How to prepare your bike and trailer for a long road trip

When it comes to long trips, especially if you're using a trailer to transport your motorcycle, the margin for error narrows. There's no room for improvisation during the journey. Prevention is everything. So let’s get to it: how to prepare your motorcycle and trailer to cover miles without setbacks.

The motorcycle:

Your motorcycle is the center of the trip. But beware: excitement can make you underestimate the basics.

• Tires

Don’t just look at the tread. Feel them. Check for side cracks, signs of crystallization if they’ve been mounted for a long time. An old tire, even with tread left, is a risk. And remember: with extra luggage weight, wear will increase.

• Oil and filters

If you're close to the oil change, do it now. Oil ages, loses properties, and suffers more on long trips. Also replace the oil filter, the air filter if necessary, and check the coolant if your bike uses it.

• Brake system

If the brake pads are halfway worn, it’s better to install new ones. Discs with ridges need attention. Brake fluid older than two years should be replaced. A downhill ride with fatigued brakes is not the best place to discover failures.

• Chain or final drive

Lubricate, adjust, and inspect for wear. Every system has its own critical points.

• Lights, battery, and electrical system

A long trip at dawn with failing lights can be frustrating. It’s advisable to check the battery, keep connections clean, and check the fuses.

• Suspension and load

Adjust preload if you're carrying extra weight. Not all motorcycles respond the same to extra load.

The trailer:

This is where the second chapter begins. Many people underestimate it. Mistake.

• Structure and chassis

Look for cracks, corrosion, possible deformations, especially at weld points. Any micro-crack today is a breakdown tomorrow.

• Wheels and bearings

Don’t just check the rubber; also check the bearings. If there’s play or noise, they need replacing. Trailer tires age even if unused.

• Hitch head

Clean, well-greased, with the locking mechanism working smoothly. Test the fit on the ball; it must be firm, without strange movements.

• Lights and wiring

One of the most common failures. Check the entire installation: connectors, grounding points, exposed wires, bad contacts, and also check the license plate light.

• Straps and tie-downs

Never use old straps. Replace any frayed straps, deformed hooks, or stiff ratchets. A proper anchoring system is key on the road.

• Documentation

Inspection, certification, and insurance (if applicable). Everything up to date. Don’t improvise.

The science of proper loading

The motorcycle must be centered and perfectly aligned. The weight on the hitch (vertical load) should ideally be around 7-10% of the fully loaded trailer's total weight. Too much weight up front = steering issues. Too little = increased risk of trailer sway.

Secure the motorcycle at a minimum of four points: two front straps pulling down and forward, and two rear straps pulling slightly backward. Always moderately compress the suspension to prevent movement during transport.

Any additional luggage should be placed as low as possible. Low center of gravity is your best ally against swaying.

Emergency kit

• Hydraulic jack or system to lift the trailer.
• Wrench for wheel nuts (yes, for the trailer too).
• Basic tool kit for the motorcycle.
• Flat tire repair kit.
• Chain lubricant.
• Spare straps.
• Duct tape (sometimes miraculous).
• Work gloves.
• Headlamp.

They don’t take up much space, but when you need them… they’re priceless.

Planning:

Don’t leave it for the night before. Plan ahead.

• Check the weather: loading a trailer in the rain is very different from doing it dry.
• Schedule rest breaks: driving with a trailer tires you out more than you might think.
• Have alternate routes in case of incidents.
• Locate gas stations and service areas every few stretches.
• Keep documentation always at hand.

The difference between adventure and disaster is preparation

Hitting the road with a fully inspected motorcycle and a properly adjusted trailer is the best investment in peace of mind.

You may spend several hours on full preparation. But believe me: those hours are worth gold when you’re 500 kilometers into your trip and everything is still running like clockwork.