Enclosed Motorcycle Trailer

[Blue Rebel]

I found a 2003 Carolinas Enclosed Motorcycle Trailer. It is a 6X12 with a 3500 lb max weight limit per axle.

The guy was asking $1,700 for it. It has brand new tires, a new spare, the inside has all new wood on the floor and walls, including I-bolts for tie-downs.

Double swing doors in the back and one swing door on the side.

One fender needs a little work, as it was damaged when the owner had a blowout. Other than that, just a few small dings. Also has a aluminum gravel shield on the front that runs half way up.

Don't know alot about trailers, but this seemed to be a good deal I couldn't let pass up.

Anyone else care to chime in? Was this a good deal?

[rksaw]

If you've already bought it, and you like it, then it's a good deal. I hope that you enjoy it.

[dkdixie]

Sounds like a good deal. In fact, find me one!

[ringadingh]

I would think that it is a good deal. Is it a single axle or a tandem?

[dogdoc]

sounds like a fair priced trailer.

[Yellow Jacket]

For a 6x12 in the shape you described, I would say you got a good deal.

[Blue Rebel]

Originally Posted by Ringadingh

I would think that it is a good deal. Is it a single axle or a tandem?

I believe it was a tandem.

Sounds like a good deal (less then what I paid!!).

The only difference that I notice from mine is that I have a ramp/door in the back rather than two swing doors.

[glwilson]

Given your description of this trailer; it sounds like it was a reasonable purchase for the condition.

Been looking at trailers for a long time now myself and doing my homework. Have learned a few things I didn't know before from those I have been talking to. (Plan on having to trailer my bike to Custer for the rally.)

While generally a trailer in "bad" condition will likely last a long time without any complications -- one should know that when one goes "bad" and breaks-down -- things can get really bad quickly -- which can not only be an inconvenience but dangerous.

Since most owners of trailers do not necessarily use them very often -- they have a tendency to neglect the details of maintenance required to keep them safe.

Look at the frame and axle components. In doing so; check all joints; welds; corners; and mounting brackets for stress-cracks and loose bolts and clamps. Also; check for excessive rust and corrosion that may weaken structurally important areas.

Closely check the axle and "all-things" attached to it. (Remember; the axle has likely been run-through-the-mill -- having received abuse from over-weighting; bumps; curbs; and a possible mis-cued drill-hole or two in an attempt to attach something.)

Also; pull the wheel-bearings and check to see if they are in good condition and greased. If not replace them.

Check your wheel rims for even the smallest dents or fractures. (Remember; most people pulling a trailer do not know how and have likely taken corners too short causing the wheels to "hop" curbs and run off the road several times -- possibly causing damage.) Replace any rims/tires showing damage.

Another important item regarding the quality of a trailer is the design of the tongue. Many "less-expensive" trailers have very "cheap" tongue designs -- which pose a danger of structural failure in high stress situations -- and particularly when the trailer is older and ill-maintained. (Again, while most will last a lifetime without problems; one should still consider what may happen if any failure occurs. It can be quick and sometime dangerous.)

"Google" trailer tongue designs -- you will get a quick lesson in what I am saying with regard to "good" designs and "lower-quality" designs.

Too many people buying trailers look at the superficial issues to make their decision (paint, tires, fenders, doors, and etc.) when they should be looking an the "mechanics and structural integrity of the trailer first.

Things like paint; tires; and etc. are easily replaced or fixed.

Again; it sounds like you did well. Hope you get a lot of good use out of it.

[Blue Rebel]

Thanks glwilson for your input:

I had a 3rd party look the trailer over, my error, it is a 6x10, with 6ft ceiling height. The trailer is structurally sound. No rust on the frame, no broken welds, no stress cracks that could be seen. There was additional angle iron added to the frame under the floor for more support. The tongue design was high quality. The trailer has tandem axle. No dent in the rims, no holes other than the one from the factory for the eye-bolts.

The running lights, brake lights and turn signals work, the wiring is in good condition. There are clearance lights all around the top of the trailer and also working well.

The trailer was towed home tonight and it pulled good. No sway.

Again, thanks for the input.

[glwilson]

Fantastic.

Sounds like you got the deal I have been looking for.

Want to sell it? Ha!! Just kidding.

I have to get one myself and haven't found the pricing I am willing to pay. Likely with this economy I will find someone that is willing to let one go for a good price.

My wife and I like to do a lot of riding "out of our area" and don't necessarily want to "ride" to our destination; thus we like to trailer the bike. I am tired of renting (having to customize each time for harnessing the bike); thus am buying this time around.

Again; BR good luck with your purchase and enjoy.

[Blue Rebel]

I'm already looking for the accessories: wheel chocks, storage cabinets, etc...

[lonewolf]

Now the big question! Have you given any thought to how your nomad feels about being trailered? lol!

[glwilson]

Originally Posted by lonewolf

Now the big question! Have you given any thought to how your nomad feels about being trailered? lol!

Ha! I think it likes the enclosed trailer idea better than the flat-bed I used a couple times.

[nomad561]

Sounds like a great deal.
While I usually ride everywhere I go with my bike,having a trailer does help sometimes. I needed my truck when I went to Missouri last month,but wanted my bike as well so I trailered it.Besides that,I also use it for a mobile garage to keep my bike in when I go camping. The campground I was in didn't allow motorcycles in the campground.(but that's another story).
I'll be heading to Cali in Dec. and I can't haul everything I need for a 3 month stay on my bike,so I'll be trailering out there as well.
Other than the initail cost,trailers are fairly inexpensive to own. In my opinion,if you own a bike a trailer is a great addition to the stable.