Motorcycle Riding with a Dog

Riding a motorcycle is a lot of fun. Spending time with your dog is also a blast. Why not do both at the same time? Plenty of riders take their furry friends alongside them on their bike and have a fun, safe ride. You can’t just put your pet in your lap while steering, so you’ll need to modify your motorcycle to ensure that everything goes smoothly. 

Luckily for you, we’ve compiled the following helpful tips for taking your dog with you on your bike! Keep reading to learn more. Then, contact our staff at North County Indian Motorcycle® for more information. We are located in San Marcos, California, and proudly serve San Diego and Oceanside too!

Tank or Tail Bags

Tank and tail bags are a great addition to your motorcycle if you plan on bringing your dog with you. These are a good option for pets that weigh 25 pounds or less. Tank and tail bags strap around the passenger backrest. This will help your dog ride securely without slipping around. You should keep the bag cover open for your furry friend to enjoy the wind in their face as you cruise through the city! There are even some models that have extra features like built-in windows, extra padding, and ventilation panels.

Backpack

A special kind of backpack is another option for carrying your pooch on your bike. Your small dog will fit into a harness that is connected to your chest or back. You can choose what works best for you, your dog, and your motorcycle.

One of the reasons to opt for a backpack is that some dogs get nervous with tail or tank bags. They may feel more comfortable up against your body since they will feel like they’re being held. Make sure they don’t try to get out of the harness!

Dog Seat or Sidecar

If your furry companion is on the larger side, a backpack isn’t going to cut it. In this case, you’ll need a special seat. Fortunately, there are custom-made dog seats that you can add to your motorcycle! Your pet will get to sit back and relax in their own seat. It is important to note that this is not the most secure setup, so a harness may be a good additional precaution. You can also use this choice for smaller dogs if you don’t want your pet on your chest or back.

Some animals, however, are too big for a dog seat. If this sounds like your travel buddy, you’ll want to add a sidecar to your bike. This is the most expensive option, but it may be the only option to bring your companion with you as you ride.

Assisting Your Pet

While you’re cruising around town, it’s important to remember that your dog should be comfortable too! Suddenly braking or changing direction can be nerve wracking for your dog. They could start sliding around, get thrown forward, or be put in another uncomfortable position. Try your best to minimize sudden movements. If your dog is happy, you’ll be happier too!

We hope this guide was helpful! At North County Indian Motorcycle®, we want you and your pooch to be safe every time you ride together. If you have any questions, feel free to call us at our San Marcos, California location, near San Diego and Oceanside. We can’t wait to help you and your furry friend with all your riding needs!