How to Transport Your Motorcycle on a Trailer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Transporting your motorcycle on a trailer is a safe and convenient way to move it over long distances, especially if you’re heading to a rally, getting a roadworthy, or relocating. While it may seem intimidating at first, properly loading and securing your bike is straightforward with the right tools and techniques. This guide walks you through the steps to ensure your motorcycle arrives at its destination safely.

Why Use a Trailer?

Trailers are ideal when:

• Your motorcycle is not roadworthy.

• You’re moving multiple bikes at once.

• You want to avoid wear and tear from a long trip.

• You're travelling with family or other gear in a vehicle.

Step 1: Choose the Right Trailer

Start with a trailer specifically designed for motorcycle transport. Look for:

• Tie-down points: Secure anchor points are essential.

• Wheel chocks: These help stabilise the front wheel.

• Ramp: Makes loading and unloading much easier.

• Weight capacity: Ensure the trailer can handle your bike's weight.

Enclosed trailers offer more protection from the elements, but open trailers are lighter and more affordable.

Step 2: Gather Your Equipment

You’ll need:

• Ratchet straps or cam buckle tie-downs (at least four)

• Soft loops to prevent scratching handlebars or frame

• Wheel chock or block to secure the front tire

• Loading ramp (metal or composite, rated for your bike’s weight)

Optional but helpful:

• Canyon Dancer bar harness

• Trailer hitch lock for security

Step 3: Load the Motorcycle

1. Align the ramp and trailer: Make sure the ramp is stable and properly aligned with the trailer.

2. Put the bike in neutral and slowly push (or ride very slowly) it up the ramp. Having a friend assist can be a big help.

3. Position the bike in the centre of the trailer, with the front wheel against the wheel chock or block.

Safety tip: Always walk the motorcycle up the ramp instead of riding it, unless you’re experienced and confident in doing so.

Step 4: Secure the Motorcycle

1. Attach soft loops around the handlebars or triple tree.

2. Connect ratchet straps to the trailer and soft loops, then ratchet down until the front suspension compresses slightly. This keeps the bike from bouncing.

3. Use additional straps at the rear to prevent the bike from moving side to side.

4. Double-check all connections to ensure they’re tight but not overtightened, which could damage the suspension or frame.

   
   

Step 5: Final Safety Check

Before hitting the road:

• Tug on each strap to confirm it's tight.

• Make sure the bike is upright and stable.

• Check your trailer lights, brakes, and tires.

• Drive slowly for the first few miles and recheck the straps.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Avoid bungee cords—they’re not strong enough.

• Cover the motorcycle if using an open trailer to protect it from weather and debris.

• Use a lock on the trailer hitch and possibly a disk lock on the motorcycle for extra security.

Conclusion

With the right trailer, equipment, and preparation, transporting your motorcycle is a manageable task that gives you peace of mind. A properly secured bike won’t just prevent damage—it also ensures your safety and that of others on the road. Take your time, double-check everything, and enjoy the ride—wherever your trailer takes you.

Also, did you know that Machine Alley members have access to a dedicated motorcycle trailer, free of charge? Just another great reason to sign up :-)