Motorcycle Riding With Your Dog

Man’s best friend should never be left out of adventures and with the proper gear and safety precautions, you’ll never have to choose between your motorcycle and your pup again. It may not be an everyday sighting, but there is definitely a fair amount of bikers who have successfully turned their pooch into the perfect riding companion. For many, though, this is uncharted territory and it might be mind-boggling trying to figure out where to begin.

At Crossroad Powersports, we’re ready to help you prepare for your first ride with your dog. Once you feel confident enough to ride with your dog, stop by our dealership in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania near Philadelphia to check out our gear! We also proudly serve Wilmington, Delaware and Deptford Township, New Jersey.

Tank or Tail Bags

If you have a smaller sized dog, about 25 lbs or less, you can consider a tank or tail bag. These bags can be easily strapped around the passenger backrest so that it doesn’t slip off. You’ll want to be sure you leave the bag cover open so your she can peek out and enjoy the breeze during the ride. If you purchase a tank or tail bag specifically designed for pets, you’ll likely have built-in windows, ventilation panels, and padding for comfort.

Backpack

Another option for transporting a small dog on your bike is a fitted harness that you can wear across your chest or back. This is a secure and comfortable way to carry your pup while you ride your motorcycle. This is a good option for dogs who enjoy being held regularly and who might be a little nervous in a tail or tank bag. The constant contact your buddy will have with you while secured in a backpack should keep them calm for the ride.

Dedicated Dog Seat or Sidecar

If you have a medium or large-sized dog who will ride with you pretty frequently, it might be worth investing in a dedicated seat for them. Some owners go as far as modifying their bikes so there’s always room for him. You can opt for a custom-made dog seat which will allow your dog to ride upright with his or her paws on your back. This can be a less secure option overall, but it can still be made to have a harness or leash for added safety. A benefit of a dog seat is that all of their weight is not hanging off your back or chest like with a backpack, which can become burdensome at times.

If your dog is too big for any of these options, you can consider adding a sidecar to your bike. This is easily the most expensive method for transporting her and they’re not easy to come by, either. It is probably the most ideal and safe way to carry a large dog safely on the road. It’s not necessary to buckle up your pet in a sidecar, but it’s always a good idea to do so anyway. Be prepared for dozens of gawkers and questions when you travel with your dog in a sidecar!

Hang on

Always consider what your best friend will be most comfortable with when it comes to riding on your motorcycle with you. There are some daredevil dogs out there who would be happy to just hang on for the ride, either in the owner’s lap or on the tank. We don’t recommend this option unless you’re fully confident in your dog’s riding ability. You’d be surprised by just how many pups are good at finding balance and hanging on to the motorcycle at their own, even speed. It’s still a smart idea to install some type of additional friction for your dog to hold onto, like grip pads.

You’re fully prepared to take your dog along on motorcycle rides going forward! It’ll be nice not to have to look back at those sad puppy dog eyes anymore. Instead, you’ll look back and see your pooch smiling from ear to ear as your new co-pilot! For more information or to see what we have in stock, stop by Crossroad Powersports in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania near Philadelphia to check out our gear! We also proudly serve Wilmington, Delaware and Deptford Township, New Jersey.