Motorcycle Towing

Scott Harris and his wife Kim run Custom Cycle Rescue from their home in Little Elm, Texas, towing motorcycles for a living.

"Towing a motorcycle takes finesse," says writer Brendan Case. "Scott says he keeps up with the latest towing tips and techniques from motorcycle manufacturers."

Case said business is good enough in the Dallas-Fort Worth area that Scott is working on developing franchising opportunities in motorcycle towing. He tows all makes and models and has a 24-hour service.

"I miss my Harley-Davidson Softail Standard," said Scott, a licensed and insured motorcycle tower and certified motorcycle tech.

Here are some tips on towing a motorcycle, which experts say is not the same as towing a car or boat regarding procedures and safety:

Check hitch ball to make sure it's the same size as the trailer coupler.

If you're towing with a vehicle that didn't come with a factory-installed towing package, be sure to install a transmission cooler and heavy-duty turn signal switch.

If towing with automatic transmission, never tow in overdrive.

Use ratchet tiedown straps for securing motorcycles.

How you tie down your bike depends in great measure on the brand and model bike you have.

Grandpa's Motorcycle Towing offers business opportunities for U.S. veterans.

Eric "Grandpa" Olson has been in the business almost three years and tows for 24 national accounts including Road America, Geico, Cross Country, and others.

"The national companies have told me several times that they would like me to expand my business to other areas around the country," said Olson. "For a fee I will instruct qualified individuals on the way to hook up the many different motorcycles safely and the ways and means to set up and operate their motorcycle towing business."

For more information, go to grandpasmotorcycletowing.com.

Some companies only tow motorcycles and not cars.

A female riding social group called the Chrome Angels is active in Dallas and all models are welcome. They support and assist in the development of riding skills and offer towing services especially during the holidays when riders don't want to risk driving under the influence. They are also nonprofit and conduct fundraising for various charities. They have regular chapter rides also.

"There's always a good event with the angels," said member Evelyn Daniel. "A $75 towing bill is cheaper than a funeral or a DWI."

Another ride, Judy, says they're a great group and "seem to mesh well."

One member Sherri, 47, just got her first bike, a Honda 750.