There are a few different ways to transport your dirt bikes or motorcycles to the track or trails. Some are cheaper than others and some are more convenient. It all comes down to your circumstances and what you prefer. You can transport your bike by towing a trailer, tossing it into a truck bed, or placing it on a hitch carrier. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each.
Trailers
Some people will never pull a trailer behind their vehicle because they don’t want to deal with it or are not good at maneuvering. Others will not use more than trailers just because they allow more space to transport equipment. Trailers are good in that regard and it is usually quite easy for one person to load bikes. You can have a closed or open trailer depending on how much money you have to spend. Covers are more expensive, but they keep items off your dirt bikes and the parts you carry.
Although trailers have many advantages, there are several setbacks. They can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, they have to be registered (license plate, tabs, etc.), they are more difficult to drive and park since they can double the length of your vehicle.
Just the truck
Probably the most convenient way to transport your dirt bike (s) is on the bed of a truck. If you already have a truck, this is the cheapest way to do it, as all you will need is a few tie downs. Throw your bike, gear, and parts in the back, and you’re ready for the track! It doesn’t tow anything behind the truck, so driving and parking is like driving every day.
The downsides to transporting your dirt bike with a truck is that it could be expensive if you don’t already have one, and loading the bike can be tricky if you don’t have help or a sturdy ramp. You also don’t have a lot of room to transport gear, as the bike is taking up space on the bed. If you are only hauling one bike, then there is plenty of room.
Transport of a hitch carrier
A slightly less common, but fairly simple, way to transport your dirt bike is on the receiver on the rear hitch of your vehicle. It is versatile, as you can use most vehicles to transport a bicycle. A motorcycle hitch carrier is fairly easy to install, and one person can usually carry a bike. Most of them are affordable and easier than towing a trailer. Driving and parking is pretty much the same as before, only adding another two to three feet in length.
Although motorcycle hitch carriers are convenient, most of them have negatives. Many of them wobble slightly while driving on the highway. As long as you don’t buy a cheap, low-quality carrier, they will last a long time. Your vehicle and the hitch may also be restricted by weight limits. If you are only hauling an ATV and not a street motorcycle, you will be able to use most cars, but it is a good idea to check with your manual for weight restrictions.
That is the basic summary of what each means of transport will give you for your dirt bike. If you have the ability to try a new one, please do so. You never know, it might be your favorite way to transport your dirt bike!