Can a Kendon trailer handle an LT and K1200S?

[leshenits215]

I have a dual rail Kendon trailer which I've used successfully in the past for a GS and RT. Now I have an LT and a brand new K1200S. I need to trailer them to Denver in July for a 2 week trip out West.

I haven't tried to load the LT onto the Kendon. The K12S is light and easy.

Does anyone know how well the LT and K12S will fit on the Kendon?

Thanks,

Les
Stroudsburg, PA

[DavidTaylor]

I guess the first question would be - what are the specs for the trailer (gross weight, max load, max tongue weight, etc.). If the 2 bikes true curb weight (don't use the dry wight from the spec sheets, and include any stuff you plan to store on the bikes while hauling them) don't exceed the specs, then you're getting into the ballpark. After that its the physical ability of the two bikes to exist on the trailer (said another way, they don't bang into each other and/or can be loaded on there at the same time). A tape measure and a test load can tell you a lot about that. Also be sure to check the rails are long enough for these bikes. The LT is certainly longer that your previous two bikes.

[leshenits215]

The weight, specs, etc... is all fine. I was just concerned about the bikes fitting side by side. I can measure it, but was wondering if anyone out there in Forum Land had actually tried an LT with another bike on a Kendon trailer.

[messenger13]

Once you find out whether that trailer will (or won't) hold the 1500 pounds, you may also want to consider what's the best way to distribute the weight evenly. You may need to put 200-300 pounds of additional cargo on the side of the 'S'. Now you're up around 1800 pounds.

[leshenits215]

The trailer is rated at 2,000 lbs. And it can carry only one bike if necessary because of the torsion axles or whatever they're called. I've done that without a problem. So it won't need any ballast on the lighter side. The LT is about 850 and the K1200S about 550 tops, so thats a total of 1,400 lbs, well under the maximum limit.
The Kendon was designed to carry two full Harley dressers. My only issue is the fit of the two bikes side by side. I can measure them and figure it out, or one fine weekend load the LT and try putting the S next to it. I'm sure they'll both fit. Two LTs would probably be another story. But the S bike is pretty narrow all around. At worst, I can remove the LTs mirrors. The back end is no problem, since the S is very narrow in the bike. Or if they do touch up front side by side, I can load the S in backwards (removing the shield, and closing the muffler and other things.

[messenger13]

What about backing the 'S' onto the trailer?

[tnk12lt]

I can get the LT and the Monster on mine with no problem. The S is probably a little wider than the Monster but I don't think you'll have a problem. Just get some hands to help guide the LT into place. It's not a one man job like the Monster.

[leshenits215]

Yes, the S is pretty narrow all around, especially in the rear. At worst, it would go in backwards. The widest part of the S is the front handle bars. The rest of the bike is remarkably slim all around. I'll have to give it a try just so I don't have to worry till the trip in July.

[leshenits215]

I have the older dual rail model. I would imagine they are similar in size, but I'll check to be sure.
Take care,
Les,

[bruce2000ltc]

I've seen photo's of Kendon trailers where the tongue failed because of the weight of two heavy bikes. The tongue bends and the front of the trailer drags and digs into the ground.
I'd check with Kendon and see what the recommended tongue weight is and be sure it's not exceeded.

Bruce Hodges

[Londonlad]

I have an early model Kendon 2-bike trailer. I have trailered 2 H-D Ultra Classics with no problems. One time it was in excess of 500 miles. I think you will be just fine with your 2 bikes. You might want to consider securing the front wheels to the rail for some extra security (peace of mind) although I never did that and it worked out ok. Cheers.
Bill

[bruce2000ltc]

Heres the photo of the Kendon trailer failure.

http://www.bmwlt.net/ubbthreads/downloadattachments.php?attach_id=6194?Cat=

Bruce Hodges

[murray]

Heres the photo of the Kendon trailer failure.

http://www.bmwlt.net/ubbthreads/downloadattachments.php?attach_id=6194?Cat=

Bruce Hodges
That trailer sure looks flimsy. I dont think I would put my LT on it.
Good luck be careful

[jayjacobson]

Heres the photo of the Kendon trailer failure.Bruce Hodges
WOW! Was the trailer tongue overloaded or was a design flaw responsible?

[96rt]

Is that a "real" Kendon or a fake chinese knockoff?

Ken

[atrovarious]

The trailer is covered by a limited warranty for one year on the frame and two years on the axle.
Not very impressive. I would certainly be beefing up the tongue.

[jimtoz]

I have the Kendon double trailer and the LT fits on it just fine.