In my defence it was 48c with little traffic, but I ought to be more sensible on next trip 🙂

Why carry a helmet if to put on handlebar. Unnecessary weight to save for your next trip! Just pulling your leg!!!

Actually, your “issue” with the Yak being welded raises another benefit, that it can be easily repaired. The fact you load it that much AND have that kind of milage speaks greatly to the durability of the design. I wonder if the other pricier alumium trailers would have faired. They certainly would be more difficult to repair if cracked vs steel. The smaller diameter cromo tubing should flex more and withstand much more in terms of fatigue vs aluminum which hates flexing.

IMO bikepacking and trailers are 2 very different styles. Neither is better just different.
Its like declaring ultralight backpacking is best…ut isnt.
It comes down to simply what is important to the individual and what they plan to do.
If you want to camp more comfortably or bring some luxury items or simply do not have a bunch of lewer minimalsit kit than a trailer is a great option.
My self, I bought a used Bob Yak for $100 and was able to use my existing non UL backpacking kit . To go bikepacking would mean a lot of money spent on the bags and light weight gear.
I was surprised how easy the trailer was to pull to be honest.

*Lower center of gravity makes riding more stable
*Trailer wheel tracks rear wheel very closely so you can move through tight spaces with ease
*Does not tend to pull the bike over during handling/parking

Best thing about a trailer is being able to carry all the comforts of home – 70 pounds of tent, tarp, hammock, camping chair, stove and cast iron skillet etc. Perhaps bike glamping?

Have never had a problem with tail wagging and have been on long winding descents at >45MPH, I sit and spin up hills so perhaps this is why.

Oh yeah, put a Schwalbe Big Apple 2″ tire, no flats on that tire, smooths out the bumps off road and rolls easier on the road as well.

You’ll want to get in contact with Tout Terrain on that one…

It’s best to steer clear of the singletrack where you can because a bike with a trailer is really long! Otherwise, pick a trailer with a rear shock. They make a huge difference on rougher surfaces. The Aevon KIT L80 I reviewed was really good in the dirt.