7 Mistakes to AVOID When Pulling a Motorcycle Trailer

[@shaunhall1838]

This is information that you absolutely need to know. Thank you for sharing!

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks Shaun.

[@tnasburypl]

Love the solar cell.

[@Frenchy5117]

I have a bushtec trailer also , pulled it fully loaded from Sturgis sd to Philadelphia Pennsylvania with a Road King, ill admit you can forget its there because the pin hitch , I asked my wife several times if the trailer was still there because I couldn't feel it back there, great video

[@vampynightzgaming193]

You guys did a great job doing this video

[@srad98ful]

Negative tongue weight will hurt you faster than too much tongue weight. Should should be #1. In my opinion

[@jimnielsen4076]

I agree. Always have some downward pressure (weight) on your tongue

[@floydlacroix6957]

If the weight is to heavy in the rear of the trailer it can start to shake back and forth uncontrollably also tongue angle I have built meny motorcycle trailers started in the 90s meny were scraped because they were dangerous

[@robertheinkel6225]

Years ago, while stationed in Montana, I saw two mid sized motorcycles, each pulling a dual axle trailer, with a smaller off road capable motorcycle on each trailer. Months later I read a story of two guys traveling to the northernmost point in AK. They rode the street bikes as far as they could, then switched to the off road bikes to complete the trip north.

[@stephanbrown7950]

Love my Goldwing reverse gear, Cia has never had to push me around. Well not my bike.

[@tomirwin4819]

Same here.. I love my Goldwing reverse..👍

[@grprather]

Really great tips for pulling a trailer with your bike! One other way to overcome backing up from a parking space is to unhook the trailer and back it up (especially if you don't have someone to help when it is attached to the bike) then get the bike faced the direction you want to go and hook the trailer up again. Also be aware of speed limits when pulling a trailer! In California the speed limit when pulling a trailer is 55mph, and applies to ALL vehicles including motorcycles! The Bushtec trailer I pull with my Harley has air adjustable suspension, and sometimes I have to add or reduce air pressure in the suspension to keep the tires parallel with each other. I carry a small hand pump in the trailer along with a tire pressure gauge!

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks glad you liked it.

[@edpretty8344]

I agree 100% with everything you said in your video, particularly the "bonus" at the end. :) I also like your delivery and format. Well done. To qualify myself, we have ridden over 35000 miles with a trailer: Notably, to Alaska and back from our home near Vancouver, BC, across Canada and back over 3 1/2 months as well as various shorter trips of 2-3000 miles. I wrote an article in Canadian Biker pointing out pretty much everything that you said. Having said that, I think there are a couple of things you might emphasize. First, it's dangerous to go "tongue light", in fact more dangerous than tongue heavy. The tongue weight should never be below 10%. The clip of the trailer on the belt shows it clearly but I bet most folks would miss it. Second. A two wheel trailer puts you in the middle of the road a lot and can get you in trouble with the deep ruts that sometime occur in pavement (wet or dry, actually). I recall a time at the bottom of a long hill in heavy rain where those ruts were actually rivers. It was a nightmare, but then you could go on and on about little nuances like that. The third is not to overload your bike, which is easy to do. That 10-15% shouldn't put you over your bike's GVW. The intent is to take the weight off your bike, not add more. Congrats on a well presented video. I know how tough that is to get right.

[@roger4375]

All good points. I’ve been trailering behind my motorcycle for years now. I’ve experienced the frustration of downslope parking and being pushed out of a parking spot. If I had to pick the most important mistake to avoid it would be a tossup between being an experienced rider and properly loading of the trailer. Everything you said was applicable and I agree with all of it and more…… you touched on one mistake but Id like to say that when you break camp, or initially start out be mindful of the process of towing. It doesn’t start when the bike moves. It begins with everything you do up to that point, proper loading, tongue weight, tire pressure, tire condition, DOUBLE CHECKING your hitch connection and making sure you are safety chained and have lights. In short everything you do before you move the bike and trailer combo. I am glad I watched this segment of your videos. I am buying a trailer tire monitor now…👍👍

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks Roger all great points you said.

[@floydlacroix6957]

Having to break in a turn is an eye opener towed 1000s of miles with my gold wing

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Yes That's why i like the Hiem joint. It still can be scary

[@sirdirtydog705]

Can brakes be added to the trailer?

[@floydlacroix6957]

@@sirdirtydog705 no having that on a motorcycle trailer is very dangerous

[@ThreeWheelTherapy]

Ignoring the proper way to attach the safety chains is a mistake also. The hitch I have on my spyder allows me to cross the chains. This makes sure the slacker chain in a turn does not drop down. I Also use carabiner clips to attach as the s hooks drop off sometimes on really rough roads.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

very true.

[@robertcraft8945]

I have a 2008 Honda goldwing, and the reverse is awesome to have it. I personally couldn’t imagine doing what you are doing without my goldwing. Not beating up your Harley, be safe

[@randalltom9750]

Thanks again for the information on trailers. I want one, don’t yet have one. I’ve considered a single-wheeled trailer mostly... I tend to minimalize my gear now. I own a ‘07 Harley Deluxe w/Leather Saddlebags, no tank or tail bag, no backpack, just the two saddlebags, and a small bar bag, that’s it. I travel very light... three days of clothing, a tarp, stakes & cordage, bivy, hammock, tyvek groundsheet, air mattress, and 30 degree bag. A folding wood camping stove, 750ml titanium mug, spork, foil, instant coffee, stainless water bottle, bic, tinder, LED headlamp, Tool Kit, Tyvek Frog Toggs, ICE, registration, insurance docs, MxTool, repellant, sunscreen, microfibre towel, Dope Kit, TP & Wipes, small hand shovel, and riding gear... All of it fits. iPhone & charger, plenty of cash & cards, butler maps, Schubert C4 Pro, gloves, chaps, jacket, boots, bandana, and well layered. A tent would be a nice addition, camp chair, and more food/snacks/drinks.... I need a small trailer... what do you think of a single-wheeled trailer?

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

I like the single wheel trailer. Perfect for small Like what you are saying. Full time it’s a necessity to have good shelter and chairs. We cook out most always.

[@randalltom9750]

@@TwoWheelsBigLife I boil water, for coffee & oatmeal, soup & Dehydrated dishes... Knorr Soups, Instant potatoes, Knorr sides, and chuck in some canned protein... tuna, chicken, Deli Meat, hotdogs, occasional roadkill... over a campfire, I used to cook Teriyaki Spam on a stick (try it)...

[@marcelolavoyer2627]

You are a very nice couple. I enjoy your videos a lot. I needed to put my production out of my property. So I bought a Yamaha 125, year 2006, and a heavy brand new cargo treiler, car wheelled. I am on the top of the hill, 57 years old, muddy access road... Absolutely no experience on motorcycling... Can you imagine the adventure?!...

[@marvin-the-martian5194]

I towed a trailer from western Oregon to Key West and back in 1980 in the winter. My tow vehicle was a '79 Yamaha 750 triple (about 550 lbs). The trailer had a ball and coupler hitch. There is an adjustment on the coupler to get rid of the slop. In fact, in severe cross winds, I tightened up the coupler slightly so it would act sort of like a steering dampener to increase stability. I only had two "oh manure" moments. The first, I was in a sweeper and I felt the back of the bike twitching. I looked in the mirror and saw the trailer slid out and trying to pass me. I was on black ice--not much fun, but I got through OK. The second, I was in the tight 10 to 15 mph corners on the northern part of CA hwy 1. I didn't have a swivel on my hitch, and I locked up the ball and coupler. This meant I couldn't stay in my lane--one way I was going to enter oncoming traffic, the other I was going off a 300 foot cliff down to the ocean. I slowed down a bit after that. Thank goodness that trailers have made some improvements in 40 years.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Wow that’s an E ticket ride.

[@brucelund5788]

Also, I was going to mention, you can adjust the tension on the latch of a ball hitch, to where it won't have that slack in it.

[@ttjbiggunner2025]

Realy good video guys great info first video iv seen on this subject

[@agentsmith1931]

Outstanding information, Thank you.. Currently researching camper trailers and a new ride....... Stay safe, and keep rollin'

[@wflentge]

Yes Honda Goldwings have a reverse and now a walk forward mode on the newer GWs. Great video. I tow tent trailers often and a smaller cargo not as often.. Tongue Weight is so important especially on mountain twisty roads. Braking distance - A steep down hill into a T intersection has almost pushed me into the intersection, so be aware and break earlier. Do not forget to put and LOCK the lock pin on the hitch and always use chains.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks for sharing

[@SierraJim]

I always try to park facing out, even when in a cage, your safest, and easiest, way to leave a parking spot is forward

[@Duey-r8v]

You also need to check the tires. Not only for air pressure but for a dry rot. Add a trailer I was playing with a motorcycle and it was all over the place. Replacing the tires and having them balanced help a lot. Also if you're going to be changing tires you should be doing the wheel bearings also in the trailer.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

good info I agree with ya on these checks also

[@mickyprice1500]

HI Guys, thank you for a very good informal video. What you both said will help newby bikers to pull a trailer. I have been pulling a trailer on the back of my Goldwing for about 12 years while traveling and camping in the UK and in Europe, for anyone pulingl a trailer STAY SAFE and HAVE FUN.

[@MRMRS2wheeler]

Great info. Me and the Mrs are in the process of getting a camper to eventually do some full time traveling, and while we have been riding for close to 100k, I learned lots of new info that I haven't even considered. Thanks for taking the time to put this together. Stay safe guys.

[@larryambrose5078]

Great Vid and Trailer pulling Tips! I've pulled my Home Built MC Trailer about 75,000 mi in the last 4 yrs. 50,000 of those were with my HD Road King and HD Street Glide. The last 25,000 mi with my F6B GoldWing. I built it for my 2 Girls-Labs, 75 lbs each. The Trl box is 42" W X 62" L X 25" Ht. with a 36" tongue, 1 7/8" Ball with a 360 Swivel. 12" Rims with 4.80 Radial Tires. The back half is for the Girls with their own Windshield, front half is for our Gear. I Absolutely Love Pulling my Girls and camping in the US of A. BTW, the Wing is a MUCH, MUCH Better MC to pull a Trailer. More Power, Better Brakes, More Comfy, More Reliable, and Water Cooled! Love your Vids and Your Wife is AWESOME! Ride On!!!

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks Larry

[@dwayneseppala7556]

I just bought a 2021 heritage with a 114 now I was thinking about getting a trailer/ camper your video is very helpful thank you so much

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Awesome. Glad it helped. Cheers.

[@stevenlexa1908]

No problem with my Can Am RTL, I have reverse, great videos, thanks for all the travel tips

[@ScottRuckman-u4h]

May I ask what trailer you have???I have a 2022 Can-Am Spyder RTL and for the life of me I can’t find a freedom trailer… And the bush tech has a six pin connector😢… now I’m looking at a discovery trailer from the USA trailer store.

[@66pheonixpatrick76]

You guy’s are so right , just 1 serious issue I have encountered is when I have found a drive through and I have parked you need to have a high visibility flag on a flexi pole about 2 feet high so as your trailer is not hit by a vehicle trying to find a spare car park. On mine I also have installed back facing and front facing camera’s and an alarm - sounds like an overkill but trust me for such a little of money layout to equip your trailer with these items it does the following: 1); lowers your insurance cost, 2);if a collision occurs either in the car park or on the road you have clear evidence plus a number plate/ facial recognition recording that helps in a no fault claim, 3) any potential thief is not only recorded but the alarm scares them off and hopefully little to no damage has been done to your trailer. Stay safe and stay upright guy’s 😎

[@brentmorris8467]

Good info!! I tow a popup camper with a/c. Loaded at 500lbs. Trailer has electric brakes and the Wing has ABS. This setup is awesome and comfortable. Would not tow without trailer brakes they are out of this world.

[@theodoreresch5220]

I have pulled a Bushtec trailer for going on 15 years. From 2 wheels to now a Harley Triglide. My wife has had to push me out of some tight spots. Not now, with the reverse gear. You had great info and hit all the right spots. I'll be watching for more tips. "Let's Ride" 😎

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks Theodore - so glad to hear that I'm not the only woman whose had to push!! You know, as well as we do, that sometimes there's just no avoiding those awkward parking spots. We always laugh when pulling into one, saying "Well, that's going to require a push". Glad to hear you have reverse.

[@limbandtreeremoval]

Great Info, loved to hear your experience and be a part of the conversation! Thank you

[@SidecarRob1]

Thanks for putting this out there. I get a lot of questions from other riders about my trailer and how it handles and I give pretty much the same advice you convey here.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ZippoVarga]

I pull an Alumilite XL behind my Goldwing and everything you covered is spot on. There's also those trailers with top luggage racks to consider and not wanting to make your load too high. This can cause one or both of two things...top heavy, which is never a good thing and/or your trailer becomes a sail or air brake which will drastically change the driving ability. So keep those luggage rack use lean and low. Cheers! Zip~ p.s. as I already stated, get a Goldwing. You'll never look back. This is coming from a devoted HD owner and rider. Also.......Maintenance is much cheaper and the bikes are 5 times more reliable.

[@gregorytubbs3444]

Thank you for taking the time to discuss this issue. As far as a standard ball and utility hitch setup. If the hitch is moving back and forth, hitting against the ball, that hitch is out of adjustment. It should only pivot around the ball, not slide back and forth. The video of the trailer running into the ditch, the comment about your trailer passing you? Where the hell were the safety chains?? A friend had a ball hitch with a bolt in the bottom of the ball, not a nut like most do. I'd never seen one like that before and will never use one like it again. The bolt came loose, ball came off, but he continued to drag the trailer because he had proper safety chains on. The trailer didn't end up taking out a car in the heavy traffic. Taking curves... Don't brake when in the curve. The bike is leaning and turning, but the trailer will want to continue pushing straight. I always try to maintain speed or a slight acceleration to pull the trailer through the curve and not let the trailer push against a bike that's leaning over. It can push the back tire out from under you..And it's important to have quality tires that don't slip on the pavement like some cheap brands will do. Anyone who has experience pulling campers with cars will tell you that a heavy trailer will try to steer the car. And you can still be well within the rated pulling capacity of that car. This is very important for a motorcycle. Maintenance? How about pulling your trailer hubs every year, before your trip. To inspect the bearings, grease, hub seals, any loosening of the bearings. I was an over the road truck driver for 25+ years. I can't tell you how many times I saw trailers that lost the entire hub because the owners probably never checked the bearings. I've even witnessed wheels come off a couple times. Pretty nerve racking, not knowing where that 55 mph wheel would end up. What's wrong with backing into a sloped parking spot? You don't need a reverse since gravity will do the backing up for you.

[@debraholdman5308]

Just a word of praise. We currently don't pull a camper or trailer. But we do ride( sorry Honda Goldwing Trike) which is very wide, something like 58 inches wide on the rear. Alot of what you said can and is applicable to us. We are going to be traveling west this July/Aug and we do these checks of lights, tires and fluids. Thanks for the reminders.

[@positiveimpact4176]

You guys are awesome, past few weeks I am planning to have a camping trailer for my motorcycle, and your insights on it are amazing, thank you again🙏🏻

[@stephensmith1034]

I rode with a couple (very experienced), as part of one of our HOG rides, who forgot he had a trailor, and he tried to back in-to a parking space. Oops! Luckily it didn't cause any damage before we all got his attention, and he stopped. He had the same hitch as you have. So - even the most experienced can forget. Also - I don't think you fully answered the first question. I love having that electric reverse on my Goldwing. 😁👍 I would also recommend that those pulling a trailer drive at your own pace; don't worry about those trying to pass you.

[@jordanlineger-nd5gz]

Don’t forget to make sure the trailer lid is latched during travel. thx for the video

[@whatyoumakeofit6635]

Hey.....can you post a link to the video you showed a clip of ? The one with the model car and trailer on a treadmill, with the guy moving the weights. Id really like to see that entire video. It looks like it would be very informative. Thanks guys.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

It’s a really short video under a minute. I’m sure the suggested videos after you watch that one will show a lot more. kzbin.info/www/bejne/p3ardWyNn9xmos0

[@Nodak_chondros]

This was a pleasant surprise. Couple bonus videos the last few weeks. Thanks

[@HDDog2]

Nice video, and as a long time trailer puller, I'd agree with about 99.9% of everything you said. In line with tongue weight, I've seen a lot of trailers (usually cheaper ones) with what I felt was too short of a tongue. (Mine is from a J.C. Whitney Catalog, and looks very much like what Harbor Freight sells, now.) I added about 8 inches to the tongue and have never had issues towing it. This also gave me room for a small rack for a cooler so I can always have water/ice handy. 2nd thing I did, was added separate turn signal lights. (If you don't have them). This allowed me to NOT use a special adapter and the turn signals are more noticeable. (currently using LED lights) 3rd, I switched from a 8 inch wheel to a 12 inch wheel. (Biggest tire that would fit under my fenders). The Trailer handles better and takes chuck holes much better and a lot less wear on the trailers wheel bearings/grease seals.

[@MadsWorld34]

i have pulled trailers my entire life. so alot of what your saying i know. BUT i have never pulled a trailer behind a bike. and i have a honda silverwing. and plan on building a pop up camper behind it. and the hitch and weight will help me alot for when it warms up a little more and i go out riding looking for a trailer or maybe even building my own. thanks for the info.

[@MadsWorld34]

oh i have been riding since i was 13 and now 60

[@mattforsting4253]

Thanks for making this video. You guys seem like good people! Hope to see you out on the road

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Our pleasure!

[@richardbedard9253]

Too light of tongue weight will cause trailer sway! This could be catastrophic even at low speed. Also too much can cause rear axel bearings to fail. Both of these happened to me!

[@santanumaitra3962]

Not sure why I watched this video since I will never tow a trailer behind my ST1300! I guess the video must be really pleasant and informative! Great job!!!

[@BootsandJeansRiders]

There are trialing coursing you can take. When you started on your adventure, we was surprised that you didn't get a camper trailer.The couple that we travel with pull one and love it. Fast and easy camp set up and breakdown, also lots of storage. We were looking to purchase the Aspen King size, and heading out for 2 years but our plans changed. Hopefully we can get back on track next year.Yeah Honda have reverse...Get one lol. Great advice.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Yes we considered one of those, but we decided to use what we had in the garage at the time. but who knows what the future holds 🤔🤔

[@wflentge]

Have a Kwik Kamp and had a Aspen Classic . Both are great for camping and not a hassle to tow with a Goldwing.

[@larryfromwisconsin9970]

All good information. I towed a Northern Tool Aluminum trailer with a car top cargo box behind my 1988 Electra Glide Classic from Northern Minnesota to Southwestern Texas. I used a standard hitch and coupler. I tested it in the parking lot at low speeds with sharp leaning turns and could not get it to bind. Made the trip two up no problems. We encountered some rain without complaint but when a Hurricane blew in land we did spend a couple of days at a hotel. We still use the trailer often for lawn chairs and cooler going to the beach. I am thinking about converting the trailer to a tear drop camper but with all that weight I would want electric trailer brakes. Maybe I want just too much. We were tent camping but easier set up and air conditioning would be nice.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

I totally get it. Once you get a trailer it's so easy to expand the list of comfort things you want to bring. We've tried to be as minimal as possible, but also as comfortable as possible since this is long term.

[@2trdmustanggtfordf1hdsgsfa80]

Seems YT lost first comment... I also pull a Bushtec. The advantage of the hitch setup cannot be overstated. Also, remember to adjust the shock air pressure according to the factory recommendations. I also carry a spare wheel/tire in mine. This last year I installed legend suspension on my Street Glide. Really made a positive deference in the handling and braking feel. Anyhow, great video, I appreciate y’all’s enthusiasm in your travels.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks

[@phoenix3166]

I never heard of y'all before. I was just clicking through videos and came across this one. After watching this video, I watched a couple more of y'alls. Y'all are great!!! I'm hooked and looking forward to more videos....after I finish binge watching the rest so I can get caught up. I'm subscribed!!!

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Awesome. Thanks and Welcome aboard!

[@PalmdaleGal]

I find it interesting about the use of "y'all". Not being a Southerner, I never use it, and yet it's a fascinating contraction of words. Seeing it in writing is like hearing it spoken in an accent without actually speaking (I can almost hear it)!

[@willatkinson953]

Thank you for sharing and in such a conversational manner! Much enjoyed!

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@OldGuyonaBike]

If you can't be a good example, at least be a warning. Seriously, you can safely haul a a trailer and all good info in the video. Note: have a check procedure for your hitch and lights. Make sure you have real safety chains on it and they are the proper length. I was lucky. No one was hurt and only the tongue got twisted. On the Mini Mate the tongue is easy to replace and I was back on the road for a major trip 8 days later. I'm enjoying all your videos.

[@jimeckenrode1271]

EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT INFORMATION. I ride a Gold Wing and have thought many times of buying a trailer but twice I seen motorcycle accidents that were pulling a trailer and it did not look good. You mentioned it right away with they type of hitch. When you have a ball and couple hook up and that trailer hits a bump and bounces and takes down the bike the results are never good.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Yes. That's why the Heim Joint is the best. No slop. Bushtec has a fantastic trailer also.

[@jacaughron55]

This was WAY more info than expected for less than 20 minutes and hit all the marks!! I've been riding most of my life and am thinking of getting a camp trailer so thank u!!!!!

[@shanecoker8566]

I’ve been to Bushtec in Tennessee with my friends trailer to get tires and service on his trailer. Those guys have their stuff together there.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Yes, they are amazing to work with.

[@cancelchannel3394]

As a former trucker for many years, your advice is good and sound ")

[@larry_sojourner]

I run a Lumina diamond aluminum trailer with swivel mechanism on the hitch. Put over 6000 miles on it and pulls just as you describe. The big notice that the trailer is on the bike is at the gas pump. My HD Road Glide loses about 5 MPG.

[@Redpawdave]

Thanks! This is a great list of information and guidance! Really helpful!

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Glad you liked. Thanks.

[@ftby59mikeD]

Love my Bushtec Roadstar, I pull it with my 2000 HD Fatboy. It's maiden voyage was on the 'Tail of the Dragon'...never had any issues. Common sense prevails when towing.👍

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Yes Bushtec awesome.

[@SchafferTwins]

Very nice. I just picked up a Kompact Kamp MiniMate camper trailer to pull with my Goldwing 1800. I have a swivel hitch on mine. Been taking it for test rides and getting comfortable with it. These are great tips, thank you for sharing and educating.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Very nice!

[@jamesrutherford3111]

You guys rock, we dream of doing what you two have done. I ride and always think about what you guys are doing and sharing. I can't stop watching y'all. Jimmy Rutherford

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks Jimmy!! Cheers.

[@fsriccobon8279]

Thanks for the great video. I have a 1700 Voyager and am going to get my first trailer. Very helpful tips. Ta. Frank

[@EverettBaland]

Great tips. Yep the Wing has reverse, I've had two of them. But I have limited trailer experience and that must present some different parking challenges.

[@paulfrank8738]

Great video. I pulled a trailer for four months during a tour around the country. For my specific setup, 15% tongue weight was not enough. Initially, I was very careful to be at 10-15% tongue weight, but it didn't feel very stable, and the trailer would start to fishtail at about 50 MPH. I don't know what my final tongue weight/percentage was, but I ended up putting as much weight as I could in front of the axle (and all the light things behind the axle), and it rode perfectly ... even at 70 MPH while being pushed around by truck turbulence. In the end, pulling the trailer felt a lot like having a passenger. In other words, I felt the extra weight more than anything else. But, my motorcycle has a pretty long wheelbase, which apparently helps with overall stability when pulling a trailer.

[@jimnielsen4076]

I was taught that your tongue weight should always be negative (downward) yet light enough that you don't have to strain to lift it with 1 arm

[@paulfrank8738]

​@@jimnielsen4076 That is the advice I'd give too. But I'd also recommend that if that doesn't feel stable, experiment with the loading (while always keeping some weight on the tongue). What I didn't say before is that my trailer was homemade, so it probably had uncommon dynamics. Also, even when I put everything heavy toward the front of the trailer, I still had to load all the "light" things in the back of the trailer, so there was still plenty of weight behind the axle.

[@parkview113]

check trailer wheelbearings for wear and lubrication too

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Yes. Didn’t think to mention that. We had Bushtec service all of that when they put new tire on.

[@craigburch5015]

I liked your video. I ride a 2000 roadglide and have pulled the same bush tech trailer that ya'll have more than 40,000 miles, love it. for your video I'd put more emphasis on dangers of not having enough tongue weight. the toy car on the conveyor is a good visual. I have a baker 6speed in my bike. They make a reverse gear for it and the newer Harley 6speeds. I have met a few people that use the Baker reverse and are very happy that they have it. I have gone through the Harley experienced riders coarse a few times, once with the trailer. you can do the same maneuvers in the class with the trailer and recommend every one to take the class. I do it every couple years.

[@seadog686]

Stopping distances increase dramatically with a trailer! Use caution when going through manned tool booths, the droppings from thousands of engines accumulate into a grease slick right in the middle of the lane.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Yes especially with a light rain. Really pulls the oil up.

[@deanlewis1650]

I just found this nd i m. Wey thankfull for it. I hve a 2016 roadglide and will be putting a coffin trailer behind it.

[@tobyoakes4130]

A lot of good points, thanks for sharing

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks for watching!

[@richarda996]

On a normal trailer hitch there is a nut under that one can adjust to tighten up the slop. Just don’t over do or it will not turn on the ball. Hope this helps someone.

[@truckerg4010]

Great thoughts for people not familiar with a trailer. I’m an over the road truck driver, however pulling with a bike is much different. Pre Trip always important

[@melaniecarlisle4771]

Glad we found your channel! My husband and I are HD enthusiasts that are non riders..we just love attending HD events locally. We live near HD Atlanta in Lithia Springs, Ga. Stay safe & warm..definitely stay closer to the warmer climes..we both LOVE Montana & the Black Hills area of SD. We've been to Sturgis several times starting back in 2010..💗 Love & Peace..Merry Christmas from the Carlisle's

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Awesome

[@garysauheaver8737]

Great information for a newbie. I'm an experienced rider, but I've never pulled a trailer with a motorcycle. I recently bought a Can Am Spyder LTD and had a hitch install at the dealership. I bought a cargo trailer several years ago, but never installed a hitch on my previous bike My wife and I plan to start taking camping trips on the Spyder and will be riding two up. I regularly pull a 30' travel trailer with my truck, so I do have trailer experience. However, trailering with a motorcycle is a whole new ball game. (And I certainly appreciate the reverse gear on the Spyder..) Thank you for posting this video. Although some of the information is applicable to towing with any vehicle, some of it was unique to towing with a bike.

[@garysauheaver8737]

BTW, my wife and I enjoy your travel videos.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks

[@brucelund5788]

Great video, I have a reverse on my 2002 FLHTPI (Police), it was on there when I got it and have only used it a few times, but I know it will be a help some times, especially with the trailer, I bought one last fall and did pull it a few times, mostly just testing the hitch and coupling, The coupler was a solid one and there is no way I was going to ride with that! I cut it in half and built the swivel section for it, ready to go now!

[@legallyblondetakesahike7076]

Great video thank you. I was just contemplating getting a trailer to go on some longer adventures.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Glad it was helpful!

[@budroberts5929]

All very good points. Thank you. All interesting even though I'm never going to tow with my Heritage. What about suspension on the bike? Tow rating of bike. Trailer that was designed as motorcycle trailer? Some trailers better than others? What about mounting hardware that bolts onto bike? Tires: any different tire type/tread? I bet that rear tire wears faster, and I would want high-grip tires (which won't last as many miles), do you strap down heavy things like toolbox, bigger lights?, and do you avoid rain? Wow, and I thought towing a boat with a car required a lot!

[@edwardjohnson8933]

Got a brother in law that never slows down. Towing with pick up..a small trailer... zig zagging through back streets, lost trailer, 20 miles home before he went back and found it, in someone’s yard in a deep ditch... No one home.. pulled it out with rope to truck , hitched it and got home with no one reporting it. I told him to double chain it long before. He double chains all his trailers now.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Wow 😳

[@kaptainobvious7201]

Hello friends! You two are so inspiring I love it! You picked up thoughts of middle age/empty nest/why it means to retire and growing old” and shoved it down the line, never to be thought of. Thanks for sharing- your in our prayers for safety, great lodgings and utmost fun🙏💕

[@roywalls5595]

Thanks for the video and thank you for sharing that 7 rules because I thinking going motorbike camping and I ever use a trailer before!

[@92ofdapac]

Great info thanks

[@myakkacityriders1341]

I love all the comments. Do you have a lot of smart people and real bikers that follow you, that’s awesome. Like most I’ve been pulling the trailer for a while and your contact is completely true. As one said the dark side seems to be the best way to go for tire wear and safety. The car tire has a lot higher load capacity and more traction. I like your tongue set up on your trailer, however I have the other style with the ball on my goldwing. Just a sidenote, Are use my reverse so often it just broke and I have to Get it repaired. Stay safe and have a merry Christmas

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks David

[@groundzero.]

mostly common sense stuff but the presentation of the information is perfect. giving the info in your words and thought process and her relaying back her understanding of it. Well done.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

I appreciate that!

[@jameslovelace8958]

Great information! Thank You

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Our pleasure!

[@bradballard2068]

Thanks for the upload of great information regarding trailers. I'm not sure if I want to put my bike through the stress of pulling a trailer. But I like the idea of having more space to carry items on the open road ☺️ Rich, that's an extremely nice trailer (with all the bells and whistles) what is a ballpark figure on something like that ? Thanks for the upload, be safe on your travels

[@louisgudde7410]

Nice video the wife and i just bought a trailer while in Missoula Montana before we rode back to Florida it pulled great

[@herbertgilcher2236]

if the spot is down hill then back in....gravity is your friend (sometimes).

[@davemcmahon8140]

Great vid I'm just interested in that metal box ahead of your trailer cooler. What are you using that for??

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

That hold the Solar components. LiPo battery, Full Sine wave inverter and the Solar charge controller.

[@mikedanaher3413]

I’m a truck driver so all this is familiar but, I took away some valuable information. Thank you. Now trailer shopping. 😎

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks that’s great to hear. Glad we gleaned some info for ya.

[@Wtpoohsr0004]

Parking. Shouldn’t leave the bike in Neutral.

[@TheNWPrepper]

Thanks for this awesome video! I ride a Can-Am Spyder and am considering buying a little tent trailer.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Nice that will work.

[@jimcaulk6225]

You'll never know its back there, the Spyders have such good braking... Like he said swing wide in town...

[@jplusosec977]

I have a sports bike and the video is educational. Will done. I'm getting old (lol) and moving over to touring. But I do need to do some research as I live in Europe now about trailers on motorcycles.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks, JP - just be careful. Trailers let you bring more stuff. lol

[@TexRider]

what is that hitch called ? do you have a link for it that helps you out ?

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

It’s called a Heim Joint and I found this on e at Kwick Kamp campers.

[@DeuxRouesUneTente]

That's awesome advice, thank you! Not that I'd expect to ever pull a trailer with the bike I currently have... But sooner or later I'll upgrade, so I'll bookmark this video for later.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Glad this helped. Thanks.

[@fredderf3207]

When ever I am in a parking lot, I look for two empty spaces where I can pull through and park so that when I leave, I am able to just pull straight out. After I retire, I plan to travel on my Goldwing F6B with a trailer and will continue to use this parking method.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Yes that is the best for sure.

[@PaddyMacDaddy101]

do you happen to know what size the hiem joint is on your trailer?

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

I don’t. Call Bushtec Trailers Todd can let you know.

[@neildewitt2869]

Thanks for the information. Ive been thinking about a trailer. This made me more aware of things I basically already knew.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Awesome Glad you got something from this.

[@andrewyi3202]

Excellent ! It’s not only for the m/c trailer riding but also for life management skills although based on common sense. Common sense, it’s dangerous when you don’t think about, Thank you Ride safe

[@jeffreyengle2762]

#8 just because everybody else is pulling them, doesn’t mean it’s something you’re going to want to pull. I believe a lot of these large tent trailers are more designed for a trike or a small car. Trailers coming in at over 400lbs loaded simply add more “headache” to the ride along with undo stress on the bike itself. In the end, it’s up to the rider but for me, I’ll stick with 200 pounds total. JMHO

[@vernebrown4441]

I check if someone have said anything on this. No fine, so I'll ask at 5:17 shows you hitch up with the safety chains at just in front of the ball, WHY? Should they not be wider on the hitch so there is and X for the touge to drop onto if (forbid) if came loose. Oh what is wrong with a Honda? I pull my Kwik Kamp with one.

[@jenniferhelgren8733]

And don't forget a spare and changing tools. The last thing you want to do is leave the trailer behind while you're off scouting for a replacement. Chances are your little "caboose" won't there when you return. :( Great video you two!

[@MrClaimbuster]

Pulled my Bushtec for a lot of miles. Loved it.

[@43wagonwheel]

Excellent info. Thank you! I plan doing the very same thing you two do when I retire. Not full time but It will be fairly heavy in travel. Be safe!

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Glad it was helpful!

[@youcanthide004]

Fantastic video. Tons of valuable information here. I appreciate it guys. Stay safe out there and keep that rubber side down.

[@TwoWheelsBigLife]

Thanks! Will do!