Motorcycle hauling

[JamieGeek]

Adding this, forgot I took a picture when camping last summer:

Of course I don't think any E-Series frame would have the capacity for that (E350, E450) as a bonus the bike is high enough that it probably doesn't get as dirty.

[Bob Denman]

That rates about a 9.3 on the "Pucker-Factor" scale...

If I want to gamble: I'll take DulcoLax, and go for a long walk...

[Metalman]

Originally Posted by JamieGeek

...
Of course I don't think any E-Series frame would have the capacity for that (E350, E450) as a bonus the bike is high enough that it probably doesn't get as dirty.

Nice looking set up and certainly more maneuverable than with our 12 foot trailer for the motorcycle. I wonder if the driver notices any difference in handling with the bike on the back? I wouldn't consider that lift for our F53 chassis. I suspect there would be a see-saw effect and possibly more wear on tires, suspension, rear wheel bearings, etc. Transferring that much weight to the rear end might also reduce front wheel braking efficiency because less weight will be applied to the front end.

I'd like to hear from someone who has carried a large motorcycle on the back of an RV with a F53 chassis.

[Mike in AZ]

Originally Posted by woody

We had an Ultimate open trailer that we used to carry my Victory Cross Country and her Can am Spyder. The bikes did get dirty especially if it rained. I have since ordered an Ironhorse WB EX enclosed model. I'm still waiting for delivery but from what I've read about it, should fit out needs quite handily.

Hi Woody. Have you received your trailer yet? If so, would you please let us know how you like it, maybe share pics?

[Bob Denman]

Ultimates are nice, because they drop down to the pavement for loading and unloading...
I think that they have an enclosed version; it's been a while since I've looked at their website.

[Chance]

Originally Posted by JamieGeek

Adding this, forgot I took a picture when camping last summer:
Attachment 8183
Of course I don't think any E-Series frame would have the capacity for that (E350, E450) as a bonus the bike is high enough that it probably doesn't get as dirty.

Somebody forgot to tell this guy.

[Chance]

Or this guy.

[99dart]

Originally Posted by Bob Denman

That rates about a 9.3 on the "Pucker-Factor" scale...

If I want to gamble: I'll take DulcoLax, and go for a long walk...

You're funny! But, I agree with you. Makes me think of AFV (America's Funnest Home Video's) "Get the camera, Honey"

[Bob Denman]

The problem is; it wouldn't be the least bit funny, if things got ugly!

[Budman]

Originally Posted by Chance

Or this guy.

Interesting both were coachman. Think maybe a coachman dealer was pushing them and modifying coaches for them? Thx.

[Chance]

Originally Posted by Budman

Interesting both were coachman. Think maybe a coachman dealer was pushing them and modifying coaches for them? Thx.

I seriously doubt it. My guess is these kind of applications are do-it-yourself for the most part.

One of the biggest problems I see with doing this on Class Cs is that most already have a frame extension to start with, so unless it was significantly reinforced, it would likely cause problems over time.

My E-350 van does not have a frame extension, and hitch rating is up to 10,000 pounds with 1,000-pound tongue weight (with weight distribution). Since the Ford frame is also reinforced (for other reasons), I would not hesitate placing a 700~800 pound load off back bumper.

[Bob Denman]

Originally Posted by Chance

My E-350 van does not have a frame extension, and hitch rating is up to 10,000 pounds with 1,000-pound tongue weight (with weight distribution). Since the Ford frame is also reinforced (for other reasons), I would not hesitate placing a 700~800 pound load off back bumper.

"Whatever floats your goat..."

Since I sell insurance, and see how quickly things can go wrong: I'm just a bit more careful...

[Metalman]

Originally Posted by Chance

Somebody forgot to tell this guy.

I would like to see a side view of that set up and speak to the owner of the RV. The lift and/or carrier will add considerable weight, so an 800 pound motorcycle and carrier might be adding 1000 pounds to the back of the vehicle. But the photo proves that it can be done.

[Bob Denman]

That's true: Anything is possible.



But is it advisable?

[roadcouple]

Hauling a bike like that on the back of a Vegas seems risky. I read the vehicle requirements on a lift manufacturer's site and it said if the chassis had been extended during MH creation they would not install the lift. Seems to me I watched a video on Vegas construction and the first step was weld an extension to the Ford chassis before being sent to Thor.

I am too big a chicken to try it.

[bruce1946]

My DW once saw an older class C towing an enclosed trailer that was bigger than the rv. Big enough to fit a full size car.

Just because you can do something doesn't mean you should.

[JamieGeek]

Originally Posted by Chance

Somebody forgot to tell this guy.

Those are a bit different as they don't have the lift piece and clearly don't lift the motorcycle as high up either.

[bruce1946]

Originally Posted by Chance

Somebody forgot to tell this guy.

Besides the probable 1,000 lb hanging off the back no brake, turn or plate is visible.

[Bob Denman]

Originally Posted by bruce1946

Besides the probable 1,100 lb hanging off the back no brake, turn or plate is visible.

The lights are probably the least thing to be concerned about...

But you are probably right: it'll be tough to know what they're doing!

[woody]

Originally Posted by Mike in AZ

Hi Woody. Have you received your trailer yet? If so, would you please let us know how you like it, maybe share pics?

Hi Mike, will do. Production was pushed back a bit as it will be a brand new design and they were still making improvements to the prototype. It's supposed to be delivered at the end of January. I will post pics when I get it.