pulling a trailer on a fifth wheel

[clfac10962]

we are new to this forum, and the RV world. We cannot decide between a full size 5th wheel that we pull a trailer behind, or a toy hauler 5th wheel, so we can take our motorcycles with. The cost in living space is quite significant when going to a toy hauler, but we are worried about length problems, and laws regarding pulling something with 2 hitches. Please help - any information will be helpful!!

 

[wingnut60]

There are definitely laws about double-towing--sometimes referred to as 'triple-towing'--and it varies from state-to-state. Most states, the maximum length allowed is 65'--some have up to 75'. Some states address this double-towing, but for most it is a length concern.
Lost of info on the internet if you google 'rv double-towing' and it has been addressed some on this forum. There is a list somewhere about what each state allows.
Certainly, if you can fit what you need in a toyhauler, it would simplify legal matters.
Joe

 

[billr-5TH]

Joe is right on about the legal aspects. Another thing to consider is capacity of the tow vehicle and also the trailer frame. Most 5th wheels are not designed to tow anything behind them Adding a hitch is only one concern. The frames on most all of them would need to be beefed up all the way up to the axles. The tongue wt also effects the balance.

I know several folks that pull large heavy 5th wheels and take two big bikes along with them. They are using a HDT or a larger MDT truck with a custom bed on the back of the truck to haul two bikes. This way the bikes are loaded and hauled safely and legally. No effect on the trailer and you can chose any trailer you like.

Have a look at this forum and see what they are doing.
http://www.rvnetwork.com/index.php?showforum=32

See Jack Mayers web site here http://jackdanmayer.com/registration_and_legal_issues.htm#Double Towing

He has some really good stuff on this.

Not for everyone, just another option though.

Bill

 

[DBL Z]

http://towingworld.com/towinglaws.cfm