Community Forums

Dandianntx · 03-02-2016, 07:32 AM

I'm new here, so if this has been addressed, I apologize for repeating the question.

We just bought a new 38' 5th Wheel (11,000 lbs). It has the square rear bumper, welded to the frame.

I have a 600 pound motorcycle, and would like to take it with us.
I'm reluctant to pull a trailer behind it, if for no other reason than the lack of experience pulling (and backing) two trailers. I've seen the lifts, but the $4,000+ is a bit steep for my budget.

Suggestions?
Examples?
Concerns?

Thanks!

CitySlicker · 03-02-2016, 10:41 AM

What kind of bike?

bokobird · 03-02-2016, 11:03 AM

Some states would consider that triple-towing and that'd be illegal.

cwsqbm · 03-02-2016, 11:12 AM

Most mid-weight fifth wheel trailer frames aren't strong enough to support a lift and 600 lb motorcycle. This is why toy haulers have become so popular. No offense, but it should have been thought of before buying a new 5th wheel, not after.

There are options - get a MDT/HDT with enough space behind the cab on a flatbed to mount a lift sideways. A F-550 with a 84" CA could do this too.

The other option is a trailer between the fifth wheel that has castering wheels. Legality in states that don't allow triple tow is questionable.

mad59son · 03-02-2016, 12:50 PM

While the tube bumper may not be capable of handling the weight of your bike, I suppose it might be possible to weld a hitch to the frame and utilize a carrier that attaches to the hitch. That may require reinforcement of the frame. I can imagine that doing this would probably void whatever warranty you have. Not sure about the 600lbs though....definitely possible with a lighter bike, like a dirt bike or small street bike. When I was looking at trailers, I was told this kind of thing is possible, but it might have just been sales talk. I decided to go with a bumper pull, leaving the bed available for the bike...

NevadaNick · 03-04-2016, 08:38 AM

Pulling doubles is really easy and safe if done right. I pulled 2 bumper pulls for several years in order to get everything where we were going. I think its your only option now.

RWeigant · 03-04-2016, 08:45 AM

Not triple towing, but double towing. Legal in many states. check with yours to make sure.

hone eagle · 03-04-2016, 11:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cwsqbm

Most mid-weight fifth wheel trailer frames aren't strong enough to support a lift and 600 lb motorcycle. This is why toy haulers have become so popular. No offense, but it should have been thought of before buying a new 5th wheel, not after.

There are options - get a MDT/HDT with enough space behind the cab on a flatbed to mount a lift sideways. A F-550 with a 84" CA could do this too.

The other option is a trailer between the fifth wheel that has castering wheels. Legality in states that don't allow triple tow is questionable.

Thats exactly how a friend carries his touring BMW ,sure it weighs more the 600pounds.
Once that pick up is worn out pulling that big trailer ,save some bucks and get a Volvo like in the picture.

Scarab0088 · 03-04-2016, 12:34 PM

A swivel wheel deck might be the only option due the 5ers frame...see:
The ultimate single wheel trailer system.
And
Home - Toy Tote
And others. We are not affiliated with these mfgts.

Check your local laws about licensing for these...there is disputes from state to state.

Best luck

D Lindy · 03-04-2016, 02:39 PM

X2 on the Swivel Wheel platform being about the only way to haul a MC behind a 5th wheel. FWIW, I'd get the dual swivel wheel platform if it were me.

SeabeckS · 03-04-2016, 08:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RWeigant

Not triple towing, but double towing. Legal in many states. check with yours to make sure.

And...it may be legal in your state of residence...but perhaps not in all places you want to travel. My brother found out the hard way. That's why he upgraded to a toy hauler fifth wheel.

psaint · 03-05-2016, 09:36 AM

Carrying a 600 plus motorcycle on the rear of a fiver needs careful consideration. The frame must be strong enough and the overhang should be 10 feet or less.

CitySlicker · 03-06-2016, 06:14 AM

Just have a hitch welded to the rear & get the plug in platform style. They come with a small ramp & are low enough to do it yourself. That's your only option. You don't need any special tags or to be surprised with any laws....anywhere. It'll be insured by the vehicle its attached to. I work at Liberty Vintage here in Philly & drive for Spin Cycle, A motorcycle specific towing outfit in the tri-state area. I've seen some crazy sh** done as far as hauling bikes, but that my friend, is legal.

wingedone · 03-06-2016, 09:48 AM

I use a Swivelwheel 58DW with a 900lb bike. I recommend if you decide to go that route you ensure you have a minimum of a 12 inch I-beam. If you have smaller, have it significantly reinforced.

Get a reputable welding shop to fab up a hitch system running 8 to 10 feet up the frame.

This will kill any part of the warranty that they can blame on the changes you make (frame, wall cracking, etc). But heck, 1 year and warranty is done anyway (on most).

3 years, 5000 miles or so, no issues.

Check craigslist for used ones.