How to Pick the Right Quad Trailer

Selecting the correct quad trailer for your needs is a complicated task. Often ATV owners underestimate the size of trailer they need. Consider all the options along with your needs before you purchase.

For those who intend on transporting their quads once or twice a year, rental is sufficient. But most ATV owners enjoy going places other than their own backyard. To transport these vehicles to the desired location, proper trailer is needed. The size and number of bikes you have determines the best choice of trailer.

All-terrain quads vary significantly in weight. They can weigh anywhere from 300 pounds to nearly half a ton. The weight of your ATV is important when considering the capacity of the trailer and the vehicle hauling the trailer. The dimensions of ATVs also vary. Carefully measure each vehicle you intend to haul before making a purchase. Guesswork only causes aggravation.

Trucks or vans that have enough room for one ATV are convenient. One quad fits in the back of most trucks and some vans. However, purchase a second ATV and things change. What if someone wants to come along for the ride? Though you don't own multiple ATVs yourself, often you'll be wishing you had the bigger trailer.

Single unit ATV trailers do come in a variety of sizes. Small tilt ATV haulers with ramps fit most hitches and fulfill basic hauling needs. Do-it-yourselfers can enjoy kit trailers that you build yourself for a reduced price. The dimensions are 4' or 5' by 8' and have a weight limit of less than 1,000 pounds. Swivel wheel trailers, often used with SUV's, reduce tongue weight and also the chance of jack knifing. However, these often have a lower weight limit than larger trailers.

If you have only one bike presently, you will likely buy another one down the road. Think long term about the future of your quad trailer. It is inconvenient to sell what you already have to purchase a new trailer. This would be necessary to accommodate extra bikes only a year or two later. Make sure you are making the most realistic investment.

Multiple capacity trailers accommodate different configurations of quad vehicles. The dimensions of the trailer determine whether the ATVs will sit end to end or side by side. Double ATV trailers have an open construction and are built to handle two ATVs. Look closely at the construction of these trailers. Double haulers may not fit two fully sized ATVs. Smaller tires can sometimes indicate a weaker construction. Make sure you get the best quality for you money.

Triple and quadruple ATV trailers are designed to haul three to four ATVs. These open rack trailers are sufficient for most quad devotees. Triple ATV trailers measure around 7' by 12' or 8' by 13', and cost a couple thousand dollars or more. Quadruple quad trailers are a bit larger and follow closely in price.

Enclosed quad trailers are much larger and more expensive than some of the other options for ATV transport. However, the extra protection and comfort are worth the expense. These easily contain several all-terrain vehicles along with maintenance equipment. Available enclosed trailers range from single axle trailers for smaller tow jobs to nearly 40 feet. Enclosed trailers protect your vehicles from the weather during transport so they are ride-ready on arrival.

Recreational enthusiasts have the option of RVs with extra hauling space for ATVs in the back compartment. These are called toy haulers and can run anywhere from ten grand to upwards of $60,000. While a double or quadruple trailer will suffice for most people, this particular option provides an all-inclusive option.