 | Open Flatbed Trailer: $300-$1,400 |
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 | Mid-Range Cargo Trailer: $1,500-$3,000 |
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 | Custom Cargo Trailer: $3,000-$6,000+ |
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| Sometimes called a motorcycle touring trailer, a motorcycle cargo trailer is typically a lightweight box with lid designed to be towed behind a large motorcycle or other vehicle. A motorcycle cargo trailer can be used to haul camping gear, construction tools, business supplies or other cargo. For trailers designed to haul motorcycles behind another vehicle, see How Much Does a Motorcycle Trailer Cost. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Prices start at $300 -$1,400 for an open flatbed trailer (no sides or lid) or an economy-class enclosed motorcycle cargo trailer. For example, for $300 -$400 Harbor Freight sells a 145-pound Tag-Along Trailer that is 78" long, 44.5" wide and 38" high with 8" tires and a 47.5"x38" covered cargo carrier 16" inches high. For something a bit more rugged, the 140-pound Trailmaster Inc. Backpacker is 79" long, 47" wide and 39" high with 18 cubic feet of cargo space in a 51"x38" covered polyethylene cargo carrier; it comes in an assemble-it-yourself kit for $700 -$750 (ships in two pallets, with frame already assembled). The open-wagon-style Troy-Hauler Cargo Trailer at $1,000 -$1,300 has a 58"x26" flat cargo platform; weighs 200 pounds; comes with a cooler rack, LED lights and 10" wheels.
- A mid-range motorcycle cargo trailer costs $1,500 -$3,000, depending on the combination of materials (steel, aluminum, fiberglass) and cargo capacity (cubic feet). For example, the 160-pound Time-Out Trailers Dart is 7.5' long, 3.5' wide and 35" high with a 56"-long box; comes standard with 12" wheels and LED lights; and has a base price of $1,995. Adding chrome wheels, chrome trim and a luggage rack increases the price to $2,292; ordering all the options can raise the total to more than $3,000.
- Expect to pay $3,000 -$6,000 or more for a larger, customized motorcycle cargo trailer, with price depending on size, capacity, weight (the lighter the better) and options such as chrome trim, mag wheels, upgraded lights or customized paint to match factory motorcycle colors. For example, the Motorvation Grand National 20 is just under 8' long and 3.5' wide with 20 cubic feet of cargo space in a 47"x31" body. With all the options (specialized paint colors, spoiler, chrome, fiberglass bumper, mag wheels, etc.) it sells for about $4,000.
What should be included: | - Motorcycle cargo trailers bought from the manufacturer are usually shipped in large crates on a semi-truck and must be unloaded with a fork lift (although tailgate delivery may be possible). The shipment should include a manual for the trailer, which contains important information about weight capacity and safe usage. Unless the trailer is a DIY kit, assembly should only involve putting a few pieces together. Assembling a DIY kit typically requires standard tools and some mechanical skill, and can take one day or several weeks, depending on the size and complexity of the kit.
- Check the motorcycle's maximum towing capacity (listed in the manual or visit the manufacturer's website) before towing a trailer with a motorcycle. Remember to factor in the weight of any cargo.
Additional costs: | - Shipping can add $200 -$500 or more, depending on weight, method and location.
- Hitches are designed for use with a specific make and model of motorcycle, and typically cost $200 -$425. It takes about 45 minutes to install a hitch under a motorcycle's rear fender, according to WhyBike.com. MotorcycleTrailer.com explains how to create a hitch when an off-the-shelf model is not available.
- If the motorcycle is not wired to connect to the trailer lights, a wiring harness can add another $30 -$150.
Discounts: | |
Shopping for a motorcycle cargo trailer: | |
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Article updated January 2011 |
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