Motorcycles are free and convenient, and a lot of fun to ride, but when you stop suddenly, get a flat tyre, or a crash happens, or a mechanical failure occurs, you can be left stranded. Motorcycles, unlike cars, should be towed by a specialised vehicle and a professional tow operator to avoid damage during towing.
When it comes to safe motorcycle towing in Melbourne, it's helpful to know what to do if you ever find yourself needing one. This guide goes through the scenario when to call a towing service, what happens during the towing procedure and also how to select a dependable and trusted towing company that will look after your motorcycle and your safety, the same standard our team at Car Towing Melbourne holds every job to.
Why Motorcycles Need Specialised Towing
Unlike standard vehicles, a motorcycle can't be hooked up to a tow truck. Unsafe towing activities may lead to:
- Bent handlebars
- Damaged suspension
- Scratched fairings
- Wheel damage
- Frame misalignment
- Broken mirrors
- Brake system issues
Professional towing companies for motorcycles have specially designed equipment for towing motorcycles. This includes:
- Wheel chocks
- Soft tie-down straps
- Hydraulic loading ramps
- Motorcycle cradles
- Closed or flatbed transporting equipment
Having proper motorcycle gear allows you to keep your motorcycle safe while travelling. Our motorcycle towing service uses exactly this kind of purpose-built gear on every job.
Some Situations Require Motorcycle Towing Service
Many riders think that towing can only be done after a crash. In fact, there are several circumstances in which professional transport is the safest choice.
Mechanical Breakdown
Your motorcycle may stall out due to engine failure, transmission issues, electrical issues or overheating, and you will be unable to travel safely. Professional towing to avoid further damage to mechanical parts.
Flat Battery
If the battery is completely drained, the motorcycle could fail to start up, particularly those with electronic equipment. If the roadside assistance is not able to safely restart the bike, it's best to have the bike towed.
Tires that are Worn Out or Damaged
Even riding a short distance on a damaged motorcycle tyre can be quite dangerous, as opposed to any car. Do not risk further damage or loss of control; make for safe transport.
Accident Recovery
In addition to the obvious damage, there can be structural damage that is not visible, which may make the motorcycle unsafe to operate. Professional towing services will not cause any further damage to the bike, and our emergency towing team can respond quickly when a bike is involved.
Long-Distance Motorcycle Transport
Numerous proprietors are choosing towing services for:
- Buying motorcycles interstate
- Selling motorcycles
- Moving house
- Track day transportation
- Motorcycle events
- Dealer deliveries
Long-distance transport by professionals ensures the safety of valuable motorcycles on the road.
What to Do Before Calling a Motorcycle Towing Service
When faced with a tow, there are steps you can take to avoid the extra expenses and aggravation of dealing with a motorcycle tow company. In the event of a motorcycle breakdown, take these precautions to ensure safety.
Evacuate to a Safe Place
If possible:
- Pull off the road
- Turn on hazard lights (if fitted)
- Use a coloured high-visibility vest
- Stay away from moving traffic
- Don't stay in hazardous traffic lanes
Record Your Location
Provide accurate information including:
- Street name
- Nearby landmarks
- GPS location
- Highway exit numbers
The tow operator can get to you quicker with accurate information.
Explain the Problem
Details are essential so that the right equipment is dispatched. Examples include:
- Accident damage
- Flat tyre
- Engine failure
- Locked steering
- Non-starting motorcycle
Gather Important Items
Remove before loading the motorcycle:
- Keys
- Wallet
- Riding gear
- Phone mounts
- Loose luggage
- Personal belongings
Understand the Process of Professional Motorcycle Towing
A trustworthy towing company has a procedure to make sure the safe transportation of vehicles.
Step 1: Inspection
The operator checks the motorcycle for:
- Existing damage
- Leaks
- Wheel condition
- Suspension
- Steering
This results in a clear condition report.
Step 2: Safe Loading
Professionals load the motorcycle with a loading ramp or hydraulic lift rather than pulling it. The bike is carefully rolled onto the truck.
Step 3: Proper Securing
Soft straps are connected to approved anchor points. The suspension is compressed in the proper fashion without putting components under undue stress. Using wheel chocks reduces movement in transport.
Step 4: Safe Transportation
The motorcycles stay on their feet during the journey. Drivers steer clear of sudden braking, cornering too aggressively and handling poorly.
Step 5: Careful Unloading
The motorcycle has been safely unloaded, using controlled ramps, when it arrives at the destination.
Selecting the Best Motorcycle Towing Business
Not all towing companies are experts at towing motorcycles. Check out companies that provide:
- Motorcycle-Specific Equipment – This reduces the risk of transport with purpose-built equipment.
- Experienced Operators – There are a variety of handling techniques that are required for motorcycles rather than standard vehicles. Hire operators who have experience in motorcycle transportation.
- Fast Response Times – With an emergency or breakdown on the road, quick arrival is essential.
- Insurance Coverage – Be sure to ask if your motorcycle is insured when it is in transit. Having insurance gives you some extra peace of mind.
- Transparent Pricing – A dependable company will offer you an explicit estimate prior to beginning work. Don't go for any business that doesn't disclose its fees.
It's also worth knowing why a professional towing service beats a mate with a trailer, especially for a bike that can't stand on its own.
What Is the Price of Motorcycle Towing Melbourne?
There are several factors to consider when determining the price of a bullfrog:
- Distance travelled
- Time of day
- Emergency response
- Motorcycle size
- Accessibility
- Accident recovery requirements
Getting a quote before you book means you will have an idea of what you will need to pay before committing to a booking. See our price of motorcycle towing Melbourne guide for a full breakdown by bike type.
Some Tips About How to Protect Your Motorcycle When Transporting It
Even if riders use the professionals, there are extra steps that can be taken. Consider these tips:
- Take a picture of the motorcycle before towing.
- Remove valuable accessories.
- Lock luggage compartments.
- Let the driver know about changes.
- Bring up the idea of reduced suspension or special modifications.
- Acknowledge the delivery address before leaving.
The following tips help minimise mistakes and prevent the loss of valuable motorcycles.
Professional Motorcycle Towing Is a Valuable Service for Many Reasons
If you're trying to move a motorcycle on the wrong type of equipment or by someone who isn't an expert, you can end up paying for costly repairs. Professional motorcycle towing services offer:
- Reduced risk of damage
- Safer roadside recovery
- Proper securing methods
- Experienced handling
- Reliable transport
- Peace of mind
From break downs, motorcycle accidents to cross Melbourne, it is best to use a specialised towing company.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about safe motorcycle towing and transport in Melbourne.
Will any tow truck tow a motorcycle?
No. Motorcycles should not be transported on specially designed equipment for two-wheelers.
What do they use to tie a motorcycle to being transported?
In the hands of a professional, a wheel chock, soft tie-down, and proper anchor points are utilised to help maintain the motorcycle upright during transport.
Is motorcycle towing available 24/7 in Melbourne?
Many professional motorcycle towing companies provide 24/7 emergency towing services throughout Melbourne, including weekends and public holidays.
Final Thoughts
Transporting motorcycles needs special consideration in all aspects. A professional towing company will have the proper equipment, trained personnel, and a focus on safety, which means that your bike will come back to you in the same condition that it was when you pulled it away.
Whether you find yourself in a breakdown, accident, or need to hire motorcycle transport in Melbourne for a trip, professional towing services are the safest and most reliable option. Ready to book? Contact our team today for a fast, obligation-free quote.