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Trailer Info
Motorcycle trailers have been used in various European countries for many years, but have only recently grown in popularity due to the demand for greater comfort and sophistication in the use of touring motorcycles.
Legal restrictions do vary from country to country, and there are still some countries where trailers are not allowed. Although in recent years much progress has been made by motorcycle organisations and clubs to achieve legal recognition in such countries.
Single wheel trailers, once popular, have all but disappeared due to their limited carrying capacity and lack of convenience and handling compared with the two wheel type.
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The extra luggage capacity provided by a trailer greatly expands the
capabilities and scope of a motorcycle, and the most common use of trailers is
for touring and camping. Not only can all the bulky items like sleeping bags
and tents be piled into a trailer, but tables, chairs, cooker, gas bottle and
even a fridge, are now a reality. |
 | Frame tents are easily accommodated, so it is now possible for the
motorcycle to go inside the tent for overnight security. Equipment can be
safely stowed in a locked trailer on a campsite while touring the area on a
“clean” bike. When staying at hotel accommodation, a trailer allows space for
easy stowage of clothes, luggage, souvenirs and duty free goods. |
| Trailers are also being used by courier companies for parcels, tradesman
tools and bulky equipment, while commuters are using them for the monthly
supermarket shop. |
| A carefully engineered trailer can be completely watertight, securely
lockable, and, with the exception of a suitable towbar and electrical socket,
needs no modification to the motorcycle. |
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- Towbars
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Towing brackets for many popular motorcycles are available, and the
range is constantly being extended. There is a semi-universal towbar kit for
low volume applications, and jig built single application towbars for the
commonly required types.
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- The Law
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UK legislation was changed in 1984 to allow trailers to be towed by
solo motorcycles.
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- Handling
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To the surprise of many motorcyclists, the handling of a sensibly
arranged trailer outfit is simple, and not significantly different to that
of a normal solo motorcycle. No special skills have to be learnt, just extra
care taken to remember that there is a trailer behind.
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- Technical
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Whilst the concept of trailers is relatively simple, their use in
the motorcycle role requires additional characteristics to ensure safe
handling.
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