Choosing the Right Trailer for Your Motorcycles

You may not think of your motorcycle needing its own trailer, since you can basically ride your motorcycle anywhere you need to go, but this doesn’t mean you should ride your motorcycle everywhere. Certain roads aren’t ideal for motorcycle riding, and you’ll probably find some road trips are much easier in an enclosed vehicle. Not to mention, you can pack more supplies this way. 

This is why it can be better to load your bike onto a trailer and haul it where it needs to go. But you won’t want to pick just any trailer, so Indian® Motorcycle of Orange County has provided some tips for finding the right trailer for your motorcycle. If you need additional advice, then stop by our location near Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Santa Ana, California and talk with one of our friendly staff. 

What to Look for in a Trailer

There are some basic differences from one trailer to the next that might impact how you choose the model that’s right for you. You’ll want to consider what’s going to be best for your motorcycle(s) and what’s going to help you keep things taken care of and contained. Start with some of the essentials, like making sure the trailer is big enough for what you’ll need to transport. Most trailers will be big enough to transport one bike, but if you need to haul more than one at a time, then you’ll need to make sure the trailer is big enough.

You’ll also want to consider whether you want an open or enclosed trailer. Open trailers tend to be cheaper and easier to maintain, but your cargo will be more exposed to the elements. Here in Southern California, you’ll probably only sometimes have to worry about precipitation, but we do get a lot of sun and over time the sun’s rays can take its toll on your bike. 

Try to find a reliable brand of trailers that you know will go the extra mile for you. Sometimes the off brands can be cheaper, but it’ll be hit or miss as far as whether or not they’re going to be the right fit for your cargo. You’ve already put a lot of time and money into your motorcycles, so don’t leave anything to chance. Go for the big names with good reputations. 

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Trailer: The Tow Vehicle

There’s going to be a lot to think about when you’re looking for the right trailer, and a lot of it will boil down to what you need for your motorcycle. But there are other areas you’ll want to focus on as well, like your tow vehicle. Your biggest priority needs to be making sure your tow vehicle can handle the combination of your trailer and cargo. If you overload any part of your unit, you risk creating a dangerous driving situation for yourself and for other commuters around you. Your tow vehicle will have less control over your trailer, which can lead to sway and you might find yourself tossed all over the road. Take note of how much your trailer weighs, how much it’ll weigh once it’s loaded, and the maximum towing capacity of your tow vehicle to ensure you’re being safe and efficient on the road. 

With all this in mind, you’ll want to consider any other factors that might specifically interest you, like additional safety features or the best ways to tie down your motorcycle. Knowing you’re making the right choices for yourself and your bike is going to lower your stress levels and the amount of risk posed to your ride. But maybe you still need that precious cargo you’ll be loading onto your motorcycle trailer. If you still need the right bike to cruise around town, then stop by Indian® Motorcycle of Orange County and we’ll show you what we have available right now. We welcome all patrons from Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Santa Ana, CA.