Sorry Cat, there is no technical data to post. This entire project was done "free hand" as they say. I took no physical measurements to speak of. Everything was more or less eye balled into place. I was using my own body dimensions to get the sizing needed. This was the third iteration, and its still not perfect. When you look at it from behind you can see that one side sits a little higher. Heck the tubing was bent using a hand held conduit bender. What can I say? Sorry. Cheers
I incorporated a wheel set that I had ordered from Wike bicycle trailers out of Guelph, Ontario. The assembly required a fair bit of creative problem solving to work with this application. I will do a follow up vid to illustrate what I did. Cheers
Modifying a pulko sled ,, looking to see what's out there ,, for both snow and hard trail surfaces...interesting design..as many are now out there..fulfilling a need...I see this is a pretty old video,,did you pursue any other items or market this ?? .....Rick
I got involved with a fellow in China who was keen on building these, but we fell out over differences of opinion. Not sure if he ever did anything with it. This particular model served me well on a 400 km hike. Cheers from Montreal QC
When I designed and tested this cart I was hauling 75 lbs up Mount Royal and back (a 10 mile course). On the way down I was actually running. In this manner I could repeatedly complete the course in under 2.5 hours. The wheels I use are 16 inch pneumatic with tubes on plastic rims. The beauty is that they work just as well without air. In this video with a 50 lb load they have no air. Long story short: flat tires, no problem. Any more questions, give a shout. Cheers
The 16 inch wheel set was ordered from a company in Ottawa called Wike Trailers. The square tubing that links the wheel set and acts as the undercarriage came from Home Depot. The round tubing that makes up the deck frame also came from HD. I "rented" a pipe bending tool from HD as well to bend all the angles in the round tubing. That was pretty much an eyeball operation since I had no exact measurements for any of this. The decking is an old magic carpet snow sled. Very durable material. I cut it to fit and used a half inch grommet kit that I had hanging around. I think I bought it from HD as well. The decking is attached to the frame with UV resistant zip ties. The two halves of the deck frame tubing are connected by inserting a wooden dowel at the joint. A black plastic cabinet door handle is screwed in to complete the connection. The harness is made from a large sized fanny (butt) pack that I had picked up years ago from Mountain Equipment Co-op. Sadly they no longer produce that model, but there are certainly other options available. I attached a carabiner to each side of the pack and used a prusik not to hold on to the round tubing. This is a constrictor knot, so when tension is applied it holds fast and will not slide. Remove the load tension, and you can position the knot wherever you like. Pure genius. On the square tubing of the top brace I added two additional black plastic handles. This was purely for aesthetic reasons, and because I had them laying around. Later, they proved to be quite functional as well for lashing various items to the rig. Also not shown in this video is the shoulder harness system that I added to the butt pack. I found this a necessary addition for pulling any load heavier the 40 lbs. I'll chip in a link to show how this set-up ended up working for a project of mine. Let me know if you have any other questions. Cheers from Montreal QC th-cam.com/video/KL4LalWNVHc/w-d-xo.html
It's called a prussic knot. It's a well known knot in the world of mountain climbing - useful for climbing a fixed rope - but it has a gozillion other applications. I use the same knot to attach my hammock tarps to the tarp ridge line. This means I can adjust the tarp along the line depending on how far apart the trees are from one another. Very handy. Cheers
The rod I bought at Reno Depot, a hardware store in Montreal. I was able to bend it using a pipe bending tool (from a Home Depot store) that electricians use for bending galvanized conduit pipe. The wheels I ordered from Wike Bicycle Trailers in Quelph, Ontario (I live in Canada as you may have guessed). Let me know if you have any other questions. Cheers
Feel free to take the idea and run with it (literally). I like this design because it's well balanced which actually makes it possible to run with a 50lb load. Thanks for watching and for especially for your comments. Cheers
I ended up using this rig for a 200km trek from Montreal to Ottawa several years ago as part of a funder raising project for the Canadian Cancer Society. I believe my total pack load was around 30 pounds. The rig performed well, but my feet suffered terribly after the four day hike. I'll see if I can find the video from that misadventure... th-cam.com/video/KL4LalWNVHc/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/Q5b-RK-e73E/w-d-xo.html Best of luck. Cheers from Montreal QC
I think I'm gonna try use some of these ideas to convert an old folding shopping cart I found beside a dumpster to something like this. What did you use for axle & wheels?
I built this one with the intention of doing an unsupported transcontinental hike (or less). It pack a shit pile of gear and is a breeze to pull. Best of luck to you on your endeavors. Cheers
THAT IS JUST TOO F---ING COOL! I have looked at a lot of other ideas in this vane but buddy you got this one nailed. Did not see a thing I would change!
I just finished a 160km hike in three days with this cart. My loaded weight (including the weight of the cart) was 64lbs. My goal was to travel 400km in 7 days. Unfortunately, my feet got totally fried. Still, its a great testament to the capability of the cart. It exceeded my expectations. Check out the links below. th-cam.com/video/KL4LalWNVHc/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/Q5b-RK-e73E/w-d-xo.html Cheers from Montreal QC
+Jeff Spate i have some difficult with english ! I'm from Brazil... I'm planning to hike the camino de santiago, 800km ! , with this backpack trailer. Your's the best I've seen: simple, practical and beautiful ! Mine will be a copy at "long distance" of yours!
Cool idea dude! I built something similar to it to use on the Pacific trail a few years back and had good success with it. But... yours gives me ideas to improve upon both for the trek. Thanks! Great vid!
Tankies! Will do that. Keep up the cool stuff. I love it when you come up with all these economical alternatives and just plain nifty items. All the best!
I am definitely going to have to build one of these, I am getting older and can't take a heavy load on my back anymore. Is it possible to get a detailed list of what you used and some pictures of the axles? The axles would be the biggest challenge for me.
I looked at the deer carts. They're too heavy (my opinion). I am still planning a hike from Montreal to Quebec City towards the end of May, early June. That's a trek of about 160 miles. My goal for that trip is 30 miles per day (LOL). You'll get your much awaited update after that. Cheers
A wheeled travois. Cool. All you need is a shell to act as a weather cover and possibly a temporary shelter. I would have is longer in length to accommodate a longer stride and I'd go with a conventional 16 inch fat bike tire. Very cool! This is very inspirational and totally a something I'd want to have for those walk-abouts.
Hey Fred! I ordered them a place in Ottawa, Ontario here in Canada (see link). wicycle.com/support/replacementparts Great folks to work with. I was surprised to find that they are still in business. I think they will ship to Sweden. If not, well to hell with them. I can attest to the durability of the components that they sell. Two thumbs up all the way. Cheers from Montreal QC (Canada)
Always a pleasure. Please feel free to borrow this design. It worked brilliantly for a 200km trip I took a few years ago walking from Montreal to Ottawa as part of a fund raising project. Cheers from Montreal QC
It's a Rickshaw for the Bush :) Pretty cool... I sure could have used one (or a couple) of these a few years ago when my son went camping with his girlfriend! They didn't understand the concept of 'traveling light' and I had to help them transport some of their gear.
Heya Jeff, I don't have any material to heat-bend the alluminium and don't want to get gaz in my appartement (Living in the Mile End) would you .... do some for me ?
Getting ready for the Appalachian from Canadian side NB to Unitedstatian side Georgia and maybe even further down in New France (or what's used to be so)
+Eric Vanh I just used a cheap'o pipe bender to do my thing. I'm happy to lend a hand if you need help. Call me: 514-276-1046. I'll be home Tuesday afternoon. Cheers
Please let me know how this works when you do your hike. Does it restrict your gait any? This is pretty much exactly what I've been looking for, as I'm planning to thru-hike the American Discovery Trail. There are lots of places where the trail is pretty narrow, steep, rocky, etc etc. How much weight do you think it would hold? I was thinking about building something like this but adding little camping pod made out of a pickle barrel (?) for more protection than a tent (bearophobia). Also, it almost looks like it could be used as a little chair if you get tired and need to rest. Could you post more photos or give more details as to how you attached the wheel assembly to the frame?
Hey Bonnie, Sorry for the late reply. Here is is a link to the trailer, Toto 2 A Grand Day Out With The Toto II Trekking Trailer I took it for a hike on city streets, open trails, and a little bushwhacking before nearly slicing off my thumb while making a spot of lunch. This rig is awesome. No matter how much you load it, there is no extra weight on your back, hips, knees, or feet. Wonderful stuff! And it also makes a great recliner when braced against a tree or post. Cheers from Montreal QC
You said you used a curtain rod,but didn't catch where you said you got it?? I have never seen a curtain rod that skinny..all the ones I've ever used are twice that diameter! how did you make the bends without kinking it? sand inside? and lastly,where did you get the wheels? this gives me an idea for a cart of my own,though different in style..more squared off,like a wood cart! Thanks in advance for any info you can share!
I used this rig for a 200 km hike from Montreal to Ottawa several years ago. I met a guy who lived in China that wanted to mass produce the trailer, but that never really got off the ground. I have since dismantled the thing, and now use the wheels for my bike trailer. Cheers from Montreal QC
sweet cart . i have all the materials to replicate this ...but how did you bend the tubing ? that's the only question i have . for now . i realize this was published years ago but i just found it recently . thanks in advance for any help on this .
In the electrical department at Home Depot I found a tool used to bend galvanized electrical conduit. It's not an exact science, to be sure, but it did the trick. It helps to have good eyes for eyeballing. My eyesight ain't that great, but it appears to be good enough. Cheers from Montreal QC
Jeff Spate thanks , when i get it done i'll put up a video . i ran across an old boat bimini cover . nice aluminum pipe , some bends in it i may be able to use . we shall see .
How fast can you stop from a full run with that fully loaded? Does it feel like there's much danger of it bowling you over? I can imagine it wouldn't be hard to give it real brakes with levers by your side, but maybe there's no point unless you're pulling a lot more weight. Nice job. I'm really inspired. I'm going to be spending some time thinking about what additional uses might come from this essential design.
If I were making a steep decent on rough terrain, some sort of hand brake would be a wonderful feature. However, the design brief did not call for that particular scenario. Primary intent for this design was road use. I chose to illustrate its versatility by taking it off road. Amazingly, it does not feel like it will bowl you over. That might change, however, as load weight is increased. I've loaded it to 75 pounds and run down the trail from the top of Mount Royal here in Montreal with no problems what so ever. Cheers
I like this a lot better than the two I put together. I like the idea of the bigger wheels, and how you angled out the bottom, not to mention using a fanny pack. Like, duh, why didn't I think of that. I was always playing havoc with trying to attach my cart to an unpadded military belt. Not to mention, after watching yours, mine is clearly not wide enough. Really slick! Good Job!!
I think this is really a cool idea! Especially for someone like me - 65 but fairly fit. I could go a lot further with this than a backpack. Mmmmmm. Are the wheels solid or air filled?
Hey Bonnie, The frame for this carrier is made using an aluminum curtain rod. The axle is an aluminum box tube. The wheels have their own spindles that are fixed to the plastic connection pieces. It's not complicated, but my description might make it sound so. Glad you like this rig. I'm taking it out tomorrow for a 400 km shake down. I'm doing a cancer walk from Montreal to Ottawa and back in 7 days. The carrier is my life line. We'll see if Toto 2 can get the job done. Cheers from Montreal QC
God speed. I look forward to updates. I'm working on transforming a little golf-bag cart (because it was 10 bucks), but if I had any spare change, I'd definitely prefer yours.
These should be a common fixture at every outfitter or sporting goods store! Almost every thru-hiker I've seen pushes a jogging stroller. Why not pull hands-free instead of actively pushing with both hands.
This past May I used it to haul 60lbs of gear 165km in three days (a walk-a-thon to raise money for cancer research). The cart performed remarkably. Regrettably, my feet did not.... I give Toto II a 10 out of 10! Cheers from Montreal QC
Ingenious! It looks like you have thought of everything, including a clever way to harness it for hands free pulling. AND larger wheels for easier rolling and SOLID RUBBER so no worries over punctures. I am using a light aluminum deer cart without a hands free harness, Your excellent video gives me a simple idea. I will attach handle extensions on each side, and rig a harness using your technique. Now I can use my trekking poles or be hands free for dealing with limbs and briars on overgrown paths. A cart of course is not suitable if your trail leads over large boulders. Your invention is light enough, however, to muscle the cart and backpack over the bouders, assuming the extra effort is not required for a long distance.
Hey Larry, I have to say, this rig does work amazingly well. I'll be giving it a serious road test this spring when I attempt a hike from Montreal to Quebec city (approx 225 km). This will be a long distance endurance hike which I hope to complete in 4 days. Wish me luck, and good luck to you as well with your deer cart. Shout out if you need some ideas. Cheers from Montreal QC
Easy now. Paul makes a valid point. However, before going out & buying something, one should first carefully define ones needs. I didn't need something that would carry 300 lbs., nor did I want a cart weighing 30 lbs. My goal was to build a cart that would weigh in at 10 lbs (or less) capable of carrying 75-100 lbs over relatively flat or smooth terrain for up to 25 miles per day (a road trip). It's the harness system I put together that makes it all work. Thanks for your thoughts. Cheers
Hi Jeff. I like very much what you did. There is in Holland also a bureau who build these trekkingcarts. Look at Radical Design wheelie wandelwagen. But I like yours better. Simple, you can take any luggage you want and are not bound to a bag like Radical design made. How did you become the parts for joining the wheels to the structure. Good luck with building. I am working on a bycicle cart now.
To make the bends, I picked up one of those pipe bending tools that electricians use for bending electrical conduit. Strictly manual. It was a case of guestimations and serious eyeballing to get it all to work. I had to bend two pipes exactly the same. A wooden dowel pins the two together at the bottom. Dicey bit of business. Chees
I tried this on a piece of 1/2" EMT and quickly found out just how hard this is. I thought, bending tubing - how hard can it be? Turns out pretty dadgum hard. I now have a greater respect for what you were able to accomplish. Can you offer any pointers in bending the tubing?
That's a pretty sweet fanny pack on wheels...very useful if the situation demands such a device. Very nice indeed! I have one, but it's wheels are inline with one another...what could it be??? It's my mountain bike!!! LoL. Sweet contraption there...mount a video camera facing backwards and it would make an interesting vantage point for viewers on the trail...nobody would know whats a comin', but they would sure know where you've been!
I have a trailer like this, don't be deceived, you cannot take more on your hike, it's just a way of moving the load off your shoulders and onto your hips. You still need to drag your gear up hills, along stony paths and carry it over rocks. Keep as much weight as you can on the axle.
Exactly, the idea was to get the weight off my back. I had a specific goal in mind for this trailer: a 400km 7 day hike from Montreal to Ottawa and back as a fundraising project for the Canadian Cancer Society. I was doing this solo and unsupported, so it meant carrying quite a lot of gear. I think the total load was near 50 lbs. Since I was walking on the side of the road, it was pretty smooth going. I found that on flat or downhill stretches I could actually run with this thing! I could never have managed the daily distance with a back pack carrying that kind of load. The trailer worked like a dream, but I would never do it again ;) In another video you can see the damage that my feet suffered from this crazy exploit. Not much fun. Cheers from Montreal QC
I just did a 160km hike in three days with this rig carrying a full load of 54 lbs. However, the original plan was to go 400km in 7 days. My feet crapped out. I plan to give it another go in September. After that, we can talk about a deal. I plan to start mass producing this rig once I've completed my goal. Cheers from Montreal QC
+Jeff Spate I leave July 4th for Delaware and will be hiking to San Francisco and back to Delaware. That is about 10000 miles. I will need a rig when I get to Utah and Nevada to carry my water. About ten gallons at a time. You can go to my TH-cam page and find my Facebook link in the header. Would love to hear from you.
+creativecompanion It's one of the more clever items I've come up with, and it works like a champ. The idea came to me while looking at golf carts. I recently stumbled upon something very similar that is manufactured in Europe. Its much nicer than mine, but is a bit heavier and a tad on the pricey side. I forget the name of it, but a You Tube acquaintance in Denmark bought one, and apparently loves it. Cheers from Montreal QC
Yes, but who would buy such a thing? Unless you try it there's no way to realize what a fantastic gizmo it really is. I built this thing because I realized there was no way in hell I could walk 20-30 miles (road trekking) a day with a 30 lbs load in my back pack. With this silly thing I can carry 70 lbs and avoid the fatigue to my feet, knees, back, and shoulders. It's amazing. By the by, I have one for sale (the original prototype).
Of two salvation army kids bikes maybe use the forks as a way to attach the wheels I my mind is reeling with ideas your hilarious by the way and obviously an intelligent indavidual. Good engineering head. Thanks for the ideas for this and some of your others as well.
Man I sure need that thing before its to late and before shit hits the fan. My spine is broke in two places. That thing is the only way I stand a chance. I aint got alot of money but I would pay you for that gladly. Let me know please.
+Luke Carter Hey Luke, I'll be using this trailer for a 400km hike begining on May 26the to raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society. I would be happy to make arrangements with you after my event is complete. Stay tuned to see this thing in action. Cheers
You may be a Bastard, but you ain't cheap enough LOL Na... kidding this is so dang nice, you really did better than a manufacture! NICE JOB! I need this by the way... How did you build it and where did you get the materials?
at 70 years old, i am experimenting with carts. this is cool thank you
Sorry Cat, there is no technical data to post. This entire project was done "free hand" as they say. I took no physical measurements to speak of. Everything was more or less eye balled into place. I was using my own body dimensions to get the sizing needed. This was the third iteration, and its still not perfect. When you look at it from behind you can see that one side sits a little higher. Heck the tubing was bent using a hand held conduit bender. What can I say? Sorry.
Cheers
I incorporated a wheel set that I had ordered from Wike bicycle trailers out of Guelph, Ontario. The assembly required a fair bit of creative problem solving to work with this application. I will do a follow up vid to illustrate what I did.
Cheers
Modifying a pulko sled ,, looking to see what's out there ,, for both snow and hard trail surfaces...interesting design..as many are now out there..fulfilling a need...I see this is a pretty old video,,did you pursue any other items or market this ?? .....Rick
I got involved with a fellow in China who was keen on building these, but we fell out over differences of opinion. Not sure if he ever did anything with it. This particular model served me well on a 400 km hike. Cheers from Montreal QC
When I designed and tested this cart I was hauling 75 lbs up Mount Royal and back (a 10 mile course). On the way down I was actually running. In this manner I could repeatedly complete the course in under 2.5 hours. The wheels I use are 16 inch pneumatic with tubes on plastic rims. The beauty is that they work just as well without air. In this video with a 50 lb load they have no air. Long story short: flat tires, no problem. Any more questions, give a shout.
Cheers
The 16 inch wheel set was ordered from a company in Ottawa called Wike Trailers. The square tubing that links the wheel set and acts as the undercarriage came from Home Depot. The round tubing that makes up the deck frame also came from HD. I "rented" a pipe bending tool from HD as well to bend all the angles in the round tubing. That was pretty much an eyeball operation since I had no exact measurements for any of this. The decking is an old magic carpet snow sled. Very durable material. I cut it to fit and used a half inch grommet kit that I had hanging around. I think I bought it from HD as well. The decking is attached to the frame with UV resistant zip ties. The two halves of the deck frame tubing are connected by inserting a wooden dowel at the joint. A black plastic cabinet door handle is screwed in to complete the connection. The harness is made from a large sized fanny (butt) pack that I had picked up years ago from Mountain Equipment Co-op. Sadly they no longer produce that model, but there are certainly other options available. I attached a carabiner to each side of the pack and used a prusik not to hold on to the round tubing. This is a constrictor knot, so when tension is applied it holds fast and will not slide. Remove the load tension, and you can position the knot wherever you like. Pure genius. On the square tubing of the top brace I added two additional black plastic handles. This was purely for aesthetic reasons, and because I had them laying around. Later, they proved to be quite functional as well for lashing various items to the rig. Also not shown in this video is the shoulder harness system that I added to the butt pack. I found this a necessary addition for pulling any load heavier the 40 lbs. I'll chip in a link to show how this set-up ended up working for a project of mine. Let me know if you have any other questions. Cheers from Montreal QC
th-cam.com/video/KL4LalWNVHc/w-d-xo.html
It's called a prussic knot. It's a well known knot in the world of mountain climbing - useful for climbing a fixed rope - but it has a gozillion other applications. I use the same knot to attach my hammock tarps to the tarp ridge line. This means I can adjust the tarp along the line depending on how far apart the trees are from one another. Very handy.
Cheers
The idea came from bicycle trailer designs. This one is easily adaptable with a simple add-on to enable a seat post connection.
Cheers
The rod I bought at Reno Depot, a hardware store in Montreal. I was able to bend it using a pipe bending tool (from a Home Depot store) that electricians use for bending galvanized conduit pipe. The wheels I ordered from Wike Bicycle Trailers in Quelph, Ontario (I live in Canada as you may have guessed). Let me know if you have any other questions.
Cheers
Copper is pretty heavy stuff. I used aluminum curtain rods. I think they cost me $12 each.
Feel free to take the idea and run with it (literally). I like this design because it's well balanced which actually makes it possible to run with a 50lb load. Thanks for watching and for especially for your comments.
Cheers
I'm wanting to make a slightly longer & 24 wide version. Was there ever a follow-up video?
I ended up using this rig for a 200km trek from Montreal to Ottawa several years ago as part of a funder raising project for the Canadian Cancer Society. I believe my total pack load was around 30 pounds. The rig performed well, but my feet suffered terribly after the four day hike. I'll see if I can find the video from that misadventure...
th-cam.com/video/KL4LalWNVHc/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/Q5b-RK-e73E/w-d-xo.html
Best of luck. Cheers from Montreal QC
I think I'm gonna try use some of these ideas to convert an old folding shopping cart I found beside a dumpster to something like this. What did you use for axle & wheels?
Bigg Dawgg I'm going to be doing just that....
I meant it for long treks (100 miles or more). The concept is no different when used as a bug out rig. Thanks for watching and commenting
I built this one with the intention of doing an unsupported transcontinental hike (or less). It pack a shit pile of gear and is a breeze to pull. Best of luck to you on your endeavors.
Cheers
Nice and clean peace of engeneering. I have built a similar one in bamboo tubes. 7 lbs total weight. Good job.
THAT IS JUST TOO F---ING COOL! I have looked at a lot of other ideas in this vane but buddy you got this one nailed. Did not see a thing I would change!
I just finished a 160km hike in three days with this cart. My loaded weight (including the weight of the cart) was 64lbs. My goal was to travel 400km in 7 days. Unfortunately, my feet got totally fried. Still, its a great testament to the capability of the cart. It exceeded my expectations. Check out the links below.
th-cam.com/video/KL4LalWNVHc/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/Q5b-RK-e73E/w-d-xo.html
Cheers from Montreal QC
very good! you could tell me how much is the distance between the wheels? I intend to make one for my hikes !
measure the distance between your hips and add 2 inches. It's just that easy.
+Jeff Spate thanks ! Now I achieve the 2 wheels and this week I'll start the project !
give a shout if you run into any snags. always glad to help.
Cheers
+Jeff Spate i have some difficult with english ! I'm from Brazil... I'm planning to hike the camino de santiago, 800km ! , with this backpack trailer. Your's the best I've seen: simple, practical and beautiful ! Mine will be a copy at "long distance" of yours!
Send me a note If you need any help with the build.
Cheers from Montreal QC
Cool idea dude! I built something similar to it to use on the Pacific trail a few years back and had good success with it. But... yours gives me ideas to improve upon both for the trek. Thanks! Great vid!
Tankies! Will do that. Keep up the cool stuff. I love it when you come up with all these economical alternatives and just plain nifty items.
All the best!
So it’s been 7 yrs now. Do you still use the trailer? Did meet expectations, and did it work well on the trail?
Se murió y lo enterraron con su carrito
It's great for your back and knees, and lets you carry everything you could ever need - including the kitchen sink.
Cheers
I am definitely going to have to build one of these, I am getting older and can't take a heavy load on my back anymore. Is it possible to get a detailed list of what you used and some pictures of the axles? The axles would be the biggest challenge for me.
What do you call the plastic pieces that are down by the axle? Where did you buy them?
I looked at the deer carts. They're too heavy (my opinion). I am still planning a hike from Montreal to Quebec City towards the end of May, early June. That's a trek of about 160 miles. My goal for that trip is 30 miles per day (LOL). You'll get your much awaited update after that.
Cheers
What you did you call that knot that you use to secure the Fanny pack?
A wheeled travois. Cool. All you need is a shell to act as a weather cover and possibly a temporary shelter. I would have is longer in length to accommodate a longer stride and I'd go with a conventional 16 inch fat bike tire.
Very cool! This is very inspirational and totally a something I'd want to have for those walk-abouts.
Hi from Sweden, where did you get the wheels and axel from?
Hey Fred! I ordered them a place in Ottawa, Ontario here in Canada (see link).
wicycle.com/support/replacementparts
Great folks to work with. I was surprised to find that they are still in business. I think they will ship to Sweden. If not, well to hell with them. I can attest to the durability of the components that they sell. Two thumbs up all the way.
Cheers from Montreal QC (Canada)
Cool product!
Pls englighten why the trailer does not rush towards your back when going downhill?
Cosmo John
you could just turn it around so the cart is in front of you and the fanny pack is on your back.
That's great that is.im in the process of making one and you've given me some great ideas thanks for sharing.
Very cool. How'd you attach the wheels to the frame?
Excellent design and build quality. Thank you for sharing!
Always a pleasure. Please feel free to borrow this design. It worked brilliantly for a 200km trip I took a few years ago walking from Montreal to Ottawa as part of a fund raising project. Cheers from Montreal QC
A deer carrier is only 75 dollars on Amazon. Holds up to 500 pounds . Same thing as you got . How much did ya pay for that .
It's a Rickshaw for the Bush :)
Pretty cool... I sure could have used one (or a couple) of these a few years ago when my son went camping with his girlfriend! They didn't understand the concept of 'traveling light' and I had to help them transport some of their gear.
Heya Jeff, I don't have any material to heat-bend the alluminium and don't want to get gaz in my appartement (Living in the Mile End) would you .... do some for me ?
Getting ready for the Appalachian from Canadian side NB to Unitedstatian side Georgia and maybe even further down in New France (or what's used to be so)
+Eric Vanh
I just used a cheap'o pipe bender to do my thing. I'm happy to lend a hand if you need help. Call me: 514-276-1046. I'll be home Tuesday afternoon.
Cheers
Interesting little cart there Jeff. i'm going to look into doing something like that.
Please let me know how this works when you do your hike. Does it restrict your gait any? This is pretty much exactly what I've been looking for, as I'm planning to thru-hike the American Discovery Trail. There are lots of places where the trail is pretty narrow, steep, rocky, etc etc. How much weight do you think it would hold? I was thinking about building something like this but adding little camping pod made out of a pickle barrel (?) for more protection than a tent (bearophobia). Also, it almost looks like it could be used as a little chair if you get tired and need to rest. Could you post more photos or give more details as to how you attached the wheel assembly to the frame?
Hey Bonnie,
Sorry for the late reply. Here is is a link to the trailer, Toto 2
A Grand Day Out With The Toto II Trekking Trailer
I took it for a hike on city streets, open trails, and a little bushwhacking before nearly slicing off my thumb while making a spot of lunch. This rig is awesome. No matter how much you load it, there is no extra weight on your back, hips, knees, or feet. Wonderful stuff! And it also makes a great recliner when braced against a tree or post.
Cheers from Montreal QC
this is a really great idea, could also be a bug out trailer. cheers
You said you used a curtain rod,but didn't catch where you said you got it?? I have never seen a curtain rod that skinny..all the ones I've ever used are twice that diameter! how did you make the bends without kinking it? sand inside? and lastly,where did you get the wheels? this gives me an idea for a cart of my own,though different in style..more squared off,like a wood cart! Thanks in advance for any info you can share!
Are you still using this cart? Have you made any changes?
I used this rig for a 200 km hike from Montreal to Ottawa several years ago. I met a guy who lived in China that wanted to mass produce the trailer, but that never really got off the ground. I have since dismantled the thing, and now use the wheels for my bike trailer. Cheers from Montreal QC
sweet cart . i have all the materials to replicate this ...but how did you bend the tubing ? that's the only question i have . for now . i realize this was published years ago but i just found it recently . thanks in advance for any help on this .
In the electrical department at Home Depot I found a tool used to bend galvanized electrical conduit. It's not an exact science, to be sure, but it did the trick. It helps to have good eyes for eyeballing. My eyesight ain't that great, but it appears to be good enough.
Cheers from Montreal QC
Jeff Spate thanks , when i get it done i'll put up a video . i ran across an old boat bimini cover . nice aluminum pipe , some bends in it i may be able to use . we shall see .
Nothing to it. Let me know how your own ideas pan out. If you need to bounce an idea off of someone else, give a shout.
Cheers
very nice idea. did you test it under rough conditions. are these wheels strong enough?
Hi Jeff. Could you tell me the approx diameter of the curtain rail you used? Thanks
Very cool setup. Has given me some great ideas for my own rig
How fast can you stop from a full run with that fully loaded? Does it feel like there's much danger of it bowling you over? I can imagine it wouldn't be hard to give it real brakes with levers by your side, but maybe there's no point unless you're pulling a lot more weight.
Nice job. I'm really inspired. I'm going to be spending some time thinking about what additional uses might come from this essential design.
If I were making a steep decent on rough terrain, some sort of hand brake would be a wonderful feature. However, the design brief did not call for that particular scenario. Primary intent for this design was road use. I chose to illustrate its versatility by taking it off road. Amazingly, it does not feel like it will bowl you over. That might change, however, as load weight is increased. I've loaded it to 75 pounds and run down the trail from the top of Mount Royal here in Montreal with no problems what so ever.
Cheers
I like this a lot better than the two I put together. I like the idea of the bigger wheels, and how you angled out the bottom, not to mention using a fanny pack. Like, duh, why didn't I think of that. I was always playing havoc with trying to attach my cart to an unpadded military belt. Not to mention, after watching yours, mine is clearly not wide enough. Really slick! Good Job!!
I think this is really a cool idea! Especially for someone like me - 65 but fairly fit. I could go a lot further with this than a backpack. Mmmmmm. Are the wheels solid or air filled?
Gotcha, dont know how I missed it, great idea ! , when I get too old to carry (prob next year lol ) I might make one, Ken
Still loving this contraption. What did you use for the axle? Was that aluminum tubing too?
Hey Bonnie,
The frame for this carrier is made using an aluminum curtain rod. The axle is an aluminum box tube. The wheels have their own spindles that are fixed to the plastic connection pieces. It's not complicated, but my description might make it sound so. Glad you like this rig. I'm taking it out tomorrow for a 400 km shake down. I'm doing a cancer walk from Montreal to Ottawa and back in 7 days. The carrier is my life line. We'll see if Toto 2 can get the job done.
Cheers from Montreal QC
God speed. I look forward to updates. I'm working on transforming a little golf-bag cart (because it was 10 bucks), but if I had any spare change, I'd definitely prefer yours.
It's worth noting that my carrier was inspired by the sort of golf cart you mentioned and also by snow shoes. Strange, don't you think?
These should be a common fixture at every outfitter or sporting goods store! Almost every thru-hiker I've seen pushes a jogging stroller. Why not pull hands-free instead of actively pushing with both hands.
That's the idea. I'm hoping the trip I just finished will make for the right marketing tool. Stay tuned for the video on that.
Cheers
How has it held up over the years?
This past May I used it to haul 60lbs of gear 165km in three days (a walk-a-thon to raise money for cancer research). The cart performed remarkably. Regrettably, my feet did not.... I give Toto II a 10 out of 10!
Cheers from Montreal QC
I made one of these from a good quality german shopping trolley. works great
Brilliant, have you thought about using it with a bicycle too?
Ingenious! It looks like you have thought of everything, including a clever way to harness it for hands free pulling. AND larger wheels for easier rolling and SOLID RUBBER so no worries over punctures. I am using a light aluminum deer cart without a hands free harness, Your excellent video gives me a simple idea. I will attach handle extensions on each side, and rig a harness using your technique. Now I can use my trekking poles or be hands free for dealing with limbs and briars on overgrown paths. A cart of course is not suitable if your trail leads over large boulders. Your invention is light enough, however, to muscle the cart and backpack over the bouders, assuming the extra effort is not required for a long distance.
Hey Larry,
I have to say, this rig does work amazingly well. I'll be giving it a serious road test this spring when I attempt a hike from Montreal to Quebec city (approx 225 km). This will be a long distance endurance hike which I hope to complete in 4 days. Wish me luck, and good luck to you as well with your deer cart. Shout out if you need some ideas.
Cheers from Montreal QC
cool thing! have you tested it off road?
cccpredarmy
Yes! It's awesome. The best thing (almost) I ever made. The skin on frame canoe beats it every time though.
Very nice kit item along with a possible set.
Easy now. Paul makes a valid point. However, before going out & buying something, one should first carefully define ones needs. I didn't need something that would carry 300 lbs., nor did I want a cart weighing 30 lbs. My goal was to build a cart that would weigh in at 10 lbs (or less) capable of carrying 75-100 lbs over relatively flat or smooth terrain for up to 25 miles per day (a road trip). It's the harness system I put together that makes it all work.
Thanks for your thoughts.
Cheers
Hi Jeff. I like very much what you did. There is in Holland also a bureau who build these trekkingcarts. Look at Radical Design wheelie wandelwagen. But I like yours better. Simple, you can take any luggage you want and are not bound to a bag like Radical design made. How did you become the parts for joining the wheels to the structure. Good luck with building. I am working on a bycicle cart now.
Love this creation❤
A very cool design there ;-)) Did you use a electrical pipe bender to make the bends with? Thanks for sharing this and Take Care :-))
I'll have to give a go tomorrow. Thanks for the idea
Cheers
To make the bends, I picked up one of those pipe bending tools that electricians use for bending electrical conduit. Strictly manual. It was a case of guestimations and serious eyeballing to get it all to work. I had to bend two pipes exactly the same. A wooden dowel pins the two together at the bottom. Dicey bit of business.
Chees
I tried this on a piece of 1/2" EMT and quickly found out just how hard this is. I thought, bending tubing - how hard can it be? Turns out pretty dadgum hard. I now have a greater respect for what you were able to accomplish. Can you offer any pointers in bending the tubing?
Thanks for watching. More to come...
Cheers
I like the idea. It's 5 months since you posted this video - what about an update? And did you look at deer carts? $70 with a 250 lb. capacity.
That's a pretty sweet fanny pack on wheels...very useful if the situation demands such a device. Very nice indeed! I have one, but it's wheels are inline with one another...what could it be??? It's my mountain bike!!! LoL. Sweet contraption there...mount a video camera facing backwards and it would make an interesting vantage point for viewers on the trail...nobody would know whats a comin', but they would sure know where you've been!
I have a trailer like this, don't be deceived, you cannot take more on your hike, it's just a way of moving the load off your shoulders and onto your hips. You still need to drag your gear up hills, along stony paths and carry it over rocks. Keep as much weight as you can on the axle.
Exactly, the idea was to get the weight off my back. I had a specific goal in mind for this trailer: a 400km 7 day hike from Montreal to Ottawa and back as a fundraising project for the Canadian Cancer Society. I was doing this solo and unsupported, so it meant carrying quite a lot of gear. I think the total load was near 50 lbs. Since I was walking on the side of the road, it was pretty smooth going. I found that on flat or downhill stretches I could actually run with this thing! I could never have managed the daily distance with a back pack carrying that kind of load. The trailer worked like a dream, but I would never do it again ;) In another video you can see the damage that my feet suffered from this crazy exploit. Not much fun. Cheers from Montreal QC
How much?, I want one.
I just did a 160km hike in three days with this rig carrying a full load of 54 lbs. However, the original plan was to go 400km in 7 days. My feet crapped out. I plan to give it another go in September. After that, we can talk about a deal. I plan to start mass producing this rig once I've completed my goal.
Cheers from Montreal QC
+Jeff Spate I leave July 4th for Delaware and will be hiking to San Francisco and back to Delaware. That is about 10000 miles. I will need a rig when I get to Utah and Nevada to carry my water. About ten gallons at a time. You can go to my TH-cam page and find my Facebook link in the header. Would love to hear from you.
you can catch me on skype: jeff.spate
I like what you have planned, and am willing to help in any way I can.
+Jeff Spate having a hard time finding you. couldyou reach me on skype. i beleive it is william.martin
If you have not seen this already...
th-cam.com/video/KL4LalWNVHc/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/Q5b-RK-e73E/w-d-xo.html
Cheers
That is absolutely brilliant!
+creativecompanion
It's one of the more clever items I've come up with, and it works like a champ. The idea came to me while looking at golf carts. I recently stumbled upon something very similar that is manufactured in Europe. Its much nicer than mine, but is a bit heavier and a tad on the pricey side. I forget the name of it, but a You Tube acquaintance in Denmark bought one, and apparently loves it.
Cheers from Montreal QC
$125 is bit much considering a bicycle trailer can be had for $60. Some good design ideas though.
it needs a bike attachment hitch.
how much?
How much what?
for these two wheels?
I appreciate that. Many thanks!
Cheers
I could see making this out of PVC. Using the front wheels off
No drawing?
Cool man thanks. I will be watching.
Please make one out of pvc
Sorry, no can do. :(
Thanks for telling us about the Prusik knot! Here's a link, for your adoring fans: www.animatedknots.com/prusik/#ScrollPoint
AWESOME! it's on my Urban Prepper DIY Agenda!
I have to say, its a pretty handy piece of kit.
Cheers from Montreal QC
Good work!
You should consider selling these, via special order...
Yes, but who would buy such a thing? Unless you try it there's no way to realize what a fantastic gizmo it really is.
I built this thing because I realized there was no way in hell I could walk 20-30 miles (road trekking) a day with a 30 lbs load in my back pack. With this silly thing I can carry 70 lbs and avoid the fatigue to my feet, knees, back, and shoulders. It's amazing.
By the by, I have one for sale (the original prototype).
reminds me of someone talking to a cat and expecting a response
Nice design.
A work of art...
As they say, "form follows function..." Cheers from Montreal QC (Canada)
Absolutely awesome fair play.
Har har har! I completely forgot about that. Well, if I said it I must have meant it.
Cheers
Todos los que veo son carísimos y un fracaso comercial. El tuyo me encanta!
great bit of kit
Of two salvation army kids bikes maybe use the forks as a way to attach the wheels I my mind is reeling with ideas your hilarious by the way and obviously an intelligent indavidual. Good engineering head. Thanks for the ideas for this and some of your others as well.
Rickshaw, yes! You could haul a small child, I reckon. Say, that gives me an idea....
Cheers
Pure fucking genius! Just what I was looking for...keep on walking amigo.
many thanks
Very nice trailer you've built! Now I want one too! :)
It did what it was designed to do when I needed it. 10 out of 10! Would definitely build it again. Cheers
Man I sure need that thing before its to late and before shit hits the fan. My spine is broke in two places. That thing is the only way I stand a chance. I aint got alot of money but I would pay you for that gladly. Let me know please.
+Luke Carter
Hey Luke,
I'll be using this trailer for a 400km hike begining on May 26the to raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society. I would be happy to make arrangements with you after my event is complete. Stay tuned to see this thing in action.
Cheers
I use a gorilla yard cart to carry my gear.
You may be a Bastard, but you ain't cheap enough LOL Na... kidding this is so dang nice, you really did better than a manufacture! NICE JOB! I need this by the way... How did you build it and where did you get the materials?
Cool.
I can carry two dolly on each hand.
Good job: ingenious
SWEET!
yeah montreal ftw. cool video