Sturgis is right around the corner and most people who attend this rally trailer their motorcycles especially if they live on the east coast. The phrase of “I rode my motorcycle to trailer week” is almost a thing of the past. Does anyone pack their bike for a three week ride, or...

is it easier to pack the truck and trailer the bike. Even if you’re hard core, sooner or later you pack it on a trailer. Securing a motorcycle for transport is not the most difficult task you’ll ever face - but it has to be done correctly to avoid damaging the bike.
For long distance or frequent jobs, try to secure the bike by more than just the handlebars. Securing only the handlebars can collapse the isolators that help eliminate vibration to the hands, requiring premature replacement of bushings.
On touring motorcycles, it’s OK to secure the bike by attaching the strap to the engine guards. On other models, attach the strap to the fork where it goes through the lower triple clamp. If there is an opening where the forks go through the triple clamp, use the fork; otherwise, use the engine guard.
Use two sets of tie downs for the front of the motorcycle; attach one set to the fork or engine guard as the primary tie down, another to the handlebars as a backup. The tie to the handlebars is just snug. The rear of the bike can be tied to the frame, but be careful not to put it in a position that will rub the paint during transport. It is also not a good idea to leave the motorcycle in gear during transport; this can stress internal components of the power train.

Now you’re ready to trailer your bike to Sturgis, so have a safe trip, and if you have room for one more bike I can be reached by E-mail. RIDE SAFE.