Dirtbike in Westy

SWbySWesty · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 12:45 pm Post subject: Dirtbike in Westy

So I came across this picture:

Image may have been reduced in size. Click image to view fullscreen.

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.
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1986 Westy - Billie Jean
A Westy with a Jeep heart (Pura Vida)
www.theadventurebrigade.blogspot.com - Latest update: Johnson Valley - Nov 22, 2011

CQ · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 12:55 pm Post subject:

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

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82 Westy 'Betsy'
72 Bus 'Bertha' -Sold
Learning about 2.0L AFC Everyday.

fredn · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 12:57 pm Post subject:

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.
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1982 Air Cooled Vanagon Carat Weekender Interior

SWbySWesty · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 12:58 pm Post subject:

Just thinking out loud Razz

. 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.
_________________
1986 Westy - Billie Jean
A Westy with a Jeep heart (Pura Vida)
www.theadventurebrigade.blogspot.com - Latest update: Johnson Valley - Nov 22, 2011

vwlovr · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 1:09 pm Post subject:

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 Smile

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.

werksberg · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 1:19 pm Post subject:

I have a couple pairs of the old 60's motorcycle bumper mounts here...
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fredn · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 1:58 pm Post subject:

SWbySWesty · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 2:11 pm Post subject:

presslab · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 2:20 pm Post subject:

I put a trials bike with the front wheel between the front seats. It fit fine. A larger dirt bike could be a problem.
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1986 Vanagon Westfalia EJ25
1988 Subaru GL-10 EJ20G --- 2000 Honda XR650L
2010 Titus El Guapo --- 2011 On-One 456 Ti

The Salt · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 3:15 pm Post subject:

Or you could do this...

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88 Wolfsburg Edition Weekender

buildyourown · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 3:20 pm Post subject:

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.

SWbySWesty · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 3:20 pm Post subject:

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.
_________________
1986 Westy - Billie Jean
A Westy with a Jeep heart (Pura Vida)
www.theadventurebrigade.blogspot.com - Latest update: Johnson Valley - Nov 22, 2011

odin43 · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 6:10 pm Post subject:

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.

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86 syncro
02 passat w8

presslab · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 6:41 pm Post subject:

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

_________________
1986 Vanagon Westfalia EJ25
1988 Subaru GL-10 EJ20G --- 2000 Honda XR650L
2010 Titus El Guapo --- 2011 On-One 456 Ti

presslab · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 6:42 pm Post subject:

edit: Double post
_________________
1986 Vanagon Westfalia EJ25
1988 Subaru GL-10 EJ20G --- 2000 Honda XR650L
2010 Titus El Guapo --- 2011 On-One 456 Ti

FNGRUVN · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 7:08 pm Post subject:

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:

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"Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for lunch. Liberty is a well-armed lamb contesting the vote." - Benjamin Franklin

ajdenette · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 7:16 pm Post subject:

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.
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1985 2wd Westy with 2000 Subaru 2.2 current driver
https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=685635
1986 Syncro Doka Project next in line
https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=732777
1990 Vanagon Syncro Base awaiting body work

CasaDelSol · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2010 9:57 pm Post subject:

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.

BeachVolks · Posted: Sat Dec 04, 2010 11:36 am Post subject:

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

Lotek · Posted: Sat Dec 04, 2010 11:50 am Post subject:


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