TheSamba.com :: View topic

Fri Dec 03, 2010 12:45 pm

So I came across this picture:

And was wondering if anyone has put a full size dirtbike inside a WESTY camper facing forward with the forks between the front seat. Seem like it would be a tight squeeze, but possibly do-able?

Bike dimensions:
Seat height: 35.0 inches
Overall height: 46.7 inches
Overall length: 87.4 inches
Overall width: 34.3 inches
Ground clearance: 11.8 inches
Wheelbase: 57.5 inches

My van is on blocks right now awaiting tires otherwise I would test this theory by trying.

Fri Dec 03, 2010 12:55 pm

Is that part of the necessary tools, spare parts to carry with you on long trips :lol:

Fri Dec 03, 2010 12:57 pm

I've done it. It's dirty.

A better way to go is to build a rack that slides into the holes where the bumper mounts go. You can secure it with bolts the same way as the bumper mounts attach. We built a couple of racks out of square tubing. If you make the part that slides in about two feet long you can cantilever the weight of the bike.

Fri Dec 03, 2010 12:58 pm

Just thinking out loud :P . It would eliminate the need for a trailer or new bumpers for a trailer hitch holder. I don't mind having it in there just for travel times and you obviously wouldn't do heavy offroad with it inside.

Fri Dec 03, 2010 1:09 pm

i really don't think it's possible with your kitchen in place. if it is, you will mostly likely damage something making it possible :)

i've done like the picture shows in a GL with no middle seat and a little dirt bike (kawi super sherpa). i removed the forks/front end to make it fit better. i can't even imagine getting a full size dirt bike in.

get a rack or trailer. or do what i do, when i go dirt biking with just my van i rent, uhaul bike trailers are like $15 a day.

Fri Dec 03, 2010 1:19 pm

I have a couple pairs of the old 60's motorcycle bumper mounts here...

Fri Dec 03, 2010 1:58 pm

werksberg wrote: I have a couple pairs of the old 60's motorcycle bumper mounts here...

What do they look like? Lets see them.

Fri Dec 03, 2010 2:11 pm

vwlovr wrote: get a rack or trailer. or do what i do, when i go dirt biking with just my van i rent, uhaul bike trailers are like $15 a day. Gotta get a trailer hitch for that...

As for the motorcycle mounts in bumper mounts, can you post up pics? PM a price if they are for sale? :)

Fri Dec 03, 2010 2:20 pm

I put a trials bike with the front wheel between the front seats. It fit fine. A larger dirt bike could be a problem.

Fri Dec 03, 2010 3:15 pm

Or you could do this...

Fri Dec 03, 2010 3:20 pm

No way. My DH mountain bike fit, but it was tight and I wouldn't want to drive with it. Trying to muscle a 200#+ moto in there would be hell on your interior.

Fri Dec 03, 2010 3:20 pm

The whole idea is to avoid having to modify the van either with a hitch or a trailer or bumper.

I've also seen these (my dad used them younger)

Wouldn't I have to remove my chain to do this? EDIT: No, I don't have to remove the chain.

Fri Dec 03, 2010 6:10 pm

drove the alcan to alaska one time with mellowcat with his xl 650 crammed inside an 81. ive tried the bumper carriers, but in my experience a trailer is the only way to go. i have it set up to carry one or two bikes. bought this one at harbor freight for under $300.

Fri Dec 03, 2010 6:41 pm

Here is a pic of my hitch carrier. I replaced my rear springs with air bags to handle the weight.

Fri Dec 03, 2010 6:42 pm

edit: Double post

Fri Dec 03, 2010 7:08 pm

Here's a 125 in my GL. PITA, tight fit with gas fumes. There's no way my 250 would fit and if it did, I wouldn't want to wrestle it in after a long day of riding. I built a rack that slips into my RMW rear bumper. I don't even know it's back there.

Oops forgot the picture:

Fri Dec 03, 2010 7:16 pm

we have at least once put 2 pe 175's inside a syncro with the jump seats removed. they are 1978 and 1980 vintage bikes no pic though.

Fri Dec 03, 2010 9:57 pm

I fit a Yamaha DT360 in my Westy. It didn't do any damage, but I wouldn't make a habit out of it because sooner rather than later it would and it was a bear getting it into exactly the right position.

Sat Dec 04, 2010 11:36 am

I've been wondering if my 88 Honda VFR700 would fit in my Westy. :?:

Sat Dec 04, 2010 11:50 am

Quote:
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Here is a pic of my hitch carrier. I replaced my rear springs with air bags to handle the weight.

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Nice van Presslab. Can you provide any more info on your m/c carrier?