6 Best Motorcycle Trailers
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Find the 6 best motorcycle trailer to help transport your bike with ease anywhere you go.
Just because a motorcycle is much smaller and more compact than a car, it doesn’t mean you can ride it anywhere. Certain situations require you to transport your bike without riding it. Here’s where motorcycle trailers come to play. They easily get your bike from one place to another without even riding it. Here are the 6 best motorcycle trailers you need to get for your motorcycle today.
Trinity MT3 Trailer
If you’re looking for versatility, the Trinity MT3 trailer is a winning combination of adaptability and design. This trinity motorcycle trailer can carry one large bike, two cruisers, or three sport/off-road bikes. It can support the weight of one, two, or three motorcycles weighing up to 2000 lb. Its adjustable design lets you convert it to a 5 x 7 feet utility trailer by removing the three wide channel rails.
It features 13-inch aluminum wheels with tubular steel construction. The trailer is constructed of high-quality, rust-resistant steel and aluminum tread plate. For better traction and stability, load heavy bikes on the center rail. The attachable loading ramp and automated wheel chocks make loading easy.
The trailer deck dimensions measure 84 inches wide, 90 inches folded length, and 120 inches extended length, weighing 425 lbs. Side rails fit motorcycles up to maximum lengths of 97 inches, and the center rail supports motorcycles weighing up to 105 inches. A torsion axle ensures a smooth ride even when the trailer suspension compresses.
North Star Trailer Sportstar I Utility Trailer Kit
If you’re looking for a versatile trailer, the North Star trailer is a great choice. It can carry two motorcycles or an ATV and is easy to assemble.
With a 700-pound load capacity, the tailgate folds down into a ramp to trailer apex. Measuring 33 inches tall, 50 inches wide, and 121.5 inches long, it offers plenty of extra space. Radial tires provide better traction than bias tires, ensuring a smoother and more stable ride.
The powder coated frame adds durability, and side and front rails help protect your bike. However, note that it lacks integrated chocks, so you’ll need to safely plant the bike while tying it down. The 12-inch bias ones are smaller, and the open trailer deck means the kickstand can’t be used securely.
Kendon Stand-Up Single Ride-Up SRL Motorcycle Trailer
The Kendon Stand-Up Single Ride-Up SRL Motorcycle Trailer is a durable steel option with a 1,000-pound load capacity. Measuring 112 inches long and 72 inches wide, it fits full sized motorcycles and folds up vertically for easy storage. It includes an integrated ride up feature and ramp for convenient loading, making it easier to load heavy, full-sized motorcycles.
It lacks side rails or a gate and is designed for only a single motorcycle, despite its size. Still, its well balanced trailer design and space-saving ability make it ideal for different styles of bikes.
Ultra-Tow Aluminum Utility Trailer
Ultra-Tow is one of the best trailers available. Though primarily a utility trailer, it also works well for transporting dual sports and touring bikes.
This 4×8 feet folding trailer supports up to 1,170 lbs and folds for easy storage. Made from rust resistant steel and aluminum, it’s lightweight and durable. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to maneuver and store the trailer.
The kit includes a 2-inch coupler, safety cables, full LED lights, two tires with radial tires that provide better grip, and aluminum tread plate fenders. It meets all DOT requirements for safe transport.
Ironton Steel Folding Utility Trailer Kit
You can transport anything with the Ironton steel folding utility trailer kit. More than a utility trailer, it works well for motorcycles. While you can’t use your kickstand on the open trailer deck, it’s easy to tie down securely.
The balanced trailer design accommodates bikes of various sizes, and though it lacks standard equipment like integrated chocks, it is still ideal for transporting prized motorcycles in one trip.
MotoAlliance Impact Heavy-Duty Trailer
If you’re looking for a tough trailer for off-road use, consider the MotoAlliance Impact Heavy Duty Trailer. It features a steel frame and bed, handles up to 1,500 lbs, and measures 85 by 48 inches. The trailer includes a foot dump, quick-release latch, tilt bed, and removable mesh, side rails, and tailgate.
Its pivoting hitch allows easy maneuvering over rough terrain, and the trailer suspension helps with ride quality. It’s a great choice for dirt bikes, ATVs, or sport bikes and even accommodates extra gear.
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Best Motorcycle Trailer Guide & FAQs
Why You Should Buy a Motorcycle Trailer
Some motorcycle owners don’t realize the benefits of owning a trailer. However, they provide more pros than cons. Here are reasons why you should own a motorcycle trailer today:
You can easily transport your bike anywhere. We all know that while motorcycles are portable, they can’t be driven everywhere. A trailer comes in handy when transporting your bike through places where you can’t ride it—like when it’s broken. There’s no way to ride a broken bike.
With that said, a good trailer can make your travels easier than ever. You can travel without riding your bike for miles. Moreover, you can transport more than one bike at once. You can even get through rough terrains without stressing all the touring bikes.
One of the most underrated benefits of a trailer is protection and security. Enclosed trailers can be locked from the outside to keep your prized motorcycles safe. Additionally, aluminum wheels, which are stiffer and lighter than steel wheels, can enhance the handling stability of a motorcycle trailer during transport.
Types of Motorcycle Trailers
Open
Open trailers are easy to maneuver. They usually have a lightweight design and aluminum wheels, and they often feature loading ramps. However, your bike is exposed to elements like rain, snow, and dirt.
It also depends on the manufacturer if it comes with a ramp. Most open trailers have aluminum construction, and that, too, makes it overall lightweight. Another downside of this type of trailer is that your bike is exposed to just about anything with it, including rain, snow, and dirt.
Enclosed
These are all for optimal protection. With a roof and walls, they shield bikes from weather and thieves. Many have a back door that doubles as a ramp and some come with side doors.
Stand-up
Storage can be quite an issue when it comes to trailers. Not all of us have ample space for an open or enclosed trailer. This is where stand-up trailers come in. They take up less space and usually fold up easily for storage. Trailers that fold can save space when storing them in the garage or driveway.
Moreover, this type of trailer is lightweight despite the material they’re made of. You can find trailers with a fully balanced chassis, full-size tires, and even an independent suspension.
Front-Wheel
Almost like hitch carriers, these mini trailers carry the bike’s weight from the front wheel. They’re affordable and good for emergencies, but not for long hauls.
What to Consider When Buying a Motorcycle Trailer
Material
Trailers are made from aluminum or steel. Aluminum wheels make for lighter trailers, but steel provides high quality construction and load capacity. Enclosed trailers often include wood elements.
Compatibility
Ensure your hitch receiver matches your trailer. Look for a Class III to V hitch. Class III tows up to 1,200 lbs, while Classes IV and V can tow over 2,700 lbs.
Load Capacity
That said, load capacity is also an important factor to keep in mind. Your trailer should be able to carry your motorcycle without falling apart. Aside from the weight of the motorcycles, you should remember what else you’re loading on your trailer. If it’s two bikes, add up the total weight of both bikes. If you’re including gear, add the weight of the gear into your calculation.
Most dirt bikes weigh abound 300 to 400 lbs. Meanwhile, sportbikes can weigh from 300 to 600 lbs if you have a cruiser that probably weighs about 800 lbs. If you can find trailers that can take more than just the weight of your motorcycle, then you can rest assured as you haul it around.
Integrated Chocks
These help hold bikes in place while tying them down. Some trailers come with three integrated chocks or one per rail. Otherwise, you’ll need to install them separately.
Versatility
Some trailers haul more than motorcycles. Look for various combinations of removable rails and chocks. That’s true versatility motorcycles need.
Tie-Down Locations
Every bike has its own required tie-down locations, depending on the design. Check whether the tie-down spots on your trailer fit the tie-down points of your motorcycle. If you can find a trailer with various tie-down locations, then all the better. These spots usually come in metal loops or a rail that protects your motorcycle within the trailer.
Tips to Keep in Mind
There are certain things you need to keep in mind to help you use your trailer at its full capacity. Firstly, the help of a second set of hands can go a long way. If possible, have another person help you install the trailer with you. It can be hard to lift the trailer into position, especially without any help.
You should also ensure you’ve secured everything before hauling your bike. That includes double-checking the tie-down points and the gate if it’s locked. A padlock helps greatly in securing your motorcycle within an enclosed trailer.
What Are the Top Brands for Motorcycle Trailers
Brand reputation is a lot more important in parts and gears than you’d think. That’s why it’s also important to know which ones are the biggest players in the industry and who you can trust. You should be looking for brands like Five Star Aluminum, Ultra-Tow, and North Star Trailer. Prices for motorcycle trailers can vary widely based on features and design, starting from around $2,499.
Five Star Aluminum provides the best lightweight trailers for motorcycles. Ultra-Tow works hard to provide not only motorcycle trailers but also cargo and utility trailers. The company also produces some of the best hitch carriers for bikes. North Star Trailers, on the other hand, is one of the top-of-mind brands for trailers. Moreover, they have excellent customer support as well as service—the trailers from this brand range from motorcycle trailers to utility trailer kits.
Q: What is a vehicle’s tongue weight?
Tongue weight is the load your hitch can safely carry. If you can’t find it in the manual, divide the towing capacity by 10.
Q: How can I tell if the trailer hitch functions with my vehicle?
Always check the motorcycle’s weight as well as the loading capacity your trailer has. If they’re within the vehicle’s tongue weight, you’re good to go.
Q: How can I get the bike on the platform?
There are various ways you can do this. Some trailers come with a ramp, so you can utilize that when loading your bike. Guide them up yourself, so you’re sure that they won’t fall. You can also have a separate ramp to help you pull your motorcycle up on the trailer.
Don’t ever ride your motorcycle up the trailer if you can get help to do the job, then all the better.
Motorcycle Trailer Reviews
Users are interested in reading reviews and experiences from other customers regarding the performance, durability, and usability of motorcycle trailers, especially the Trinity MT3, to make informed purchasing decisions.
The Trinity MT3 has aluminum wheels which are stiffer and lighter than steel wheels.
The MT3 trailer features an integrated ride-up feature to help load heavy motorcycles.
The trailer is designed with three integrated chocks and three wide-channel rails.
The Trinity MT3 is an extremely popular motorcycle trailer.
Users reported wheel chocks may not fit all motorcycle sizes effectively.
Some users experienced grease flinging from wheel bearing seals during use.
The trailer’s finish can rust after exposure to light rain.
The trailer received mixed reviews regarding design and functionality.
Users recommended considering an enclosed trailer instead of the MT3 for better protection.
Final Thoughts
The North Star Trailer Sportstar I Utility Trailer Kit is the best overall. But each option offers a winning combination of features that fit any rider’s needs. Whether it’s for touring bikes, dirt bikes, or sport bikes, there’s a perfect trailer waiting to simply unload your worries.
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