Tips for Safely Towing Your Can Am Spyder Motorcycle

Is It Possible to Tow a Can Am Spyder?

The Can Am Spyder is a unique three-wheeled motorcycle that offers an open-air riding experience unlike any other vehicle. With its Y-shaped frame and two front wheels, the Spyder provides excellent stability and handling on the road. However, this unique design also raises questions about how to transport or tow the Spyder if needed.

Can You Tow a Can Am Spyder on a Trailer?

The recommended way to tow a Can Am Spyder is on a trailer designed to haul motorcycles or other three-wheeled vehicles. Most motorcycle trailers have wheel chocks and tie-down straps to secure the Spyder in place during transport. This is the safest and most secure method for towing a Spyder long distances.

When loading the Spyder onto the trailer, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Center the Spyder's wheels in the chocks and ensure the vehicle is balanced. Attach the tie-down straps securely to prevent any shifting or movement during towing.

Always inspect the trailer's tire pressure, wheel bearings, lights, and hitch connection before towing. Make sure you abide by the trailer's tow rating weight capacity and tongue weight limits based on the Spyder model you are hauling.

Using a Tow Dolly to Transport a Can Am Spyder

Another option for towing a Spyder is using a tow dolly. A tow dolly lifts the front wheels of the Spyder off the ground and allows the rear wheel to roll freely behind the tow vehicle.

When using a tow dolly, the Spyder must be in gear with the parking brake released. This allows the rear wheel to spin freely while the front end is lifted and secured to the dolly. Always follow the dolly manufacturer's instructions for proper loading and tie-down procedures.

The advantage of a tow dolly is that the Spyder can be towed without having to load it onto a trailer. However, the Spyder will need to be properly balanced and centered on the dolly to prevent tipping or shifting. Tow dollies also tend to be less stable at highway speeds compared to an enclosed trailer.

Towing a Can Am Spyder with Wheels on the Ground

It is strongly advised against towing a Can Am Spyder with all three wheels rolling on the pavement. The Spyder's unique handling depends on having the front wheels connected to the steering mechanism. If the front wheels are on the ground during towing but not connected to the steering, it can cause serious instability, fishtailing, and potential loss of control.

Additionally, towing a Spyder with the rear drive wheel on the ground can potentially damage the transmission if it spins faster than the designed road speeds. The Spyder transmission was not built to withstand the forces of being towed for long distances while driving the rear wheel.

Overall, towing a Spyder on a trailer or tow dolly is highly recommended over any method that leaves all three wheels on the pavement during transport.

Preparing Your Can Am Spyder for Towing

Items Needed for Towing

Before towing your Spyder, make sure you have the following equipment:

• Tow dolly or trailer suitable for a three-wheeled motorcycle
• Ratchet tie-down straps rated for at least 1,500 lbs
• Wheel chocks for the trailer or dolly
• Safety chains for attaching the trailer or dolly to the tow vehicle
• Locking pin for the steering column
• Wheel lift towing attachment (if wheel lift towing)

Steps to Prepare Your Spyder for Towing

Follow these steps before towing your Can Am Spyder:

1. Turn the vehicle electronics off and remove the key.
2. Set the parking brake.
3. For manual transmission models, shift into first gear.
4. Secure the front wheel chocks on the trailer or dolly.
5. Carefully roll or winch the Spyder onto the trailer or dolly.
6. Center and balance the Spyder's weight on the hauling equipment.
7. Lock the steering column using the provided locking pin.
8. Attach tie-down straps securely over the Spyder's frame, wheels, and handlebars.
9. Connect safety chains and light plugs for the trailer or dolly.

Your Spyder is now ready for safe towing. Always drive cautiously and obey posted speed limits when towing a Spyder. Avoid sudden stops or starts, and maintain safe braking distances.

Tips for Towing a Can Am Spyder

Picking a Tow Vehicle

When picking a tow vehicle for hauling your Spyder, make sure it has an appropriate tow rating for the weight. A full-size SUV, van, or pickup truck is best suited for the job. The vehicle should have a hitch designed for towing motorcycles or other recreational equipment.

Loading the Trailer Properly

Be careful when loading the Spyder onto a trailer. Use metal ramps secured to the trailer rather than wooden boards. Have an assistant help push the Spyder up the ramps. Center the Spyder's weight over the trailer axles for better stability.

Tying Down Securely

Use heavy duty ratchet straps at least 1,500 lb test to tie down the Spyder over the wheels, frame, handlebars, and seat. This keeps the Spyder from bouncing or swaying during transport. Double check all connections before towing.

Watching Your Speed

Avoid exceeding 55-60 mph when towing a Spyder on an open trailer. Higher speeds can cause instability. Be sure to obey all posted speed limits. Slow down if encountering crosswinds or inclement weather when towing.

Allowing Extra Braking Distance

Increase your braking distance when towing extra weight. Sudden braking can cause the trailer to sway or skid, especially on wet roads. Watch well ahead for slowed traffic to give yourself plenty of stopping time.

Checking Tires and Lights

Examine the tire condition, pressure, wheel bearings, and trailer light operation before each tow. Replace worn parts and inflate tires as needed. Properly working trailer lights are critical for safety during transport.

Towing a Can Am Spyder properly requires the right equipment and careful technique. But with a suitable trailer or tow dolly, and careful preparation, you can transport your Spyder securely to any destination.

FAQs

Can I tow my Spyder using a wheel lift tow truck?

Yes, you can use a wheel lift tow truck to tow a Spyder. The front wheels will be lifted and secured on the tow truck's platform, while the rear wheel rests on the ground. This method is not ideal for long distances since the rear transmission will still be turning.

What size trailer do I need to tow a Spyder?

You'll want a trailer that is around 8 to 10 feet long and has a ramp for loading the Spyder. Motorcycle trailers and small enclosed trailers typically work well. Just ensure it has a sufficient tow rating for the Spyder's weight.

Do I need to disconnect the Spyder's battery when towing?

It's a good idea to disconnect the negative battery cable before towing to prevent any parasitic drain on the battery. Make sure to reconnect it once you reach your destination before operating the Spyder.

Can I flat tow a Spyder behind an RV?

Flat towing a Spyder with all wheels on the ground is strongly discouraged. It can damage the transmission and make the vehicle unstable. Use a trailer or dolly specifically made for towing motorcycles.

What tie-downs should I use when towing a Spyder?

Use heavy duty ratchet straps with a minimum 1,500 lb test rating. Nylon straps with cam buckle systems are not secure enough for towing. Attach straps over the wheels, frame, handlebars, and seat for maximum security.