So you’ve got a bike that won’t start—or maybe you just bought one off Craigslist and need to move it across the city. Now you’re wondering: Should I rent a trailer, call a friend, or just pay for professional towing?
If motorcycle towing isn’t something you deal with often, it’s natural to want the most affordable option. But in NYC, convenience and safety matter just as much. Here’s how to figure out the smartest move based on your situation—and why sometimes, calling a pro like MAD Transpo NYC is actually the simplest and cheapest solution in the long run.
Borrowing a Friend’s Trailer (Sounds Easy, Until It Isn’t)
If you’ve got a buddy with a pickup or trailer and they’re free when you need help—lucky you. But even then, there are things to watch for:
- Does the trailer have the right straps and tie-down points?
- Can the ramp handle your sport bike, cruiser, or scooter?
- Is your friend experienced with safe motorcycle transport?
A single slip during loading can lead to thousands in damage. And no one wants to be that guy who dropped their new bike on the ramp.
Renting a Trailer (Extra Work + Extra Risk)
Renting a trailer from U-Haul or Home Depot may seem like a solid middle-ground option. But keep in mind:
- You’ll need a vehicle with a tow hitch
- Most rentals aren’t motorcycle-specific
- You’ll be doing all the lifting, strapping, and hauling yourself
If you’re not used to loading a motorcycle or navigating NYC traffic with a trailer, it can quickly become a stressful (and expensive) DIY project.
Hiring a Professional Towing Service (When You Want It Done Right)
If this is a one-time job—or even if it’s your first time buying a bike—it often makes more sense to call a motorcycle towing specialist like MAD Transpo NYC. Here’s why:
- We tow sport bikes, cruisers, scooters, and more—safely and damage-free
- We handle used motorcycle pickups from private sellers or shops
- Our staff is trained, experienced, and equipped with soft straps, wheel chocks, and hydraulic lifts
- We’re available 24/7 across all five boroughs
For the cost of a trailer rental and a couple of hours of your time, you could have a pro handle the whole thing—without the hassle.
BONUS: What to Look for When Buying a Used Motorcycle
If you’re shopping for your first bike or grabbing a project bike, towing isn’t the only concern. Here’s a quick used motorcycle inspection checklist:
- Tires: Check for dry rot, uneven wear, or flat spots
- Brakes: Look at pad thickness and rotor condition
- Chain/Belt: Shouldn’t be rusted, loose, or overly tight
- Leaks: Inspect under the bike for oil or coolant
- Electricals: Make sure lights, signals, and horn work
- Title: Always verify ownership and VIN matches
These are just the basics, but they’re critical. If you’re unsure how to inspect a motorcycle before buying, bring someone experienced—or call us. We’ve seen it all and can help transport your new bike safely from seller to garage.
Final Takeaway
If you’re only moving a motorcycle once, buying or renting equipment isn’t always worth it—especially in a busy city like NYC. When in doubt, call the pros who do this every day.
Need Motorcycle Towing in NYC?
Whether you’re buying a used bike or need a one-time tow, MAD Transpo NYC has your back. Call us at (929) 265-0526 or get a quote online — we’re available 24/7, and we accept all major insurance providers.