What to Know About Motorcycle Towing

Motorcycles let us feel the freedom that cars can’t give. The wind hits your face, the engine sounds loud, driving through Melbourne streets or along the Great Ocean Road—it’s a great thrill. But when your bike stops on a road or won’t start after a long trip, your joy soon turns to stress.

That’s when you need a good motorcycle tow truck.

If you’ve never had to tow your motorcycle—or even if you have—there’s stuff you need to know. Not all towing methods are the same, and simply calling any tow truck may damage your bike.

Let’s look at what you should know about towing motorcycles in Melbourne, from how it’s done and costs, to picking the right service.

Why You Shouldn’t Improvise Motorcycle Towing

You might have a friend with a truck who says, “Just put the front on the back, it’ll be fine.” But that can wreck your bike. Bikes need gentle care, strong support, and firm ties—none of which a simple pickup can make sure of.

A bike that’s not well-placed can tilt, scratch, or twist important parts like your suspension system, brake lines, or wheels. Without the right support, even minor road bumps can cause damage to parts your bike needs. Not what you want.

In an emergency, the best and safest choice is to call a professional motorcycle tow truck. These trucks are made for bikes—and the drivers know what they are doing.

Three Main Ways a Motorcycle Tow Truck Can Help You

Based on your need and the company’s tools, they can tow your bike in one of three ways. Let’s look at them.

1. Flatbed Towing

The safest way, flatbed towing is also very common. The truck comes, puts down a ramp, and your motorcycle is taken onto a flat area. The driver then uses soft straps and special spots to hold your bike firmly.

This way makes sure both wheels are off the ground, your bike is flat, and there’s no stress on the tires or suspension. It’s perfect for damaged bikes, long trips, or expensive models that you want to keep safe.

2. Two-Wheel Towing with a Trailer or Dolly

This uses a small trailer—known as a motorcycle dolly—that’s pulled by a normal tow truck or vehicle. Your bike is kept inside the trailer, normally with made-to-fit cradles and ramps.

It’s less common, but still a good choice, especially for short trips. It’s more flexible than a flatbed and still keeps the bike upright and safe.

3. Towing Cradle (Front Wheel Lift)

This is the simplest choice. Your front wheel sits in a towing cradle on the tow vehicle, and the back wheel stays on the ground. Think of it as a piggyback for your bike.

It’s fast and cheap—but only right for some bikes, mostly those with rear-wheel drive and no big damage.

What to Ask Before You Book a Motorcycle Tow Truck

Not all tow services are the same. Here’s what to check before you give them your bike:

• Do they know how to tow motorcycles?
  A basic tow truck melbourne might not have what’s needed.

• Is the truck set with soft straps and spots to hook?
  Rough hooks or chains can scratch your bike.

• Have the drivers been trained to move motorcycles?
  They must know how balance and weight distribution need careful handling.

• How fast can they get to you, and when are they available?
  If it’s late, you might need a 24-hour service that can reach you quickly.

Costs: What You Can Expect to Pay in Melbourne

Towing a motorcycle in Melbourne can cost between $100–$300, depending on how far, what time it is, and how they tow your bike.

• Base Callout Fee: About $80 to $120

• Per-Kilometre Charge: $2–$5/km

• After-Hours Surcharge: Add 10–25% if it’s late, weekend, or on a public holiday

Some places include roadside assistance in the cost, while others might charge extra if you need help with a flat battery or locked steering.

Motorcycle Towing and the Law

It might surprise you, but bad motorcycle towing isn’t just risky—it can be against the law. Moving a bike not securely, or without the right licence and tools, can lead to fines under Australian road rules.

That’s just another reason to call someone who knows what they’re doing.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Risk Your Ride

Towing a bike is not something to just try out. It needs careful balance, patience, the right tools, and much respect for your motorcycle. Whether it’s due to a mechanical failure, a crash, or just moving it, a professional motorcycle tow truck makes sure your bike gets there safely, just as it was.

So, when the road gives you trouble, now you know who to call—Maningham Towing. Whether you need a car towing melbourne service or a specialized motorcycle tow truck, help is just a phone call away.