FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Question? Looking for an instant answer? Here are some frequently asked question and answers that could help save you time. Please contact us if you have any other questions; we’ll be happy to help!
| Question | Can I use BikeTow™ with all motorcycles? |
| Answer | BikeTow™ can be used on most motorcycles without fairings or with the windshield removed. It has been tested with bikes of all sizes, from a full-dressed Harley to a 250cc dirt bike, and it worked well with all of them. |
| Question | Will there be wear on my back tire? |
| Answer | Since there is very little weight and no torque on the back tire during towing. very minimal wear will occur with most road bike tires. Dirt bike tires are softer, so they may wear slightly more than a road bike tire when towed for long distances on pavement. |
| Question | Can I safely tow a shaft driven motorcycle with BikeTow™? |
| Answer | Most shaft drive bikes can be towed safely; however, some shaft drive motorcycles have a lubrication pump and the motor needs to be running in order for it to work. We recommend that you check with an authorized dealer or your mechanic first if you are unsure about your particular model. |
| Question | Will my motorcycle be damaged when towed in neutral? |
| Answer | Since there is no heat or torque on the motor, there will be no damage for most bikes. As mentioned above, the only exception known is with some shaft drive bikes. If you are concerned about the bike slipping into gear while towing, you may want to invest in a clutch retaining strap. |
| Question | Will the towed mileage register on my odometer? |
| Answer | For most bikes, no. Nearly all bikes operate the speedometer/odometer from the front wheel, so no additional mileage is registered while towing with the front wheel elevated. There are some exceptions, so if in doubt, check your bike's specifications. |
| Question | I don’t have a good place to hook the rear straps to my bike, do I really need to use all four straps? |
| Answer | ABSOLUTELY YES. All four straps must be secured for maximum stability. They all work together to hold the bike upright and secure it to the BikeTow™ unit. |
| Question | Can I use my own tie-down straps? |
| Answer | The BikeTow™ you purchased will come with the necessary straps. The ratchet straps we provide with the unit are the ONLY ones we recommend you use. The ratchet ensures the tightest and most secure connection between the bike and the BikeTow™ unit. If it becomes necessary to replace a worn or lost strap, use only a 1” or larger ratcheting-type strap. Replacements are available through our website or by calling 1-866-99 TOW IT. |
| Question | What is the recommended hitch height for towing with the BikeTow™? |
| Answer | The recommended height for using the BikeTow™ is between 11” and 14”. It is easier to load your bike at this height and the bike is more stable while towing. If your hitch is higher than 14” from the ground to the top of the hitch, please use a receiver step-down mount. |
| Question | Do I need lights on the motorcycle when towing? |
| Answer | Lighting is not required because the BikeTow™ unit is not a trailer. We have spoken with several local and state law enforcement officials who have seen the BikeTow™ in operation. They confirmed that extra lighting is not required because the tow vehicle’s lights are not obscured. For extended night towing, however, we recommend using an inexpensive trailer lighting kit that can be plugged into your trailer lighting receptacle. If you have any concerns, check local laws and ordinances. |
| Question | Can I back up with BikeTow™? |
| Answer | We STRONGLY recommend that you do NOT back up with the BikeTow™. It is too difficult to see what’s happening with the bike from the driver’s seat. While traveling, it’s best to choose parking carefully to avoid having to back up. If it’s unavoidable, the safest option is to remove the bike from the unit, reposition the tow vehicle, and reload going in the appropriate direction. |
| Question | Can I make a U-turn with BikeTow™? |
| Answer | Yes, you can make a U-turn with BikeTow™, although you should avoid tight U-turns. The unique swivel design allows you to tow your bike through turns with minimal lean on the motorcycle. |
| Question | Can you use the BikeTow™ with a smaller 1¼” hitch receiver? |
| Answer | Not at this time. We specifically designed the BikeTow™ with a 2” receiver to ensure that bikes of all sizes can be towed safely. |
| Question | How long will it take to get my BikeTow™? |
| Answer | We will ship your new BikeTow™ unit within 1 business day after verification of payment. Most units are shipped via FedEx Ground, which take 4-7 business days to most locations. For a more precise timeframe, please email us and we will look up your specific location and give you a better estimate. |
| Question | How far can I tow with BikeTow™? |
| Answer | You can tow as far as you need to go, so take it with you! |
