After checking out trailer rentals costs and the crap their pushing, I decided to look into a Utility trailer. My son-in-law who does not own a bike said he go in half for hauling what ever which is good as I only plan on using it at most once a year. After measuring my Fatboy it appears to be about 8 ft. long. Has anyone used a 4x8 trailer for hauling a Harley. If so, were you able to haul it with the tailgate on or do I need to go with a 5x9 trailer. The problem with the 5x9 is there are not many used ones to choose from. Most are 4x8s.

 

I went with a 5X9 for my Fayboy, whcih is 94 1/2" overall length. the 5X8 I was looking at wasn't a full 8ft long inside. it didn't allow enough room for the wheel chock before the rear fender was in the ramp. I wouldn't consider a trailer without a ramp.

 

Get as big a trailer as you can. I have dealt with tilt trailers, small trailers, and big trailers. The hassle is simply not worth it for a tilt, that's a damned nightmare. I've also dealt with smaller trailers, a 4x8" isn't going to work. I would go with a 5x10, with wheels on the outside, not directly under the trailer. That means it's lower, and you don't have to fight it up onto the trailer.

 

Some 4x8's can be pretty light duty. Be sure it's up to the miles you plan to use it for. And if you have a choice between a mesh and solid bed, go with solid. Or at least put some plywood under the wheels. Mesh flexes when you hit bumps, and I've seen bikes actually break through.

 

I used an enclosed 4/8 trailer for my Heritage several times. I had to take the windshield off to get in the doors though. Made my own ramps from 2 by 12's. The doors closed with a couple of inches to spare. I could haul my bike and all of my camping gear while keeping it all dry. The trailer was a little heavy but it towed real well.

 

I was in the same position as you I should have bought a utility trailer that was big enough to use for bike and moving other stuff throughout the year. Could have made friends and family happy by lending it to them too. Instead, I bought a dedicated m/c trailer. It works well, but only used it once. IMHO, go with utility trailer that has high walls for more theft resistance and utility. Even better, used enclosed trailer. Good luck.

 

I have a Big Tex 5 x 9 wasn't to bad on the price and trailers behind the car really well. Add a wheel chock from Harbor Freights and perfect for any bike.
I had a friend weld six extra rings around it for tie downs. Can also hang 4 x 8 sheets of plywood or 2x4x8 studs for those home projects.

http://www.bigtextrailers.com/trailers/single_axle.html

 

around my neck of the woods a 6x12 seems to be the trailer of choice.

 

I have a 5x8 enclosed I haul my Ultra in. It takes it all but it fits. I didn't want to pull more trailer than I needed. Alot of 4X8 trailers are lighter weight.

 

If you live any where close to Knoxville Tn, I have a 5x9 heavy duty lightweight enclosed for sale, $1000. It is on Craig list.