How Do You Travel with a Dirt Bike?

Traveling with a dirt bike involves selecting the right transportation method that suits your vehicle, the number of bikes, and your budget. From simple carriers to dedicated trailers, various options ensure your bike arrives safely at your next adventure.

Popular Methods for Transporting a Dirt Bike

Choosing the best way to transport your dirt bike depends on several factors, including your towing capacity, the number of bikes, and personal preference.

1. Hitch-Mounted Carriers

A hitch-mounted carrier is often considered the simplest and most convenient way to transport a single dirt bike using a car, SUV, or truck. These carriers attach directly to your vehicle's receiver hitch.

• How it Works: You slide the carrier's main arm into your vehicle's receiver tube (usually a 2-inch or 1.25-inch square opening) and secure it with a hitch pin. The dirt bike is then loaded onto the carrier's rail, typically using a ramp, and fastened securely with tie-down straps.
• Key Consideration: Every hitch mount comes with a maximum weight capacity, which you must not exceed. It's also crucial to check your vehicle's tongue weight rating (the maximum downward force your hitch can safely handle), as the carrier and bike's combined weight will apply significant pressure.
• Pros:
  • Simplicity: Easy to attach and detach.
  • Cost-effective: Generally less expensive than trailers.
  • Storage: Requires minimal storage space when not in use.
  • Maneuverability: Does not significantly impact vehicle handling as much as a trailer.
• Cons:
  • Weight Limit: Limited to one or possibly two smaller bikes due to weight constraints.
  • Visibility: Can obstruct your rear view or vehicle's taillights.
  • Suspension Sag: Heavy bikes can cause your vehicle's rear suspension to sag.
  • Access: Can make accessing your vehicle's trunk or tailgate difficult.

2. Pickup Truck Bed

For those with a pickup truck, the truck bed offers a straightforward and secure way to transport one or more dirt bikes.

• Loading & Securing:
  • Use a ramp to load the bike into the bed.
  • Position the front wheel against the front of the bed, ideally in a wheel chock for added stability.
  • Utilize heavy-duty tie-down straps (ratchet straps are recommended) to secure the handlebars to the front corners of the truck bed, compressing the front suspension slightly to prevent movement.
  • Additional straps can be used from the rear of the bike to the rear tie-down points in the bed.
  • If your bike is too long and requires the tailgate to be down, ensure the bike is still securely fastened and consider a bed extender for support and visibility (e.g., a red flag on the furthest point).
• Pros:
  • Convenience: Uses existing vehicle space; no extra equipment required beyond straps and a ramp.
  • Security: Bikes are enclosed within the truck bed walls.
  • Versatility: Can carry multiple bikes depending on bed size.
• Cons:
  • Space: Takes up the entire truck bed, limiting other cargo.
  • Damage Risk: Potential for damage to the truck bed or bike if not properly secured.
  • Accessibility: Loading can be physically demanding without a proper ramp.

3. Trailers (Open or Enclosed)

Trailers are the most versatile option for transporting multiple dirt bikes, especially for longer distances or when carrying extensive gear.

• Open Utility Trailers:

  • Description: These are simple, flatbed trailers, often with a ramp for easy loading. They can come in various sizes and configurations, some specifically designed for motorcycles with wheel chocks and multiple tie-down points.
  • Pros:
    • Capacity: Can easily transport multiple dirt bikes.
    • Cost: Generally more affordable than enclosed trailers.
    • Maneuverability: Lighter and easier to tow than enclosed trailers.
  • Cons:
    • Exposure: Bikes are exposed to weather and road debris.
    • Security: Less secure as bikes are visible and accessible.
    • Gear Storage: Limited secure storage for riding gear.

• Enclosed Trailers:

  • Description: These trailers offer a secure, weather-protected environment for your bikes and gear, often doubling as a mobile workshop or changing room at the track.
  • Pros:
    • Protection: Shields bikes and gear from weather, road grime, and theft.
    • Security: Lockable doors provide excellent security.
    • Storage: Ample space for tools, spare parts, and riding gear.
    • Comfort: Can be customized with lighting, shelving, and even sleeping quarters.
  • Cons:
    • Cost: Significantly more expensive than open trailers.
    • Weight & Size: Heavier and larger, requiring a more capable tow vehicle and making them harder to maneuver and store.
    • Fuel Economy: Can significantly impact your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

4. Vans and Toy Haulers

For the ultimate dirt bike travel experience, vans and toy haulers offer integrated solutions.

• Vans (e.g., Sprinter Vans): Many riders customize large cargo vans to carry bikes internally, alongside living amenities. This provides maximum security, weather protection, and a discreet way to travel.

• Toy Haulers: These are RVs (travel trailers or fifth-wheel campers) with a dedicated "garage" area at the rear, perfect for hauling dirt bikes, ATVs, or other recreational vehicles, while also providing full living accommodations.

• Pros:

  • Integrated Solution: Combines transport, living space, and gear storage.
  • Security & Protection: Bikes are fully enclosed and secure.
  • Comfort: Offers all the amenities of an RV or a custom-built living space.

• Cons:

  • Cost: The most expensive options by far.
  • Size: Very large vehicles that require skill to drive and park.
  • Maintenance: Higher maintenance costs compared to simpler transport methods.

Essential Tips for Safe Dirt Bike Transport

Regardless of the method you choose, proper preparation and securing are paramount.

• Secure Tie-Downs: Always use high-quality, heavy-duty ratchet straps. Aim for at least four tie-down points per bike, compressing the suspension slightly to prevent bouncing.
• Wheel Chocks: Use wheel chocks in truck beds and trailers to prevent the bike from shifting forward or sideways.
• Check Weight Capacities: Always verify that your vehicle, carrier, or trailer can safely handle the weight of your dirt bike(s) and gear. Exceeding limits is dangerous and illegal. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual and the carrier/trailer's specifications.
• Lights and License Plates: When using a hitch carrier that obstructs your vehicle's lights or when towing a trailer, ensure you have auxiliary tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, and a visible license plate that complies with local regulations.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Before every trip, double-check all tie-downs, lights, and tire pressures (on trailers).
• Remove Loose Items: Take off any loose items from your dirt bike (e.g., gas cans, tool bags) that could vibrate off during transit.
• Fuel Shut-Off: If your bike has a fuel petcock, turn it to the "off" position to prevent fuel leaks.

By considering these options and following best practices, you can safely and efficiently transport your dirt bike to any destination.