Forum Discussion

Faststreak's avatar
Faststreak
Explorer
Apr 05, 2019

Open trailer

I’m planning on a trip this summer maybe to Alaska. I would like to take my touring motorcycle (goldwing) to sight see on. My question is would you tow a motorcycle on a open utility trailer behind a Hosts Cascade? Concerned that rough roads and debris on Alaska roads could damaged the bike. I really don’t want to buy a enclosed trailer if not necessary. I put additional things on the trailer, bikes, storage boxes etc. thanks

28 Replies

  • Maybe an enclosed trailer? Alaska highway and that area have two seasons. Snow and road repair. The gravel they lay down will surely cause issues with an open trailer.
  • 4x4ord's avatar
    4x4ord
    Explorer III
    I would buy a used motorcycle trailer. If you buy right when you're done with it you'll get your money back. I bought a Logan Coach and really like it.
  • Seems like it’s not the best idea to open trailer a nice bike to Alaska. However, I do know many have made the trip on their motorcycle. I wonder if there is much difference in exposure to possible damage to the bike?. I wish I could take it, it seems like it would be fun to run around on and explore and leave the camper parked. I’m leaning towards leaving it home I don’t want to damage the bike.
  • Been to Alaska four times and most of the roads are very good.. BUT... The way they fix their roads up there is they tare up 20, 30, 40, miles of it at a time. They just put down gravel and add rain and huge 18 wheelers in a big hurry it gets very messy very quick. So yes your bike would be safe most of the time till you hit one of those stretches of road they are working on..Then not so much. I have broken two windshields bent one axle. Its quite the adventure.
  • I wouldn't. You might also go over to GL1800riders dot com and ask there. You'll find riding a Wing in AK will be hazardous to the paint.
  • I would buy a heavier style utility trailer that has 2 x 4 stake pockets. Then, you can add 2 x 4s and OSB or plywood sides. You could also easily put other items in that type trailer. I’ve used my custom 5 x 10 open trailer that way. In my case, I’ve also put some items under tarps and strapped them down. That also prevents people from taking a look at what you have back there.

    in case you are wondering, I made it 5 x 10 to have less wind resistance behind my Explorer. It is harder to see behind the camper.