Motorcycle Bikes And Trailers

What To Look For In A Used Motorcycle Trailer

When you type in 'used motorcycle trailer' into Google you will see a lot of promising listings, with a lot of new trailers for sale and no used ones. It's made even more difficult if you have a specific trailer in mind like cargo trailers or motorcycle camping trailers. When looking to buy a used trailer it pays to be flexible and look for a quality trailer that you can perhaps customize or add to later.

Similar terms are used to describe 2 different types of bike trailers: a pull behind cargo trailer which your bike tows or a trailer that you use to transport your motorbike on.

When buying a used motorcycle cargo trailer, this includes tent trailers, dog trailers etc., you want to ensure that it has good suspension and hasn't been in any accidents. Safety has to be a priority as even new trailers are not approved by motorcycle manufacturers because of the possible hazards that can occur. As you can't read all of the specs you need to ask what the weight is and what weight capacity it can hold (as recommended by the manufacturer). What year it was manufactured and bought - this will give you an idea of the suspension, also ask what type it has. Suspension is important as you want it to be smooth and not bounce behind you which can in turn effect your bike control. Ask what make, model and size the current users bike is to compare to your bike. If it's twice as big, then really research this trailer as it may be too big for your bike. If you have the opportunity to look at it first to ensure there isn't any rust or corrosion, that all of the major parts are in good condition and if they aren't, that they are easily replaceable. Check all of the additional parts and accessories come with it and if they don't then again, that they are easy to buy. Also see if you can test it. If you are buying a trailer which is a major brand then you'll be able to call the company and ask them for the trailer specs.

If you are looking to buy a used enclosed or open motorcycle trailer to transport your bike on you will have many more options, though it's still not a huge market. As with buying a new trailer you need to be clear on what you can use and need. Your car make, model & size will determine what class hitch you can use which determines the maximum size and weight of the trailer and load capacity you can carry. You need to be clear on how many bikes you will be carrying, if you want a t bar, flatbed or enclosed trailer, and if you need the trailer to fold up or stand up for storage. It's always helpful to look at the latest release trailers so you can see the range, decide the features you want and then try and find a used trailer with as many of those features as possible. There will be some features which are a must such as a 2 bike trailer but others you can compromise on, such as the trailers material, steel or alloy etc. Being able to inspect the trailer is always a huge bonus as you can give it a really good look over but if you can't just make sure you make contact with the seller and have a good chat and ask them heaps of questions... age, condition, any damage, rust, wheel size, parts included, parts you'll need to buy to get it on the road, why they're selling it, if it still has a warranty on it, size of the bike/s they were carrying, their car size etc. Another important factor is that under US federal law certain working lights need to be operable on the trailer... brake lights, tail lights, side marker lights, rear and side reflectors but check the US Department of Transportation or your countries laws to ensure the used trailer has all legally required working parts. Buying a trusted brand is always a good move when buying used trailers such as Kendon, Pace, Haulmark or Featherlite Trailers.

With both the cargo and the motorbike carrying trailer there is not a huge single site you can buy them used. There are some specialized motorcycle websites or trailer websites that have a used section but there may be one or two available. Ebay is an option but Craigslist has a pretty good lisiting as well. If you don't require it straight away you can obviously wait until the right one comes along, but you'll need to check the sites you've found and Craigslist regularly.

An obvious point but one worth making is the location of the trailer. If you can pick it up you need to ensure that you have all of the correct parts and hitches but also that all of the lights are working. If it needs transporting then you need to calculate this before the purchase, it may end up costing you more than buying a new one.

Buying used trailers is no different than any used item. You need to do the research to ensure you are not getting an expensive lemon. Safety, condition and further costs need to be the three things you keep checking you've researched before any purchase.