Motorcycle Towing in London, Ontario: Everything You Need to Know
Whether you're cruising through Byron, heading out toward Masonville, or navigating the busy lanes of Hyde Park, there's nothing quite like the freedom of being on two wheels in London, Ontario. But as any rider knows, bikes are machines—and machines occasionally break down. Or maybe you've just picked up a new project bike in Lambeth and need a safe way to get it home.
Motorcycle towing isn't the same as towing a car. It requires specialized equipment, a gentle touch, and an understanding of how to secure a bike without damaging its frame, fairings, or suspension. In this guide, we'll cover what you need to look for when you need a tow and answer the most common questions London riders have.
How do you tow a motorcycle safely?
Towing a motorcycle safely is all about the equipment and the technique. Unlike a car, which has four stable points of contact, a motorcycle is inherently unstable when not in motion.
The best way to tow a bike is using a flatbed tow truck or a specialized motorcycle trailer. The bike should be rolled onto the platform and secured using high-quality soft straps. These straps are looped around stable points like the triple tree or the frame—never the handlebars, as they aren't designed to take that kind of tension.
At Em's Towing, we use wheel chocks to keep the front tire straight and compressed just enough to keep the bike upright without blowing out your fork seals. Whether we're picking you up on Westmount or off the shoulder of Hwy 3, we treat your bike like it's our own.
Can a motorcycle be towed by a normal tow truck?
The short answer is yes, but with a big "if." A standard hook-and-chain truck should never be used for a motorcycle; it will almost certainly cause structural damage. A wheel-lift truck can sometimes be used with a specialized motorcycle cradle, but the gold standard remains the flatbed.
If you call a towing company, always specify that you have a motorcycle. This ensures they send a driver with the right gear and experience. If they show up with just a dolly and some rope, send them away. Your bike deserves better.
How much does it cost to tow a motorcycle in London, Ontario?
Pricing for motorcycle towing usually starts with a base hook-up fee plus a per-kilometer rate. Because it requires more careful securement than a car, some companies charge a slight premium for the specialized handling.
In the London area—from the 401/402 split up to the northern reaches of Masonville—you can generally expect to pay a competitive rate that reflects the expertise required. If you're stuck and need an immediate quote, you can always reach us at (226) 476-4176.
What should I do if my bike breaks down on the highway?
Breaking down on Highway 401 or 402 is a high-stress situation for any motorist, but especially for riders. Your first priority is safety.
- Get to the shoulder: Move as far right as possible.
- Dismount on the safe side: Always get off the bike on the side away from traffic.
- Gear up: Stay in your helmet and high-viz gear if you have it. You are much harder to see standing still than you are moving.
- Call for help: Contact a highway recovery specialist who understands the urgency of highway calls.
Local Expertise You Can Trust
We've been serving the London community for years, from the quiet streets of White Oaks to the rural roads out toward St. Thomas and Woodstock. We know the local shortcuts and the trouble spots where bikes often encounter issues.
If you're facing a battery boost situation after a long winter in storage, or if you've found yourself locked out of your gear compartment, we've got the tools to help.
For more answers to common towing questions, feel free to check out our FAQ page.
Need a Lift? Call Em's Towing
Whether you're a daily commuter or a weekend warrior, keep our number in your phone. We're ready to help get you and your bike back to safety.
Call us 24/7 at (226) 476-4176