has none in the back. In a turn the twisting moment of a single wheel trailer is going all the way through the frame to fall upon the outboard front wheel and try to lift the inboard wheel. Neither of which is something you want to happen. A single wheel trailer towed by a 2 wheel motorcycle banks with the bike so no sideload or twisting is encountered. Looks like a small 2 wheel trailer is still the best all round choice.

 

[outsydthebox]

Ok sorry to sound pessimistic (especially on something I really like the looks of) but I don't think a single wheel trailer is such a good idea after all. The problem is roll control. The Elio has none in the back. In a turn the twisting moment of a single wheel trailer is going all the way through the frame to fall upon the outboard front wheel and try to lift the inboard wheel. Neither of which is something you want to happen. A single wheel trailer towed by a 2 wheel motorcycle banks with the bike so no sideload or twisting is encountered. Looks like a small 2 wheel trailer is still the best all round choice.

I appreciate your incite. I think it is safe to say, anything that "can" be done safely can also be royally screwed up! We already know that any vehicle towing any type of trailer, handles differently and requires extra attention and care. The same goes for a pickup truck bed. Empty or full...you drive it differently. I am personally willing to design and test a one wheeled trailer for my personal use. I may get it done and come to the conclusion that you are right. Weather it is a success or a failure, I will gladly post the results.

 

[tazairforce]

Wow. So two wheels in the front 60 some inches apart. One wheel in the back, centered on the car. And now two more wheels, maybe three feet apart on the trailer. Can you imagine trying to dodge something in the road with all of that? Like playing twister!

Yep!!! It'll be interesting with a 'Big' learning curve.
You'll have 5 wheel tracks, missing a pot hole bigger than a half a brick could pose a problem. If you run up on a pot hole bigger than that just shut your eyes and give it some gas. You can sort it out when you're past it. Hopefully the trailer will still be on it's wheels. If not you've got a bigger problem.

I tow with a 2 wheel bike and will tow with my Elio.

 

[Stugotz]

Interesting MC hitch option that might be Elio adaptable.
View attachment 2462 View attachment 2463 View attachment 2464

I would like to see Elio put a mounting plate (4 holes) behind the license plate or behind a removable panel, which ever location is suited best for strength. The advertising campaign would show the Elio with mountain bikes, maybe a stroller on a small platform, or a small accessory box that fit the rear panel to show that it is adaptable to active lifestyle. I think it would help to show that is has the ability to add additional space and function.

For those of us getting a little older, an airbag mount for the swing arm so we can mount a mobility scooter..

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[goofyone]

I would like to see Elio put a mounting plate (4 holes) behind the license plate or behind a removable panel, which ever location is suited best for strength. The advertising campaign would show the Elio with mountain bikes, maybe a stroller on a small platform, or a small accessory box that fit the rear panel to show that it is adaptable to active lifestyle. I think it would help to show that is has the ability to add additional space and function.

For those of us getting a little older, an airbag mount for the swing arm so we can mount a mobility scooter..

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Unfortunately due to handling and liability issues it does not look like we will be getting official rear mounting and/or towing support. Just like many small cars and most motorcycles these features will be provided by the aftermarket and will be installed and used at our own risk.

Officially sanctioned mounting points will be provided on the roof. We will be able to peel back the black rubber roof trim strips and underneath will be mounting hard points with one side also providing electrical connections.