5 Reasons to Rent a Motorcycle Trailer

You have planned a trip, your bike is ready, and the only question is how to get it there. For many motorcycle riders, the choice is simple: ride the whole way. But for longer distances, new destinations, or situations where your bike needs protection from the road, renting a motorcycle trailer is a smarter option than most riders realize.

This guide covers the five best reasons to rent a motorcycle trailer for your next trip, how to choose the right trailer, and what to check before you load up and go.

5 Reasons to Rent a Motorcycle Trailer for Your Bike

1. It Is the Safest Way to Transport Your Bike Long-Distance

Long-distance riding is physically and mentally exhausting. Fatigue is one of the leading contributors to motorcycle accidents, and the risk climbs steeply after the first few hours in the saddle. Transporting your bike in an enclosed trailer protects it from road debris, weather, and other vehicles, while letting you arrive at your destination rested and ready to ride. You get to enjoy your bike on your terms, not just on the miles between home and your destination.

For safety tips on towing a motorcycle trailer, read our guide on towing a motorcycle safely before your first trip.

2. It Is Far More Affordable Than Shipping Your Bike

Professional motorcycle shipping typically costs between $400 and $1,500 depending on distance, with no guarantee of timeline or handling. A motorcycle trailer rental through Neighbors Trailer costs a fraction of that for a full day or weekend rental. You control the schedule, the route, and the handling of your own bike. For riders who travel frequently, the savings add up quickly over time.

3. You Still Get to Ride Your Own Bike at the Destination

When you fly to a destination and rent a similar bike, you lose the feel of your own machine. Every bike handles differently. Riding an unfamiliar motorcycle in an unfamiliar place is not the experience you planned for. A motorcycle trailer lets you bring your own bike, load up when you arrive, and start riding the roads you came to explore on the exact bike you know and trust.

4. It Protects Your Bike After a Breakdown or Accident on the Road

Even well-maintained bikes break down. When your motorcycle fails mid-trip, renting a nearby trailer is often the fastest and most affordable way to get it home. Flatbed or enclosed motorcycle trailers are widely available, and a quick search on Neighbors Trailer can connect you with a local trailer owner in most areas. This beats waiting for a specialty motorcycle transport service and paying premium recovery fees.

5. It Opens Up Road Trip Possibilities That Riding Alone Cannot

Most motorcycles are not designed for heavy luggage loads. Once you add saddlebags and a tank bag, you are out of space. A trailer haul to your destination means you can pack camping gear, tools, extra riding gear, and anything else you need without overloading your bike. It also means friends or family with non-riding vehicles can meet you there, since they can help tow the trailer while you ride once you arrive.

Choosing the Right Motorcycle Trailer for Your Bike

Not all motorcycle trailers are the same. The right choice depends on your bike's size, how far you are going, and what level of protection you need.

An open trailer with a wheel chock and tie-down system works well for short hauls in good weather, and tends to be the most affordable option. An enclosed trailer provides full weather and road debris protection, which is the preferred choice for long-distance travel or transporting a high-value bike. Confirm that the trailer's weight capacity exceeds your bike's curb weight, and that the ramp angle and width are compatible with your bike's dimensions before loading.

Always inspect the trailer before loading. Review our Trailer Inspections guide to know exactly what to check on any rental trailer before you depart.

Motorcycle Trailer Rental Comparison

Why Riders Choose Motorcycle Trailers: Key Benefits

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How to Safely Load and Secure a Motorcycle in a Trailer

Loading a motorcycle correctly is just as important as choosing the right trailer. An improperly secured bike can shift in transit, causing damage to the bike and creating instability in the trailer.

Use a front wheel chock to hold the bike upright and prevent rolling. Attach soft loop tie-down straps to the front forks (not the handlebars) and to the rear frame or swingarm. Use four straps total: two in front, two in the rear. Compress the suspension slightly so the straps hold tension throughout the trip. Double-check all connections before driving and again after the first 15 minutes on the road.

For more guidance on towing safety, see our Trailer Safety 101: Heavy Hauling Tips.

NT Protect: Coverage on Every Rental

Every motorcycle trailer rental booked through Neighbors Trailer automatically includes NT Protect, mandatory coverage charged to the renter at the time of booking for a few dollars per day. With a $500 deductible, NT Protect gives you protection from the moment you hook up and drive away. There is no need to purchase separate insurance or worry about gaps in coverage while your bike is in transit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Trailer Rentals

What size trailer do I need for a motorcycle?

Most single motorcycles fit comfortably in a 5 x 8 foot or 6 x 10 foot trailer. If you are hauling two bikes or a larger cruiser or touring bike, a 6 x 12 or larger trailer is recommended. Always verify the trailer's interior width and ramp width against your bike's dimensions before booking.

Can I tow a motorcycle trailer with a standard pickup truck or SUV?

Yes, most trucks and many SUVs are rated to tow the weight of a motorcycle trailer. A typical loaded motorcycle trailer weighs between 1,500 and 3,000 pounds, well within the tow rating of most half-ton pickups. Check your owner's manual for your vehicle's tow capacity and confirm it exceeds the loaded trailer weight before departing.

Do I need special tie-downs for my motorcycle?

Soft loop tie-down straps are recommended because they protect your bike's finish and attach securely to frame points without damaging forks or handlebars. Avoid hooking straps directly to handlebars or brake levers. Use a minimum of four straps: two in the front, two in the rear, each pulling at opposing angles to prevent movement in any direction.

Is it safe to transport a motorcycle in an open trailer?

Open trailers are safe for short hauls and good weather conditions. For long distances, highway speeds, or any forecast of rain, an enclosed trailer provides better protection for your bike and peace of mind for you. The small difference in rental cost is worth it for protecting a high-value motorcycle.

How do I find a motorcycle trailer rental near me?

Neighbors Trailer is a peer-to-peer marketplace with trailer listings across the country. Search by your location to find local trailer owners with available motorcycle trailers. NT Protect coverage is automatically included in every booking, and most rentals are available for same-day or next-day pickup.

Find a Motorcycle Trailer on Neighbors Trailer

Neighbors Trailer connects renters with local trailer owners across the United States. Browse motorcycle trailer listings by location, compare options by size and price, and book instantly online. NT Protect coverage is automatically included in every rental, so your bike and your trip are protected from start to finish.

Related Articles

• Trailer Safety 101: Tips for Towing a Motorcycle Behind Your Truck
• Trailer Inspections: What You Need to Know Before Every Trip
• Trailer Safety 101: Heavy Hauling Tips for Safe Towing
• Should You Choose a Tow Dolly or a Car Hauler Trailer?

Content updated March 2026