One of the best parts of living in Canada is our motorsports seasons. When spring rolls in, it’s time to dust off the dirt bikes, motorcycles, and other lightweight bikes to hit the open road or trail. But before you head out this year, ask yourself— is your motorcycle trailer ready to go?
Whether you’re heading to the backcountry for a weekend ride or trailering your bike to a rally, your trailer is essential in getting you and your gear there safely. If your trailer has been sitting all winter or off-road for months, it’s probably time to give it the attention it needs. These are Factory Outlet Trailers’ maintenance tips for getting your motorcycle trailer in top condition and ensuring nothing holds you back this riding season! Keep reading to learn all of our essentials.
Step 1: Check Your Trailer’s Health – Maintenance Comes First
A solid motorcycle trailer can last for years, but only if you care for it effectively. After a season of sitting idle, you’ll want to inspect every part of your trailer before loading up your bike. If you find any major issues, don’t worry— Factory Outlet Trailers offers parts, servicing, and repairs for motorcycle trailers and gets you back on the road in no time.
Tires and Wheels: Tire pressure tends to drop during colder months. Before you load up your bike and gear, check each tire for acceptable pressure, signs of dry rot, uneven wear, or any debris that might be puncturing the rubber… and don’t forget to check your spare, too.
Brakes and Hubs: If your bike trailer has electric or surge brakes, make sure they’re in proper working order. Look for rust or corrosion around the hubs and apply grease if needed; this easy check can prevent accidents on the road and let you know if you need a complete servicing.
Coupling and Hitch: Your hitch and coupling must be secure before you tow. Inspect them for cracks, rust, or buckling. Once they’re attached, use a lock or safety pin to secure everything.
Electrical System: Test your brake lights, turn signals, and running lights. Corroded or loose wires can cause your lights to fail at the worst time, compromising your safety. Replace any dead bulbs and ensure all of the trailer’s wiring connections are grounded and secure.
Hinges, Joints, and Folding Parts: If you’re using a lightweight or collapsible motorcycle trailer, check all hinges, joints, and pins. Apply lubricant to the moving parts and tighten any loose bolts or fasteners, making sure not to overtighten them and strip the threads.
Step 2: Stock Up on Supplies – Be Prepared for the Ride
You can’t hit the road with just your bike and a trailer—you’ll need some essential trailer supplies to make the trip smooth and stress-free. Factory Outlet Trailers carries all the best parts and tools for motorcycle trailers, so whatever you need, we’ve got you covered!
Tools and Extra Parts: Outfit the trailer with the essentials, like screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, and a tire pressure gauge. Packing extra tie-down straps, bolts, fuses, and even a spare light bulb or two is also a smart idea.
Lubricants and Oils: When you hit the open road, keep WD-40, bearing grease, and a small bottle of chain oil on hand. These are great for both your bike and your trailer components.
Protective Gear for Riding: Don’t forget the human factor—make sure your helmet, goggles, gloves, jacket, and boots are packed safely so they stay clean and dry inside the trailer.
First Aid and Safety Kits: It is always a good idea to include a flashlight and a small first aid kit in your motorcycle trailer supplies and tools. You never know when you might need them.
Step 3: Load Like a Pro – Safety Starts With Proper Loading
An improperly loaded trailer can be dangerous to tow and hard on your ride. Let’s break down what you need to load your motorcycle trailer safely. With a high-quality motorcycle trailer from Factory Outlet Trailer, the right knowledge, and a little prep, you’ll ride safely all season long!
Wheel Chocks: Use sturdy wheel chocks to prevent your bike from rolling. They hold the front wheel in place to stop shifting, sliding, or tilting during transport.
Tie-Down Straps: Invest in high-quality ratchet straps made specifically for motorcycles. Use four tie-down points— two in the front and two in the back— for the most secure hold.
Check Your Tie-Down Points: Make sure your trailer’s D-rings or anchor points are solid and haven’t developed rust or damage. Reinforce or replace them if you see signs of weakening.
Weight Distribution: Keep the heaviest part (usually the engine) near the front axle of your trailer. This keeps your load balanced and avoids sway. Use a weight-distribution tool if you’re hauling multiple bikes or extra gear.
Final Walkaround: Before you hit the road, double-check all connections, tighten your straps, and give your trailer a quick test drive around the block before hitting the highway.
Start Strong and Ride Safe, with Factory Outlet Trailers
The spring riding season is all about freedom and fun— but safety starts long before you ever hit the throttle. Choosing the best motorcycle trailer for your needs, keeping it in shape with regular maintenance, and knowing how to load it properly can make or break your season.
At Factory Outlet Trailers, we offer a wide selection of bike trailers built for Canadian riders, from lightweight folding options to heavy-duty haulers. Whether you’re prepping your current trailer or shopping for a new one, our team is here to help you get on the road with confidence. Don’t get left behind this spring— visit our website or contact us today and ride into the season like a pro!