Using the correct trailer and tie-down process is crucial to successfully transporting a motorcycle. This post will cover two popular trailers you can rent to move your motorcycle across town or the country and also go over how to safely tie down your bike to avoid causing any damage during transit.
Which trailer should you rent to transport a motorcycle?
Well, the answer to this depends on how far you plan to move the motorcycle. If you’re moving the bike across town, you should rent a motorcycle trailer. This trailer is small and easy to tow. It comes with a ramp to make the loading process simple. The thing to remember with this trailer is that it only works for short moves within the same town or city.
If you plan on towing the motorcycle to another city or state, you’ll need to rent the slightly larger but equally efficient 5 x 9 utility trailer with a ramp. This trailer comes equipped with a front-wheel chock that helps secure the motorcycle.
How to secure a motorcycle on a trailer
Regardless of which trailer you decide best fits your move, the motorcycle tie-down process will be the same. All you need to safely tie down a motorcycle are four ratchet tie-down straps (not included in your trailer rental) and a helper.
Before loading the motorcycle onto the trailer, you’ll need to verify that the towing vehicle has the capacity to tow the trailer of your choice with a motorcycle. You will need to do this during your rental process. Once you have the trailer, be sure to check that the towing connection is secure. Do this by verifying that the coupler hand wheel is tight and the safety chains are secure.
Now you’re ready to begin loading your motorcycle!
1. Hook one end of each of the four ratchet tie-downs (we recommend these) to four different tie-down points in the trailer. You’ll find the tie-down points inside the trailer along the sides. We recommend using the two tie-down points nearest the wheel chock and two at the back of the trailer.
2. Lower the trailer ramp and, with the help of a friend, push the motorcycle up and into the trailer until the front wheel rests against the wheel chock.
3. One person will now have to hold the motorcycle in its upright position. DO NOT lower the kickstand.
4. Begin securing the motorcycle by routing the front ratchet straps through the front suspension and triple-trees of the motorcycle. Tighten the straps evenly on both sides to ensure the motorcycle stays vertical, and avoid fully compressing the front suspension.
5. Now secure the ratchet straps at the back of the trailer to a solid point on the rear of the motorcycle frame or swingarm, carefully avoiding brake lines and wiring.
6. Ensure the motorcycle is secure and all ratchet straps are evenly tightened.
Check out this blog post for more information on how to tie down a motorcycle.
