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[SBB]

A friend asked me to show where and how I strapped down a dresser on the trailer.
So I hooked up the trailer, got out a bike and loaded it up.
Below are some pictures.

First picture shows the straps I use for each bike.
Other people may secure their bikes differently but this method works for me.
Good luck, I don't think there is any such thing as too many straps.

SBB

[SBB]

Straps on bike.


SBB

[SBB]

Straps on bike other side.


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[SBB]

Bike strapped down.


SBB

[SBB]

The most important strap!

 

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[SBB]

Rear straps.



SBB

[mark]

Great job.  I strap mine similar to you, but use the frame/engine guard rather than the engine guard, but I don't have lowers-not sure if you could do that without the straps rubbing the lowers.  I also have the Kuryakyn strap mounts, which give a good attachment point for the front.

BTW, what type trailer is that?

[sadunbar]

Virtually identical to how I strap my SEUC in for the ride...   

[SBB]

BTW, what type trailer is that?

Aluma MC10.
I have had it for two years and it's a great trailer.
But then again, the last open bike trailer I had I bought 28 years ago.
So when a good one like the Aluma comes along I bought it.

SBB

[doublerunner]

I like the fact that you don't leave extra lengths of straps flapping around. There is no such thing as extra strap or too many knots

On mine I use the soft padded loop straps to prevent any strap burn. I also tie down my front forks up higher, on the bar that runs from lower fairing to lower fairing. Just my personal preference as I feel having the strap hooked up higher allows me to compress the front shocks better. Again, just the way I am used to doing it. If you have a way that has always worked for you then that is perfect as well

That strap around the front wheel and wheel chock is exactly what I do as well

Safe travels

[OBB]

I'm kinda shocked you haven't found blue straps for your bikes.  I did see the blue valve cover though.

I don't see you compressing the shocks down hardly at all. Being somewhat new to trailering, Give some pointers on why that is please. How much tension do you have on the engine guards up front?

[SBB]

I'm kinda shocked you haven't found blue straps for your bikes.  I did see the blue valve cover though.

I don't see you compressing the shocks down hardly at all. Being somewhat new to trailering, Give some pointers on why that is please. How much tension do you have on the engine guards up front?

Mike,
The ultimate goal when trailering a bike is to arrive at your destination with the bike safe and sound with the least amount of stress on the bike. The strap around the wheel chock is the most important because if all else fails that little strap will keep your bike on the trailer. After the bike is ridden into the wheel chock that strap is installed next. The next two straps on the forks are pulled tight. They have no effect on your suspension. The next two straps serve two purposes. They control the amount the suspension decompresses and they are a back up to the fork straps. They are snug, not real tight and but not loose. The rear straps control side to side play. I always leave the bike in gear on the trailer.
With all that done your bike will be just as happy as you are when you arrive at your destination.

 

SBB

[OBB]

I've use my Rampage twice now. Both times it seems like I could always use more straps. 2nd time was about a 15 mile ride home from my mechanic. Rode the bike up there to pick up the truck after he did a bunch of work on it while I was on vacation. Loaded the bike in the back and drove home. Can't to the front strap on the Rampage I don't think. One thing I though of doing for the trip to MV in a few weeks is to put some wood blocks under the frame across the lift and compress the suspension down that far. Wouldn't be a lot and might give me a little more piece of mind along with some more stability.

[Fired00d]

I've use my Rampage twice now. Both times it seems like I could always use more straps. 2nd time was about a 15 mile ride home from my mechanic. Rode the bike up there to pick up the truck after he did a bunch of work on it while I was on vacation. Loaded the bike in the back and drove home. Can't to the front strap on the Rampage I don't think. One thing I though of doing for the trip to MV in a few weeks is to put some wood blocks under the frame across the lift and compress the suspension down that far. Wouldn't be a lot and might give me a little more piece of mind along with some more stability.

Be careful doing that... in theory it sounds good but I've heard of people that did that and it rubbed off powdercoating from the frame.

 
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 

[2k]

Don't like your straps, I use ratchet type. Other than that we are identical. 4 baggers in a trailer for 35 hrs to NW Montana. Looked just like when we loaded them. Whatever gets you to where you're going with no scrapes, thats what I vote for!!!!!

[dayne66]

Don't like your straps, I use ratchet type. Other than that we are identical.

...as well, the ratchet strap hooks should have the spring loaded keeper.
http://accessories.harley-davidson.ca/product/94699-10/harley-davidson-125-ratchet-tie-down-straps

[OBB]

Be careful doing that... in theory it sounds good but I've heard of people that did that and it rubbed off powdercoating from the frame.

 
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 

Thanks for that advice. I'll rethink that for sure.

[chaos901]

I go around the frame at the engine guard and use a ratcheting strap, works well for me.  I do have lowers too.  For the rear, I hook to the frame below the engine and go to the side, those can be the pull straps as that is just to keep it from bouncing to the side. 

[mark]

I have both the ratchet and pull-type straps.  I've taken many trips with the pull-type, with nary a trouble.  1650 mile trip to Sturgis and back - the pull-type straps were just as tight as when I started. 

[skratch]

One thing I though of doing for the trip to MV in a few weeks is to put some wood blocks under the frame across the lift and compress the suspension down that far. Wouldn't be a lot and might give me a little more piece of mind along with some more stability.

that's the way i was taught, and the way that i have done it whenever i trailer anywhere.  never had an issue.  if you're concerned about the powdercoating, then put a rag between the two.  admittedly though, i don't trailer much, so it's only been 3 or 4 times, although i did it that way from louisiana to wisconsin without a lick of trouble.

[tazmun]

 You know Chip, I'm really impressed with the way you tie the bike down! No suspension compression, and that trailer, wow! I think I'm going to have to get me my 2nd MC10.
I got rid of my first one, because I thought touring bikes are meant to be ridden, but the older
I get, I think trailer in is the way to go!!! Especially when you have to ride the same roads to get to new ones, if you know what I mean!

tazmun

[SBB]

You know Chip, I'm really impressed with the way you tie the bike down! No suspension compression, and that trailer, wow! I think I'm going to have to get me my 2nd MC10.
I got rid of my first one, because I thought touring bikes are meant to be ridden, but the older
I get, I think trailer in is the way to go!!! Especially when you have to ride the same roads to get to new ones, if you know what I mean!

tazmun

Thanks Richard!
I remember even before we became good friends I asked about what trailer was best to buy.
Your recommendation was the Aluma. You owned one and your opinion was based on experience not just some internet BS.
I researched Aluma and realized you had a winner. So I bought mine. People asked why with the 7X14 Haulmark at home did I need an open trailer.
The Aluma is the easiest trailer I have ever loaded. The Aluma only weighs 390 lbs. Aluma thought the entire motorcycle hauling process through and built a trailer to met or exceed those requirements. There are those that ask why haul a bike on an open trailer since it get's dirty, well DUH, it gets just as dirty when you ride it. Get you another MC10 and have some fun. Thanks for all your help!

SBB

[2k]

The only time I was really glad I hauled enclosed was on a trip to the Outer Banks one year. We pulled into our ocean front parking in the middle of a NorEaster that lasted 3 days. Pulled our spic & span scoots out mid-week and rode for 3 days. Our truck/trailer was covered with 1/8" of dry salt spray. 90% of the time a light open trailer would be a godsend. Ever tie 4 bikes down in 100 deg weather.....now do it in a box!!!!!!!!

[GC_Super]

Straps on bike.


SBB

Chip, what brand wheel chock is that ? Looks like it could mount very close to a wall in an enclosed situation. We're shopping toy haulers and some we've looked at have a 9 foot garage. For that to work, the wheel chock needs to take up as little length as possible.

[2k]

I'm sure other companies make them, but Condor makes a trailer only chock that fits flush to the wall.

[tlr]

SBB,

That is really quite helpful. I have always wanted to see a pic as a guideline for this. Does the strap that is on the front fork rub close to the connection point of the fender to the fork?  I may need to trailer my bike soon.  does anyone know if someplace rents trailers like this?  I assume it wouldn't have a wheel chock though.

[SBB]

Chip, what brand wheel chock is that ? Looks like it could mount very close to a wall in an enclosed situation. We're shopping toy haulers and some we've looked at have a 9 foot garage. For that to work, the wheel chock needs to take up as little length as possible.

GC it is a K&L chock. K&L makes quality heavy duty equipment. I have two I use on the Aluma. (use 1 when towing the Harley and 2 when towing the scooters.
See link below,
http://www.klsupply.com/SHOPLIFTEQUIPMENT/KLMC10RUNIVERSALWHEELCLAMP.aspx

SBB

[SBB]

SBB,

That is really quite helpful. I have always wanted to see a pic as a guideline for this. Does the strap that is on the front fork rub close to the connection point of the fender to the fork?  I may need to trailer my bike soon.  does anyone know if someplace rents trailers like this?  I assume it wouldn't have a wheel chock though.

tir

The key is to make sure the strap is flat against the backside of the fork as you tighten the strap.
I'm not aware of anyone that rents trailers like mine.

SBB

[SBB]

SBB,

That is really quite helpful. I have always wanted to see a pic as a guideline for this.

I have meant to take some pictures of the bike strapped down but kept forgetting.
A good friend coming to Maggie Valley wanted a picture so I loaded the bike and took some.
Glad it helped.

 

SBB

[05Train]

Do what works for you, but....

I would never secure a bike by strapping to the fork legs.  The forks are held in place by the fender and the pinch bolt on the axle.  Tightening straps that would separate the fork lowers seems like an incredibly bad idea.

I would never secure a bike by strapping to the engine guard.  That guard flexes way too much, and is only secured at the top by a single bolt.


I use a Rampage lift.  The Ultra got strapped to the Rampage's sled via two straps to the Harley fork-mounted tie-down points.  I ran soft ties over the lower tree, then down to the front tie-down points in the truck.  Two more straps with soft ties went on the downtubes to the rear tie-down points on the truck.  Two more straps went from the rear passenger board mounts to the rear tie-down points.  Suspension gets compressed no more than 1-1/2".  The bike won't budge if it's strapped like this.

Again, not saying that the pictured way won't work, just that I wouldn't do it that way.

[2k]

XXXX.XX different ways to do it, most work great. Have used the way Chip does for years with 100% success, 0 front compression. In the event of a total disaster(trailer roll over) don't make a chit how you got it strapped, gonna be a mess.

[SBB]

Do what works for you, but....

I would never secure a bike by strapping to the fork legs.  The forks are held in place by the fender and the pinch bolt on the axle.  Tightening straps that would separate the fork lowers seems like an incredibly bad idea.

I would never secure a bike by strapping to the engine guard.  That guard flexes way too much, and is only secured at the top by a single bolt.


I use a Rampage lift.  The Ultra got strapped to the Rampage's sled via two straps to the Harley fork-mounted tie-down points.  I ran soft ties over the lower tree, then down to the front tie-down points in the truck.  Two more straps with soft ties went on the downtubes to the rear tie-down points on the truck.  Two more straps went from the rear passenger board mounts to the rear tie-down points.  Suspension gets compressed no more than 1-1/2".  The bike won't budge if it's strapped like this.

Again, not saying that the pictured way won't work, just that I wouldn't do it that way.

Cool, I guess my method of tying down a bike doesn't meet your approval.
Guess what? I don't care what you think. I have read enough of your post to know NO ONE knows as much about ANYTHING as you.
May have been all that pooping while you were on the I-Pad. Don't know, don't care, but for the record, your opinion on anything carries no credibility for me.

I would never secure a bike by strapping to the fork legs.  The forks are held in place by the fender and the pinch bolt on the axle.  Tightening straps that would separate the fork lowers seems like an incredibly bad idea.
I would never secure a bike by strapping to the engine guard.  That guard flexes way too much, and is only secured at the top by a single bolt.

Thousands of bikes have been delivered to Harley Davidson dealers strapped to a pallet from the fork leg. The same applies to the engine guard. Clearly you know more about strapping a bike than Harley Davidson. Well at least in your world you do. Thankfully most of us don't live in your world.

  Tightening straps that would separate the fork lowers seems like an incredibly bad idea.

Speaking of opinions about "incredibly bad ideas" I think trading "an orange & black 'CUSE7 with a really nice motor" for a BMW is a better example of an incredibly bad idea. We know those SEUC's are not perfect but it appears those BMW's have faults also.

The stock GTL seat sucks.  The stock speakers suck. 

Wait, what do we believe? Above you list things that suck on the BMW, below you tell us a different story. Besides being a motorcycle expert I'm thinking you may also be a politician.

There's just nothing bad about this bike. 

I have seen many Harley's straight from the factory tied down like mine so if it's good enough for them it's good enough for me.
I trailered a Beemer home once. I threw a blanket down to protect the trailer, laid the bike on it's side and tied it down with a truck strap from Harbor Freight. All while pooping from my I-phone. (but no video's)

SBB

[GC_Super]

GC it is a K&L chock. K&L makes quality heavy duty equipment. I have two I use on the Aluma. (use 1 when towing the Harley and 2 when towing the scooters.
See link below,
http://www.klsupply.com/SHOPLIFTEQUIPMENT/KLMC10RUNIVERSALWHEELCLAMP.aspx

SBB





Thanks for the link Chip. Looks like I have three or four options for one that can mount almost flush to the wall.

[SBB]

Thanks for the link Chip. Looks like I have three or four options for one that can mount almost flush to the wall.

Just remember, you get what you pay for.
Putting a nice bike in a cheap chock can lead to trouble.
Let us know what you decide!

 

SBB

[owl893]

I use the frame. I loop duplicate soft ties around the frame under the tank (two per side), I crank it down but make sure not to over-compress the fork. I do the same thing on the back usually finding a spot around the passenger peg supports, again doubled up. If I have to remove the bags to accomplish this, I do. I'm not an expert, just cautious, haven't dropped one yet.

OWL

[SBB]

I use the frame. I loop duplicate soft ties around the frame under the tank (two per side), I crank it down but make sure not to over-compress the fork. I do the same thing on the back usually finding a spot around the passenger peg supports, again doubled up. If I have to remove the bags to accomplish this, I do. I'm not an expert, just cautious, haven't dropped one yet.

OWL

I think the frame is a great place. If I was shipping the bike I would have three sets with the third tied to the frame.

SBB

[TNCarters]

Saw some 2014's come into the dealer a couple of months back and they were tied down to a bracket attached to the downtubes just above oil filter.  What does HD use to attach to the frame?  Never trailered my Limited but do have a 5x10 dovetail trailer with attached ramp so interested in the info.  SBB info is how the service manager at my local dealer suggested except he did not use the front strap to the chock and engine guard straps.  Both good suggestions for a $40k bike.

[05Train]

Don't know, don't care, but for the record, your opinion on anything carries no credibility for me.

But boy you sure spent a lot of effort responding to me.....Took the time to hunt down other posts and everything.

 



I'm truly touched that I'm so important to you.  PM me your address and I'll get you a personalized 8x10 glossy of me.

[2k]

8X10 Glossy's of Dikheads are easy to find on the net. Thay all look the same.   

[sadunbar]

GC it is a K&L chock. K&L makes quality heavy duty equipment. I have two I use on the Aluma. (use 1 when towing the Harley and 2 when towing the scooters.
See link below,
http://www.klsupply.com/SHOPLIFTEQUIPMENT/KLMC10RUNIVERSALWHEELCLAMP.aspx

SBB

I've got a couple K&L chocks mounted in my enclosed trailer.  I mounted them in a way that allows quick removal for the times that require I use my trailer for something other than hauling bikes (which is often)...  K&L makes a quality wheel chock...   

[SBB]

But boy you sure spent a lot of effort responding to me.....Took the time to hunt down other posts and everything.

Your right, I did spend a little time quoting some of your post.
It wasn't intended to offend you, heck I could have mentioned installing the tensioner backwards, but didn't.
The purpose of all the followup was to let others that may be clouded by your supreme knowledge to take it with a grain of salt, after all it is the internet.

And Jimmy, your right!
See you and that beautiful bike in the Valley!

SBB

[05Train]

Your right, I did spend a little time quoting some of your post.
It wasn't intended to offend you, heck I could have mentioned installing the tensioner backwards, but didn't.
The purpose of all the followup was to let others that may be clouded by your supreme knowledge to take it with a grain of salt, after all it is the internet.

Never said anyone was wrong, never said anyone was screwing up.  All I said what was I do and why I do it that way.

If people can't handle different opinions they might want to keep theirs to themselves.


BTW, you might also want to include buying a CVO in your list of mistakes I've made.  Could have saved myself a pile of money getting the Beemer a year ago.

[BigLew]

WOW!

BigLew

[SBB]

I have had members ask a couple questions about the tie down point on the forks.
There was concern the strap would rub on the paint.
The key is to keep the strap flush up against the back side of the forkleg.
No twisted straps or lapped over straps just a flush against the forkleg works every time.

SBB

[luc.who]

Thanks for the post, I an going to modify my tie downs after seeing your post.  I have always did the one thru the fron wheel and the 2 off the fender, but did not add the 2nd points off the guard or frame.   The tie down I use on the back is to pull the back tire straight back, I have found that when I angle my rear straps, the bike has moved left to right.   There we 2 times this happend to me, 1 in atlanta not sure what happened to the road there and somewhere on my trip to Montanna.  I was glad I only had 1 bike in the trailer.

[WestCoastRuss]

Good information here on trailering bikes.....I have a question however....when trailering should you leave your bike in gear or in neutral? 

[DaBigNuttedMan]

I would leave it in neutral, even though it shouldn't move front- rear at all, If anybodys interested I saw an aluma trailer on Indianapolis craigs list, a week or two ago $1,000.oo, sure enjoyed Maggie valley guys.

[SBB]

I would leave it in neutral, even though it shouldn't move front- rear at all, If anybodys interested I saw an aluma trailer on Indianapolis craigs list, a week or two ago $1,000.oo, sure enjoyed Maggie valley guys.

I try to put my bike in gear.
Sometimes I forget, but with that strap holding the wheel in the wheel chock I guess it doesn't matter.
As I have said a couple times in this thread that wheel chock strap is the most important strap holding the bike.

DaBigNuttedMan glad you and the better half made it to the Valley.
See you again next year or hopefully at Ribfest.


SBB

[tazmun]

 I want to thank you again Chip, as we did over 1600 miles to and from Maggie Valley without
as much as a scratch or a rub using your idea. We only used the front forks and wheel chock,
not the crash bars. We also went threw the rear wheel, but I used a spoke from the wheel from each sides and that also kept the bike from moving!  I really like not putting any pressure on the suspension! Again super idea, thanks!

tazmun

[porthole]

Good information here on trailering bikes.....I have a question however....when trailering should you leave your bike in gear or in neutral?

Don't think it really matters as long as it is properly tied down.
I do leave it in gear, but I always park the bike in gear to keep it from rolling on the kick stand.

I always use the clutch with the bike in gear to unload from the trailer. No front brake application.

My wife always freaks out when we get off the bike and it does that little forward roll.

I used to strap down the front wheel when I used BikePro chocks. I havent used a strap on the front wheel since switching to a Condor chock

[bubtrauma]

I use hand cuffs and soft rope so it doesn't leave marks on her ankles and wrists...........

Oh wait you are talking about a MOTORCYCLE.....

ah ..... well never mind.

[tazmun]

I use hand cuffs and soft rope so it doesn't leave marks on her ankles and wrists...........

Oh wait you are talking about a MOTORCYCLE.....

ah ..... well never mind.

I'm going to have to remember that, good one!

tazmun

[DaBigNuttedMan]

I try to put my bike in gear.
Sometimes I forget, but with that strap holding the wheel in the wheel chock I guess it doesn't matter.
As I have said a couple times in this thread that wheel chock strap is the most important strap holding the bike.

DaBigNuttedMan glad you and the better half made it to the Valley.
See you again next year or hopefully at Ribfest.

rite on Chip we will see yas next year

SBB

[ptnlinda]

Thanks for some helpful hints. Am trailering my 2008 Ultra to Alice Springs on Thursday to pick up the new 2015 CVO Limited Friday, a total of 3000k round trip. Will now be using a couple of your hints especially strapping the front wheel to the cradle.

[Aussie]

Thanks for some helpful hints. Am trailering my 2008 Ultra to Alice Springs on Thursday to pick up the new 2015 CVO Limited Friday, a total of 3000k round trip. Will now be using a couple of your hints especially strapping the front wheel to the cradle.

I trailer my bike similar but don't strap to the Wheel Chock in fear of scratching the rim.

[smkymtnboy]

   tried tying my bike down!! u cannot tie those big blue bikes down!! like wild horses or something. just get on,shut up, and hang on ! 

[2 ROSE]

There is a very simple solution...RIDE THE DAMN THING!!! 

[2018_FLTRXSE]

Cool, I guess my method of tying down a bike doesn't meet your approval.
Guess what? I don't care what you think. I have read enough of your post to know NO ONE knows as much about ANYTHING as you.
May have been all that pooping while you were on the I-Pad. Don't know, don't care, but for the record, your opinion on anything carries no credibility for me.


Thousands of bikes have been delivered to Harley Davidson dealers strapped to a pallet from the fork leg. The same applies to the engine guard. Clearly you know more about strapping a bike than Harley Davidson. Well at least in your world you do. Thankfully most of us don't live in your world.

Speaking of opinions about "incredibly bad ideas" I think trading "an orange & black 'CUSE7 with a really nice motor" for a BMW is a better example of an incredibly bad idea. We know those SEUC's are not perfect but it appears those BMW's have faults also.

Wait, what do we believe? Above you list things that suck on the BMW, below you tell us a different story. Besides being a motorcycle expert I'm thinking you may also be a politician.

I have seen many Harley's straight from the factory tied down like mine so if it's good enough for them it's good enough for me.
I trailered a Beemer home once. I threw a blanket down to protect the trailer, laid the bike on it's side and tied it down with a truck strap from Harbor Freight. All while pooping from my I-phone. (but no video's)

SBB

Beat me to it...

Unless the idiot at HD forgets to secure a strap like mine was and the bike arrives with the mirror and clutch lever sticking out of the cardboard box the straps HD uses hold up remarkably well.

We travel interisland and use cargo containers, 4 bikes in each. If you've ever seen the way pier jockeys shuttle containers around with those big lifts, you'll know SBB is 100% right. no such thing as too many straps.

[Indenial]

Just wondering--- with no compression on the front suspension,  it seems to me that each time you apply the brakes on the truck, the bike will compress forward on the shocks. The harder the braking, the more compression and the more rocking. Unless there is compression force on the shocks., the bike is constantly moving, even on a bumpy road. I always compress mine an inch or so., so there is no movement.  Please comment., am I missing something?

[tazmun]

Just wondering--- with no compression on the front suspension,  it seems to me that each time you apply the brakes on the truck, the bike will compress forward on the shocks. The harder the braking, the more compression and the more rocking. Unless there is compression force on the shocks., the bike is constantly moving, even on a bumpy road. I always compress mine an inch or so., so there is no movement.  Please comment., am I missing something?

When you secure the wheels so they don't move letting the bike move on it's suspension
is the same as you riding the bike. Wheels never leave the ground (hopefully).
If you see car carriers on the highway now, a lot of them use wheel straps to hold the cars down, not chains pulling the suspension down.What I'm trying to say is, it's a great practice
not putting any load on any suspension component!

tazmun

[Trapperdog]

Cars have a low COG and don't tip over though. Without some compression or blocking the lower frame to prevent compression, a bike will rock and if using straps with hooks, allows the possibility of spitting a hook

[bubtrauma]

GREAT thread,

When I strap mine down I put 2x6's under the frame and draw the straps down so the bike snugs up on the blocks or I have used my center jack and once the straps are all tight I snug the jack up to the frame.

Bub

[tazmun]

 Again, if you look at the way Chip has the bike strapped down on the trailer, the bike has no suspension compression, and the bike will not MOVE side to side. Trust me, we had (2) CVO's
strapped down this way in a 7' x 14' enclosed trailer and neither bike hit the other nor the walls, so side movement is NOT an issue. We did over 1800 miles to and from MV over all kinds roads.

tazmun

[willyB]

Just curious.

What do you guys consider a long enough distance to trailer your bike instead of riding it?

As I keep adding years I wondering if I should buy a trailer or just sell the bike and buy a great sport touring car.

[gadgetz]

Our use of a trailer depends.


1. If we need to get there in a days travel and the miles to get there are over 500 miles then we consider using the trailer.


2. If we are going to stay for longer than 5 days we also consider using a trailer, (wife loves to bring the kitchen sink, and Neal's coffee pot to MV)      Oh and we bring our Canadian buddies tee shirts when ordered. etc etc.


3. Sometimes we just use the trailer because we don't feel like riding that route, case in point is going to MV as we have ridden over the roads there many times over and there isn't much to see, (just want to get there mentality).  Also to RibFest for same reason, except we rode this past year, but will trailer next time.




We love to ride everywhere, (rode 20K on it this year) but I think there are times when you just don't want to for whatever reason so a trailer is a nice back-up when you have those moments.

[Indenial]

I love a good discussion!!!    Willy, you just answered your own question. If it comes down to trailering or selling the bike---by all means trailer it to where you need to. And you're right, the older I get, the more those last 200-300 miles matter.  Riding should be fun.

[DaBigNuttedMan]

Our use of a trailer depends.


1. If we need to get there in a days travel and the miles to get there are over 500 miles then we consider using the trailer.


2. If we are going to stay for longer than 5 days we also consider using a trailer, (wife loves to bring the kitchen sink, and Neal's coffee pot to MV)      Oh and we bring our Canadian buddies tee shirts when ordered. etc etc.


3. Sometimes we just use the trailer because we don't feel like riding that route, case in point is going to MV as we have ridden over the roads there many times over and there isn't much to see, (just want to get there mentality).  Also to RibFest for same reason, except we rode this past year, but will trailer next time.




We love to ride everywhere, (rode 20K on it this year) but I think there are times when you just don't want to for whatever reason so a trailer is a nice back-up when you have those moments.

"everything but the kitchen sink"  I Love It Maggie valley this year was the 1st time we trailered our bikes anywhere and because I modded the car trailer for bikes we had plenty of room, so we brought every thing but the kitchen sink too, luckey our room had an xtra bed for a work bench. I told Sue after unloading our things, look at that guy he rode up on his bike that's it beer in hand he's here he's done. of course it was nice taking one rainey day to bomb around town in the truck after dropping the trailer. Next year probably trailer but no kitchen sink.

[DesertHOG]

The only time I was really glad I hauled enclosed was on a trip to the Outer Banks one year. We pulled into our ocean front parking in the middle of a NorEaster that lasted 3 days. Pulled our spic & span scoots out mid-week and rode for 3 days. Our truck/trailer was covered with 1/8" of dry salt spray. 90% of the time a light open trailer would be a godsend. Ever tie 4 bikes down in 100 deg weather.....now do it in a box!!!!!!!!

I have a friend who solved that problem. He put a reefer on it.

[Trapperdog]

I've heard it said out west here "that the only thing in Maggy Valley with more miles than the CVOs are the trailers"   
Don't shoot the messenger, we  own a double Kendon and a toy hauler. 

[willyB]

A friend and I were talking about an enclosed trailer. Something like 12' or so that could hold a couple of bikes.

Then use the trailer as our camping hideout with either hammocks or blow up mattresses. We had all kinds of ideas for fold out benches/tables to a kitchen sink.

By the way, Hwy 70 from St. Louis to Denver. What a fun stretch of pavement.

[PinkE]

Our use of a trailer depends.


1. If we need to get there in a days travel and the miles to get there are over 500 miles then we consider using the trailer.


2. If we are going to stay for longer than 5 days we also consider using a trailer, (wife loves to bring the kitchen sink, and Neal's coffee pot to MV)      Oh and we bring our Canadian buddies tee shirts when ordered. etc etc.


3. Sometimes we just use the trailer because we don't feel like riding that route, case in point is going to MV as we have ridden over the roads there many times over and there isn't much to see, (just want to get there mentality).  Also to RibFest for same reason, except we rode this past year, but will trailer next time.




We love to ride everywhere, (rode 20K on it this year) but I think there are times when you just don't want to for whatever reason so a trailer is a nice back-up when you have those moments.

Now this is a man that really loves his wife...We also will be bringing MORE stuff next year, a larger coffee pot is on my list and a few more things.  Lots of luck Randy, next year I reserved a LARGER room so we can bring more stuff, and next year I am buying a woodcarved stand up bear to take home too...lol   we may even need a trailer for our trailer......