Motorcycle trailer
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Motorcycle trailer is a term used to describe a trailer used either to carry motorcycles or to be pulled behind a motorcycle in order to carry additional gear.[1]
[edit] For carrying motorcycles
Motorcycle carrying trailers may be open or enclosed. They may be wide, for two bikes side-by-side, or narrow, for just a single bike. The main features that distinguishes them from other flatbed or enclosed trailers are track(s) to keep the wheels from sliding side to side and sufficient tiedown points to keep the motorcycle(s) from tipping. They may also tilt, or include ramp(s) to facilitate the loading and unloading of motorcycles.
[edit] For being pulled by motorcycles
Trailers towed behind motorcycles are distinguished by their relatively small size, especially narrow wheelbase. They are also often styled to match the look of the motorcycle they are intended to be towed behind. This styling can include the overall shape, fender shape, lights, crome, etc.
Some important safety tips include:
- No motorcycle manufacturer recommends that a trailer be towed by one if its motorcycles becauses it creates additional safety hazards for motorcyclists.
- "While towing your trailer, you must remember to ride closer to the center of the road. You have the width of your trailer to worry about. Be careful of the "oil strip" in the center of the road at intersections. Also, watch for uneven road surfaces and road edges which can unbalance the trailer."[2]
- It is important to "keep enough of the weight forward of the axle center point to maintain a positive hitch load" when loading the trailer."[3]
[edit] References
- ^ Motorcycle Trailer.com. Retrieved on 2007-03-01.
- ^ California DOT Towing Your Trailer Safely. Retrieved on 2007-03-01.
- ^ Loading your cargo trailer for motorcycle use: A Question of Balance. Retrieved on 2007-03-01.
