Motorcycle Bikes And Trailers

Choosing The Best Motorbike Trailer For You And Your Bike

It's not until you start doing your research that you are introduced to the huge variety of motorbike trailers available for sale or even rent. Like any big ticket purchase it is important to be clear on what you want to do but more importantly what you are able to do. One thing you will find is that the term "motorbike trailer" can refer to two types of trailers... a trailer to carry your bike on or a trailer which your bike pulls, more commonly known as a motorcycle cargo trailer. Here we will focus on the first type, transporting your motorbike.

There are many different variations you can purchase or hire. The lower end are steel 3 wheel cross bars, flatbeds can be more multi purpose and then you move into the enclosed range which can go from a basic level right up to "toy trailers" which are like a trailer rv with a garage at the back. Most enclosed trailers are a rectangular box shape but in between these 2 extremes are low haulers, different aerodynamic shapes to cut down on resistance and obviously different sizes and interior set ups. Generally speaking most trailers are made out of steel but they are at the heavy end. Different combinations of steel, aluminum and fiberglass are available but the price will increase quite a bit as the trailer weight decreases. If you have specialized needs many manufacturers will custom build to your own specs.

Before brand searching, the main things you need to consider are:
-The size of your car and what class hitch you can use, which will then determine the weight capacity you can tow
-The maximum number of motorcycles you will be carrying and the combined weight. Most lower priced single trailers have an average of 1000 lb. capacity.
-Will you want to use it for other purposes or soley to transport your bike. If it is general purpose then you could go with a flatbed or general enclosed
-Is storage size important? You might need to look at models which either Stand Up or Fold Up. Trailer in a bag have Single and Double models starting from $1,195 which fold down into a duffle bag.
-Does you motorbike need to be protected from scratches from flying gravel and rocks. Consider the landscape you will be traveling on and how different this would be from just riding your bike around. If you want protection then an enclosed trailer may be your best option. Putting a tarp over a flatbed can be a safety issue if it comes loose.
-Weight and shape of the trailer for fuel consumption. This will only concern you if you use it often or are traveling long distances. There are lighter more aerodynamic options available on the market which can be up to 60% more fuel efficient so it may be cheaper in the long run to spend the money upfront.
-And finally cost. With ranges between $300 and $10,000 plus knowing the best deal you can get for your budget is important. Beware, some prices are quoted as a base and additional accessories and parts like wheels, racks, tie downs and hitches need to be purchased which can add a few hundred dollars to the cost. Always ask for a package quote to get it on the road so you know all of the hidden costs involved.

The range of options available are huge, from the basic self assemballed single motorcycle open trailer to a multi carry fully enclosed option and every combination in between. A good entry point is the Monorail single trailer with storable ramp, 1200 lb. motorcycle capacity and 3 wheel options starting from $830 plus shipping. If storage is of concern then the versatile folding Stinger Motorcycle Trailer is affordable at $1,330 onwards. One of the main manufacturers is Kendon and you are sure to find something in their range including their Stand-Up Single Motorcycle, Stand-Up Chopper, Folding Dirt Bike or Sport Bike Trailers. For the fully enclosed option the main manufacturers are Featherlite Trailers, Haulmark, Ironhorse, Pace American, Carry-On Trailer or Horton Hauler. Again, you have the choice of a basic enclosed trailer right up to a fully customized premium toy trailer... the possiblilities are as big as your wallet will take you. For the largest range you are best to look online, you are bound to find a motorcycle trailers website that will have exactly what you need.