Can a Motorcycle Be Attached to the Rear of a Car?
3 Answers
Yes, but it must be done legally. Here are the relevant details: Towing a motorcycle with a car: According to the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law," trucks, semi-trailer tractors, and tractors are only allowed to tow one trailer. The lighting signals, brakes, connections, and safety protection devices of the trailer must comply with national standards. Small passenger cars are only permitted to tow recreational trailers or trailers with a total mass of less than 700 kilograms. Suitable vehicles for attaching motorcycles: Off-road vehicles with a chassis frame can be modified to carry heavier external loads, ensuring the body does not deform when driving on rough roads. Examples of such vehicles include the Toyota Prado, Land Rover Defender, Jeep Wrangler, Mitsubishi Pajero (older models), BAIC BJ40, and BAIC 2020.
I've seen many car enthusiasts carrying motorcycles behind their vehicles, usually achieved through trailers or motorcycle carriers. It depends on the specific situation and local regulations. For example, in urban areas, regular sedans may not be suitable for carrying, but SUVs or pickup trucks with tow hooks installed can do it. The key is to comply with road safety regulations: the total weight must not exceed the limit, the trailer must be registered with a legal license plate, and the securing straps must be sturdy to prevent detachment during transit. I once helped a friend tow a motorcycle—first, I checked the vehicle manual for the towing capacity limit to ensure we didn't exceed it, then used professional hooks to secure it properly before hitting the road. The whole process was quite tedious, but doing it right avoids trouble. Otherwise, if caught by traffic police, you could face fines, disrupt your trip, and also need to be mindful of increased fuel consumption and reduced handling during daily driving. It takes some practice to adapt, so plan your route carefully, avoid complex sections, and prioritize safety.
As someone who frequently drives long distances, I believe that attaching a motorcycle to the rear of a car is technically feasible, but the equipment must be strictly inspected. For example, the vehicle must be equipped with a tow hook, and the carrier frame should be a high-quality, reliable model to ensure a stable connection and that the weight is within the manufacturer's recommended range. Never overlook tire wear and the increased load on the braking system, which can easily lead to unstable handling, especially at high speeds, posing higher risks. When installing, I always seek professional assistance to carefully reinforce the chains to prevent loosening due to vibration. Regular maintenance of the towing components is also necessary to extend their lifespan and prevent accidents. Additionally, towing a load will increase fuel consumption and engine strain, raising maintenance costs. It's best to leave some buffer space, maintain a steady speed, and ensure safe arrival at the destination. Extra caution is required in certain terrains, such as mountainous areas with significant elevation changes, to avoid accidents.
