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1.What is the recommended bumper height for the towing vehicle?
The Gladiator model is designed to accommodate small cars so if using a truck or suv a drop hitch is required.
The Scout model is designed to accommodate golf carts or any other small hp vehicles at 10-15 mph.
2.Why do I need straps on the handlebars?
These straps compress the front shocks so the straps stay tight. They also prevent the handlebars from turning.
3.Why do I also need to attach straps to the bike frame?
This allows The Bike Chariot to pivot at the wheel nest while keeping the handlebars from turning at the bike frame. This allows for the most stable and secure way to tow your motorcycle.
4.What size front tire will The Bike Chariot handle?
The Bike Chariot is adjustable to handle most any size motorcycle tire.
5.How heavy of a bike will this handle?
Our testing handled motorcycles up to 1000 lbs.
6.Will I damage my bike if I tow it long distances without removing the drive chain?
We have not experienced any problems with this but we DO recommend checking with the bike manufacturer or an authorized dealer as each manufacturer uses different engineering with regard to transmissions and power transfer.
7. What if I have a shaft-drive motorcycle?
We have not experienced any problems in testing but we DO advise checking with the bike manufacturer or an authorized dealer.
8.Can The Bike Chariot be backed up (in reverse)?
The Bike Chariot should NOT be backed up. Because the wheel nest pivots and the trailer pivots at the ball as well. However because it has zero tongue weight and only weights 230 lbs. it is easy to remove The Bike Chariot and reposition it with one person, while the bike is loaded and strapped down.
9. What if I leave the bike in gear?
DON’T!! Serious damage may, and probably WILL occur
10. What keeps the handlebar straps from coming loose or falling off ?
The straps should be tightened so that the front shocks are compressed. The shocks then keep tension on the straps allowing the The Bike Chariot’s independent suspension to do its job. We recommend double checking all tie downs before travel and at regular intervals during the trip.
11.Do I need lights on the motorcycle when towing?
This is subject to the interpretation of local laws and DOT requirements. However The Bike Chariot Gladiator comes with all the lights and safety chains. If you have any doubts, check local laws and ordinances.
12.Will towing my bike with The Bike Chariot cause excess wear on my rear tire?
No. Road bike tires will wear the same or less than if riding traditionally. Because there is no rider weight and no torque wear will typically be less than usual. Softer, dirt bike tires may wear slightly more than usual over long distances on pavement but will likely be unnoticeable.
13.Do I need special insurance to use The Bike Chariot?
This depends on your policy (ies). Please check with your agent with regard to towing and towed vehicles both for the towing vehicle and for the bike.
14.Will towing my bike this way run up my odometer reading?
No. Most bikes that we are familiar with operate the speedometer/odometer from the front wheel so that no mileage is clocked while towing with the front wheel elevated. There may exist some exceptions, but we are not aware them. As always, when in doubt, check your specific bike's specifications.
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