![]() In many cases, riders report they do not notice the trailer behind them. Other brands may use small automotive wheels and a 1 7/8” ball with a swivel coupling. They utilize two 16” motorcycle wheels on a unique A-arm suspension with adjustable air shocks that keep the unit smooth and free from bouncing – important for motorcycle applications. The Bushtec designs use a 360-degree swivel pin coupling instead of a trailer ball that attaches to a special hitch on the bike. And if you go all out with custom paint, you can make an especially snappy presentation rolling up to Sturgis, Daytona or another bike rally.Īccording to Andrew Preston, general manager for Bushtec trailers in Jacksboro, Tenn., larger motorcycles also make excellent tow vehicles. ![]() Swoopy or retro-esque styles are also a selling feature. ![]() These designs are relatively lightweight, handle well, and are easy to back up. More aerodynamic shapes could also allow up to 60 percent improved fuel economy over a comparable square enclosed trailer, and tie-down points and balance of the bike(s) are nearly ideal. Heard said his trailers fit inside a standard garage. In the case of the Ironhorse brand and others, a “clamshell” design made of fiberglass gives a low roof height. Some have a V-shaped or otherwise shaped nose to help with fuel economy.Ī few manufacturers are catering to affluent baby boomers, and those who want special treatment for their bikes, who do not need a trailer for general purpose.įor a trailer capable of holding only one or two bikes, these may cost the most, but offer a few unique features that have let some carve out a market niche. Many enclosed trailers have square sides, which on open roads with crosswinds or tractor-trailers sweeping past can affect handling. You can move lumber or a washing machine as easily as a motorcycle with one of these.Īdditionally, there are no problems with precipitation, bugs, and chipping rocks with the bike(s) stored inside, also out of sight from potential thieves. The upside for general cargo or similar designs is the same as for a general-purpose flat bed trailer. They may be heavy and need more powerful tow vehicles. ![]() Toy haulers can have camping amenities like beds, a kitchen, TV, shower, toilet, and whatever else you want to spend for. These can be a general cargo trailer, or a trailer modified for powersports, or a “toy hauler,” which is a long trailer with a rear “garage” for loading “toys.” Contractors, for example, can use them for work during the week and for play on the weekend. ![]() An advantage of general-purpose trailers is you can use them for hauling anything. These include general-purpose utility trailers, or ones intended for powersports with added wheel chocks and tie-down points. The highway wind will cause the flapping cover to chafe the bike’s finish, and the cover may blow or shred off. Unbalanced loading or trying to pull too long a trailer for your towing vehicle can also cause “explosive oscillations” leading to a “jackknife” on the highway, according to Ed Heard, co-owner of Ironhorse Trailers in Morrison, Tenn.Īnd another consideration: think twice before attempting to protect the bike with a tarp or fabric cover on open trailers. Positioning weight far forward, for example, over-weights the tongue and the back of the towing vehicle, and can un-weight its front wheels enough to affect handling and braking. Where you mount the motorcycle in relation to the trailer axle(s) makes a difference too. While many are made of steel, or alloy/steel combinations, often with fiberglass tops, Featherlite trailers are constructed from strong, light, non-corroding aluminum, except for the highest-stress areas where steel is needed. According to Nicole Ausdemore, public relations and advertising specialist for Featherlite trailers in Cresco, Iowa, what the trailer is constructed of affects durability, fuel economy and resale value. ![]()
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