Motorcycle Towing: Special Considerations for Bikes
Motorcycles require specialized towing techniques and equipment to prevent damage. Learn what to expect and how to ensure safe transport for your bike.
Towing a motorcycle isn't the same as towing a car. Two-wheeled vehicles present unique challenges that require specialized equipment, specific techniques, and experienced operators. Using the wrong towing method can result in thousands of dollars in damage to your bike, while proper motorcycle towing ensures your machine arrives at its destination in the same condition it left.
Important Note
Never allow a towing company to use wheel-lift or hook-and-chain methods on your motorcycle. These methods will cause significant damage to your bike's bodywork, suspension, and frame.
Why Motorcycles Need Special Towing
Motorcycles have unique characteristics that make standard car towing methods inappropriate and potentially destructive.
Unique Motorcycle Challenges
- No four-wheel stability: Can't stand upright without support
- Delicate bodywork: Fairings and panels crack easily under stress
- Exposed components: No protection for engine, exhaust, and accessories
- High center of gravity: Unstable when loaded incorrectly
- Sensitive suspension: Designed for two-wheel contact, not lifting
- Varied designs: Sport bikes, cruisers, touring bikes all have different requirements
Common Damage from Improper Towing
Damage Examples from Wrong Towing Methods:
- • Cracked or shattered fairings ($500-2000)
- • Bent handlebars or clip-ons ($200-500)
- • Damaged exhaust systems ($400-1500)
- • Scratched fuel tanks ($300-1000)
- • Bent foot pegs or rearsets ($150-400)
- • Damaged windscreens ($100-300)
- • Stressed suspension components ($300-800)
- • Frame stress or damage ($1000+)
Proper Motorcycle Towing Methods
Professional motorcycle towing uses specialized equipment designed specifically for two-wheeled vehicles.
1. Flatbed with Motorcycle Loading System
The gold standard for motorcycle towing uses a flatbed truck equipped with motorcycle-specific loading equipment.
Flatbed Loading Process:
- 1. Position and prepare: Truck positioned for safe loading angle
- 2. Deploy ramp: Wide, textured ramp lowered from flatbed
- 3. Guide motorcycle up: Pushed or ridden slowly onto bed
- 4. Position in wheel chock: Front wheel secured in specialized chock
- 5. Compress suspension: Tie-downs compress front and rear suspension
- 6. Multiple tie-down points: Minimum 4 straps securing the bike
- 7. Final inspection: Check all connections and bike stability
2. Specialized Motorcycle Trailer
Enclosed or open trailers designed specifically for motorcycles provide excellent protection.
- Built-in wheel chocks: Properly positioned for various bike sizes
- Integrated tie-down points: Positioned to avoid damaging bike components
- Low loading angle: Easy loading without bottoming out fairings
- Weather protection: Enclosed trailers protect from road debris
- Multiple bike capacity: Can transport several motorcycles safely
3. Motorcycle Dolly System
For short-distance moves or when flatbed isn't available, specialized dollies can work.
- Self-loading dollies: Motorcycle rides onto dolly platform
- Hydraulic lift dollies: Lift bike off ground for transport
- Limited to short distances: Best for local moves only
- Requires skilled operator: Proper loading technique critical
Special Considerations by Motorcycle Type
Different motorcycle styles require different towing approaches and precautions.
Sport Bikes
- Low fairings: Extremely low ground clearance
- Clip-on handlebars: Limited steering lock range
- Aggressive riding position: High center of gravity when loaded
- Delicate bodywork: Expensive to repair if damaged
- Wide rear tires: May require wider wheel chocks
Cruisers & Touring Bikes
- Low seat height: Often sits lower than other bikes
- Forward controls: Foot pegs and boards extend forward
- Large windshields: Create wind resistance during transport
- Heavy weight: Require stronger tie-down points
- Long wheelbases: May need longer loading ramps
Adventure & Dual-Sport
- High ground clearance: Easier loading but higher center of gravity
- Knobby tires: May need different wheel chock systems
- Tall suspension: Compresses significantly when tied down
- Plastic bodywork: Can crack under tie-down pressure
- Luggage systems: May need removal before towing
Scooters & Small Bikes
- Lightweight construction: Can be damaged by over-tightening
- Small wheels: May not fit standard wheel chocks
- CVT transmissions: Different parking requirements
- Storage compartments: Remove valuables before towing
- Kickstand design: May need additional support
Preparing Your Motorcycle for Towing
Proper preparation helps ensure your motorcycle is transported safely and arrives in perfect condition.
Pre-Transport Checklist
Owner Preparation Tasks:
- Remove all personal items and valuables
- Check fuel level (1/4 tank recommended)
- Remove or secure loose accessories
- Turn off fuel petcock if equipped
- Disconnect battery if long-term storage
- Check tire pressure
- Document existing damage with photos
- Ensure keys are available and functional
What NOT to Do Before Towing
- Don't remove fairings or bodywork: Increases damage risk during loading
- Don't drain all fluids: Small amount of fuel helps with loading
- Don't attempt to "help" load: Let professionals handle the process
- Don't remove mirrors: Professionals know how to work around them
- Don't over-tighten anything: Leave adjustments to the operator
Costs and Considerations
Motorcycle towing typically costs more than standard car towing due to specialized equipment and procedures required.
| Service Type | Edmonton Average Cost | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Local Motorcycle Towing | $85-110 | Flatbed service within city limits |
| Long Distance | $3.00-4.00/km | Beyond 10 km from pickup point |
| Multiple Bikes | $60 each additional | 2nd+ bike on same transport |
| Roadside Motorcycle Service | $65-85 | Jump start, fuel delivery, minor repairs |
Insurance and Liability Considerations
- Verify towing company insurance: Must cover high-value motorcycles
- Document condition thoroughly: Photos before and after transport
- Understand coverage limits: Some policies have per-incident maximums
- Check your motorcycle insurance: May include towing coverage
- Get written estimates: Avoid surprise charges
Questions to Ask Towing Companies
Not all towing companies have proper motorcycle towing capability. Ask these questions to ensure you're choosing the right service.
Essential Questions
- "Do you have a flatbed with motorcycle loading equipment?" - Verify proper equipment
- "How many motorcycles do you tow per month?" - Gauge experience level
- "Can you provide references from motorcycle customers?" - Check reputation
- "What's your insurance coverage for motorcycle damage?" - Protect your investment
- "Do you charge extra for sport bikes or large touring bikes?" - Understand full costs
- "Can I watch the loading process?" - Ensure transparency
Winter Motorcycle Storage and Transport
Edmonton's long winters create special considerations for motorcycle towing and storage.
Cold Weather Challenges
- Frozen components: Brakes, clutch, and controls may be frozen
- Cold tires: Less traction and more prone to damage
- Brittle plastics: Fairings crack more easily in extreme cold
- Battery issues: Cold batteries may not provide power for electric start
- Condensation problems: Temperature changes can cause internal moisture
Winter Storage Tip
If possible, warm your motorcycle in a heated garage before transport. This reduces the risk of damage from brittle components and makes loading safer for operators.
Professional Motorcycle Towing
Our flatbed trucks are equipped with proper motorcycle loading systems for safe, damage-free transport.
Proper motorcycle towing requires specialized equipment, experienced operators, and careful attention to detail. While it costs more than standard car towing, the investment in proper service protects your valuable motorcycle from damage and ensures it arrives safely at its destination. Always verify that your towing company has the right equipment and experience before entrusting them with your bike.