(Sponsored post fr our North American readers)
Whether you are heading to a bike rally, fly and ride vacation, planning a move across state/country or trying to get your new or used motorcycle you purchased online, figuring out the best way to move a motorcycle from one location to the second location without actually having to ride it can be a little complex. According to a professional motorcycle transport company, there are numerous factors you should consider to make sure that your bike survives the journey in one piece. Here are the two options which we are going to discuss, DIY or ship your motorbike professionally.
Do it yourself
This will be something you will need to consider twice about if you are moving out of state. Across state travels can be much more challenging and pose more dangers to your bike. If you don’t trust your wheels to just anyone, then DIY transport is best for you. First, you will need an automobile large enough to ship your motorbike. That automobile could be a lorry with a large bed or an SUV with a trailer attached. You may have your own trailer, or you may choose to rent one. No matter what type of vehicle you choose for your bike to ship, you should make sure that the platform is large enough to accommodate the length of the bike and should be free of any debris or boxes.
Also, you will need a slop/ramp for loading and unloading your motorcycle. While some riders may recommend making your ramp using wood etc., the secure ramps are made of iron or other solid metals and manufactured specially for shipping motorbikes or other automobiles.
You will also need a bike chock to stabilize your motorcycle on the truck or trailer bed. Chocks are specific devices that protect the motorbike’s front wheel and keep the motorcycle upright during transportation.
Lastly, you will also need strong tie-downs to protect the body of the motorcycle to prevent it from shifting side-to-side during transport. Tie-down harness should be made of sturdy material, and should also be fairly wide to better allocate the weight of the motorbike across the sides of the truck or trailer bed. Belts with attached ratcheting mechanisms are recommended to make sure that straps are tightened adequately. Shipping your motorcycle on your means that your motorbike never leaves your sight, decreasing the chance of accidental loss through negligence. But, if you have to buy costly tools or equipment’s, like a trailer or chock, if may cost as much, if not more, than professional transport.
Hire Motorcycle Transport Company
Motorcycle shipping company can offer a variety of benefits when shipping your motorbike, including individual shipping crates, enclosed transport, professional service, and specific insurance. When shipping your motor bike with an expert auto transport company, it is necessary to confirm the amount and type of insurance coverage the company provides before finalizing the deal.
If you do agree to transport professionally, you should prepare your motor cycle for the trip by removing all private items, disconnecting the motorcycle’s anti-theft system, locking handlebars, folding inside mirrors, and leaving the motorbike in neutral. If you plan on shipping your motorcycle via crate, you should drain the gas tank and remove the battery.
Regardless of your chosen specialized transport mode, you should always clean your motorcycle and photograph any dents or scratches before shipment. This way, you can provide evidence of existing damage for insurance purposes. Professional transport does not need any special tools or equipment; all crates, harnesses, and trailers are their responsibility. However, the personalized and convenient service may make shipping your bike expensive.
Ultimately, the transport mode you choose will depend on your preferences and financial plan. Whatever the way, be sure to take the correct methods to secure your bike arrives in one piece at your new location.