rexmitchell
10-16-2011, 11:25 PM
A common question that comes up from riders everywhere is how to properly trailer a motorcycle. To clarify, the methods discussed here can be used with a traditional trailer, or when transporting a motorcycle in the back of a truck. I have done both and have had success and failure in both! Through trial and error, I have learned some good techniques and tips that I would like to share with everyone. Grab yourself a ramp and tie downs and get to it!
The essentials
To start with, you will need a vehicle or trailer capable of the task at hand. This means a truck/trailer with adequate space, tie down locations, and load capacity to handle your motorcycle. You will also need proper straps that are rated for the load that will be tied down. Pitbull (http://www.pit-bull.com/trailer-restraint.shtml) makes a wonderful device that eliminates straps and holds the bike by the rear axle. It's a bit pricey but works wonders and there is no risk of damaging your bike with straps. CANYON DANCER Bar Harness Handlebar Tie-downs (http://www.cyclegear.com/eng/product/bar_harness_handlebar_tie_downs/web1001277) are also an essential in my book as they save a headache when trying to find a place to anchor on your forks.
In the below picture, the Pitbull restraints are shown
http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee112/Y2KR1/My%20Bikes/PitBullTrailerRestraints002.jpg
Securing the bike
I use only use two straps to secure my motorcycle in a trailer or my truck. Securing the bike in the front is more than adequate when done properly. I use Canyon Dancers and have had great success with them. The bike needs to be flush on the front of the truck or trailer, otherwise it can move around. Making sure your bike is up against the front of the mounting vehicle, lightly strap the bike so that it won't fall over or move. You have to be very careful when anchoring the bike that you do not over tighten the straps and blow your fork seals. After the bike is secured loosely, begin tightening one strap at a time until the bike has minimal movement. It is ok and sometimes necessary to have some play in the bike after strapping it down. It should not necessarily be pinned down to where there is no movement. This will be determined by your own judgment and with experience you can get a feel for what is too tight and what is just right.
Common Mistakes
Common mistakes are easy to overlook and can cause damage to your bike, truck and/ or trailer. First, make sure your bike is actually secured. If you are going on a long trip, stop to make sure that your bike hasn't shifted or moved after driving for an hour or so. Things shift and move around no matter how well you strap them down. It doesn't cost anything to stop and double check your work. Always make sure that your tie downs provide adequate support. I have had a bike fall over in my trailer due to the tie down hooks being too close together up front. Be careful when putting your straps on, I have scuffed and damaged more than one fairing because the strap was rubbing up against it after I secured the bike.
The first time you transport your bike I recommend having a buddy available for a second opinion at your work and to help load the bike. Youtube also has a wealth of knowledge in regards to trailering tips and failures that are educational and quite comical. I hope you found this article helpful and please let me know if there are any questions
Thanks, Rex
The essentials
To start with, you will need a vehicle or trailer capable of the task at hand. This means a truck/trailer with adequate space, tie down locations, and load capacity to handle your motorcycle. You will also need proper straps that are rated for the load that will be tied down. Pitbull (http://www.pit-bull.com/trailer-restraint.shtml) makes a wonderful device that eliminates straps and holds the bike by the rear axle. It's a bit pricey but works wonders and there is no risk of damaging your bike with straps. CANYON DANCER Bar Harness Handlebar Tie-downs (http://www.cyclegear.com/eng/product/bar_harness_handlebar_tie_downs/web1001277) are also an essential in my book as they save a headache when trying to find a place to anchor on your forks.
In the below picture, the Pitbull restraints are shown
http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee112/Y2KR1/My%20Bikes/PitBullTrailerRestraints002.jpg
Securing the bike
I use only use two straps to secure my motorcycle in a trailer or my truck. Securing the bike in the front is more than adequate when done properly. I use Canyon Dancers and have had great success with them. The bike needs to be flush on the front of the truck or trailer, otherwise it can move around. Making sure your bike is up against the front of the mounting vehicle, lightly strap the bike so that it won't fall over or move. You have to be very careful when anchoring the bike that you do not over tighten the straps and blow your fork seals. After the bike is secured loosely, begin tightening one strap at a time until the bike has minimal movement. It is ok and sometimes necessary to have some play in the bike after strapping it down. It should not necessarily be pinned down to where there is no movement. This will be determined by your own judgment and with experience you can get a feel for what is too tight and what is just right.
Common Mistakes
Common mistakes are easy to overlook and can cause damage to your bike, truck and/ or trailer. First, make sure your bike is actually secured. If you are going on a long trip, stop to make sure that your bike hasn't shifted or moved after driving for an hour or so. Things shift and move around no matter how well you strap them down. It doesn't cost anything to stop and double check your work. Always make sure that your tie downs provide adequate support. I have had a bike fall over in my trailer due to the tie down hooks being too close together up front. Be careful when putting your straps on, I have scuffed and damaged more than one fairing because the strap was rubbing up against it after I secured the bike.
The first time you transport your bike I recommend having a buddy available for a second opinion at your work and to help load the bike. Youtube also has a wealth of knowledge in regards to trailering tips and failures that are educational and quite comical. I hope you found this article helpful and please let me know if there are any questions
Thanks, Rex