Motorcycles are rugged and can get you where you need to go. However, every vehicle will encounter various unexpected situations on the road. In such cases, you might be left with the option of having your motorcycle towed. Since motorcycles are smaller than cars, many people believe that it’s easier to tow. You might be thinking that you can just tide down the front end of your motorcycle and drag it to your desired destination. But that’s not always the case.
Towing is not an easy task, no matter what type of vehicle you’re planning to move. You need to follow the necessary steps to avoid scratches and other damages along the way. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the safe and secure towing of your motorcycle. Here is a list of several options that you can use to pull or transport your vehicle.
Right Towing Equipment
First, you need to find the right tools and equipment for secure towing. You need to look for a vehicle that can bear the weight of your motorcycle. This must be able to pull your motorcycle in a secure way. Check its towing capacity and see whether it will accommodate your bike. There should be no damaged wheels, deflated tires, or cracks on the chassis. If it cannot tow your motorcycle securely, find a different vehicle. Another essential tool that you need is a tow hitch. This is a metal knot or device used for hooking up a tow vehicle and a trailer.
Tow Straps
In towing your motorcycle, you need a rope, nylon strap, or a sturdy cable with a small diameter. Your tow straps should be flat, wide, and about 6 meters in length. For a motorcycle, a one-inch wide and 16-inch length nylon strap should get the job done. As long as the tow strap is in good condition, you don’t have to worry about it tearing or breaking.
To use your tow strap, lay it flat on the ground and attach the two hooks at the end of the strap. Make sure that the two straps are straightened before you go to your destination.
Tow Dolly
One towing option for motorcycle owners is the tow dolly. Also known as towing cradles, a tow dolly is one of the most popular and more affordable towing methods. There is a wheel cradle or chock that locks directly into the hitch tube. This takes less space as you only need to hook the front wheel to the vehicle. In fact, it only weighs 35 lbs. or less. You can save on gas and money using this method.
Since the back wheel isn’t attached to the dolly, it will roll freely behind. Using a tow dolly is relatively safer to use on a motorcycle than traditional four-wheeled vehicles. Just ensure that the front wheel is locked properly to avoid accidents.
Motorcycle Carrier
If you need to haul your motorcycle or scooter, this is a great way to do that. A motorcycle carrier is as simple as it gets. It is made of heavy steel tubes with anti-tilt locking device features. This accessory can carry up to 500 lbs. of weight. An average motorcycle weight is about 400 pounds, so you can expect that it can accommodate your bike.
Motorcycle carriers are known for their strength, durability, and corrosion protection. In addition, they have a loading ramp design that allows you to load your motorcycle easily. A motorcycle carrier is a time-tested and proven method for quick and safe transport.
Towing Trailer
If you want the safest method, use a trailer that will hold your bike off the ground. A towing trailer is big enough to load and transport your motorcycle as is. This lessens the risk of damage as well as wear and tear. In addition, it’s a lot convenient to use since you only need to add tie-down hooks. For additional safety, fasten the bike to the trailer using four or more straps. However, a towing trailer will cost you more money than a tow dolly.
Don’t Risk Your Motorcycle
Never tow a bike when you don’t have the right tools or enough experience. Turn to Allentown Towing Co for the best-in-class towing and hauling service. We provide light-duty towing for bikes and scooters. Contact us!