Whether you’re stranded in Brooklyn or relocating your sportbike from Manhattan to a shop in Queens, it’s important to know how to tow a motorcycle safely. Towing a bike is not as simple as tossing it into a truck bed—especially in a city as dense and hectic as New York.
At MAD Transpo NYC, we specialize in premier motorcycle transport and motorsports towing. Here’s a complete breakdown of how towing is done safely and correctly.
🔧 Step 1: Use the Right Equipment
To tow a motorcycle properly, especially in an urban setting, you’ll need the following:
- Wheel chocks to prevent rolling
- Soft tie-down straps to avoid scratching the paint
- A motorcycle trailer or flatbed truck with a secure loading ramp
- Anchor points in all four directions
Standard tow trucks aren’t designed for motorcycles. Using the wrong equipment can lead to serious damage. That’s why it’s usually safer to call a professional motorcycle tow service.
🛠️ Step 2: Loading the Motorcycle
Secure the ramp against the trailer or flatbed.
If the motorcycle is rideable, carefully power it up the ramp. If it isn’t, walk it up with assistance. Never attempt to do this alone if the bike is heavy.
Once the motorcycle is centered, put it in gear.
Attach soft straps to the handlebars or lower triple clamp and secure them to both the front and rear anchor points.
Apply just enough tension to compress the suspension slightly. Avoid pulling too tight.
Tip: Never use the handlebars alone to tie down the bike. They can bend under pressure.
🚨 Step 3: Driving with a Towed Motorcycle
Whether you’re towing the motorcycle yourself or using a trailer, follow these tips:
- Accelerate slowly
- Brake earlier than usual
- Make wide turns
- Avoid NYC potholes—they can do serious damage to your suspension
Driving in city traffic while towing can be difficult. If you’re not experienced, it’s best to hire a professional. Look for a reliable and affordable motorcycle towing service that knows New York City’s streets.
💡 Why NYC Riders Trust MAD Transpo
Towing in NYC presents unique challenges. Between tight parallel parking, heavy traffic, and bridge congestion, you need someone with experience navigating it all.
MAD Transpo NYC offers:
✅ Damage-free loading and towing
✅ 24/7 emergency service
✅ Motorsports towing for sportbikes, cruisers, scooters, and more
✅ Expert knowledge of the best motorcycle routes throughout NYC
☎️ Need a Tow? We’ve Got You Covered
Before you risk damaging your bike or injuring yourself trying to tow it on your own, call the professionals.
Contact MAD Transpo NYC at 929-265-0526 or request a quote online.
Our trained team is fully equipped and ready to get your motorcycle to its destination—safely and affordably.