5 Ways to Transport a Motorcycle

In this review, we will cover all known methods of motorcycle transportation, ways to secure them, and devices that can help with the process.

Van

Without a doubt, a van is the best thing that can happen to a motorcyclist. Vans come in cargo, cargo-passenger, and passenger versions. Even in the latter, with some interior modifications, a motorcycle can fit, while a cargo van can easily accommodate a luxury tourer or even a couple of mid-sized bikes. In any case, the low loading height and ease of securing allow you to roll in and transport a motorcycle safely over any distance.

Pickup Truck

The second best friend of a motorcyclist is undoubtedly a pickup truck. Like vans, pickups come in three main types based on cabin size and bed length:

• Single Cab – single-row seating with a longer bed.
• Club Cab – small rear seats with a slightly shorter bed.
• Double Cab – the most popular, offering a full second row of seats but the shortest bed.

Even the shortest pickup bed can accommodate most motorcycles if the rear wheel rests on the open tailgate. This is allowed by traffic regulations, and manufacturers typically design the tailgate with enough strength to support this load.

Pickups are available in both all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive configurations, with the latter being preferable for motorcyclists due to the lower loading height.

Trailer

Vans and pickups are convenient, but buying one just for a couple of trips per year makes little sense unless you frequently transport motorcycles. A trailer, on the other hand, is a better option for occasional trips.

There are many trailer options on the market, but drivers with only a Category B license can only use lightweight trailers (up to 750 kg). However, even such a trailer is enough to carry up to three mid-sized motorcycles. There are also specialized motorcycle trailers equipped with everything needed to secure bikes.

Modern low-frame trailers make loading easier, but without a proper cover, your motorcycle will arrive dirty. Additionally, towing a trailer — especially reversing — requires specific driving skills.

Hitch Carrier

Besides a trailer, there is another legal way to transport a motorcycle using a car — a hitch-mounted carrier. This platform attaches to the vehicle’s tow hitch and allows you to carry a lightweight motorcycle or scooter directly behind the car.

While this is a simple method, it’s not always the most convenient for transporting a dirt bike or enduro. The key is to ensure that the motorcycle does not block the license plate or the car’s lights. If it does, you’ll need additional lighting and an external license plate bracket.

Partial Loading

A transportation method well known in car towing is also available for motorcycles. While such devices are rare on the market, you can order one from a metal fabrication company. This method is useful when transporting a sidecar motorcycle or a couple of dirt bikes, especially if a trailer seems excessive.

One major concern that not everyone considers is the motorcycle’s transmission. Not all motorcycles are designed for this type of transport. For example, on a Ural motorcycle, the gearbox is lubricated by oil splashed by the primary shaft. When the engine is off, this shaft does not move, while other gears rotate with the car’s motion. To avoid potential damage, it’s best to remove the chain or driveshaft before using the partial loading method.

Securing the Motorcycle

These are the main and most common ways to transport a motorcycle, but there are also more exotic methods such as shipping via a transport company, using a motorcycle tow truck, or even attempting to squeeze a fully disassembled bike into a passenger car.

Regardless of the method, properly securing the motorcycle is crucial.

One of the most reliable ways to secure a motorcycle in a van, pickup truck, or trailer is a wheel chock. This device bolts to the floor and firmly holds the front wheel in place. There are expensive, complex models as well as simpler versions that are just a curved metal tube. However, caution is needed with these simpler versions, as improper use can bend the brake discs.

Even with a wheel chock, you still need to strap the motorcycle down. While ropes or seat belts can work, it’s best to use specialized straps for maximum security. The bike should be pulled tight from both sides to prevent tipping and should have additional support at the front wheel.

If you don’t have a wheel chock, an alternative method is to use the kickstand, place the wheel against the corner of the truck bed, and secure the bike with a couple of ratchet straps to prevent it from shifting. The key is to compress the suspension slightly with the straps so the motorcycle doesn’t bounce while driving.

Don’t overtighten! Aluminum kickstands and frames that attach directly to the engine are not designed for excessive stress. Also, be mindful of strap placement: if they rub against plastic parts or wiring, you risk arriving with scratches or damaged cables.

After securing the motorcycle, check it after the first few kilometers. If the straps are still tight and the bike is stable, it should remain secure for hundreds or even thousands of kilometers. If not, tighten the straps or adjust the setup — taking time to secure the bike properly is always cheaper than paying for repairs after a fall.

These are the essential things to know when transporting a motorcycle. However, there may be other, less common methods — feel free to share with your post how you transport your bikes!