Harley Davidson Trailering Question?

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Mack

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I have to transport an Electra Glide, full dresser, for a friend of mine. My trailer has sufficient tie-down rings and so on,,,but looking at the bike, I need to know from an expert opinion, what to "tie onto" on that bike, both front and back. I really didn't want to use the handlebars if at all possible to prevent possibly damaging the riser bushings, bending a bar, or strap interference with the fairing etc. However, I do not know for sure this is not the way to do it, thus my question. Any and all help will be appreciated, thank you!
 
I hauled a very heavy full dress Kawasaki 400 miles. Up front I was able to run the straps over the top of the bottom triple clamp on the fork. No, I wouldn't really want to try using the handlebars either, too much chance of bending them or barfing up the fairing. Off hand I can't visualize how the tour pack is supported, but it would be nice to hook on up there somewhere.

Older Harleys were real good at loosing saddlebag lids unless you drilled a hole and put a hair pin clip in. Since you will want to compress the springs some to keep tension on the straps, that means it's probably going to be a rough ride on a trailer. Me, I simply removed the trunk and bags and put them in the back of the truck. You might want to remove your lids unless you have a newer model.

Also remember to put the bike in gear and check the straps every 5-10 miles at first. Later check them every time you gas up because things have a way of loosening up. If possible, it would be good to chock the rear wheel to stop any forward-backward motion even with it in gear.
 
I use nylon straps with loops on each end to wrap around the triple tree if I can't get a good bite on the frame, which is the preferred choice. I hook my tie downs to the straps and ratchet them down tight, make sure you compress the shocks or the play will allow the bike to move. DO NOT LEAVE IT IN GEAR!!! Harley says this may cause damage to the gears and tranny because of the forward and back bouncing on the trailer. Leave it in neutral. Be sure to strap the rear of the bike too, again, the frame is preferred choice.
ride safe
 
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