Motorcycle Towing Cost in United States

Understanding Motorcycle Towing Costs: Key Considerations Before Towing Your Motorcycle

Experiencing a breakdown or mechanical issue while riding your motorcycle can be both frustrating and stressful. In such situations, a motorcycle tow service becomes essential for getting your bike to safety and back on the road. Understanding the costs involved, including the base rate for a motorcycle tow, and exploring options like using a flatbed tow truck can help you make informed decisions during these challenging times. Let's delve into the intricacies of motorcycle tow service costs and the advantages of utilizing a flatbed tow truck.

Understanding Motorcycle Tow Service Costs: 

The base rate for a motorcycle tow typically starts at $145 and increases based on factors such as the time of day, distance traveled, and additional equipment needed to transport the motorcycle. Emergency or after-hours assistance may incur higher fees, along with specialized equipment requirements. 

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How Motorcycle Towing Costs are determined
Type of Equipment:	If the motorcycle requires special equipment because it is in a parking garage, a wheel is missing or the keys are lost, expect to pay $50-100 more
Distance traveled:	For city towing expect to pay a base hook up fee, plus $4-7 for each additional mile.
Time of Day:	During night hours, prepare for additional fees ranging from $5 - $150 more than the average.

• Type of Tow: Whether your motorcycle has a mechanical issue or involved in an accident, the situation determines the complexity of the tow. Collisions may require road cleanup, non-standard hookups, and case-specific needs, potentially resulting in accrued storage fees if the motorcycle is totaled. Conversely, breakdowns or dead batteries usually entail simpler towing transactions to your home or nearest mechanic shop.
• Distance: The distance to be towed impacts the cost, considering the additional fuel required for longer journeys. For tows up to 100 miles, it is typical that a flatbed tow truck will transport your motorcycle.
• Time of Day: Towing costs can vary based on the time of day due to supply-and-demand dynamics. Tows during regular working hours generally incur lower expenses compared to those required in the middle of the night. Breakdowns occurring during off-peak hours, such as 3 a.m., when fewer tow truck drivers are available, often result in higher overall costs.

Motorcycle Towing Cost Per Mile

The average motorcycle towing cost per mile is approximately $4.50, spanning from $3.00 at the lower end to as high as $7 per mile at the upper end. These fees are applied according to the distance traveled.

The chart below shows the average cost of a motorcycle tow under 30 miles.

Reasons to Tow Your Motorcycle

There are countless situation that may result in your vehicle needing a towing service, but some of the most common reasons include:

• Overheating
• Damaged Wheel
• Oil / Fluid leaks
• Brake issues
• Collision damages
• Mechanical issues

In summary

Average Motorcycle Towing Cost: Across the U.S. the average motorcycle towing fee
typically stands at $150, although this amount varies based on several factors.

• Towing Cost Variables: Your final motorcycle towing bill depends on factors such as time of day, the distance traveled, and the specific type of tow truck required for the job.
• Insurance Coverage: If you've enrolled in your carrier's roadside assistance program, motorcycle towing expenses may be covered under your policy.
• Collision Tows: In the unfortunate event of a collision, the at-fault driver's liability insurance might cover the costs for your motorcycle tow.

In addition to cost per mile, other fees that you may be liable for include a fee for using a winch to free your motorcycle if you’re stuck in snow, mud or ditch.

Will insurance cover motorcycle towing?

Full- Coverage auto insurance typically does not cover motorcycle towing due to mechanical breakdowns however, there are a few ways you can still get your insurance to cover a tow.

What Roadside Assistance Covers on Motorcycles:

While not all roadside assistance programs offer identical services, most cover these
fundamental needs:

• Fuel delivery for empty tanks
• Battery jump start
• Winching services to free a stuck motorcycle
• Towing a disabled motorcycle to a repair shop

Towpal vs. AAA:

When comparing Towpal to AAA, it's important to note that Towpal prioritizes delivering prompt roadside assistance to drivers whenever they encounter emergencies on the road while AAA memberships often extend beyond auto care, offering additional services such as vehicle inspection, and unrelated perks like shopping discounts.

If your auto insurance plan is liability-only and lacks third-party roadside assistance
membership, Towpal is the best option for out-of-pocket expenses for any towing services.

Want to get an instant quote for a motorcycle towing service? Get Quote Now