Get your bike to your next extreme sport event hassle-free
Extreme sports riders have a problem. Year after year. No matter where they ride or compete, getting a motorcycle to an event requires planning. Taking a bike to motocross events, large rallies or riding an adventure trail through different states requires some form of motorcycle shipping.
The good news? Motorbike transport solutions are improving. Year after year. Innovations in shipping make it easier for extreme sports riders to transport bikes across the country for events and competitions.
In this guide you’ll learn:
- Extreme sports bikes require specialty shipping.
- There are different options for motorcycle transport.
- How to choose the right transport solution
- How to prepare a motorcycle for shipping
Extreme Sports Riders Need Specialty Shipping
Thing is…
Extreme sports motorcycles are different from your standard road bike. Dirt bikes, motocross bikes, and adventure machines are purpose built. They often have modifications, custom parts and specialty equipment that need additional protection during shipping.
Extreme sports riders quickly realize the options when learning how to arrange motorcycle transport. Standard auto transport is not a great option for specialty motorcycles. Riders need vehicle transport companies who specialize in moving high-performance bikes.
According to a study by Allied Market Research, the global motorcycle market is expected to reach 233.51 billion by 2031. Sports and adventure categories lead the growth.
Shocking numbers for an industry that most people have never even thought about.
Motorcycle Shipping Options for Extreme Sports Riders
Not all shipping options are the same. You should know the differences before making a decision.
Open Carrier Transport
Open carriers are the least expensive motorcycle transport option. A bike is loaded onto an open trailer along with other vehicles. This works well for shorter distance moves. It’s budget friendly.
The trade off is exposure to road debris, weather and dust. For a basic commuter bike, open carriers are usually fine. But for a competition level motocross machine? Riders need the best option.
Enclosed Trailer Shipping
Enclosed shipping is by far the most popular solution for shipping bikes. Complete protection from the elements. Bikes travel in a totally enclosed trailer. Shielded from road hazards.
Most professional riders and extreme sports competitors only use enclosed transport. The price is higher, but the protection is worth the extra money.
Crated Shipping
Crated shipping offers the ultimate protection. The bike is secured inside a custom crate prior to transport. Crated shipping is commonly used for overseas shipping or transport of rare and high value bikes.
The down side is the additional time required to prep for transport. Crated shipping is more expensive too.
How to Choose the Right Transport Solution
The right transport solution depends on several variables. Ask yourself a few questions first:
- Distance. Short distance open transport is fine. For longer moves, enclosed transport offers the best protection.
- Bike value. More expensive bikes get better protection. A custom race bike is not the same as a daily rider.
- Timeline. Expedited shipping means higher rates. But it’s the only way to guarantee a bike will arrive in time for an upcoming event.
- Event. Major events such as the Sturgis Rally attract about 500,000 riders each year. Events with high demand for transport services require advanced booking.
The global international motorcycle shipping service market size is projected to reach around 2.1 billion in 2023. A testament to how many motorcycle shipping enthusiasts are taking their bikes to events and competitions around the world.
Preparing a Motorcycle for Shipping
Before turning over your motorcycle to a transport company, there are a few steps required to prepare the bike.
Clean the bike. Make sure to remove all dirt, mud, and debris from the motorcycle. Document all scratches or existing damage with a clean bike.
Take detailed photographs. Document all sides of the bike with close up pictures. You will use these photos as proof of bike condition prior to transport.
Check fluids. Check oil and coolant levels are full. Most companies will recommend only a quarter tank of fuel to reduce weight and fire risk.
Remove accessories. Saddlebags, GPS units, and other removable fairings should be removed prior to transport. Items not secured to the motorcycle can shift during transport and cause damage.
Disable alarms. A motorcycle alarm blaring in the middle of transport will frustrate the carrier. Make sure all alarms and security systems are turned off.
Finding the Right Shipping Partners
Working with the right carrier can make all the difference. Look for a motorcycle shipping company with experience in the niche market of sports and adventure motorcycles. General auto transport companies may not understand the particular requirements of high performance sport bikes.
Look for company reviews from other riders. Read reviews with specific mentions of how the company handled specialty motorcycles. Note reviews that mention communication, timeliness and care of the bike during transport.
Insurance is a factor too. Make sure the shipping company has adequate coverage for the full value of the motorcycle. High performance and specialty bikes require adequate insurance coverage.
Timing the Shipment
Extreme sports events and competitions have seasonal timing. Shipping demand spikes before big rallies and events.
Peak shipping seasons are during the spring and summer. The carrier is booked solid and prices rise. Planning motorcycle shipments far in advance can lock in better rates and availability.
For riders attending multiple events in a single season, it’s smart to build a relationship with a trusted carrier. Repeat customers get priority in booking and pricing.
Wrapping It Up
Shipping a motorcycle to an extreme sport event or competition doesn’t have to be difficult. The industry has changed over the years. Improvements in transport solutions make it easy for motocross competitors, rally riders, and adventure trail enthusiasts to ship their bikes to events.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Use enclosed transport for valuable or competition bikes
- Prepare the bike properly prior to handing it over to transport company
- Book shipments early during peak seasons
- Use motorcycle carriers with experience in sports bike transport
The extreme sports market is growing. Shipping solutions continue to improve and evolve to meet the needs of extreme sports riders. In today’s market, motorcycle enthusiasts have more transport options than ever before to get their bikes where they need to be… Safely and on time.
Heading to a local motocross competition, an international adventure rally or any point in between. The right shipping partner will make sure the bike arrives in the best condition possible for performing.
