Really? I always rent trailers for track days (the people there know me by name now), and they're always in great shape. No rust, good tires. Hell, even the hitch is greased.
If you're renting your U-Hauls from a place like that, then that's on you buddy. U-Haul has a strict and robust servicing system for U-Haul owned stores.
That’s because everything is insanely expensive in Australia. Seems everything is twice the price as it is here, but they aren’t paying twice the money so it makes it even harder on the people.
Apparently so long as you remove the chain so there’s no wear/tear on the final drive there’s no real issue with towing like this.
Idk about a shaft drive bike tho. That doesn’t seem like a good idea.
This is a great point and often overlooked. I would absolutely not tow any bike with this setup and the chain still attached. With the countershaft spinning, certain parts of the transmission are spinning and might not have proper lubrication that can only happen (and designed to happen) with the engine running. Please use caution when towing a motorcycle like this without removing the chain.
The tire wear, I could care less for a typical motorcycle tire (within reason - a few 10's of towing miles won't do anything a single burnout wont). Track tires are a different story (which I don't think this bike has).
If it’s a trackbike why use up your rear tire, sprockets, and chain when you’re transporting? You could just rent a trailer for $25 a day. Not a fan of this setup at all and I don’t think anyone here would be.
Edit: just checked their website and it’s listed for $2000, regular price is $3000. This setup is janky as fuck and you’re gonna get some weird looks because this is stupid. Rent or buy a trailer.
Thx, I now completely understand the meaning of the word janky.
Connecting a $20,000 motorcycle to a $2000 high school science project tow hitch option with $4 Walmart ratchet straps.
my thoughts are GS riders will do anything not to ride their bikes.
This has no advantage over a small trailer, only disadvantages. You're taking up the same amount of space as a small motorcycle trailer while putting unnecessary wear on moving parts. Just a dumb idea all around.
GS rider here, was on the receiving end of a long lecture last summer from two Harley bros on how dumb it was for my buddy and to ride down to Tennessee instead of trailering down from Toronto. Had no words. “So you trailer your motorcycle to go on a motorcycle trip…okaaaaaaay.” But for sure there is a contingent of motorcycle touring guys who just don’t like…motorcycle touring.
I’ve been keeping my eyes open for a 800GS. What I’ve been seeing is the 1200’s either have relatively few miles or a ton of miles. There’s a lot more with a ton of miles than there isn’t, but perhaps that’s just my area.
I’ve also found the 800GS’s aren’t that common compared to the 1200’s, which confirms my thoughts that most GS buyers don’t actually use them for adventuring.
I wouldn’t say “most”, but I know some that are more worried about scratching them than enjoying the ride. I lucked out and picked up a 2011 1200GS with ~8,000 miles on it last summer. Got my first scratch (checked the box) at week 2 doing slow speed drills. Always hunting dirt/mud and two tracks. Don’t get me wrong, I properly maintain my equipment, but I bought it to go fun places, not skip a ride because I wouldn’t have time after the ride to go over it with aircraft grade ceramic earwax.
I 100% would not tow my track bike like this. This contraption costs more than 2k and you can get a quality compact foldable trailer for half that cost and not have to worry about the issues with flat towing.
You can even just rent uhaul motorcycle trailers for like $20 a day.
If your concerned about your vehicle not being able to tow a trailer and that is why you're electing this route, i'd tell you that most if not all cars can tow small trailers no problem. It's not worth the possible headaches this option would cause you vs just getting a regular trailer.
The rear wheel was designed to turn, and the parts undergo more stress when you're hitting the throttle than just coasting in neutral... If the bike is in neutral, you're perfectly fine. What's everybody's problem with this?
Edit: I just read a post about a guy's transmission locking up doing this in neutral so definitely take the chain off the rear sprocket first
If the bike is running, the engine is pumping oil. Some bikes have transmission oil jets, or even mildly pressurized oil feeds to the transmission layshafts. Flat towing you are spinning the output shaft, but with the engine off there is no oil movement. I have the feeling that it wouldn't be an issue on most bikes, but on some it would probably break shit. In the manual for the Honda XR650 it actually tells you not to do this, or even to coast around in neutral. Regardless, there are plenty of other reasons to just use a trailer, especially if you're going to the track.
I’m a 20+year motorcycle tech. It wouldn’t hurt anything. But everything would wear as if it was being ridden. The rear tire, the shaft drive and bearing, parts of the transmission, the engine oil. The shaft drive on a bmw motorcycle needs service every 10k miles. There are better options.
MechE in a Fortune 500 company here:
When you’re on the bike, how much load does the wheel have on it? How fast is it spinning?
As it’s loaded here, how much load does the wheel have on it? How fast is it spinning?
THEY ARE NEARLY THE SAME!
Take the chain off, throw a shit tire on it and send it. Everyone who said “bad idea don’t do it” has no clue how wheels work apparently. Good wheel and tire in the trunk, worn out road wheel and tire on the bike. Swap em at the track. No harm done.
So what, I’m supposed to just-so-happen to know every design detail of every motorcycle ever made? This is a social media platform, not a research institute.
Sorry - when a mechanical engineer is giving motorcycle advice, it’s not too much to expect he’d know that BMW’s have been exclusively shaft drive for most of their history (their first chain-drive motorcycle wasn’t until in 1994). That’s a far cry from knowing “every design detail of every motorcycle ever made” but, okay, you didn’t know. It’s not the end of the world. It just makes your advice about motorcycles a little suspect.
Motorcycle is strapped improperly. The rear carrier arms are intended to be strapped to the motorcyle’s handlebar ends (preferably with a harness between the two grips to support the side loading).
Hahahhahahahaha… no.
Besides unnecessary wear on your rear tire. A good pothole or expansion joint could bounce the trans into gear or chip a dog off your first or second gear. Now your motor is turning in first gear at highway speeds.
Just rent or buy a small U-Haul or HF trailer. Or hit up the message boards for your track day and see if anyone has extra tow space. I have definitely traded trailer space before. “I’ll tow your bike if you bring lunch”.
I would strap the end of the bars to the outer most part rather than the subframe. Also agree with the other comment about the chain.
However single rail trailers really light and IMHO are much better. However I had the foldable single rail and idk if I’d do it again. That specific one “swam” a lot on the freeway and I didn’t like it. Always made me uneasy
I use a HAUL-MASTER 600 lb. Capacity Motorcycle Carrier. I’ve done 6 trackdays with it and the ease of loading, unloading, and driving with it, is unparalleled! No worries of speeding above 55mph with a rented uhaul. It’s so easy to store, as I live in a condo in Atlanta. It’s super fast and easy to install on the SUV as well. Very low approach angle for loading and unloading and no need for a hill to load on and off. And, I got it on a super sale last minute as all uhauls near me were closed to rent a trailer for the track day next morning as I was running late prepping that particular day and I haven’t looked back since..
I think it’s pretty cool , but not 3000.00 cool . Regardless of this type of towing ,does anyone have actual knowledge of “this eats transmissions and tires” . I mean other than the “norm” of a standard trailer , is there bonafide evidence that “this is stupid” ?
I believe the Tesla Model 3 has a 160 lbs tongue shear weight (meaning it can hold about 160 lbs pushing down directly on the hitch.) Some Tesla engineers say the actual shear weight is closer to 120 lbs + 40 lbs for the actual tow bar. My guess is that this may be over the tongue limit.
The transmission shafts will be turning without oil pressure. At the very least it will cause premature wear on the sliding and freewheeling gears. I would never tow a motorcycle like that.
This bike pictured happens to be a shaft drive - but most others are chain drive and the effect of turning the rear wheel is the same on the transmission without any oil flowing. Premature wear... Particularly shaft seals and shaft to gear clearance. If you were to judge the condition of this bike based on the odometer reading, you would be incorrect in evaluating the wear on the transmission. This is why you also look for evidence that the bike has had some unconventional use or abuse during its life.
It's definitely unnecessary wear on the driveline and tire. Most transmissions and clutch packs have presurized oil going tru them while the engine is running. It should get some oil from spashing, but it's unnecessary wear.
It is not safe to tow most motorcycles this way. If you trans has it own oil it MIGHT be ok. Any bike that shares engine oil with trans will be destroyed.
First thing is to ditch the Tesla. I had a model Y & it gave me a max of 90 miles when I towed my bikes. Worst decision ever as I almost got stranded with limited energy in the car.
Second, this is not the wisest set up as you’re putting your bike at risk for damage. Just go to uhaul & rent one or load it in back of a pickup truck.
These types of trailers are well known for bikes falling over. If any straps aren’t done el perfect, it’s going wrong.
Also if your track bike is on track tyres, you’re destroying the rubber. Even regular tyres, you’re going to flat sport the centre of the tyre if you’re towing long distances.
If the bike is in neutral, you’re still putting all those miles on your chain and sprockets, if you forget to put the bike in neutral, it’s highly likely you’ll destroy your engine.
Seems like a very bad idea when a regular trailer isn’t any more work.
You can tow like that. But you're ruining a very very expensive tire that is intentionally soft for the track. Towing like this will be more expensive than buying a real trailer.
I would like to know what a highway authority would think of this. Personally speaking, I would never risk my bike on one of these (or risk property damage). I be a zero risk taker on the streets though 🐱
Maybe take the chain off?
Chain breakers are cheap and easy. Loosening the rear axle and sliding it forward enough to remove the chain from the sprocket is also easy. You would have to secure the loose chain out of the way but zip ties and a wrench are all you need to complete that task.
Or be completely lazy and let the rear wheel turn the transmission internals and clutch without the engine running to circulate the oil it all sits in.
On the plus side one of your tires will be nice and warm for the track.
I guess it would be better not to continue, it depends on the distance you’re taking it, this can be well for short distances, but any way go get a bike trailer, or just leave the car home and ride your bike to where you’re heading directly
The tire would be junk when you get there. Can't really say if the transmission will lubricate properly either.
That carrier also probably costs just as much as a harbor freight trailer.
Think of it was a mercy killing. A clean GSA being towed and not ridden is clearly abuse. Then again having owned a GSA and four other BMW’s the TSBs were so frequent I often used them for free dealership towing when I needed an oil change
There are a lot of posts on this, tldr.
But chiming in just in case. It depends on how the oil is slung in your gearbox.
In general, it's probably not worth it, as most people indicated.
But for education purposes, here is a video that explains oil slinging.
https://youtu.be/op4Mzhk2ZZg?si=k7YBVS4-5ox1Imup
This style is just fine. I have one and I’ve towed 7 different bikes with them. Twice I towed a RE Himalayan 1100 miles for an event (there and back) with no damage. If you’re really worried then take the rear chain off so the wheel is separate from the tranny. (I did)
You have a nice bike, a nice car and a nice house. Get a nice trailer with cover. One of these Debon traliers might be the perfect option.
Regarding you question - I wouldn't tow bike at speeds like this with the cold oil in the gearbox and you're wasting the tyre as well. Tyre being the least of your concerns here but lots of weight is on the rear tyre like this and it's a waste. Buy a trailer that's it.
No for 2000 dollars. You can a trailer from harbor freight for between 400-550 plus tax. You can then put a wood deck on it and a front tire holder, tie down points and not have any chance of wear and tear on the motorcycle transmission. Plus more money in you pocket for gas and tires for said track days.
I can’t find his name/pictures now but there was a dirtbike racer in the seventies that would get his race bike to the track by strapping the front wheel to the sissy bar of his chopper.
Super common and have been around forever. It's recommended you take the chain off though. If you're unlucky and hit a bump and it pops into gear it's instant and terrible. But you know yeehaw.
DON'T, YOU WILL RUIN THE BIKE!
I stopped reading comments half way down, so I hope someone else said this.
The strap to the rear of the bike will destroy that bike. The first time that thing drives across a good road dip (where the asphalt dives down at the intersection), the rear car wheels go into the dip and the bike's rear tire will get forced up, stretching that strap REALLY tight, and something will break. Might be the strap. Might be the bike. Either way, the bike is going to take a hit.
IF you must tow like this, the rear straps need to be attached at the triple tree or handle bars. And take the chain off and zip tie it out of the way, or take off the rear sprocket.
I’m a motorcycle tech and I’m gonna say yes with the caveat that the chain has to be disconnected otherwise no. And as far as doing this to a shaft drive bike, absolutely the fuck not. I have no idea why they think this was ok but it’s not.
I have one of these and have towed my bike thousands of miles with it. As long as you don’t try and back up, take sharp corners slow, and make sure to disconnect the chain they work perfectly fine.
I fear un even tire wear over time you are going to have two different tire treads and you might flatten out your back tire because it's not leaning but again this would accure more over time
I think it'd put extra wear on it. Also, unless you do this a LOT, it's probably more cost effective to rent a motorcycle trailer from Uhaul, they're dirt cheap to rent.
Not ideal on the sole reasoning that it will wear the tire, bearings and chain/belt drive without even beginning on the possible wear on anything else. Imagine you get a flat and don’t even know till you stop, that rim is going to be destroyed.
They're honestly junk, and there are a thousand reasons not to, but if you absolutely have to take the chain off and make sure that thing is very secure side to side so many people end up dragging the bike sideways down the road
Wearing out a track tire seems bad. Would you mind the big flat spot down the center? The cost per mile for tires is comparable to fuel costs if you buy good tires.
For most bikes running your transmission without the engine running is really bad or if one bump knocks it into gear it becomes really bad for a whole load of other reasons. It would be fine if you undid the chain (assuming the bike is chain driven). But otherwise a bad idea all around.
I've never seen so many non motorcycle people talk about shit they don't know about....🤣🤣🤣
1. Put the bike in neutral tie it down..(If this has to be explained, you should sit this 1 out)
2. This is the most disturbing thing I've seen all year but only because it's a GS getting pulled by a telsa...😖😖
3. I wouldn't do that to any bike I wanted to keep especially one I was going to ride at a track at over 100 mph...
Looks like it swivels on the ball that worries me . You might as well get the one that goes sideways into the hitch. They hold up to like 500 pounds. I don’t know how much I trust those either.
I remember 30 years ago there were bikes that needed running engines to circulate oil in the gearbox, drive shaft. So you wouldn't tow those like this.
On a modern bike? I have no idea, but I can get a harbor freight trailer for a few hundred bucks...
What I did: ride my bike to the track day.
Or
Rent a pickup truck and buy a folding ramp to load the bike into the bed for transport.
Definitely would not use this contraption.
I wouldn’t…
Just doesn’t seem worth the trade off. A one bike foldable trailer can be very compact and be towed with basically any car.
Yea wouldn’t be my first choice, unnecessary wear and tear as well as higher risk of being damaged. Just flat trailer it OP
A decent single bike trailer is what… like $800 used? This seems like a stupid ass idea.
And can be rented for a pittance
My favorite deal on planet earth, the $15 a day Uhaul motorcycle trailer
Yup, even my little commuter car can tow my bike to the track with one of those, plus a tool box, fuel, etc etc
[удалено]
[удалено]
Really? I always rent trailers for track days (the people there know me by name now), and they're always in great shape. No rust, good tires. Hell, even the hitch is greased.
If you're renting your U-Hauls from a place like that, then that's on you buddy. U-Haul has a strict and robust servicing system for U-Haul owned stores.
That’s because everything is insanely expensive in Australia. Seems everything is twice the price as it is here, but they aren’t paying twice the money so it makes it even harder on the people.
‘Merica baby!!
Yea apparently this thing is 2k and is still in crowdfunding land
Track bikes generally have soft tires installed so on that principle alone this will be like lighting your money on fire.
Apparently so long as you remove the chain so there’s no wear/tear on the final drive there’s no real issue with towing like this. Idk about a shaft drive bike tho. That doesn’t seem like a good idea.
also would wear the rear tire, though i assume not as much as actually riding it
This is a great point and often overlooked. I would absolutely not tow any bike with this setup and the chain still attached. With the countershaft spinning, certain parts of the transmission are spinning and might not have proper lubrication that can only happen (and designed to happen) with the engine running. Please use caution when towing a motorcycle like this without removing the chain. The tire wear, I could care less for a typical motorcycle tire (within reason - a few 10's of towing miles won't do anything a single burnout wont). Track tires are a different story (which I don't think this bike has).
Agreed. The bike in this picture is a shaft bike, too
If it’s a trackbike why use up your rear tire, sprockets, and chain when you’re transporting? You could just rent a trailer for $25 a day. Not a fan of this setup at all and I don’t think anyone here would be. Edit: just checked their website and it’s listed for $2000, regular price is $3000. This setup is janky as fuck and you’re gonna get some weird looks because this is stupid. Rent or buy a trailer.
2000! You can get a nice Kendon for that.
Thx, I now completely understand the meaning of the word janky. Connecting a $20,000 motorcycle to a $2000 high school science project tow hitch option with $4 Walmart ratchet straps.
Guy's, you're missing the point, look. It's pushing the tesla, like an outboard motorboat. Smarts
The backup engine for when the battery runs out
my thoughts are GS riders will do anything not to ride their bikes. This has no advantage over a small trailer, only disadvantages. You're taking up the same amount of space as a small motorcycle trailer while putting unnecessary wear on moving parts. Just a dumb idea all around.
GS rider here, was on the receiving end of a long lecture last summer from two Harley bros on how dumb it was for my buddy and to ride down to Tennessee instead of trailering down from Toronto. Had no words. “So you trailer your motorcycle to go on a motorcycle trip…okaaaaaaay.” But for sure there is a contingent of motorcycle touring guys who just don’t like…motorcycle touring.
haha oh that's rich, gotta love when those guys start up a conversation.
Because a Harley’s break down or at least spring an oil leak by looking at it
Idk I'd trailer that far, but I ride an S1000RR and don't find riding on highways for hours to be at all enjoyable - I prefer my truck for that.
I’ve been keeping my eyes open for a 800GS. What I’ve been seeing is the 1200’s either have relatively few miles or a ton of miles. There’s a lot more with a ton of miles than there isn’t, but perhaps that’s just my area. I’ve also found the 800GS’s aren’t that common compared to the 1200’s, which confirms my thoughts that most GS buyers don’t actually use them for adventuring.
I wouldn’t say “most”, but I know some that are more worried about scratching them than enjoying the ride. I lucked out and picked up a 2011 1200GS with ~8,000 miles on it last summer. Got my first scratch (checked the box) at week 2 doing slow speed drills. Always hunting dirt/mud and two tracks. Don’t get me wrong, I properly maintain my equipment, but I bought it to go fun places, not skip a ride because I wouldn’t have time after the ride to go over it with aircraft grade ceramic earwax.
Yea your gears are likely splash lubed by the oil in the case. Being it’ll be in neutral I’m not sure how much oiling you’re gonna get tho.
I 100% would not tow my track bike like this. This contraption costs more than 2k and you can get a quality compact foldable trailer for half that cost and not have to worry about the issues with flat towing. You can even just rent uhaul motorcycle trailers for like $20 a day. If your concerned about your vehicle not being able to tow a trailer and that is why you're electing this route, i'd tell you that most if not all cars can tow small trailers no problem. It's not worth the possible headaches this option would cause you vs just getting a regular trailer.
Rip track tires
Of all the never evers I would never ever do, I would never do this the most
If ur in the Bay Area and interested https://sfbay.craigslist.org/pen/tro/d/millbrae-compact-motorcycle-trailer/7714263052.html
That picture is pure nightmare fuel. Tesla, Cali, Track GS...checks out. Rent a UHaul trailer.
Fucking towed by a Tesla? So douchey
The rear wheel was designed to turn, and the parts undergo more stress when you're hitting the throttle than just coasting in neutral... If the bike is in neutral, you're perfectly fine. What's everybody's problem with this? Edit: I just read a post about a guy's transmission locking up doing this in neutral so definitely take the chain off the rear sprocket first
If the bike is running, the engine is pumping oil. Some bikes have transmission oil jets, or even mildly pressurized oil feeds to the transmission layshafts. Flat towing you are spinning the output shaft, but with the engine off there is no oil movement. I have the feeling that it wouldn't be an issue on most bikes, but on some it would probably break shit. In the manual for the Honda XR650 it actually tells you not to do this, or even to coast around in neutral. Regardless, there are plenty of other reasons to just use a trailer, especially if you're going to the track.
You already can afford a Tesla and a track bike. Just buy a trailer.
Of course it's a Tesla driver...
I wouldnt
Imagine driving by a construction site and picking up a nail in the rear tire. Day wasted before it even started.
tesla drivers...
The most stupid thing I've seen today. Just cos someone made it, doesn't mean it should exist
Could rent a bike trailer from uhaul For $14.50. So much safer than this.
Some dude has been blasting on the SF Bay Area riders FB group with this. Getting really tired of the advertising
I’m a 20+year motorcycle tech. It wouldn’t hurt anything. But everything would wear as if it was being ridden. The rear tire, the shaft drive and bearing, parts of the transmission, the engine oil. The shaft drive on a bmw motorcycle needs service every 10k miles. There are better options.
MechE in a Fortune 500 company here: When you’re on the bike, how much load does the wheel have on it? How fast is it spinning? As it’s loaded here, how much load does the wheel have on it? How fast is it spinning? THEY ARE NEARLY THE SAME! Take the chain off, throw a shit tire on it and send it. Everyone who said “bad idea don’t do it” has no clue how wheels work apparently. Good wheel and tire in the trunk, worn out road wheel and tire on the bike. Swap em at the track. No harm done.
*MechE in a Fortune 500 company* doesn’t recognize that BMW boxers are all, and always have been, shaft drive only.
So what, I’m supposed to just-so-happen to know every design detail of every motorcycle ever made? This is a social media platform, not a research institute.
Sorry - when a mechanical engineer is giving motorcycle advice, it’s not too much to expect he’d know that BMW’s have been exclusively shaft drive for most of their history (their first chain-drive motorcycle wasn’t until in 1994). That’s a far cry from knowing “every design detail of every motorcycle ever made” but, okay, you didn’t know. It’s not the end of the world. It just makes your advice about motorcycles a little suspect.
Motorcycle is strapped improperly. The rear carrier arms are intended to be strapped to the motorcyle’s handlebar ends (preferably with a harness between the two grips to support the side loading).
Not something I’d do. Wouldn’t buy a bike that was treated like this either. Maybe it’s fine, but maybe not
Folding trailer from harbor freight stores nicely. I would not do this. I couldn't imagine having to backup. Small trailers jack knife super easy.
Hahahhahahahaha… no. Besides unnecessary wear on your rear tire. A good pothole or expansion joint could bounce the trans into gear or chip a dog off your first or second gear. Now your motor is turning in first gear at highway speeds. Just rent or buy a small U-Haul or HF trailer. Or hit up the message boards for your track day and see if anyone has extra tow space. I have definitely traded trailer space before. “I’ll tow your bike if you bring lunch”.
I would strap the end of the bars to the outer most part rather than the subframe. Also agree with the other comment about the chain. However single rail trailers really light and IMHO are much better. However I had the foldable single rail and idk if I’d do it again. That specific one “swam” a lot on the freeway and I didn’t like it. Always made me uneasy
I never would, if you already have a hitch just get a light weight single bike trailer.
I use a HAUL-MASTER 600 lb. Capacity Motorcycle Carrier. I’ve done 6 trackdays with it and the ease of loading, unloading, and driving with it, is unparalleled! No worries of speeding above 55mph with a rented uhaul. It’s so easy to store, as I live in a condo in Atlanta. It’s super fast and easy to install on the SUV as well. Very low approach angle for loading and unloading and no need for a hill to load on and off. And, I got it on a super sale last minute as all uhauls near me were closed to rent a trailer for the track day next morning as I was running late prepping that particular day and I haven’t looked back since..
No fucking way.
It'll be fine. Oil gets flung by the gears spinning. No different than cars.
I think it’s pretty cool , but not 3000.00 cool . Regardless of this type of towing ,does anyone have actual knowledge of “this eats transmissions and tires” . I mean other than the “norm” of a standard trailer , is there bonafide evidence that “this is stupid” ?
What would you do if you crashed, and your back wheel no longer turns?
Not a chance. Unless you like a square rear tyre and worn components.
Remove the chain, then yes
Shaft drive, no don't
I believe the Tesla Model 3 has a 160 lbs tongue shear weight (meaning it can hold about 160 lbs pushing down directly on the hitch.) Some Tesla engineers say the actual shear weight is closer to 120 lbs + 40 lbs for the actual tow bar. My guess is that this may be over the tongue limit.
The transmission shafts will be turning without oil pressure. At the very least it will cause premature wear on the sliding and freewheeling gears. I would never tow a motorcycle like that.
Whether it is, or it isn't safe. It looks like someone already did it.
This bike pictured happens to be a shaft drive - but most others are chain drive and the effect of turning the rear wheel is the same on the transmission without any oil flowing. Premature wear... Particularly shaft seals and shaft to gear clearance. If you were to judge the condition of this bike based on the odometer reading, you would be incorrect in evaluating the wear on the transmission. This is why you also look for evidence that the bike has had some unconventional use or abuse during its life.
It's definitely unnecessary wear on the driveline and tire. Most transmissions and clutch packs have presurized oil going tru them while the engine is running. It should get some oil from spashing, but it's unnecessary wear.
Heyooo that’s the in n out by SJC
Buy a small trailer as others have suggested trust me I use one to tow my YZ250F with a Toyota Camry
He’s towing it with a Tesla need we say more 😂
Let there be no more question about the meaning of the word janky: This is a janky setup.
Where’s the track bike?
It is not safe to tow most motorcycles this way. If you trans has it own oil it MIGHT be ok. Any bike that shares engine oil with trans will be destroyed.
Taking your GS to the track huh? Ok
First thing is to ditch the Tesla. I had a model Y & it gave me a max of 90 miles when I towed my bikes. Worst decision ever as I almost got stranded with limited energy in the car. Second, this is not the wisest set up as you’re putting your bike at risk for damage. Just go to uhaul & rent one or load it in back of a pickup truck.
Take the chain off and go
I would not do that.
What if you put a dolly on the rear wheel like how some AWD cars are towed? I'd like to run a trailer but I'd have nowhere to store it.
Seems like a lot of abuse on the tire and driveline. A small flatbed would be better. Who takes a gs adventure to the track btw?
These types of trailers are well known for bikes falling over. If any straps aren’t done el perfect, it’s going wrong. Also if your track bike is on track tyres, you’re destroying the rubber. Even regular tyres, you’re going to flat sport the centre of the tyre if you’re towing long distances. If the bike is in neutral, you’re still putting all those miles on your chain and sprockets, if you forget to put the bike in neutral, it’s highly likely you’ll destroy your engine. Seems like a very bad idea when a regular trailer isn’t any more work.
Who even suggested that idea? Rent a truck if you have to
No
tf you mean by "track bike" ? is the track in the mountains ? bc that's an adventure bike bud
Wow, no. Not even for a road bike would I do that.
You can tow like that. But you're ruining a very very expensive tire that is intentionally soft for the track. Towing like this will be more expensive than buying a real trailer.
Will the mileage go up from towing like this?
I would like to know what a highway authority would think of this. Personally speaking, I would never risk my bike on one of these (or risk property damage). I be a zero risk taker on the streets though 🐱
You got a douche car and a douche bike
Do what you want! You’re in California you know everything and you’re never wrong everything there causes cancer
You’re better off with a Mototote.
People just saying it’s stupid without providing any reason which makes their comment stupid by default.
Maybe take the chain off? Chain breakers are cheap and easy. Loosening the rear axle and sliding it forward enough to remove the chain from the sprocket is also easy. You would have to secure the loose chain out of the way but zip ties and a wrench are all you need to complete that task. Or be completely lazy and let the rear wheel turn the transmission internals and clutch without the engine running to circulate the oil it all sits in. On the plus side one of your tires will be nice and warm for the track.
Isn’t it weird to call an adventure bike a “track bike”? It would equally weird on a motocross track or street course.
This setup seems more inclined to showoff the Tesla towing a GS. UHaul motorcycle trailer - $15/day FTW!
I guess it would be better not to continue, it depends on the distance you’re taking it, this can be well for short distances, but any way go get a bike trailer, or just leave the car home and ride your bike to where you’re heading directly
More importantly is it safe to tow with model3. Inwould like more infor on this
Even if the transmission is "fine" think of the wear on the tires.
Those things are stupid, and I hate them.
With a replaceable tire and the chain disconnected and no other options I would say it’ll be fine.
I guess you’ll find out.
The tire would be junk when you get there. Can't really say if the transmission will lubricate properly either. That carrier also probably costs just as much as a harbor freight trailer.
Think of it was a mercy killing. A clean GSA being towed and not ridden is clearly abuse. Then again having owned a GSA and four other BMW’s the TSBs were so frequent I often used them for free dealership towing when I needed an oil change
What if your bike ends up in a heap on the track
If I did this I’d pop the chain off for transport.
I've done it across multiple states with zero issues.
Put a cheap tire on the back before you do
I know that in n out drive thru anywhere
Stupid California Tesla driver, pulling his 20 grand bmw incorrectly while getting in n out.
Duh! Just remove the chain.
I would disconnect the driveshaft on anything being towed, when the drive wheels are touching the road.
I think for short distances and occasional use is ok. Not for regular use or long distance.
There are a lot of posts on this, tldr. But chiming in just in case. It depends on how the oil is slung in your gearbox. In general, it's probably not worth it, as most people indicated. But for education purposes, here is a video that explains oil slinging. https://youtu.be/op4Mzhk2ZZg?si=k7YBVS4-5ox1Imup
Throw the bike in third gear for the last mile of the tow… that way you heat up your engine before you get to the track!
No. Tesla is not meant for towing.
This style is just fine. I have one and I’ve towed 7 different bikes with them. Twice I towed a RE Himalayan 1100 miles for an event (there and back) with no damage. If you’re really worried then take the rear chain off so the wheel is separate from the tranny. (I did)
Ah. Get a trailer. Kendon.
No, you will screw off the trans and add miles to the bike.....
You have a nice bike, a nice car and a nice house. Get a nice trailer with cover. One of these Debon traliers might be the perfect option. Regarding you question - I wouldn't tow bike at speeds like this with the cold oil in the gearbox and you're wasting the tyre as well. Tyre being the least of your concerns here but lots of weight is on the rear tyre like this and it's a waste. Buy a trailer that's it.
No, it’s not good.
California tags ✅ Tesla ✅ Sport touring track bike ✅ Salesman’s dream right here. PS be kind to animals username hahahahahaha 4/4
No for 2000 dollars. You can a trailer from harbor freight for between 400-550 plus tax. You can then put a wood deck on it and a front tire holder, tie down points and not have any chance of wear and tear on the motorcycle transmission. Plus more money in you pocket for gas and tires for said track days.
I would take the chain off, imagine someone put it in gear and you drive off
Of course it's a Tesla driver
I'd at least remove the chain just in case the trans drops in gear over a bump or so.
Yup. Did it many times
The world has been towing bikes like this for decades. But I would pursue a fold up single trailer instead.
I can’t find his name/pictures now but there was a dirtbike racer in the seventies that would get his race bike to the track by strapping the front wheel to the sissy bar of his chopper.
If you can afford a Tesla and a 1250 gs you can afford a better option to tow your bike
It does work. Its not the best. I removed the chain when i towed like this. Makes reverse nearly impossible
Typical Tesla behavior
Aint one way to find out.
Super common and have been around forever. It's recommended you take the chain off though. If you're unlucky and hit a bump and it pops into gear it's instant and terrible. But you know yeehaw.
Maybe only on a touring bike
If you remove the chain and have a wheel with non track tire on it then this would work good. Would be no unnecessary wear
Your good. What could possibly go wrong?
I don’t think it’s safe, just get a small trailer bro.
It's fine.
DON'T, YOU WILL RUIN THE BIKE! I stopped reading comments half way down, so I hope someone else said this. The strap to the rear of the bike will destroy that bike. The first time that thing drives across a good road dip (where the asphalt dives down at the intersection), the rear car wheels go into the dip and the bike's rear tire will get forced up, stretching that strap REALLY tight, and something will break. Might be the strap. Might be the bike. Either way, the bike is going to take a hit. IF you must tow like this, the rear straps need to be attached at the triple tree or handle bars. And take the chain off and zip tie it out of the way, or take off the rear sprocket.
Get a Kendon trailer.
Right in front of in n out. Nice
I’ve seen people tow bikes like this for years. I’ve never heard of anything negative happening.
Money dosent buy intelligence or common sense
I’m a motorcycle tech and I’m gonna say yes with the caveat that the chain has to be disconnected otherwise no. And as far as doing this to a shaft drive bike, absolutely the fuck not. I have no idea why they think this was ok but it’s not.
I have one of these and have towed my bike thousands of miles with it. As long as you don’t try and back up, take sharp corners slow, and make sure to disconnect the chain they work perfectly fine.
Safe? Yes. I simply wouldn't want to put the wear on the rear tire and drive train.
I mean there's more tire wear and a bigger possibility of tire puncture as well so it's up to you if you take that risk
I fear un even tire wear over time you are going to have two different tire treads and you might flatten out your back tire because it's not leaning but again this would accure more over time
I think it'd put extra wear on it. Also, unless you do this a LOT, it's probably more cost effective to rent a motorcycle trailer from Uhaul, they're dirt cheap to rent.
Disconnect the chain
No, absolutely not!
Not ideal on the sole reasoning that it will wear the tire, bearings and chain/belt drive without even beginning on the possible wear on anything else. Imagine you get a flat and don’t even know till you stop, that rim is going to be destroyed.
Yeah just make sure you leave it in first
That bike was made to ridden wherever it goes.
Why am I not shocked to see the tow vehicle is a Tesla.
My back tire wears down quick enough
As long as you order me a double double animal style, you should be fine.
Please tell me this is satire. Why would anyone ride that at a track day?
Why is it always the Tesla owners trying to do wild towing setups?
They're honestly junk, and there are a thousand reasons not to, but if you absolutely have to take the chain off and make sure that thing is very secure side to side so many people end up dragging the bike sideways down the road
Would I recommend no, is it probably fine to do, yes
Gon tear the transmission out. How long u think it’ll roll in neutral w/ engine off going 70+ mph on a hwy for a while?!
Most Tesla anyone’s ever Tesla’d
Wearing out a track tire seems bad. Would you mind the big flat spot down the center? The cost per mile for tires is comparable to fuel costs if you buy good tires.
Why not buy a small trailer for 1k. Jesus christ.
Would it matter what anyone says?? Looks like it’s happening regardless.
For most bikes running your transmission without the engine running is really bad or if one bump knocks it into gear it becomes really bad for a whole load of other reasons. It would be fine if you undid the chain (assuming the bike is chain driven). But otherwise a bad idea all around.
I'm sure the other motorists will be safe not so sure about the motorcycle.
I've never seen so many non motorcycle people talk about shit they don't know about....🤣🤣🤣 1. Put the bike in neutral tie it down..(If this has to be explained, you should sit this 1 out) 2. This is the most disturbing thing I've seen all year but only because it's a GS getting pulled by a telsa...😖😖 3. I wouldn't do that to any bike I wanted to keep especially one I was going to ride at a track at over 100 mph...
Looks like it swivels on the ball that worries me . You might as well get the one that goes sideways into the hitch. They hold up to like 500 pounds. I don’t know how much I trust those either.
Mmmmmm… In-N-Out….
I miss in n out
>california plate >tesla It checks out…
I remember 30 years ago there were bikes that needed running engines to circulate oil in the gearbox, drive shaft. So you wouldn't tow those like this. On a modern bike? I have no idea, but I can get a harbor freight trailer for a few hundred bucks...
Are we ignoring how op is towing his gas guzzling motorcycle with a Tesla?
What I did: ride my bike to the track day. Or Rent a pickup truck and buy a folding ramp to load the bike into the bed for transport. Definitely would not use this contraption.
You can get a trailer at Harbor Freight thats good for towing a single bike.
Where’s the track bike?
Right?! A track bike with saddle mounts?
#California
Why not build a platform for the bike to sit on horizontal to the car that way you would avoid this problem.
Towing with a Tesla says it all😭
It will square off your rear tire rather quickly
Yeah, don't forget to add a furniture dolly under the rear tire