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Originally Posted On: https://gomotors.net/blog/3181/7-common-motorcycle-towing-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/

 

Have you committed a towing mistake?

It’s not an easy task to tow a motorcycle or sport bike. Your vehicle is unique to you, cannot be shared with someone else, and requires you to take extra care. Towing mistakes can bring irreversible damage to your vehicle.

To avoid this, you must know the towing basics. So here are some common motorcycle towing mistakes and how to correct them.

1. Not Using the Right Size or Type of Trailer

This can result in the motorcycle not being adequately secured, which can lead to it becoming damaged during transport. Additionally, using the wrong size or type of trailer can make it challenging to maneuver the motorcycle, which can also lead to damage.

To avoid these mistakes, be sure to use a trailer that has designed for motorcycles, and that is the appropriate size for the motorcycle to transport. Make sure they designed the trailer for the type and size of motorcycle you have. Check the maximum weight capacity of the trailer and make sure your motorcycle does not exceed that.

2. Not Tying Down the Motorcycle Securely

To avoid this, be sure to use straps or safety chains for towing that has designed specifically for towing motorcycles. These will ensure that your bike stays in place and doesn’t topple over.

Additionally, be sure to secure the front and back of the motorcycle so that it doesn’t shift during transport. By taking these precautions, you can avoid common towing mistakes and keep your motorcycle safe.

One of the best things to ensure you are doing it right is to make sure to search motorcycle towing near me which can help you with towing your motorcycle.

3. Not Using Proper Loading Techniques

One of the most common motorcycle towing mistakes is not using proper loading techniques. This can lead to damage to the motorcycle and to the tow vehicle. Improper loading can also cause the motorcycle to become unstable and tip over.

To avoid these problems, be sure to use the proper loading techniques. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for loading the motorcycle onto the tow vehicle.

4. Not Using Proper Lighting

When towing a motorcycle, it is important to use bright, visible lighting so that other motorists can see you. Many tow truck drivers forget to turn on their lights or use dim lights that are not easily seen by other drivers. This can lead to accidents and injuries.

To avoid this mistake, be sure to use bright, visible lights when towing a motorcycle. One of the most common motorcycle towing mistakes is trying to tow a motorcycle during a lightning storm. This is a dangerous mistake that can have disastrous consequences. The best way to avoid this mistake is to wait for the storm to pass before attempting to tow the motorcycle.

5. Not Having the Right Amount of Insurance

This can be a costly mistake, as it can leave you with a large bill if you are in an accident. There are a few things you can do to make sure you have the right amount of insurance.

Make sure you have the minimum amount of liability insurance required by your state, consider getting additional insurance (such as collision or comprehensive coverage) and make sure you are familiar with your policy and what it covers so that you know what to expect if you need to use it.

Minimum Amount of Liability Insurance

If you are involved in an accident, this can result in catastrophic financial consequences. Also, make sure that your insurance covers you for towing in the event that your motorcycle breaks down. This can damage your motorcycle and void your insurance coverage.

Additional Insurance (Such as Collision or Comprehensive Coverage)

Damaging while you are in an accident can be a huge mistake. You will be responsible for paying for all of the repairs yourself.

Another common mistake is not having the proper type of insurance for your motorcycle. If you are not sure what type of insurance you need, you should check with your local motor vehicle department or with your insurance agent.

Familiar With Your Policy

This can lead to tow companies overcharging you for services or even refusing to tow your motorcycle altogether. Be sure to read over your policy carefully so that you know what is covered and what is not.

6. Not Knowing the State Laws Regarding Motorcycle Towing

This can result in the costly repairing damaged motorcycles or even a ticket. Each has different state towing laws about how motorcycles can be towed, so it is important to know the laws in your state before you attempt to tow a motorcycle.

If you are unsure about the laws, you can always call the police or a tow truck company to ask for advice. Make sure you know the laws in your state regarding the motorcycle towing equipment process.

7. Not Taking a Test Drive

This can often result in the motorcycle being damaged during the towing process. Be sure to take a test drive before towing the motorcycle to ensure that the towing process will go smoothly and that the motorcycle will not be damaged.

Avoid Common Motorcycle Towing Mistakes

Towing a motorcycle can be tricky and, if not done correctly, can result in serious damage. There are a few common motorcycle towing mistakes people make when towing a motorcycle: not using the right size or type of trailer, not tying down the motorcycle securely, not using proper loading techniques, not using the proper lighting, not having the right amount of insurance, not knowing the state laws, and not taking a test drive.

By being aware of these mistakes and how to avoid them, you can help ensure that your motorcycle arrives safely at your destination.

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