There had been some discussion on hauling track bikes and expensive hauling apparatus. I am hauling the SV to its winter storage space today so I snapped a few pics. I've been hauling bikes with 3 straps and a pick up for many years with no mishaps. I've hauled motocross bikes down some rough trails this way with no problems. For longer trips I add a 4th strap across the seat to the bed rails. Not saying it's the best method but it has worked well for me. :thumb:
-Jessie
SV loaded up
(http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww360/jessiedoran/strapping1.jpg)
I run a heavy duty cam buckle strap from the bed hook to each side of the handle bar near the triple clamp. Be careful not to snag any wires
(http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww360/jessiedoran/straping2.jpg)
Then I run a lighter duty ratchet strap through the rear foot peg mounts and across the rear tire to keep the bike from jumping over bumps
(http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww360/jessiedoran/strapping3.jpg)
On bikes with clip ons I wrap these tie down loops around the top triple clamp and attach the cam buckle strap to them
(http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww360/jessiedoran/strap4.jpg)
(http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww360/jessiedoran/strap3.jpg)
We have this show down here called "The New Inventors". Each week three inventions from Aust come before a panel of 3 judges who decide which is the winner. If you invent something from recycled material which will bio degrade, costs pennies and will give clean water to the 3rd world while saving the whales and dolphins and polar bears at the same time, you'll win. Even if no-one would buy the thing.
ANywho. These guys came on with a motorcycle tie down system. Here's the bit on the show about it http://www.abc.net.au/tv/newinventors/txt/s2557435.htm
Strangely, they won. Competed against a Horse Blanket and a thing to help parents remember what to put in kids school bags (People Choice winner - must be all the grannies who watch the show who voted for it. After all, they once voted for a quilt fabric cutter as their choice... like WHO makes quilts?)
Well, they sell it from their website http://www.kyaracing.com.au and through all bike mags in the country.
Quite ingenious really... and available to those in the USA as well.
(http://www.kyaracing.com.au/Images/roadhero.jpg)
Michael
that would be a nice way to be able to tie down the motorcycle but it looks like it will only work for trailers and not just in the bed of a pickup truck based on how far apart the 2 tie down points are supposed to be apart.
Baltimore, I don't know if I would tie down your SV like that. I certainly wouldn't do it to my SV650. The reason I say that is that I tied my GS down with just two straps- one across the top triple and one over the seat... even though they were tied down extremely tight, the rear tire slid out in the truck and the back end ended up on the side of my truck bed. Several scratches on a new paint job later I always tie down with four straps. (One for each side of the top triple and one for each passenger peg.)
Just my $0.02.
Mister- Cool device :thumb:
mullethunter- Like I said, this is probably not the best way but it has worked well for me over many years, many miles and many bikes. My set up is a bit different than yours though. I run the strap in the back over the tire, not the seat. That way you don't have to worry about the suspension compressing and the rear getting loose. And it probably doesn't make a huge difference but i use 2 separate straps on the front that pull outward against each other. It's also a good idea in a pickup to make sure the tires are centered in a bed groove. How do you haul your bikes now?
I did forget one thing in the original post: loading and unloading. I use a ramp and a step to get the bike in and out. I used to use a wooden ramp with a metal lip but it is too long to fit in the short bed on this truck. I now have a foldable metal ramp that works great. The downside is I have to worry about this ramp getting stolen. I have short legs so I need a step to get in the bed. I used to use a plastic milk crate until one broke on me. Now I have an old metal milk crate that works great. I let the bike get in the truck under it's own power. I walk next to it on the left side and feather the clutch. You have to be careful not to give it too much power or it will kick the ramp out. And be really careful if the tires or ramp are wet. Coming out, I leave it in gear with the engine off and use the clutch and brake levers to control the speed.
-Jessie
Coming out...
(http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww360/jessiedoran/ramp1.jpg)
These foldable ramps are great for short truck beds
(http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww360/jessiedoran/ramp2.jpg)
I always strap to the lower triple if it's accessible (two straps). No bars to bend (Some are not so strong..)/ cables to pinch/bugger- stronger place to hook to-too.
I never use a rear strap. I put the bike in on the side stand and in gear. Hook the low side ( side stand side) first and put a few clicks on it. Set the other side- cinch it down to load the forks then crank it down. Grab the bar and shake the bike...the whole truck will rock and the bike stays in place like its bolted down.
If you are going on rough roads/off road you might tie down the back end (and even use a rail)
I've lost count on how many times I've hauled a motorcycle and I haven't lost one yet.
I do like that Aussie thing for holding it down by the tires....if I had a trailer/rail set up I might use something like that.
I've hauled bikes in trailers a lot, the OP's method is good, but you need to make sure the tyres can't move sideways as well. I've had bikes fall when the tyres slide. In a pick-up bed you can use a couple of rectangular frames made of scrap timber to space the wheels from the sides.
I would NEVER use a single strap across the triple clamps, too much chance of it slipping. You need one each side to keep it stable and let you adjust the lean of the bike as you tighten them.
Quote from: BaltimoreGS on December 08, 2009, 03:43:12 PM
It's also a good idea in a pickup to make sure the tires are centered in a bed groove. How do you haul your bikes now?
I actually have a 2000 Dodge Dakota with a full size bed. My GS fell over in a 1999 F150, my dad's truck. Anyway, I just feel more comfortable with two on the front because if the bike pulls one way to the side, I can rely on the other strap to pick up the side load, not just friction. (Becoming an engineer has ruined my perspective on things...)
Quote from: mullethunter3 on December 08, 2009, 04:11:10 PM
Quote from: BaltimoreGS on December 08, 2009, 03:43:12 PM
It's also a good idea in a pickup to make sure the tires are centered in a bed groove. How do you haul your bikes now?
I actually have a 2000 Dodge Dakota with a full size bed. My GS fell over in a 1999 F150, my dad's truck. Anyway, I just feel more comfortable with two on the front because if the bike pulls one way to the side, I can rely on the other strap to pick up the side load, not just friction. (Becoming an engineer has ruined my perspective on things...)
Sorry if I wasn't clear, there are 2 straps on the front and one on the rear in those photos. 3 straps total :thumb:
-Jessie
I've only ever used 2 straps, one on each side of the top triple, and never had a problem. I just pull the front wheel up against the bed and tighten them down enough to compress the suspension a bit.
Your a brave man putting your bikes in storage. The only thing that gets me through winters of not riding is being able to check out my bike every time I have to go down to the basement/garage.
Quote from: tt_four on December 08, 2009, 09:06:34 PM
I've only ever used 2 straps, one on each side of the top triple, and never had a problem. I just pull the front wheel up against the bed and tighten them down enough to compress the suspension a bit.
Your a brave man putting your bikes in storage. The only thing that gets me through winters of not riding is being able to check out my bike every time I have to go down to the basement/garage.
Actually I'm an insane man, I have more bikes than any reasonable person should :o There's still a few in various stages of assembly kicking around my dad's garage (much to his dismay...). And I always keep my old reliable Nighthawk 250 ready to ride. **Tentative ride being planned for the weekend after Christmas, check with porkchop for details**
2 straps will get by in most situations but I learned from hauling the dirtbikes on rough trails that the back ends can really jump around. I'd be worried about the back end moving over a pothole or more likely when some dumb driver makes you slam on your brakes.
-Jessie
Quote from: mullethunter3 on December 08, 2009, 02:36:11 PM
I always tie down with four straps. (One for each side of the top triple and one for each passenger peg.)
Just my $0.02.
I agree, only way I've ever done mine, never had a problem, including my 800+ mile trip to roebling road in savannah georgia
Quote from: jeremy_nash on December 08, 2009, 09:38:56 PM
Quote from: mullethunter3 on December 08, 2009, 02:36:11 PM
I always tie down with four straps. (One for each side of the top triple and one for each passenger peg.)
Just my $0.02.
I agree, only way I've ever done mine, never had a problem, including my 800+ mile trip to roebling road in savannah georgia
The problem I see with that is the rear suspension can compress over a bump and the strap come loose on the peg so I prefer strapping down over the rear tire. And once again, I don't claim my way is the correct or best way but it has worked for me.
-Jessie
Quote from: BaltimoreGS on December 08, 2009, 09:22:42 PM
Actually I'm an insane man
I agree completely. :icon_razz:
What's the bike count up to like 38 1/3 or so?
Well the good news is the Katana is 2/5ths sold...
Still have the SV now residing at my brother's house for winter, the Nighthawk on the road, 2 GS's and a Shadow 500 at my house in Bedford, and Kay's GS and a GS parts bike in my father's garage.... And the insane part is I'm trying to lowball a guy with another Shadow 500. Somebody help me!!! :icon_eek:
-Jessie
Just some info on the Aussie wheel tie down.
Great design and i ordered one some time back now. Unfortunately they wont work on the gs without some modding. The ratchets foul on the exhaust so its unable to be tightened. They recomend the anchor points be around 250 - 300mm from the tyre. The only option is the lenghten the arm the ratchet fixing point so it clears the exhaust. This shortens the amount of strap that can then be tightened. I did come up with a solution for a trailer with fixed mounting points. If i can find a pic i will post it up.
I like to put two tie down straps on the front end but right above the fender pulling in both directions so I don't compress my suspension and one strap over the rear tire again so I don't compress my suspension. For me it's the same logic as tying down a Jeep by the axels so when you hit a bump at highway speeds the suspension doesn't compress and loosen your tie downs at all. It's kind of strange looking out the back window seeing the bike moving up and down but at the same time that's all it's doing.
I would be afraid of that screwing up the fender or the fork seals, depending on where you have it.
I saw something new on craigslist last night but was too lazy to copy and past the link. It's a gsxr600 on Pittsburgh's craigslist if you want to find it. He used two straps, one on each side of the bike. He went from the hook at the front corner of the bed, up around the top triple, down along the tank/frame line, around the passenger peg, and onto the hook on the back corner of the truck. Technically he got all 4 points with 2 straps and you don't have to worry about the bike falling side to side. There's a chance the bike could shift forward and back, but it the front tire is wedged against the front of the bed it might stay.
Quote from: BaltimoreGS on December 08, 2009, 10:11:19 PM
Well the good news is the Katana is 2/5ths sold...
Still have the SV now residing at my brother's house for winter, the Nighthawk on the road, 2 GS's and a Shadow 500 at my house in Bedford, and Kay's GS and a GS parts bike in my father's garage.... And the insane part is I'm trying to lowball a guy with another Shadow 500. Somebody help me!!! :icon_eek:
-Jessie
Amateur....... I've got 5 bikes in one bay of my garage....7 total here at the house...3 in my "other" storage.... ohh and an FA50 in my garage too.....hehehe
Ohh and here's how I haul my bikes :
(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d123/JWhite923/th_98Gs1.jpg) (http://s34.photobucket.com/albums/d123/JWhite923/?action=view¤t=98Gs1.jpg) (http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d123/JWhite923/th_98Gs2.jpg) (http://s34.photobucket.com/albums/d123/JWhite923/?action=view¤t=98Gs2.jpg) (http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d123/JWhite923/th_98Gs3.jpg) (http://s34.photobucket.com/albums/d123/JWhite923/?action=view¤t=98Gs3.jpg)
The excess of the straps usually gets tied to the pegs of the bike if the straps are really long...
That was a nice looking gs...sold long ago.
Quote from: BaltimoreGS on December 08, 2009, 09:52:49 PM
Quote from: jeremy_nash on December 08, 2009, 09:38:56 PM
Quote from: mullethunter3 on December 08, 2009, 02:36:11 PM
I always tie down with four straps. (One for each side of the top triple and one for each passenger peg.)
Just my $0.02.
I agree, only way I've ever done mine, never had a problem, including my 800+ mile trip to roebling road in savannah georgia
The problem I see with that is the rear suspension can compress over a bump and the strap come loose on the peg so I prefer strapping down over the rear tire. And once again, I don't claim my way is the correct or best way but it has worked for me.
-Jessie
when I do this, I compress the rear suspension about half way :thumb:
I just lay the bike down in the bed on my truck and close shut the tailgate.
Iv'e been looking into some cheap alternatives for those of us that have SUV's and cars.
While this is not recommended for long hauls do to the lack of lubrication of the drive train but would nice to have in a pinch and you can get it on EBAY for less then $150
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/BS3h9RQWkKGrHgoH-CYEjlLl9odTBKFYywN.jpg)
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/BS3y6bwmkKGrHgoOKj8EjlLmWyi9BKFZkF3.jpg)
Or for about the same price you could get this set up. (Some one on the Forum has made their own)
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/BOvOoQ2kKGrHgoH-DMEjlLlvjJvBKqk5qz9.jpg)
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/BOul8wBWkKGrHgoH-DEjlLl1kKDBKqk2fbN.jpg)
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/Bhb8lQBmkKGrHgoH-DwEjlLlzbOWBKcuU3O.jpg)
But I am leaning towards a trailor and this is got to be the best trailer http://www.motorsporttrailers.com/
I have found for size, price, ease of use, and folding storage capabilities. If you have never seen this check out the website and videos of how the load them and the vehicle used to tow 2 bikes!
i dont have a pic, but for close runs i go with the "single strap angler" :cheers: put the bike in the bed with the front wheel in one corner and swing the rear wheel all the way over until it hits the other side. then just put your side stand down and put the strap to wear it pulls down and against the side stand
Quote from: JB848 on February 02, 2010, 01:22:58 PM
Or for about the same price you could get this set up. (Some one on the Forum has made their own)
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/BOvOoQ2kKGrHgoH-DMEjlLlvjJvBKqk5qz9.jpg)
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/BOul8wBWkKGrHgoH-DEjlLl1kKDBKqk2fbN.jpg)
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/Bhb8lQBmkKGrHgoH-DwEjlLlzbOWBKcuU3O.jpg)
Before going with one of the hitch mount carriers, check the tongue weight rating of your 2" hitch (not all hitches are created equal). I know the factory 2" hitch on an '03-'09 4 Runner is not a real 3rd class hitch, just a cheap box steel piece that attaches to the frame with 2 bolts. And even if your hitch is rated to handle the weight, slide underneath and see what kind of shape the mounting bolts are in. Corrosion can be a big problem if you live in an area that salts the roads.
-Jessie
hey, dont be a foo and put your bike on a car that'll dig a trench every time you hit a bump either :laugh:
I'd love one of those racks that carries a bike sideways along the back of your vehicle, although if I had a truck big enough to support the weight of a bike on the back, it would be big enough to put the bike in the bed. The only think we have is a small car, and even though I know I could put a 2" hitch on it and would love to have a trailer, I live in the city and have no where to store a trailer short of leaning it up against the fence in my back yard white trash style. Something like that small rack that just holds the front wheel would be ideal, except that I would be way too worried to actually use it.
Looking at that last link and checking out this trailer is the first time it's actually occurred to me that maybe I can find a trailer that I could unbolt and just stash in the back of my basement. That way I could go with the 2" hitch, and then just pull that out if I ever needed it. I'd like to be able to haul things other than a motorcycle, such as drywall or a piece of furniture, so I'd love something with a 4x8 bed, but assuming it's all a strong enough metal frame I could then just bolt 2 4x4 pieces of drywall onto it, better yet 3 2.5x4 foot pieces. Even if it was a motorcycle, it'd be useful to have a flatbed if I found a good deal on a crashed bike that was missing a wheel, or had a wheel too messed up to roll, and I couldn't actually push the bike into a track.
I don't know much about trailers, but I'm going to have to look around to see what I can find.
Anyone else have anything along those lines, or does everyone else here have a truck, or at least somewhere to keep a decent trailer??
Well well, look who opened their mouth too soon....
(http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/photos/42700-42799/42709.gif)
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=42709
A FOLDING 4x8 foot trailer that only needs 5ftx3 foot of storage space. I'm sure if I wanted it to compact even smaller than that I could just pull it apart, or even stand it up against a wall. They have a couple different ones, but the cheapest is only $299. I've actually been debating on buying a truck for the hauling capabilities, but a $300 folding trailer sounds like a MUCH better option.
Do you have to inspect/insure a trailer, or can you just hook it to your car and go? I'm sure you at least have to register it. All that thing would need is an 2x8 board with a $40 wheel chock bolted to it and you'd be in business!
Here's mine. Wifie and I drove 2200 miles this past summer with it on the back of tha Jeep. It never hit the ground once :D.
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y299/liloody/DSCN13861-1.jpg)
Just drive it up, I stand next to it and feather the clutch and roll it right up, then strap it down and put the back ramp over the rear wheel. Takes about 20 minutes.
I use a lot more straps than the other one.
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y299/liloody/DSCN1395.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y299/liloody/DSCN1392.jpg)
There's something to be said for redneck engineering. It folds up and stows nicely.
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y299/liloody/DSCN1399.jpg)
Quote from: lilwoody on February 02, 2010, 07:57:59 PM
There's something to be said for redneck engineering. It folds up and stows nicely.
or just sits in the yard till its used again. like all my buddies' stuff
trailer with a wheel chock mounted on it...trailers can be picked up cheap. I would do the pickup thing with the straps but have an impreza outback wagon. bike aint fitting in that trunk
Quote from: JB848 on February 02, 2010, 01:22:58 PM
Iv'e been looking into some cheap alternatives for those of us that have SUV's and cars.
While this is not recommended for long hauls do to the lack of lubrication of the drive train but would nice to have in a pinch and you can get it on EBAY for less then $150
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/BS3h9RQWkKGrHgoH-CYEjlLl9odTBKFYywN.jpg)
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/BS3y6bwmkKGrHgoOKj8EjlLmWyi9BKFZkF3.jpg)
Or for about the same price you could get this set up. (Some one on the Forum has made their own)
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/BOvOoQ2kKGrHgoH-DMEjlLlvjJvBKqk5qz9.jpg)
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/BOul8wBWkKGrHgoH-DEjlLl1kKDBKqk2fbN.jpg)
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/Bhb8lQBmkKGrHgoH-DwEjlLlzbOWBKcuU3O.jpg)
But I am leaning towards a trailor and this is got to be the best trailer http://www.motorsporttrailers.com/
I have found for size, price, ease of use, and folding storage capabilities. If you have never seen this check out the website and videos of how the load them and the vehicle used to tow 2 bikes!
WHAT FAIRING SI ON THE RED ONE??? does that fit a gs500!?
Well following up on my previous posts:
lilwoody: Yours was the rack I was referring to. As I told you when you first posted those pictures I thought it was ingenious idea! There is only one hangup for some of us, it is that installing a Class III hitch on some vehicles is not practical and some if not all require addition turn signals, as your pictures clearly show, because the vehicles left and right turn signals are blocked by the bike. Also after a lot of research and reading there is a phenomenon associated with these side mount racks called "The Wobble". As all draw hitches are not created equal and some have large tolerances between the the inside diameter if the draw hitch and the outside diameter if the draw bar. Some manufactures offer an additional anti-wobble device at an additional price, for some people this rack just isn't an option, for others it is the perfect solution! As a side note, after studying the design of yours and others, I thought it would be an excellent option to be able to add a smaller hitch at the end of the rack to facilitate towing a lite trailer in addition to the bike and rack? Have you ever thought of doing that?
remo2k9: That bike in that single wheel towing device is not a GS and I am not sure what kind of bike that is maybe someone else can enlighten us. As far as this device goes there are several advantages to it. There is very little weight actually distributed to the draw bar even under braking. The higher the angle on the front wheel the more the weight it transferred to the rear tire of the bike, so very light duty draw hitches can easily handle a bike. The issue of long trips can be overcome although not desirable for most, the chain can be removed so the rear wheel is free and the drive train is safe for long distance towing. Also there is no further lights required in most states because all of the towing vehicles turn and braking indicators should be clearly visable, but I would double check with your local laws before using! As a side benefit the position of the bike between the two drive wheels eliminates a lot of road debris actually hitting the bike under tow vs the side mount rack, which even though it is high off the ground, if you have ever towed something that crap finds a way to hit what ever it is you are towing! I actually used a similar home made device like this to tow a friends Harley from Northern Idaho to Northern California bolted to a stock 1971 VW Beetle bumper with 4 passengers. So weight and strength of the device used is pretty much a non-issue.
As for this MS-1 trailer from http://www.motorsporttrailers.com/ I think it is a little pricey but for most of us this is the best of both worlds. There are several pro's that I would like to point out. It is an extremely light trailer as demonstrated by this picture:
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/CarTowing.jpg)
There is a very small car towing a single bike. The rail has been moved to the center of the trailer for balance.
Multi-configuration options for one or two bikes as demonstrated by this picture:
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/CarTowing2.jpg)
Once again notice a car is towing these two bikes!
And I know this is my favorite option! It folds up for storage. So as for previous remarks, without fear of looking like white trash this trailer can neatly be stored outside, in a car port, or a garage when not in use.
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/FoldedTrailer.jpg)
Also by just looking at the design, a sheet of 1/4" or larger plywood could be added for additional uses. Also if I were to purchase this trailer I would do just that on the front 1/3 of the trailer and also mount or bungee a protective piece to the front angle of the rails to protect the bikes from road debris while towing.
My bikes ride inside my Sprinter.
I stand up an unmounted car tire between the bike and the wall to keep all the pointy bits safe.
Don't really have the strapping thing organized yet, I just kind of throw some straps around it.
It does wobble a bit , that's why you see the straps to the roof rack. Before I do another long haul with it I'll have 1" recievers welded to the hitch and put in 1"x1/4" box tube stablizers as far out fron the center on the channel as I can. That was actually in my original plan, I even have the 1" reciever cut and ready to weld. While I had it at the welders I was going to have him tack the hitch in a few spots just to make sure it doesn't go anywhere. That little trailer looks perfect for when I get a heavier bike. The GS is all the weigth I'd want to put on my rack.
Plug: http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=51433.0;topicseen
Note: Not mine, just saw it in the 4 sale section
Quote from: BaltimoreGS on February 03, 2010, 08:39:45 PM
Plug: http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=51433.0;topicseen
What's your opinion on it??
Quote from: tt_four on February 03, 2010, 09:22:55 PM
Quote from: BaltimoreGS on February 03, 2010, 08:39:45 PM
Plug: http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=51433.0;topicseen
What's your opinion on it??
If you asking me? I really need to see which model it is (pictures). There are many models out there.
Ooh, nevermind, I missed the part where you said it wasn't yours and you just saw it in the classifieds section.
I have to rescind my earlier statement a little. There are more options out there for Class III Hitches then I thought. I was able to find a bolt on package for my 04' Escape rather easy and cheap $158 shipping included.
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/drawhitch.jpg)
I still think a side mount rack like lilwoody designed might be a little much for my Escape. But I could get a hitch and a caddy for around $300. While half of the total cost, the hitch, can be used for many other things it is a very cheap option with little to no storage requirements while not in use. Heck I could just leave the caddy in the back of my truck with my tools
I'm assuming this is the hitch in the picture: http://www.southwestwheel.com/store/c-383-ford-escape.aspx
That hitch would be fine for the motorcycle caddy or pulling a small trailer but I wouldn't trust it with a side mount rack. The tongue weight rating on the '04 Escape model is only 350 pounds. The dry weight rating of a GS exceeds that. And I don't know the physics to give you an exact measurement but I know that the downward force of the motorcycle weight will increase when the truck goes over a bump :o
-Jessie
Yup that's the one but not where I was going to get it from. Even if the tonge weight could handle it I don't think a vehicle as small as the Escape suspension and stability wise could handle it any way. Plus the side mount rack would stick out the sides not to mention the Bike!
So yeah I am seriously contemplating the hitch no matter what and I think I will either make my own or get the caddy just to have when I want to take the bike with me or when I have to drive too, and or in a pinch take it to the shop or pick it up in a break down (crosses fingers) which should never happen. I have free towing up to 30 miles to a shop or home with my insurance but heck 30 miles is less then a short joy ride for me anyway so it's a nice option. :thumb:
How do hitches attach?? Do they bolt on to your frame, or do they just welded on? I've seen some online for my wife's nissan versa, but I'm not sure if it'd just be easier to show up to a uhaul and have them put everything on. It looks like cars just have plugs straight into the wiring harness for the lights, which would help, but I wouldn't even know where to begin to find the plug.
You drive a Versa! :laugh: :laugh:
Just kidding. I actually like the practicality of a small car in the city verse a pick up truck. Most of the hitches I've installed have been direct bolt ons. Sometimes the urethane bumper covers had to be cut/modified to accommodate the hitch. I'm sure there are other applications I'm not familiar with that are more involved. The wiring tends to be a bit trickier on cars than on trucks. Most newer trucks come with a pigtail already in the factory wiring harness to connect to trailer wiring. With cars you tend to have to splice into one of the tail light's wiring harness.
This hitch looks like it is a direct bolt on for your car: http://www.etrailer.com/pc-H~24798.htm?vehicleid=20089868
This wire harness is a bit pricey but it is also a direct fit: http://www.autoanything.com/towing/77A3875A3068534.aspx?kc=ffsku
I'm assuming the wire harness will plug inline with one of the taillight wire harness connector. Simply put: remove connector from the tail light, plug connector into this harness, then plug the trailer harnesses connector back into the tail light.
-Jessie
Haha, my wife drives a versa, with little window cling hearts on the back window. I'm not above driving anything, but I don't even have a car. If you really want to pick on me, I'd go with the fact that I own a moped. I haven't gotten it to run properly since my wife brought it home for me last summer, but I do have it, and it is classy. You'll see it pop up randomly when I post pictures of other projects in my basement, such as this picture from that old "let's see your workspace" discussion.....
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3501/3870107455_f57a823279_o.jpg)
Our next car will probably be a subaru outback wagon, I don't know if that's better or worse. We can fit a ton of stuff in her car, but unfortunately not always enough. It's just too small to fit more than a few 8 foot studs in it. I can stash a full 700c road bike in it without pulling anything off. She brought a moped home in the back once, which makes me feel like I could fit a cb125 in there if I had to, I can't think of what else.
Yeah, from what I saw with connectors it looks like they'll just plug into the wiring harness, which would be nice. I'll have to crawl under her car someday when it warms up and see what it looks like. A whole hitch setup for $200 would be cool with me. I know she'd also like to find a small pop up camper or something a long those lines someday. It obviously couldn't be too big with our car, but I bet they make some that aren't too heavy. Her parents have always had RVs and traveled, so I think she'd like something, especially because traveling with 2 65-70 dogs can be a hassle as far as hotels go.
I want to travel cross country in the near future. I originally planned on going by motorcycle but the more I think about it a fuel efficient car with a small trailer would be more practicle. I saw these trailers while watching The Price Is Right during my unemployment: http://www.golittleguy.com/teardrops/
A bit pricey but I like the idea :thumb: Wonder if I could build something on that HF trailer frame....
-Jessie
(http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww360/jessiedoran/3_1-Mediumjpgphp.jpg)
I don't know but that definitely looks cool. To be honest though, I think if you're gonna pull something that small you'd do just as well to use a tent, or have a car with back seats that fold down. Actually, if you want it to be sealed in, I bet that's exactly what it would be like to have a pick up truck with one of those bed covers/caps that you could just stick a full sized mattress in.
How much do they go for? There's no prices on their website. You know what I think would actually be awesome for cross country driving, if you can get over the child raping stereotypes, is one of these things....
(http://www.myautomarket.com/July%20Aug%20Sept%2008%20pics/CricketcamperSTACK722879.jpg)
The site that one was listed on had a couple listed for $500-700. If I had a redneck front yard that I could keep it in when I wasn't using it, and had a truck, I would be all over one of those things. I think it's nice enough that I could actually leave my dogs in it for a couple hours while we actually did random things(assuming the temperature stays moderate, I really have no idea how hot/cold they get in normal weather), which would be great for vacations.
You could definitely build something nice on one of the HF trailers. When I was looking them up on line I saw trailers like tat in various stages of being built up into other things. Just box it in nice with a sky light, put a pull out couch up against the back of it and you'd be in business.
I'm with TT. I've done a lot of tent camping and with a air mattress it is just fine. We spent 5 days in a tent this last summer while we were riding the GS in the Mts of west NC and East Tn. You could then haul your GS in a small trailer and really see the country hopping from spot to spot. Wifie and I will be riding from West NC to Northern Ohio via Richmond Va. this summer on the GS. We'll be doing the hotel thing though.
lilwoody- If you haven't finalized your route yet consider including Pocohontas County, West Virginia in your trip, that is some of the best riding on the east coast. Rt. 250 through the Monongahela National Forest is beautiful and the twisty switch backs will keep a smile on your face all day. Stop in Helvatia (Population: 216) AT The Hutte Restaurant located at the intersection in town for the best peach cobbler you will ever have! If you want to meet up with other riders stay at the Boyer Station restaurant, motel and campground. I hope to make it back down there later this year :thumb:
-Jessie
There's one other method we all managed to forget, the old 'plywood over a fold up ladder and 15 ratchet straps' method
(http://www.sportbikerider.us/Shared_Code/2009/ShowImage.cfm?Picture_ID=130318&dsn=SBRPW&Size=)
(http://www.sportbikerider.us/Shared_Code/2009/ShowImage.cfm?Picture_ID=130317&dsn=SBRPW&Size=)
I like my bike too much to try that. plus I have a small trailer I made out of a jet-ski trailer, and a hitch on my dodge neon
looks like it should be on www.thereifixedit.com
Quote from: mister on December 08, 2009, 12:12:50 PM
We have this show down here called "The New Inventors". Each week three inventions from Aust come before a panel of 3 judges who decide which is the winner. If you invent something from recycled material which will bio degrade, costs pennies and will give clean water to the 3rd world while saving the whales and dolphins and polar bears at the same time, you'll win. Even if no-one would buy the thing.
ANywho. These guys came on with a motorcycle tie down system. Here's the bit on the show about it http://www.abc.net.au/tv/newinventors/txt/s2557435.htm
Strangely, they won. Competed against a Horse Blanket and a thing to help parents remember what to put in kids school bags (People Choice winner - must be all the grannies who watch the show who voted for it. After all, they once voted for a quilt fabric cutter as their choice... like WHO makes quilts?)
Well, they sell it from their website http://www.kyaracing.com.au and through all bike mags in the country.
Quite ingenious really... and available to those in the USA as well.
(http://www.kyaracing.com.au/Images/roadhero.jpg)
Michael
MWAH HA HA HA HA!!! Strap ur bikes down while you's strain spaghetti's you scurvy cur!!!!
Just found these guys....
(http://www.easytrailer.com.au/846TA___3_x_70M_144x111.jpg) (http://www.easytrailer.com.au/846TA___46FF_FOLDED_148x112.jpg)
This same trailer can also be a Box trailer a flatbed trailer and even a boat trailer. Made in Aust and they say they can Export them... http://www.easytrailer.com.au/
Michael
OK so here's the review! I bought this and I have to say!
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/drawhitch.jpg)
I am more mechanically inclined then most but this was advertised as a bolt on class III tow hitch for the 01-04 Ford Escape but Jesus! I watched the video before I purchased it and it was OK not great. The directions had a 4 rating on difficulty so I was leary of it to say the least.
I installed this completely in 25 minutes in my slippers! Originally I just wanted to see how hard it was going to be and to my surprise;
It came with a little wire to fish through a very small hole at the rear of the chassis to 3 holes on each side. It was bent in a coil and you thread the bolt on to it. Now I have experience fishing walls installing cable of any kind for 20+ year but the way this wire is bent the wire actually came out each hole by itself with no effort.
I endorse this hitch 100% had I known how easy it was I would have put this on the day after I bought the Escape. It only cost 150$. I had my bike picked up about a year ago to take to the shop and that was 50$. Do the math. I am now looking for a similar hitch for the GF's Durango. It just don't make sense to have vehicle that is capable of towing something and not have it installed.
Finally got around to trying out my single motorcycle trailer :thumb:
-Jessie
(http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww360/jessiedoran/singletrailer.jpg)
EDIT: I'm not talking about the Honda above, just transporting bikes in general
Those poor front fork springs! Remove the front fender and then cut a 4x4 that just clears under the lower triple and the top of the now exposed front tire, NOW cinch it down...you are compressing the front tire now and not your springs....I CRINGE every time I see the front forks sucked down hard on a bike being transported! :nono:
And on the rear, secure the rear tire..and NOTHING ELSE!
When I transport a bike I try and use very little or NO compressing of the suspension in the transporting process.
I'm an Old Fart...trust me, I don't make this stuff up as I go along :whisper:
Nice light little rig. I got a trailer too I forgot about this thread!
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/TrailerNew.jpg)
Here is what I ended up with it's hard to store but I can take both bikes where ever I want!
Quote from: JB848 on October 21, 2010, 07:59:17 PM
Nice light little rig. I got a trailer too I forgot about this thread!
(http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss239/rtarpley/TrailerNew.jpg)
Here is what I ended up with it's hard to store but I can take both bikes where ever I want!
Nice! :thumb: I'm working on making a 2/1 bike trailer out of a cheap folding trailer and some Pingel wheel chocks. I'll post some pics if I ever finish it ;)
-Jessie