Is Malone EcoLight Trailer Easy to Assemble, Good on Highway, Easy to Move, Comparable to Yakima

Updated 06/27/2017 | Published 06/26/2017

Question:

How easy is it to assemble? How long does it take for a novice to assemble? Is it stable on the freeway? How fast are the tires rated for? Could I unhook it and roll it onto dirt? Please compare it to the Yakima, why such a difference in price? Thanks

asked by: Su S

Expert Reply:

Most of the assembly of the Malone roof rack on wheels # MAL53FR is just turning wrenches which is to say simple and straight forward. The instructions are some of the best I have seen with easy to understand explanations and color pictures. I have included a link to them for you. I have no doubt that you would be able to assemble the trailer without any problems.

Small trailers like this are fine on the highway when loaded. What can make a trailer, any trailer, bounce or sway is the lack of weight. So if you are pulling the trailer empty you will most likely experience a little bouncing. Any sway that might occur won't be a problem since the trailer is so light.

The tires are good for highway speeds up to 65 miles per hour. Moving the empty trailer around by hand will not be a problem. If loaded to capacity though it will be a little more difficult but still likely doable for most people.

The comparable Yakima Rack and Roll trailer # Y08106 is a premium option. It has an aluminum frame whereas the Malone trailer is galvanized steel. Aluminum costs more so that is one reason why there is a big price difference. The Rack and Roll trailers also have adjustable, shock-type suspension, longer crossbars, and what are essentially small motorcycle wheels with the hub/bearings integrated. The Malone trailer uses regular trailer hubs and tires.

If cost was not a factor I would choose the Yakima Rack and Roll trailer. But I would still be happy with the Malone trailer if I were to choose it. I have linked videos on both trailers for you.

expert reply by: Michael H