Congratulations on choosing a motorcycle with sidecar for your next adventure! You will be joining a unique group of riders with interesting historic and cultural backgrounds.

But how do you choose a motorcycle sidecar that works for you? The choices on a sidecar setup are as varied as motorcycle choices. It all comes down to the major ‘WH’ questions: who, what, where, why, and how? Start with these key areas and you will be able to put together the best sidecar option for your planned getaway and riding style.

Who will ride with you?

When you jump on your motorcycle with sidecar, who will be riding with you? Are you taking your favorite pet? Will a person be riding in your sidecar? Will your motorcycle sidecar be for extra gear?

Knowing who is going with you will determine the size of the sidecar you need to get. If you will only be transporting gear, then you don’t need a padded, comfortable sidecar. If you will have someone riding with you, you may want one with a windshield. Depending on the temperature of the riding areas, you may even want one with a cover over the sidecar.

What terms will you need to know?

When you are ready to zone in on the motorcycle sidecar you want, you will need to know a few industry words to get you started. This will help you describe what you are looking for when you pick out your sidecar.

• Rig – The combination of the motorcycle and the sidecar; also known as "outfit" or "hack" depending on the region.
• Sidecar – The one-wheeled device attached to the side of a motorcycle. The term is sometimes expanded to include the entire rig.
• Mule – The motorcycle attached to the sidecar.
• Monkey – The passenger in the sidecar.
• Toe-In – The distance your sidecar is moved toward or away from your motorcycle to reduce pull.
• Mounting System – The parts used to connect your sidecar to your motorcycle.  (By the way, a "Universal Mounting Kit" is never universal; experienced work always needs to be done to make the kits work).

Don’t get too concerned about the terms. You don’t have to learn anything if you don’t want to – you can just ride and enjoy. But some believe part of the ride is the fun in learning, so do your research if you're curious.

Where will you ride?

Are you planning on being the next sidecar racer? Will you be tootling down backroads across the United States? Or will you be an interstate rider, just getting to your next destination?

Sidecars come with all kinds of riding options, just like motorcycles. There are dirt bikes for off-roading, ultra-glides for highways, and touring bikes for long-distance riding. If you're planning a trip and looking to rent a sidecar, you are probably already set to go because you will be renting a sidecar that is already set up for the riding you will do in that destination. The toe-in on your rig is adjusted to the type of riding you do. In addition, tire selection is important to the roads just like a motorcycle. So, decide where you will be riding and what type of riding you'll be doing first.

Why do you want a motorcycle sidecar?

If this is the first time you will ride with a sidecar, then you want to consider why you are choosing to have one. Is it because you have a disability and have back problems or leg complications? Do you have problem balancing or no upper body strength? Be sure to make these reasons a priority when choosing the sidecar that works for you. Some sidecars come with dampeners making for a smoother ride. Some have reverse brakes or even sidecar brakes which will make it easier to get in and out of spots without using your legs to back up. 

How will you bring it all together?

Now that you have done a little research and you know why you are looking at sidecars, make a list of the features you need and rank them in priority. Some will be required while others will just be nice-to-have.  Reviewing these features when you rent or buy will help you get the sidecar that matches your personality, needs, and riding style.

TIP: If you have not ridden a motorcycle with sidecar before, they are easy to pick up. But, always take the sidecar to a parking lot and practice a few times before heading out onto the open road. And be sure to spend a little while talking with the sidecar owner about the unique features and modifications available on your new motorcycle sidecar ride before you head out.

Fly Right my Friends!

Always wanted to rent a sidecar? Good news! Twisted Road has some pretty sweet ones for you and a friend to take a ride on. Check them out here!