When it comes to transporting your cherished motorcycle, ensuring a safe, no-hassle and damage-free journey requires a bit of preparation. Whether you're moving to a new city, sending your bike for repairs, passing it on to its next owner or participating in a cross-country ride, taking the time to prepare your motorcycle properly is crucial.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps to ensure your two-wheeled companion reaches its destination in pristine condition.
Before setting off on your journey, it's important to start with a clean slate. Giving your motorcycle a good and thorough wash will not only give it a polished appearance but also make it easier to spot any pre-existing damages. Use a gentle detergent and a soft sponge to avoid scratching the paint or damaging delicate parts. Pay special attention to hard-to-reach areas like the undercarriage and the nooks around the engine.
While your motorcycle is still sparkling clean, take the time to inspect it for any pre-existing damages. This step is crucial for insurance purposes and helps you identify any new scratches or dents that may occur during transport. Keep this documentation safe somewhere in case you need to file a claim later.
A picture speaks a thousand words, and in this case, it can save you a thousand headaches. Capture clear photographs of your motorcycle from various angles, highlighting any existing damages. These photos will serve as invaluable evidence should any issues arise during transport, providing an extra layer of protection for your investment.
With your motorcycle set to travel on the back of a moving vehicle, it becomes susceptible to vibrations and jolts, potentially causing loose parts to detach during transport. So make sure to inspect your bike thoroughly for any loose components such as mirrors, turn signals or exhaust pipes. Tighten or remove these parts and consider securing them separately to prevent any damage during transit.
To minimise the risk of damage during transport, it's advisable to strip your motorcycle of any accessories that are not essential for the journey. Items such as saddlebags, additional lights or custom modifications should be carefully removed and stored separately to prevent breakage or loss.
Additionally, take the extra step to remove any valuables from your motorcycle's trunk to ensure nothing is lost or stolen during the journey.
Before loading your motorcycle onto a transport vehicle, check and adjust the fluid levels. Ensure that the oil, brake fluid and coolant are at the appropriate levels.
It’s also best to check your fuel gauge and try to get your tank to ¼ fill. This is because you don’t want it to be too full that it adds extra weight or too empty that you can’t get your motorcycle on and off the truck.
The last thing to check is your tyres — make sure they are properly inflated for better stability while in transit.
To prevent the battery from draining during transport, it’s often best to disconnect it. This reduces the risk of electrical issues and damage from the movement while ensuring that your motorcycle is ready to roll when it reaches its destination. Store the disconnected battery in a secure, well-ventilated place.
Certain areas of your motorcycle are more susceptible to damage than others. Take the extra step to shield these vulnerable parts using protective coverings, such as foam padding or bubble wrap, for areas like mirrors, handlebars and footpegs.
Moreover, consider using a tailored bike cover to provide comprehensive protection from road debris and poor weather conditions.
When it comes to transporting your motorcycle, various options are available, each with its own set of pros and cons. The typical types of transport methods include:
Open-air trailer
Enclosed trailer
To choose which type of trailer hire is best for you and your motorbike, you should consider the following factors:
Cost
Convenience
Level of protection
Distance
Weather conditions
Number of motorcycles
Choosing the right transport service can make or break your motorcycle transport experience. But the last thing you want is to spend hours scouring the internet and sending out dozens of requests for quotes, to receive an unsatisfactory service. That’s where Wise Move comes in!
With Wise Move’s platform, all you have to do is send out one request and you’ll be connected with all the top motorcycle transportation companies in South Africa. By comparing quotes and over 2 000 reviews, you’re guaranteed to find a trusted, reliable motorbike transport service that suits both you and your budget.
Wise Move ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure rather than worrying about the logistics of motorcycle transport. Get your quote from Wise Move today and get ready for a smooth transportation of your motorcycle. Safe travels!
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