Roadside Assistance
Most motorcyclists are very meticulous about the maintenance of their ride. The consequences of a breakdown on a motorcycle can be more serious than with an automobile. Still, motorcycles are machines and breakdowns happen. It is at those times when having someone to call for help is most beneficial.
Many motorcycle manufacturers offer roadside assistance plans through their owners clubs. Honda for example, provides roadside assistance through their Honda Rider's Club of America (HRCA). HRCA's plan includes towing to the nearest Honda dealer, regardless of distance in the United States, Canada and Mexico through the services of more than 45,000 providers. Harley-Davidson and other manufacturers offer similar programs.
In addition to owner's clubs, there are independent roadside assistance programs. AMA's MoTow service is one of the largest and best known. Available to AMA member for only $25, you receive towing up to 35 miles, emergency fuel delivery, and other services via a 24 hour 800 number.
Another independent service is the aptly-named Motorcycle Towing Service. Founded in 1987 by a motorcyclist, MTS provides roadside service and towing for all brands of motorcycles. Various plans are available that include roadside assistance, towing, key replacement and other services.
A relative newcomer, and more of a service locater tool than roadside assistance provider, is MotorcycleRoadside.com. Powered by towSearch.com, MotorcycleRoadside aims to be a directory of towing and roadside assistance providers that are qualified to serve the unique needs of motorcyclists.
The cost of a roadside assistance/towing plan will be recovered with the first incident. In addition, you have the comfort of knowing that your bike will be towed by someone with the right equipment and skill. Like any form of insurance, you hope that you will never need it but when you do, you are very glad to have it.
John Davis is a rider and writer. His current ride is Victoria, a candy red Honda VTX1800 Retro. John writes for several web sites and blogs in addition to his own site, NorthwestCycleReport.
