Trailering A Motorcycle – Motorcycle Safety Tips

1. Choose The Right Trailer

• Motorcycle-specific trailer: It is best to use trailer designed for motorcycles, as it typically has wheel chocks, tiedown points and proper dimensions.
• Suggestion: A quick call to your local U-Haul dealer will place you with a motorcycle specific trailer, close to home at a reasonable daily rate.
• Flatbed trailer: If you do not have a motorcycle specific trailer, ensure the flatbed has enough space and tiedown points.
• Enclosed trailer: Provides protection from weather and road debris.
• Check trailer’s weight capacity: Rated to handle the weight of your motorcycle. Overloading the trailer can be dangerous.

2. Secure The Trailer Hitch, Chains & Lights

• Use the correct size ball hitch to ensure it is properly secured and locked to the towing vehicle. Double check the hitch connections and use safety chains crossed under the hitch for extra security.
• Connect the lighting from the trailer to the towing vehicle, to have proper running lights, brake lights and turn signals.
• Ensure all lights work properly. Improper lighting can make it difficult for others to see you, increasing the risk of an accident.

3. Check Tire Pressure

• Ensure all tires (towing vehicle & trailer) are properly inflated. Underinflated or worn tires can cause sway, blowouts, or reduce towing stability.

4. Gather Essential Equipment

• Ratchet straps: High quality, heavy-duty ratchet straps are crucial for securing the bike. Avoid bungee cords or worn-out straps.
• Honorable Mention: Consider purchasing Tank Straps found at https://thetankstrap.com
• Soft loops: These protect the frame/handlebars from strap wear.
• Wheel chocks: They stabilize the front wheel and prevent the bike from rolling.
• Ramp: To safely load and unload the motorcycle.

5. Prepare The Motorcycle

• Inspect the bike: Make sure your motorcycle is in good condition before transport. Check for any loose parts that might get damaged or come off during transit.
• Reduce weight: Remove any accessories or luggage from the bike and may get damaged or interfere with securing the motorcycle.

6. Loading The Motorcycle

• Position the trailer: Park the trailer on level ground ensure it securely attached to the towing vehicle.
• Use a sturdy ramp: A motorcycle ramp with a nonslip surface is ideal. Ensure it securely fastened to the trailer before attempting to load.
• Loading process:
• 1. Consider having a helper for added safety.
• 2. Walk the bike up the ramp (or ride slowly if your inexperienced).
• 3. Place the front wheel into the wheel chocks.
• 4. Ensure the bike is upright and balance before securing.
• 5. Put the kickstand down.

7. Securing The Motorcycle

• Honorable Mention: Checkout the following video link: How to Tie Down your Motorcycle (the right way) Tank Straps, https://youtu.be/ELvvLtlmu7I?si=K9UxTuO3dJ9nAZ2S by: Sean Kerr (2018), owner of SRK CYCLES d/b/a Bikes and Beards https://bikesandbeardsgear.com/
• If using soft loops and ratchet straps: Soft loops can be attached to the frame, trouble trees, or handlebars, depending on your bike structure.
• Use designated tiedown points on both the trailer and the motorcycle. Never secure the bike by parts that can bend or break, such as mirrors or handlebars not designed for tiedowns.
• Front tie-downs
• 1. Attach straps to the handlebars or trouble trees and secure them to the front anchor point on the trailer.
• 2. Tighten the ratchet straps enough to compress the front suspension slightly (without over compressing).
• Rear tie-downs:
• 1. Attach straps to solid points, like the rear subframe or passenger foot pegs.
• 2. Tighten the rear straps to ensure the bike is stable but not pulling too hard on the rear suspension.
• Check stability: Ensure the motorcycle doesn’t lean too far to one side and is firmly held in place.
• Have a backup plan: Bring extra straps and tools in case a strap fails during transport.

8. Check & Re-Check

• Double check the straps: Ensure that all straps are tighten the bike is stable before you begin your journey.
• Tug test: Gently shake the motorcycle to ensure it secured.
• Check periodically: During long trips, stop periodically to check the bike is still secure, straps can loosen over time.

9. Drive Safely/Watch Your Speed

• Smooth driving: Avoid sudden starts, stops, or sharp turns that can shift the motorcycle.
• Reduce your speed and avoid sudden stops are sharp turns.
• Be careful when driving: A loaded trailer requires more braking distance and can sway if you’re driving too fast or aggressively.

10. Load & Unload On Flat Ground

• Always load and unload motorcycle on flat, stable ground.
• Trying to load on a slope or any of his service can cause the bike to tip or roll off the ramp.

By following the above suggestions, you significantly increase your chances of towing a motorcycle without accidents or problems, for the safety of yourself and others.

Brad Souders, a lifetime biker, an award-winning attorney with more than 30 years’ experience – A Biker Representing Bikers!

Attorney Brad Souders has a main office in Tampa, representing injured bikers and their families throughout the state of Florida.

Free Initial Consultations, also offering home, hospital & evening or weekend appointments. Simply call Brad’s cell phone at 813-220-7767.

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