Review: Burley Coho XC Cargo Bike Trailer

Until recently I’d been looking to buy a longtail e-cargo bike. After a couple of months using the Coho XC, I don’t think I need one. This easy-mounting trailer gives me all the luggage-carrying capacity I want, and turns my tourer and MTB into reliable workhorses for a fraction of the cost.

When not in use, the Coho easily packs down without tools. Made of aluminium, at 9.6kg it is more awkward than weighty when you pick it up. It’s a true beast of burden, reportedly capable of being able to carry up to 31.75kg (70lb) – if your legs and/or motor are up to the task.

I’ve mainly used it for work, where I lug hand tools to help maintain rights of way, and for short camping trips with my three-year-old. The trailer’s kickstand was a revelation, keeping the bike upright as well as the trailer.

Packed right, the trailer followed like an obedient trail dog on singletrack and tarmac. Packed wrong, it felt like a husky dragging its heels while wagging its tail!

I also tried it for the weekly shop. Riding along dry bridleways, the groceries picked up a fine layer of dust kicked up by my rear wheel (even with mudguards) that was a pain to rinse out of the broccoli. Burley makes a 75-litre dry-bag (£97.99) that slots into the trailer. This would have kept out the dust (and any rain).

Given the trailer’s high cost, I think the bag should be included. The same goes for the axles you need to fit the trailer to your bike. You have to buy them separately. The Coho 5mm Skewer (for QR dropouts) is £65.99, the Coho Nutted Axle Adapter £25.99 and the Coho Thru-Axle £49.

Verdict

At home both on and off road, the Coho XC is a great option for adventurers looking to carry more, and would-be cargo bikers who can afford neither the price nor the space of a specialist bike.

Other options

Topeak Journey Trailer £499.99

Nearly half the weight of the Coho, it comes with both dry-bag and skewers. Unlike the Coho, which also fits 29+ bikes, the Journey Trailer only fits 26in, 27.5in and 700C wheels.

BOB Yak 26 Plus £520 approx

Made of steel, the classic BOB Yak comes with skewer and dry-bag. Only a few stockists (such as SJS Cycles) have new ones as production stopped in 2022.

First published in Cycle magazine, October/November 2025 issue. All information correct at time of publishing.