Motorcycle Trailering Essentials

camping with a pull behind motorcycle trailerWhen riding on their motorcycles, many people use a pull behind motorcycle trailer. Although this is a pretty common sight, there are still a lot of questions being asked about these types of trailers.

Are you one of the people that would like more information about theses pull behind trailers? If so, check out the answers to some of the frequently asked questions pertaining to these remarkable storage devices.

1. What is a Pull behind motorcycle trailer?

At its foundational root, a pull behind motorcycle trailer is an aerodynamic trailer that can be pulled safely behind a specially modified motorcycle; generally for storage purposes. They are typically small and are usually not much wider than the motorcycle itself. For all intents and purpose, they are similar to the type of trailer that is pulled by a camper.

2. Why would anyone want to use their motorcycle to pull a trailer?

Most motorcycle owners love to ride, especially over long distances, but unfortunately motorcycles do not offer much in the way of storage space; which can be very inconvenient. In fact, even the larger models that are designed with small storage compartments are not able to store anything bigger than a large flashlight. This lack of space makes it very problematic when one is hankering for a ride that covers an extended amount of distance. A pull behind motorcycle trailer offers bike enthusiasts the convenience of storage space for the additional items will be needed for their long trips.

3. How do you pull a trailer with your motorcycle?

Pulling a trailer changes the dynamic of the motorcycle i.e. it changes the way that it handles in just about every situation. Thankfully, it is relatively easy to learn how to pull a pull behind motorcycle trailer. However, it is important to take heed to certain safety precautions. These include:

  • Don’t attempt to pull a trailer behind a motorcycle unless you have experience riding a motorcycle by itself. It is not safe for a newly licensed driver to operate one of these unless they have spent considerable time on the road with their motorcycle.
  • Practice somewhere free of traffic before taking the motorcycle with the trailer on the road. In this way you will be able to get a feel for how the motorcycle handles with its new attachment.

4. What type of trailer works best with the various types of motorcycles?

This question is a little loaded simply because of sheer amount of different motorcycle models. However, one rule that applies to all brands, makes, and models says that you should never purchase a trailer that is heavier than what your motorcycle can handle safely; check your owner’s manual for these types of specs. In other words, if you have a motorcycle that is stable and has a lot of power, you might be able to get away with buying one of the larger models. Subsequently, if your motorcycle doesn’t have that much power, you are better off with a smaller and more lightweight model. Anything else will be more difficult to pull.pet hauling with a motorcycle trailer

Another general rule is that you must not buy a pull behind trailer that is wider than your motorcycle or one that will make it hard for you to ride safely. The easiest way to make sure that you purchase the best model for your needs is to bring the motorcycle that you plan on using on your road trip along when you go and take a look at the various models of pull behind motorcycle trailers that are available in your area. Once you have arrived at the place that sells these kinds of trailers, use your motorcycle to figure out which one fits your needs the best.

The Bottom Line

A pull behind trailer for your motorcycle will make things a lot easier; especially when you are planning a long distance trip on your hog. However, it is important to note that, the use of these trailers should be restricted to experienced riders who have the skills needed to handle the bike, as well as its cargo, successfully. In addition to the motorcycle trailering essentials, you must also choose your pull behind trailer carefully and make sure that it works well with the motorcycle that you will be using on your trip. Staying on top of all these considerations will make your next long distance trip a lot more enjoyable.