Motorcycle Trailer Rental and the Strap Rules That Matter

Because a motorcycle needs to stay upright, and a flat utility deck does not help it do that. A motorcycle trailer has a front wheel chock that holds the front tire in place, a narrow channel for the wheels, and a ramp sized for a bike. That makes loading and strapping more predictable.

People rent one to:

• Move a bike to a new home
• Take a bike that does not run to a repair shop
• Bring home a bike bought from a private seller
• Haul a bike to a track day or event

If you are moving lawn equipment instead, a 5x9 utility trailer with ramp is the better tool.

With two people, the engine off and the trailer hitched. Riding a bike up a narrow ramp is risky, so most people walk it up.

1. Hitch the trailer and set the tow vehicle's parking brake.
2. Lower the ramp onto firm, level ground.
3. With the engine off, walk the bike up beside it, one person on each side if possible.
4. Roll the front wheel firmly into the chock.
5. Keep hold of the bike while your helper attaches the first straps.

Keep your feet clear of the wheels and the ramp edges. Do not let go of the bike until at least two front straps are snug.

These are the habits that keep a bike upright on the road. Follow your motorcycle's manual where it gives specific tie-down points.

• Use four straps: two in front, two in back.
• Front straps: attach to solid points near the lower triple clamp or the handlebar close to the clamps, using soft loops.
• Rear straps: attach to solid frame points or passenger peg mounts, pulling back and out.
• Use soft loops: they protect paint and chrome and keep hooks off painted surfaces.
• Avoid weak points: never strap to mirrors, levers, cables, plastic fairings or turn signals.
• Compress the suspension partway: snug the front straps until the forks compress somewhat, not bottomed out.
• Balance the pull: tighten left and right evenly so the bike stays straight up.
• Do not rely on the kickstand: the straps hold the bike, not the stand.
• Tie off loose strap ends: flapping ends can scratch the bike or loosen.

Because suspensions and tires settle once the trailer starts moving. A strap that felt tight in the lot can loosen after a few bumps. The first stop is where most problems get caught.

At that stop:

1. Push the bike gently side to side. It should move with the trailer, not on its own.
2. Tighten any strap that has slack.
3. Check that the front wheel is still firmly in the chock.
4. Check the coupler, chains and trailer lights.

Then recheck at every fuel stop.

Smoothly. Sudden steering and hard braking put the most stress on straps. Keep speeds moderate and look well ahead.

• Brake early and gently.
• Take turns and ramps slower than normal.
• Watch the bike in your mirrors.
• Avoid rough shoulders and potholes when you can.

A motorcycle trailer is small and light, and it can be hard to see when backing. Use a spotter or pick parking you can pull through.

Every motorcycle trailer rental includes our free towing inspection. We check the receiver, pin and clip, ball size, coupler latch, safety chains and trailer lights.

If you want, we also look at your tow vehicle's tires and brakes. You get a written estimate split into need and want. Tell us your bike's make and model when you call (909) 608-7699, and we confirm it suits the trailer. Our hitch and tow package page explains what your vehicle needs.

Most solo two-wheel bikes fit, but size and shape matter. A motorcycle trailer is built around one front wheel chock and a narrow wheel channel, so anything outside that shape needs a different plan.

Tell us the make, model and year when you call. We confirm the current trailer specs, including its weight limit, and whether your bike suits it.

A few minutes of prep makes loading calmer and keeps parts from shaking loose on the road.

• Fuel: turn the fuel petcock off if your bike has one, and do not top off the tank.
• Loose gear: remove saddlebag contents, tank bags, phone mounts and anything that can fly off.
• Covers: skip the bike cover on the trailer. At speed, covers flap, scuff paint and can tear loose.
• Tires: check pressure so the front tire seats firmly in the chock.
• Keys and locks: take the key with you, and leave the steering lock off so the front wheel can center.
• Mirrors: fold them in if they stick out past the trailer.
• Kickstand: leave it up once the bike is strapped. The straps carry the bike, and a stand can dig into the deck.

If the bike is going to a new owner or a shop, photograph it on the trailer before you leave. Your tow vehicle's tires matter too, and the tire date code guide shows how to check their age.