Trailering with 2021 DCT

[mharnack]

Do I apply e-brake when trailing motorcycle?

[GoldWingrGreg]

Sorry ... I don't currently ride a 6th gen, but I do own and operate the only GL1800 specialty repair shop in the world.

As for using the e-brake when trailering, that's a really good question. Yes, when parked, I would use the ebrake, but only under these conditions. First off, it needs adjusted correctly. When out of adjustment, and set, they barely hold the wieght of the Wing. However, if the eBrake is adjusted correclty they become far more effective. When used, be sure to pull on the eBrake handle with extra effort. Also, choose your parking spot carfully. To much slope can be an issue. If you ever question it's ability to hold, be sure to carry a small 2x4 to place under the rear tire of the Wing.

Sorry again ... I was thinking you were towing a trailer with your Wing. As for trailering your Wing, if it is properly tied down, it shouldn't matter if the eBrake is set or not.

[mharnack]

Thanks that what I was thinking if the bike is secure I shouldn't need e-brake

[GoldWingrGreg]

Here's more info. In the 2018-19 Owner's Manuals, Honda printed how to trailer a 6th gen. Apparently, in 2020-current, they've remove those instructions.

It's my opinion that a maunfature would do that only after being sued. The reality is this. There really is no "great way" to trailer a 5th and 6th gen Wing. However, here is my advise. Use a chock to stabilize front tire movement, and the more tie-down points the better. Do not use the front crash gaurds as a tie-down point.

[Rambozo]

Honda trailers them like this.

[mharnack]

Nice thanks for the pictures

[raven41951]

I use a 6x12' van (enclosed) trailer with a permanently mounted wheel chock and four tie down rings. On the front I use two straps on each side over the steering head (which used to be triple tree). The reason I use an extra on each side is as a back up in case one fails. I use two on the rear tire just above the trailer floor which go out perpendicular to the tie down rings. I do use it parking break and I adjust it several times per year (see note). I used this with my '16 wing and now my '21 DCT from Massachusetts to Florida and back with no issues as yet. The reason for the enclosed trailer is for protection and security. I stop after 12 hours and stay in a hotel and the trailer is locked and its connection to my F350 is locked as well and it's handy/safe to have clean and dry gear (ratchet straps!) when unloading after a 1400 mile trip. I choose a room on the ground floor and park it outside the door (or as close as possible with the trailer attached). And before you ask why a 1 ton turbo diesel, I also trailer a Toy Hauler travel trailer but I no longer take it to Florida because I now have a permanent residence there where I spend 7 months.

Note: I recently installed a parking brake interlock made by Electrical connection and purchased from Cycle Max. This unit basically ties the parking brake switch to the kick stand interlock, thus if either the side stand OR the parking brake are "engaged", the DCT will not go into gear and the warning light on the dash is illuminated. A really nice feature that Honda should have included. EC also make a nice set of puddle lights (also available from CM) which may seem overkill but its really nice to have some light when I walk up to the bike using the braille method to find switches and stuff. Sorry about droning on.