How to Tow a Motorcycle

If you own a motorcycle, you may want to invest in a motorcycle trailer, which can be an immense help if your bike breaks down. The ability to transport your motorcycle without having to operate it can be useful for maintenance. A trailer also will allow you to tow your motorcycle away on a vacation, giving you room in your vehicle to store clothes and other necessities. Purchasing a specialized motorcycle trailer will give your recreational plans plenty of flexibility.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Vehicle with a trailer hitch
• Vehicle owner's manual
• Motorcycle trailer and user guide
• Clutch-retaining strap

1. Read your vehicle's owner's manual and find out the specifications regarding towing capacity. Motorcycles are large pieces of equipment and may exceed the towing capacity for certain vehicles. You'll want to know if your vehicle can support towing a motorcycle before attaching the motorcycle trailer. If your vehicle is a compact car, the towing capacity is likely between 1,000 and 1,500 pounds; for trucks and SUVs, the towing capacity may be as high as 5,000 pounds.

2. Attach your motorcycle trailer. To complete this step, reference the user guide that should come with your purchase. A basic assembly includes a main trailer unit with arms and ramp. Slide the main unit over your vehicle's trailer hitch and secure with a lock pin. Arms on the left and right side should be slid into place and also secured with lock pins. Finally, attach the ramp to the bottom of the main unit. This is where the front wheel of your motorcycle will sit.

3. Put your motorcycle into neutral. Move the front wheel your motorcycle onto the motorcycle trailer ramp. Secure the motorcycle to the trailer; depending on the model of trailer you use, you may be provided with either heavy duty straps, ratchet arms from the trailer or both. Use these tools to steady your motorcycle in an upright position and to secure it in place.

4. To prevent the motorcycle from rolling backward once it is secured to the trailer, put it in gear. Install the clutch-retaining strap over the motorcycle's clutch. This will prevent the motorcycle from slipping out of gear while being towed.

5. Take a short drive in your vehicle, towing your motorcycle behind you. Park your car and check the securing equipment for your motorcycle trailer. Adjust any equipment that appears to be loose.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your trailer operating correctly by greasing all wheel bearings every six months and before longer trips.

• States often regulate vehicle trailer requirements and may require inspection. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to find information about registering and owning a motorcycle trailer.

References

• Motorcycle Trailer: Towing and Hitch Tips for Motorcycle Trailers
• BikeTow: Setup Procedure