The right kayak trailer can transform a motorcycle trip into a versatile water-adventure setup. This guide focuses on trailers that are designed for maneuverability, durability, and submersible performance, making them suitable for light-to-midweight kayak transport. Below, five Malone trailers that balance capacity, ease of use, and durability are highlighted, along with a practical buying guide to help you compare options for motorcycle towing.
| Product | Capacity | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Malone MPG586XV EcoLight 2 | 400 lbs | Two 14′ kayaks; fully submersible; marine-grade build |
| Malone MPG586XB EcoLight 1 | 400 lbs | Single bunk carrier; fully submersible; ready for two-up loads if needed |
| Malone MPG462G2 MicroSport 4 | 800 lbs | Four kayaks; wide frame; includes 4 carriers |
| Malone MPG586XL EcoLight 4 | 400 lbs | Four kayaks; submersible; subassemblies simplify setup |
| Malone MPG460G MicroSport Kayak Trailer | 800 lbs | High capacity; submersible; 78″ load bars |
Note: All five options listed here are Malone designs known for marine-grade construction and submersibility. When choosing for a motorcycle tow, consider hitch compatibility, load distribution, and storage options for your gear and watercraft.
Malone MPG586XV EcoLight 2 Kayak Trailer
The EcoLight 2 model supports up to two 14′ kayaks with a combined load capacity of 400 lbs. It features large pontoon wheels with marine-grade sealed bearings for submersible use and includes a plug-and-play submersible LED light kit for night or low-light hauling. This trailer is designed with a marine-grade galvanized steel frame for durability in outdoor use, making it a strong match for motorcycle towing where stability and weather resistance matter.
Malone MPG586XB EcoLight 1 Kayak Trailer
This EcoLight variant is built for a single kayak up to 14′ in length, with a 400 lbs capacity and fully submersible features. The oversized pontoon wheels and marine-grade sealed bearings are designed to handle challenging beach or river launches, while the LED light kit helps with visibility when transporting at dawn or dusk. The 14′ models maintain a compact footprint for easy towing behind a motorcycle with the right hitch configuration.
Malone MPG462G2 MicroSport 4 Kayak Trailer
The MicroSport 4 trailer has a wide 78″ cross-rail width and a length of 159″, enabling multiple kayak configurations. It comes with four Malone FoldAway-J kayak carriers and can handle up to 4 kayaks or 800 lbs total. Built from marine-grade pre-galvanized steel, it is designed for durability in outdoor environments and is compatible with a range of kayak attachments for diverse setups when traveling by motorcycle.
Malone MPG586XL EcoLight 4 Kayak Trailer
The EcoLight XL model is designed to carry up to four 14′ kayaks with a total load of 400 lbs. Like its EcoLight siblings, it is fully submersible and uses marine-grade galvanized steel. The model includes a plug-and-play submersible LED light kit for safer transport in low-light conditions and shares a design philosophy aimed at simple setup and reliable towing behind smaller vehicles or motorcycles with appropriate hitch support.
Malone MPG460G MicroSport Kayak Trailer
The MicroSport is a robust option with up to 800 lbs capacity and 20′ length suitability. It features 78″ load bars and submersible capabilities, including a Plug & Play Submersible LED Light Kit. This model offers versatility for larger kayak configurations or when carrying extra gear in the trailer’s layout, which can be attractive for motorcycle-towed trips that require more gear or multiple watercraft.
Buying Guide
When choosing a kayak trailer to tow behind a motorcycle, consider these essentials:
- Compatibility with your motorcycle hitch: Confirm hitch classes, tongue weight limits, and mounting options to ensure safe towing. Some trailers are designed for lighter bikes, others for a broader range; verify whether a hitch adapter or class-specific install is needed.
- Load capacity and balance: Match capacity to the anticipated total weight of kayaks and gear. Distribute weight evenly to avoid trailer sway and to maintain motorcycle control on bends or rapid changes in terrain.
- Waterproof and corrosion resistance: Marine-grade galvanized steel or sealed bearings help withstand exposure to water and salt, increasing lifespan in outdoor environments.
- Submersible lighting: Plug-and-play LED lighting simplifies visibility, especially for night loading and trailering. Ensure lights are compliant with local regulations for trailer lighting.
- Attachment compatibility: Check whether the trailer uses standard kayak carriers (J-Racks, bunk systems, or stackers) and whether additional carriers are needed for your setup.
- Storage and portability: Some trailers fold or disassemble for easier storage when not in use. Consider how often you’ll transport and store the trailer at home or on the road.
- Maintenance and warranty: Look for multi-year warranties and parts availability (axles, bearings, carriers). A longer warranty can indicate durable construction.
- Security features: A locking mechanism or cable lock can help deter theft when parking trailers at campsites or far from home.
Operational considerations
- Practice loading with a partner to manage balance and prevent tipping when mounting boats onto the trailer.
- Check tire pressure and axle bolts before trips; inspect hitch connections after long drives or rough terrain.
- Plan routes with fewer sharp turns and higher speeds; trailer stability is influenced by speed and road conditions.