Hauling Your Motorcycle: Camper Setup And Safety Tips

Hauling a motorcycle on a camper is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution to ensure the safety of your bike. There are several methods to consider, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. One common approach is to use a pickup truck or van, which offers control over the transportation process and is suitable for short to medium distances. Alternatively, hiring a professional motorcycle shipping service can save time and provide expert handling, but it is more expensive. Another option is to use a hitch-mounted motorcycle carrier, which is convenient for frequent transport and doesn't require large storage space. For long-distance transport, rail services are a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice, although they require more logistical planning. Enclosed and open trailers are also viable options, with enclosed trailers offering more protection and security, while open trailers are more affordable and provide better airflow and visibility. Whichever method you choose, proper research, preparation, and safety measures are essential to ensure a smooth and damage-free transport for your motorcycle.

Loading a motorcycle into a camper van

Firstly, you'll need to check that your camper van can accommodate your motorcycle. Measure the height and width of your bike and compare it to the height and width of your camper van's door. You'll also need to check that your camper van can handle the weight of your motorcycle when it's fully fuelled.

Once you've established that your camper van can fit your motorcycle, it's time to start loading it in. Park your camper van on a low spot and secure its rear wheels. Get a ramp—the longer, the better—and place it at the back of the van. If you can, get some people to come and help you. Roll or ride the motorcycle up the ramp and into the camper van.

Now that the motorcycle is inside the camper van, you'll need to secure it to minimise movement during the journey. If your camper van has tie-down points, use sturdy tie-down straps to secure the motorcycle. If not, you can install aftermarket tie-down tracks. For extra security, compress the motorcycle's suspension and put a zip tie or rubber band around the brake lever.

Securing the motorcycle

Firstly, park your camper on level ground. This is important to ensure stability when loading and securing the motorcycle. Use a ramp or loading dock to roll or ride the motorcycle onto the camper. If using a ramp, ensure it is securely attached to the camper and the ground, creating a stable bridge for the motorcycle to be rolled up.

Once the motorcycle is on the camper, position it securely in the centre to maintain balance. Use wheel chocks to secure the front wheel, preventing any movement. Make sure the motorcycle is upright and stable, with no risk of falling to either side.

The next step is to attach high-quality tie-down straps to the motorcycle. These straps should be looped through sturdy parts of the motorcycle's frame, such as the lower fork tube or frame rails. Ensure you use straps with sufficient strength to bear the weight of the motorcycle. The number of straps used is also important; attach at least four straps, one to each corner, for maximum stability and to prevent wobbling.

After the straps are attached, tighten them evenly, applying the right amount of tension to secure the motorcycle without compressing the suspension. It is crucial to not over-tighten the straps, as this can damage the suspension. Check for any slack in the straps and adjust as needed.

For added security, consider attaching additional straps to the motorcycle's front and rear wheels, anchoring them to the camper. This will prevent lateral movement during transport.

Before finalising the process, double-check all straps and connections to ensure they are secure and firmly holding the motorcycle in place. Tug on each strap to confirm its strength and stability.

If desired, you can add a cover over the motorcycle for extra protection during transport.

By following these steps, you can securely haul your motorcycle on your camper, ensuring its safety and stability throughout the journey.

Using a hitch-mounted motorcycle carrier

When using a hitch-mounted motorcycle carrier, it is important to ensure that the carrier is properly installed and compatible with your vehicle's towing capacity. Additionally, make sure your bike is securely fastened to multiple tie-down points on the carrier. Before embarking on your journey, double-check that all straps and connections are secure by firmly tugging on each strap to confirm that it is holding the motorcycle in place.

Hitch-mounted motorcycle carriers offer several advantages. They are generally lighter, cheaper, and easier to manage than trailers. Some carriers even feature built-in ramps for more convenient loading, while others are equipped with hydraulic lifts, removing the need for ramps altogether. When selecting a carrier, ensure that it can accommodate your bike's tires and weight.

While hitch-mounted carriers offer a viable option for transporting your motorcycle, it is important to consider the limitations of your camper van or RV's frame. Travel trailer frames are typically not designed to handle heavy loads at the rear. Placing a motorcycle carrier against the back of the camper can exert significant weight on the trailer frame, potentially leading to unsafe conditions. It is crucial to consider the weight of your bike and the carrier itself in relation to the capacity of your trailer hitch.

To ensure a safe and successful hauling experience, it is recommended to conduct thorough research and consult with experts or fellow RV enthusiasts. By choosing the right equipment and following proper procedures, you can confidently transport your motorcycle to your desired destination.

Enclosed vs open trailers

When hauling a motorcycle, your main goal is to ensure it arrives unharmed. There are several options for transporting your motorcycle, including using a pickup truck or van, a professional motorcycle shipping service, a hitch-mounted motorcycle carrier, or a trailer.

If you opt for a trailer, you'll need to choose between an enclosed or open trailer. Here are the pros and cons of each to help you decide:

Enclosed Trailers

Enclosed trailers offer full protection from the elements, road debris, and theft. They are ideal for expensive motorcycles or collector's items as they provide a completely enclosed space during transport. Enclosed trailers also serve as a semi-permanent storage space and can be used to advertise your brand. However, they are more expensive, requiring a higher initial investment and more storage space.

Open Trailers

Open trailers are more cost-effective and lightweight, allowing for increased fuel efficiency and the use of a lighter-duty vehicle for hauling. They require less maintenance since there are no walls or roof to wax or wash. However, your motorcycle will be exposed to the elements and road debris during transport, which may result in damage.

Both enclosed and open trailers can safely transport your motorcycle, but the decision depends on your specific needs and budget. Consider the level of protection required, the distance of your trip, and the value of your motorcycle when making your choice.

Weight distribution

Firstly, it is crucial to ensure that your camper can handle the weight of your motorcycle. Check the maximum payload capacity of your camper and make sure that the weight of your fully-fueled motorcycle does not exceed this limit. Going over the maximum payload capacity can have serious consequences and compromise the safety of your setup.

Secondly, when loading your motorcycle into the camper, pay close attention to its positioning. Park your camper on level ground and use a ramp to roll the motorcycle inside. Position the motorcycle securely towards the centre of the camper to maintain stability and balance. This will help prevent excessive weight distribution towards the rear or sides of the camper, which can affect handling and stability during transit.

Additionally, utilise tie-down straps to secure the motorcycle in place. Attach at least four straps to sturdy parts of the motorcycle's frame, such as the lower fork tube or frame rails. Ensure that the straps are tightened evenly and adjusted to prevent any slack during transit. This will help minimise the risk of the motorcycle shifting or wobbling, which could affect weight distribution and potentially cause damage.

If you are hauling the motorcycle outside of the camper, such as with a hitch-mounted carrier or trailer, weight distribution is still a critical factor. Ensure that the hitch or trailer is compatible with your motorcycle's weight and that it does not exceed the maximum towing capacity of your camper. Distribute the weight evenly and securely fasten the motorcycle to several tie-down points to prevent lateral movement and maintain stability.

Remember, proper weight distribution is essential for a safe and smooth journey. Take the time to plan and prepare your setup, ensuring that the weight of the motorcycle is within the capacity limits of your camper and that it is securely fastened with minimal risk of shifting or wobbling during transit. By following these guidelines, you can effectively manage weight distribution and enjoy a safer and more enjoyable hauling experience.

Frequently asked questions