This may sound a bit daft but...

[L]

Has anyone installed a tow bar to a GS before?

The reason I ask is because I have a jetski stashed near Portsmouth which I'd like to use more, but can't face the regular traffic jams to and from my house at pretty much any time. If I could "nip" down on the bike, I wouldn't worry about the traffic and I'd go jetskiing!

Of course I'd prefer the tow bar to be completely removable for the rest of the week!!

Any suggestions anyone?

L

 

[(RIP) Shenzi]

Any suggestions anyone?

L

Yep, bring it down here and I will store it in my garage I will even give it the odd run for you
You could use it 9 months of the year on the lagoon or take it out to sea as you chose!

 

[Gilson]

I remember a RIDE magazine article on trailers for bikes and this one guy would make one for you that attaches, relatively easily to the rear spindle. This was on a ZZR 1100 I think but might be more difficult on a GS as only one swing arm...

Mind you, it wasn't for a jetski as you would need a large trailer with a strong attachment.

Ultimately, where could you attach it to? The rack?

Thinking about it you are right, it is daft!!!!

 

[Blowzorn]

I don't think it's daft at all.
Have been toying with a similar idea meself, only I wanna tow my sports bike to track days.

 

[trotsky]

I wanna tow my sports bike to track days.

I want to watch the first time you go round a tight corner

I tried a trailer on a pushbike a few years ago and even with a universal joint (which was possible at pushbike speeds and moment arms) it was fine in a straight line but took corners like Princess Grace of Monaco. Any weight on it had a tendency to pull at the back wheel too, which gave odd sensations with the gyroscope effect (Eulers andgles and all that bollox meaning that forces went in odd directions.

 

[L]

jetski size

The jetski is a stand up 650cc. Not particularly heavy, so I don't think that's the biggest issue. I've seen bikes with trailors before - including RT's but never paid any attention to the towbar!!

I've heard that towing with one is very strange, but as it wouldn't be far, I think I could cope!!

 

[Taipan]

Gold Wings have them. GT550s have them. I've seen other bikes with them, including BMWs. They cost £120 and are available from here http://www.f2motorcycles.ltd.uk/trailers.html

I've seen other places too. My mate made one up himslef for an NTV!

 

[L]

well..

according to that site, you can only tow 150Kg of weight (or upto 2/3 of the bike weight), which I reckon is just under the weight of a jetski.

Probably not worth the risk then... I know what the coppers are like on the South Coast during the summer!

Anyone know of anyone nearer than France where I can leave the ski ? ))

 

[ag1s]

I saw germans towing jetski's in greece on their GS's a couple of years ago, but didn't pay much attention to the nitty gritty....so it can be done!

I don't think it's daft at all.
Have been toying with a similar idea meself, only I wanna tow my sports bike to track days.

 

[Deleted account W]

Try these people...

Motorcycle Luggage Trailers
Northwick Business Ctr, Blockley, Glos GL56 9RF
Tel: 01386 700907
FAX: 01386 700738
Internet: [email protected]

Tow bar web site here

 

[flooky]

i dont think its daft either........i would tow my trials bike then cathy could keep the car and not moan at me.

 

[Jockser]

Doesn't sound that daft at all - my old man used to tow a caravan behind a Norton in the '50's

Admittedly it was one he built himself & it looked sorta 'kiddie size' but he used to go off touring ( with my ma I think )

Well before my time but I know he has a photo somewhere - will try & get it when he gets back from his fishing trip.

 

[P.J.]

Insurance

Do not forgot to inform your insurer ? ? ?

 

[Gas'd Off]

Travelling in the States I saw more bikes pulling trailers than without!
Go for it , I sure would be very interested to hear more about someone rigging a GS to tow stuff.