Cycling UK Forum

How did you find your Yak? I've just taken the plunge and ordered one also.

Its a pitty ya cant take em on the train. I would have loved to use it for my end to end.

I have had some success with a Bob Yak on the train. I find that on most intercity trains that the Yak will fit between back to back seat clusters if you turn the trailer on it's side and then turn the yoke backwards and secure it with a toe strap. You can do it in one move if you turn and twist the (empty) yak into the space - which is designed for luggage after all. If pressed you could take the wheel off and try the luggage rack, or even remove the yoke temporarily to reduce the size. Note, when the Yak yoke is folded back it does not contravene the passenger luggage size regs (I have checked but some years ago, I'll admit). Good luck!

Blimey.. never thought it possible... What problems/questions did you get from the guard/ticket man.... i'm presuming it wasnt busy? did you book the tickets and enquire about the Bob Yak?

It sounds a great idea. Problem is, getting of the fast train at Edinburgh and getting onto a slower train upto wick.

Good idea though in getting to plymouth and then ferry over to nothern spain/france

Congratulations on being a new Bob owner, I loved my 10 year old Yak so much I got a new one when I felt it needed to be retired (still got it though). The original ones didn't come with a waterproof sac either so I use an Ortlieb RackPac which I find far better than the Yak offering now provided.

I put mine on trains and planes with no problems at all but I do protect the front of it with strong cardboard, it helps the baggage handlers from piercing fellow travellers luggage in the hold of the plane.

On the ferry to Bilbao this summer though which will be a first for me, not quite sure whether to leave Bob attached to the bike or take it into the cabin. If anyone has any experience of ferry travel and Bob's I would appreciate any advice.

Im just thinking.... Some backpackers go on ferrys

some have a massive back on the backs..... and it aint swishy either.... the bob yak could be made to look the same , put 2 custom made sholder straps and away you go.... there's nothing they can say? surley!

I have used a BoB for years, but it would not work with the Bromptons - so I invested in a Radical Design Cyclone Trailer

www.radicaldesign.nl

This is basically a Cordura holdall with wheels. Excellent for trains and hotels as once the wheels are off it is simply a holdall and doesn't draw any attention whatsoever.

Lee,
lost touch re: plans for the big trip - I used to be 'Sandancer' !!Unfortunately, changing jobs etc and other commitments meant I lost touch.
Good Luck for the trip - what dates did you decide on ?
I'm still hoping to make the trip as I have leave to take before end of Aug before I lose it .

Shaun

Lisap

I leave mine attached in the same way that my panniers stay on the bike – all valuables in bar bag or pockets that go with me. I have to pay extra (2 bikes) on my trip this year (Cherbourg) owing to the space taken so don’t forget to inform them you have a trailer! Can’t see the point of all the hassle associated with getting the trailer to the cabin. Take bag if u like, but I would leave trailer. Enjoy!

Hi Chrome... hope everything is ok... I have planned my route 857 mile. and have taken 2 weeks from work. I am camping all the way, but at present I need to buy some panniers. Got my eye on some ortlib 56 litres arran i think. and going to book the train the weekend.

I am going up to JOG to start this one, cannot wait

Make sure you don't loose the retaining pin when you get the rubber lanyard caught in the rear mech control cable. I had to result to nicking a bit of chain link fencing to get us aroung Ireland! The trailer is ace and will safey carry way more than the label says (alledgedly).
If you need spare pins get them from the States at chain reaction cycles. They will send you a pack of ten for about £8 as opposed to £2.95 a pop plus postage in the UK!

Lee,
all the best - hope the wind is behind you.
Let me know if you'd like some company if you're midlands way and I'll give you my contact details
Shaun

That would be fantastic.... couldnt write too much last night.. the computer is in a room next to bedroom. With the wife trying to sleep. So my constant banging on the keyboard wasnt going down too great!!!!

I am going to creat a blog on myspace (dont know how to make web sites).. and I will give more info on there (as well as here of course)

I have just bought my train ticket to Wick, from Sheffield. All through Virgin Trains (with Bike reservations - Free all the way)

Perhaps you wont believe the ticket has only cost £28.00 !!! :shock:

Good eh?

Tickets arrive in a week... so hopefully everything will be ok.... I might contact Scotrail just to make sure the bike reservation has been made... i suppose you never know!!!