How to Connect a Sidecar to a Motorcycle
by Colette McCormick
A sidecar connects to a motorcycle to allow passangers to be carried other than on the back of the bike. While attaching a sidecar is a relatively easy task, once it is fitted, it will affect the way that the motorcycle feels when being ridden, so you should drive around for a while with an empty sidecar just to get a feel for it.
Step 1
Park the motorcycle on a flat, even surface with enough space around you to be able to fit the sidecar into position.
Step 2
Make sure that the tires on the motorcycle and the sidecar are all pumped up to the same level. This is important, because you will need them to be level when they are fixed together.
Step 3
Get someone to hold the motorcycle in an upright position, and attach the sidecar brackets to the motorcycle frame.
Step 4
Lift the sidecar, and line it up with the brackets. You may need a third person to help you lift the sidecar into place.
Step 5
Make sure that the sidecar is level, and that its axle is between 8 inches and 14 inches from the axle of the rear wheel of the motorcycle.
Step 6
Straighten the wheels, making sure that all of the wheels are parallel to each other.
Step 7
Tighten up the sidecar connections, and attach any wires that came with it.
References
Tips
- Check if attaching a sidecar to your motorcycle will affect your insurance.
Things You'll Need
- Sidecar kit complete with brackets
- Wrench
Warnings
- Be careful when riding with a sidecar, especially around corners and in tight spaces.
Writer Bio
Colette McCormick started writing in 2006 and has had work published in books, newspapers and magazines. She has recently written travel articles for "My Weekly," a leading weekly magazine in the U.K. McCormick was educated in Sheffield, England and gained A levels in economics and politics.
