Advantages of tilt trailers

Within the wide variety of models and designs of trailers for motorcycles, there is a distinctive feature present in some of them: their tilting capability. This functionality offers significant advantages in terms of quality, safety, and maintenance. Tilting trailers have gained popularity thanks to their versatility and practicality, particularly for facilitating loading and unloading in a more efficient way, even on uneven surfaces or in tight spaces.
This is especially useful whenever these types of auxiliary load transportation systems are required. Whether for long trips, transporting sports motorcycles, or even vehicles in emergency situations, tilting trailers offer a safe and effective solution.
For this reason, it is recommended to consider features such as these hydraulic movement assistance systems when purchasing a trailer. Mainly because it represents savings in every sense, and its adaptability is far greater for any situation or vehicle that needs to be towed. Additionally, this type of trailer generally requires less maintenance compared to traditional systems, as its components are designed to withstand heavier workloads. Also, by reducing the physical effort required to handle the load, operator safety is significantly improved, preventing injuries or accidents.
What is a tilting trailer?
A tilting trailer is considered a type and design of trailer that allows for much more comfortable adaptability for loading vehicles or containers onto the transport system itself.
It is a firm commitment to achieving full stability and maximum ease for both loading and unloading vehicles such as motorcycles or cars. The trailer is capable of tilting until its ramp is in a perfect and secure position to allow a motorcycle to be driven onto it. This system is particularly useful for high-displacement motorcycles or heavier vehicles, as it reduces the risk of tipping during the loading process.
Similarly, once the motorcycle's tires are secured, the ramp returns to its safe position, that is, parallel to the ground. Some models incorporate automatic locking systems that ensure greater safety during transport, especially on long trips or irregular roads. There are also versions that allow you to manually adjust the tilt angle to further facilitate loading.
Types of tilting trailers
There are different types of tilting trailers, each designed to meet specific transport needs. Choosing the right model will depend on both the type of load and the conditions in which the trailer will be used. Below are the main types of tilting trailers:
- Enclosed tilting trailers:
- Protect the load from adverse weather conditions.
- Improve security against theft.
- Ideal for transporting delicate or valuable items.
- Open tilting trailers:
- Facilitate access and handling of the load.
- Allow for faster loading and unloading.
- Ideal for transporting motorcycles, quads, or light machinery.
- Double-axle tilting trailers:
- Offer greater stability during the transport of heavy or bulky loads.
- Recommended for companies that transport multiple motorcycles, large machinery, or industrial loads.
- Ensure better weight distribution, reducing tire wear and the risk of tipping.
How does the hydraulic system work?
The mechanism is very simple and is designed to avoid wasting time on loading or unloading the motorcycle, vehicle, or cargo. Some models require an electrical installation to activate a mechanism that allows the trailer to tilt to certain degrees.
At Littleway, we work with technology and mechanisms such as our refined hydraulic system. Through the hydraulic system, the trailer's own weight allows the ramp height to lower closer to the ground. This movement can be guided with a light gesture to place the ramp flush with the ground safely. This system prevents premature wear of components since the movement is controlled and without abrupt impacts.
Likewise, once the motorcycle is unloaded, you can easily return the ramp and the entire folding trailer with just a few movements. This is one of the great advantages of this type of hydraulic system. In more advanced models, a remote control is even included to manipulate the trailer without additional effort, which is especially practical for users who frequently transport motorcycles.
Additionally, some modern tilting trailers include additional suspension systems that reduce vibrations during transport, protecting both the load and the trailer structure itself.
Regulations and legal requirements for tilting trailers
To ensure road safety and compliance with current legislation, tilting trailers must meet certain legal requirements. These regulations govern key aspects such as documentation, maintenance, and the technical conditions of the trailer. Below are the main points to consider:
- Documentation: Trailers with a Maximum Authorized Mass (MMA) exceeding 750 kg require a registration certificate, a separate license plate, and independent insurance.
- ITV (Technical Inspection): Required for trailers with an MMA exceeding 750 kg; for lighter trailers, it is not necessary, although periodic inspections are recommended.
- Dimensions: The maximum length of the vehicle + trailer combination is 18.75 m, the width is 2.55 m, and the height is 4 m.
- Signage: Reflective elements are mandatory, and if the load protrudes, a warning sign is required.
- Coupling: Must be approved and regularly inspected to ensure safety.
Uses of a tilting trailer
Given all its features and ease of use, this type of trailer is recommended for any apparent situation or need. However, they are especially suitable for activities related to agriculture, gardening, construction… and also for vehicle transport itself, as they provide extra convenience and greater safety to ensure the transport is as quick and secure as possible.
Additionally, tilting trailers are particularly useful for motocross professionals or motor enthusiasts who need to transport motorcycles frequently. They are also widely used in sports competitions and events where quick assembly and disassembly of equipment are required.
In the logistics sector, some tilting trailer models are used for transporting tools, heavy machinery, or even small boats, thanks to their versatility and safety.