Trailer towing / a MC

[Red SC Rider]

Just returned from a wet trip to Tenn & No. Carolina. Yes, we rode the "Dragon". I had a great time in spite of the weather. It rained before we got to the Dragon, was sunny when we rode it, then rained again when we returned to Pigeon Forge.
I was wondering what you do and don't do when you're towing a trailer?
Thanks for your input.

Jim M

[Daffy]

Jim,

Are you asking about a trailer behind the bike? or your bike on a trailer??

Pretty much the same either way though... anticipate further out and always look for pull through parking.

[Red SC Rider]

Yes, towing a trailer behind a mc. To be a little more specific, how would you brake in the mountians going down hill with wet roads?
Thanks.

[Daffy]

Carefully!! !!!

Not any different really than I would without the trailer on except maybe braking earlier. The single most important element when hauling a trailer with any vehicle but more so with a bike is tongue weight. Too much or too little tongue weight will drastically affect handling. A close second would be shock condition and preload, both the front and rear need to be working well and adjusted properly for the overall weight you are hauling.

In other words a proper setup on the bike will make all the difference in the world.

When Dave and I rode the dragon (2 up with a trailer) the road was wet in places, we had a ball.

One thing I tend to do is test the pavement with the rear brake just to see how slippery it is, kinda like the first snowfall in the truck or car...( only the gas pedal gets the workout then.) :D :D :D

Hope this is answering what you're asking.

[BigJim]

Watch your rear. There was a story in the paper a couple years ago about a biker pulling a trailer on a two lane road in traffic. A car came up the left side passing several cars and then went to pull in behind the bike. The problem was the car driver didn't see the trailer and hit it causing the bike to crash and seriously injuring the riders (couple riding two up).

[daveltb]

Actually I think the additional tongue weight from the trailer gives the rear tire MORE traction under braking. As long as you stay smooth and avoid abrupt movements the trailer will not change the way you ride in the wet.

[Red SC Rider]

Thanks for all the replies. Good information. Something my buddy could have used when we rode to the "Dragon". On our way to said road, wet road, to much speed, rear braking only he went down. Very minor injuries to him, and little damage to his bbike.