Motorcycle Transport Basics

TYPES OF MOTORCYCLES

Most motorcycles have a static weight of anywhere from 200 pounds to 900 pounds or more, depending on the size of the motorcycle and any additional equipment that has been added.

ACCEPTABLE TRANSPORT METHODS

Many motorcycles can be transported with conventional towing equipment. However, large touring or custom motorcycles usually require the use of a carrier or trailer. We recommend using a car carrier whenever possible.

Additional loading and securing equipment specifically designed for various types and styles of motorcycles may be required and are readily available. Some are intended to help load and stabilize a motorcycle on the deck of a carrier, trailer or pick-up truck.

There are some devices that enable a conventional tow truck to tow a motorcycle with the rear wheel trailing on the ground. At this time, none of the major motorcycle manufacturers have endorsed or given approval for the use of devices that allow the rear or front wheel of the bike to roll on the ground (as to be towed).

Tow truck manufacturers are beginning to engineer adapters for their wheel-lifts and under-reaches to accommodate transport (not towing) of certain motorcycle models. All of the manufacturers surveyed at this time strongly recommend transporting a motorcycle with the use of a carrier or the specifically designed adapter for their tow truck.

UNACCEPTABLE TRANSPORT METHODS