In a world often touting “more is better,” the reality is sometimes simplicity reigns supreme. This holds particularly true when considering the number of axles on your travel trailer. While the prevailing notion might suggest two axles are superior, single axle travel trailers, when designed and maintained correctly, offer a safe and efficient alternative. Let’s delve into the safety and suitability of single axle travel trailers.
Understanding the Axle and its Role
The axle, a fundamental component in transportation history, remains a simple yet crucial machine. At its core, it’s a rod connecting wheels on either end, enabling rotation and movement. While advancements have occurred, the core principle remains unchanged in modern RVs. The axle runs beneath the camper, facilitating tire rotation as you travel.
Alt: Close-up of a Bowlus Volterra travel trailer wheel, showcasing the single axle design.
Determining the Necessary Number of Axles
Campers typically feature one or two axles, with larger fifth-wheel toy haulers sometimes employing three. The quantity of axles isn’t arbitrary but dictated by the trailer’s weight. Most configurations utilize two tires per axle, though Class A motorhomes often have four.
Each tire possesses a specific load capacity, irrespective of its application. The combined load capacity of all tires must not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), representing the maximum safe weight of the vehicle. Single axle travel trailers are designed to be lightweight. This inherent lightness means fewer tires are required to adequately support the trailer’s load.
Consider the Goodyear Endurance 205R15 tire, boasting a load capacity of 2,150 pounds per tire. Two of these tires on a single axle can safely support a vehicle with a GVWR of 4,300 pounds. Given that every Bowlus model has a GVWR of 4,000 pounds, two Goodyear Endurance tires provide ample load capacity within a single axle design. A comparable 25-foot Airstream, with a GVWR of 7,300 pounds, also utilizes Goodyear Endurance tires but requires a double, or tandem, axle configuration with four tires due to its greater weight.
Alt: Tandem axle setup on an Airstream trailer, illustrating the need for more axles with heavier trailers.
Airstream’s single axle floorplans are notably smaller, ranging from 16 to 22 feet. While aligned with industry standards for single axle campers, the smaller size often necessitates compromises, such as forgoing a dinette or enduring a wet bath.
The Verdict: Single Axle Travel Trailers and Safety
Despite some skepticism found online, claiming that double or tandem axle campers are inherently safer, this assertion lacks merit. Single axle travel trailers are constructed using the same materials and methods as their larger counterparts. Provided that the GVWR is not exceeded through overpacking and that regular tire maintenance is performed (including maintaining proper inflation), a single axle camper is perfectly safe for towing. These maintenance and weight considerations are equally crucial for dual axle trailers.
One common concern involves the perceived increase in bounce and sway with single axle trailers compared to heavier tandem axle models. However, many owners report the opposite experience. Through optimized aerodynamics, a low center of gravity, and strategic weight balancing, sway becomes a non-issue. In fact, some owners report that single axle travel trailers handle more effectively in challenging driving conditions than larger, heavier, double axle trailers.
Alt: Aerodynamic design of a Bowlus travel trailer, showcasing its stability and reduced sway.
Proper alignment is paramount to ensuring safe towing and preventing uneven tire wear. Regular checks are recommended if you encounter curbs, potholes, or rough railroad tracks. These conditions can disrupt the RV’s alignment, similar to how they affect a car.
Single vs. Double Axle Travel Trailers: Determining the Ideal Choice
While opinions vary, the ultimate decision hinges on individual needs. Single and double axle models offer comparable safety, making the choice a matter of suitability. Many appreciate single axle trailers for their lightweight nature, which brings several advantages:
- Maneuverability: They are easier to move with a jockey wheel due to their lighter weight and fewer wheels, allowing precise positioning and simplified hookups.
- Ease of Towing: A lighter trailer translates to reduced rolling resistance and wind resistance.
- Reduced Maintenance: Fewer tires, brake bearings, and axles require inspection, maintenance, and replacement.
- Versatile Tow Vehicle Options: No need for a large truck. Many mid-size and compact SUVs, including electric vehicles with sufficient towing capacity, can easily handle a lightweight single axle trailer.
- Improved Fuel Economy: A lighter trailer contributes to better fuel economy for the tow vehicle.
- Enhanced Turning Radius: Single axle travel trailers turn more easily than comparable double axle trailers, simplifying navigation in tight spaces.
- No Compromise on Space: There’s no need to sacrifice floorplan or interior living space.
- Faster Braking: Lighter trailers enable quicker stopping.
All Bowlus luxury travel trailers are equipped with electric brakes, highlighting a commitment to safety. A RF brake controller is also included, requiring no modifications to the tow vehicle.
