On this page
Moving a motorcycle without riding it over the Cajon Pass? Route 66 Auto Repair in Upland rents U-Haul motorcycle trailers from our lot in Upland, reserved on uhaul.com. The bike rides upright and strapped down while you drive a vehicle you already know. A technician runs a free hookup check at pickup and points out the tie-down points before you load.
When does trailering a bike make sense?
- A move where you also need your car at the destination
- A bike that is not registered, running or insured yet
- A new rider bringing home a first bike
- Summer heat or winter wind on a long freeway run
- Taking a bike to a track day or an out-of-area specialist
How do you strap a motorcycle down?
Roll the bike up front wheel first with a helper on the far side, into the wheel area at the front of the trailer. Use soft loops around solid points like the lower triple clamp or the frame, not around bars, levers, cables or brake lines.
Run two straps forward and outward at the front and two at the rear. Tighten them evenly until the front suspension compresses partway. Raise the side stand once the bike is held. The bike should feel like part of the trailer when you push on it. Recheck the straps after the first few miles.
Common mistakes with motorcycle trailers
- Hooking straps to handlebars that can bend or slip
- Cranking the suspension all the way down
- Leaving the side stand down during transport
- Skipping the strap recheck after the first stretch of road
- Loading gear bags loose around the bike
Our motorcycle trailer pickup process
Step 1: Check in
License and reservation are reviewed at the counter.
Step 2: Walk the trailer
Ramp, wheel area, tie-down points, tires and lights are checked and photographed.
Step 3: Hookup check
Ball size, latch, pin and crossed chains are set free of charge.
Step 4: Light test
Brake, turn and running lights are confirmed.
Step 5: Loading notes
We point out the tie-down points and answer questions before you load.
What's included with a motorcycle trailer rental
Included on the work order
- 01Counter check-in and contract review
- 02Ramp and tie-down point walk-through
- 03Checkout photos
- 04Free hookup check
- 05Trailer light test
- 06Hitch rating review
Need-now or need-later on your tow vehicle?
Need now: call
- No trailer light connector on the vehicle
- A brake warning light on the dash
- A tire with a slow leak
Need later: book
- A dim dome light
- A brake fluid service coming due with a normal pedal
- A rattling heat shield with no exhaust leak
How pricing and timing work
U-Haul sets the motorcycle trailer rate, shown on uhaul.com for your dates. The hookup check is free. If a dash warning is on, a paid brake system inspection or other diagnosis starts with the fee stated before testing and a written estimate before any repair.
Unloading your bike
Unload with a helper, rolling the bike back slowly with the front brake covered. Stow the straps and photograph the empty trailer for return. The auto transport and towing hub compares other equipment, and the free towing inspection page lists what the hookup check covers. Heading to a new home? See one-way rentals.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need my own tie-down straps for a motorcycle trailer?
Bring quality ratchet straps and soft loops, since they protect the bike and give you control over tension. Check your reservation details on uhaul.com for what comes with the rental.
Can one person load a motorcycle on a trailer?
It is much safer with two. One person walks the bike up while the other steadies it from the side. A bike dropped on a ramp can injure you and damage the bike.
What vehicle can pull a motorcycle trailer?
Many cars, SUVs and pickups with a hitch and working lights can. The towing rating must cover the trailer plus the bike. Enter your vehicle on uhaul.com to check the pairing.
Can I move two motorcycles on one trailer?
Check the listing on uhaul.com for what the trailer is designed to carry, and confirm current capacity before you plan on it.