Tow behind motorcycle trailers (ATV as well) fall into a couple of categories. You can be looking for a trailer to carry your bikes and ATVs to a destination, or you can be looking to pick up a trailer to tow behind your bike or ATV to carry extra gear.

This is the first in a series of articles that will give you some ideas on purchasing the right trailer for your needs. Here we will start off with some thoughts for you to consider in terms of your needs for a tow behind trailer. Please let me know if you are looking for info that I’m missing, but also stay tuned for additional articles that will explore the various other scenarios- trailers to tow behind your bike/atv, enclosed or open,and options that you can install that will make your trailer feel like a garage away from home.

There are unique needs in all of your trailers so lets take a look at some of them. If you are looking at a trailer to pull your toys to a destination then you have some unique considerations. One of the first things to consider is your tow vehicle. It will be spelled out in you owners manual as to the towing capacity of your vehicle. This is a critical figure to get. There is no sense in getting the fanciest and most option laden trailer if your truck can’t tow it.

Next consider the weather conditions that you will be using your trailer in. If you find that you are towing in a relatively warm dry climate than you don’t need to consider such things as a/c or heat. You would want to consider these types of options if you plan on using your trailer at an event where it will double as your portable garage as well.

Security is another concern. You have a significant investment in your bikes and ATVs. It is always a good idea to protect your investments. This opens up two options-open trailer or enclosed. Obviously the enclosed trailer will provide a greater level of security because you can not only conceal your gear and equipment, but you can then also lock doors and also install a security system that will alert you if some is messing with your stuff- The alarm will automatically call your cell phone.

Trailer storage is another thing to consider. When your not using your trailer it is important that you have a place to conveniently store it and have easy access to it. Many neighborhood HOA- homeowner associations- have very clear and stringent guidelines when it comes to parking and storing trailers. You do not want to make a major investment in the ultimate trailer only to have it become either a neighborhood nuisance or a financial liability once its towed off.

One thing to think about in this instance is using a self-storage facility that is in your neighborhood. This is a great opportunity to have easy access to your trailer without worrying about HOA issues or constantly shuffling your cars and other toys around it.

I hope that this will get you thinking about your needs in a trailer. Please give a lot of thought to such purchase-remember- It is better to do the research and buy the right trailer for your needs.