A good motorcycle dolly with an integrated wheel chock is like having an extra set of hands in your garage, keeping your bike secure and making maintenance a breeze. Plus, it saves your back from those awkward pushing and pulling sessions.
Why You Need a Motorcycle Dolly with Wheel Chock
Garages aren’t getting bigger, but our need for space keeps growing. A quality dolly turns your motorcycle from an immovable obstacle into a perfectly mobile masterpiece. The integrated wheel chock holds your front wheel steady so you can focus on routine maintenance or creating breathing room in your garage.
Key Features to Consider
Before discussing specific models, let’s talk about what makes a motorcycle dolly truly worth your investment. Think of these features as your checklist for finding the perfect match for your bike.
1. Weight
First up is weight capacity – this isn’t just a nice-to-know number, it’s crucial. You’ll want a dolly that can handle your bike with room to spare. Here’s a quick breakdown of what different bikes typically need:
- Sport bikes: Usually need 600-800 lbs capacity
- Cruisers: Typically require 800-1000 lbs capacity
- Touring bikes: Often need 1000+ lbs capacity
2. Adjustability
An adjustable wheel chock adds versatility, accommodating different tire sizes. For example, Kendon’s chock fits wheels from 12 to 22 inches, making it compatible with various motorcycles.
3. Build Quality
Construction material matters too. Steel dollies offer durability and stability but can be heavier, while aluminum options like the Condor provide a balance between strength and maneuverability. Look for powder-coated finishes to prevent rust and keep your dolly looking good.
4. Maneuverability
For mobility, bigger isn’t always better with casters. The ideal size? From what I’ve seen, 3-4-inch casters hit the sweet spot between smooth rolling and stability. Just make sure they lock – trust me on this one.
5. Compactness and Storage
If space is tight, choose foldable designs like the Kendon Scorpion. This allows you to store the dolly neatly when not in use.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Condor | ConStands | Kendon | Extreme Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | 1300 lbs | 990 lbs | 1200 lbs | 1100 lbs |
| Wheel Chock | Adjustable | Adjustable | Adjustable | Fixed |
| Construction | Aluminum/Steel | Steel | Steel | Steel |
| Foldable | Yes | No | Yes | No |
Top Motorcycle Dolly with Wheel Chock
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of the best dollies. I’ll break down each model’s strengths and quirks, so you can find your perfect match.
1. Condor Motorcycle Garage Dolly
What I love about the Condor:
- Built like a tank with aluminum and steel construction
- Those 4-inch wheels handle uneven garage floors like a champ
- Folds nearly flat when you need the space back
- Tie-down points for extra peace of mind
The Condor Motorcycle Garage Dolly is a top choice for riders seeking premium quality and performance. Built with a sturdy aluminum and steel combination, it supports up to 1,300 lbs, ideal for heavy cruisers and touring bikes. The standout feature is its adjustable wheel chock, accommodating front wheels from 14 to 22 inches and tire widths between 80mm and 230mm. This versatility ensures compatibility with various motorcycles.
The dolly’s foldable design allows easy storage in tight garage spaces. Its 4-inch caster wheels provide smooth maneuverability on uneven floors, while the integrated tie-down points enhance bike security. Bikers who own one, praise its stability and ease of use for loading and unloading motorcycles. One rider remarked, “The Condor dolly keeps my Gold Wing secure and lets me maximize space in my garage.”
Despite its premium price, the Condor’s robust construction, adjustable features, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious riders.
| Pros | Cons |
| Foldable for compact storage | Higher price |
| Adjustable wheel chock for wide compatibility | Smooth surface may lack traction |
| Durable aluminum and steel construction |
2. ConStands Smart-Mover
Standout features:
- Adjustable wheel chock (15-21 inches)
- Compact design (85″ L x 10″ W)
- Double casters with brakes
- Solid 3mm thick steel construction
The ConStands Smart-Mover is a budget-friendly option for riders seeking a compact and efficient dolly. With a 990 lbs capacity, it’s well-suited for sportbikes and mid-sized motorcycles. The adjustable wheel chock accommodates front wheels between 15 and 21 inches, offering versatility for various models.
Made from robust steel, the Smart-Mover ensures durability and stability. Its double casters with integrated brakes provide smooth movement and secure positioning. The compact design is perfect for tight garage spaces or workshops. Bikers appreciate how easy it is to maneuver motorcycles in confined areas. One owner noted, “A must-have in the garage; it makes maneuvering a breeze.”
However, the dolly’s handle isn’t designed for moving a loaded dolly, and some riders recommend upgrading the casters for better performance on rough surfaces. Despite these minor drawbacks, the ConStands Smart-Mover is a reliable and affordable choice for most riders.
| Pros | Cons |
| Adjustable wheel chock (15-21 inches) | Handle not ideal for moving loaded dolly |
| Compact and space-saving design | Casters may need upgrading |
| Integrated brakes for secure positioning | |
| Durable steel construction |
3. Kendon Folding Scorpion
Sweet spots:
- Built-in loading ramp
- Fits 12-22 inch wheels
- Textured powder coat for extra grip
- Folds for easy storage
The Kendon Folding Scorpion Motorcycle Dolly stands out for its folding design and integrated loading ramp. With a weight capacity of 1,200 lbs, it can handle various motorcycles, from sport bikes to touring models. The adjustable wheel chock accommodates front wheels from 12 to 22 inches, making it one of the most versatile options.
This dolly’s foldable frame makes it a space-saver, perfect for riders with limited storage. Its textured powder coat finish enhances traction during loading, and the integrated ramp simplifies the process for solo riders. Bikers appreciate the design, with one commenting, “The folding ramp makes loading effortless, and the dolly’s compact storage is a game-changer.”
Some owners find the tie-down locations inconvenient, and its premium price might not suit every budget. Despite this, the Kendon Folding Scorpion offers unmatched convenience and versatility for riders who value space-saving solutions.
| Pros | Cons |
| Foldable design for easy storage | Premium price |
| Integrated loading ramp | Tie-down locations could be improved |
| Adjustable wheel chock (12-22 inches) |
4. Extreme Max Motorcycle Dolly
The Extreme Max 5001.6744 Motorcycle Dolly is a practical choice for budget riders. With a weight capacity of 1,100 lbs, it’s suitable for most motorcycles, though it may not be ideal for extremely heavy cruisers. The fixed wheel chock provides basic stability, and its low-profile design makes loading and unloading straightforward.
This dolly has locking casters for secure placement and a built-in handle for maneuverability. While the design is simple, it works for riders with smooth, hard garage floors. One biker noted, “It’s basic but reliable; perfect for occasional use.”
However, there are some concerns about durability, especially with the paint finish and caster quality. Riders seeking heavy-duty performance may want to consider other options, but for a cost-effective and functional dolly, the Extreme Max is worth considering.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable price | Durability concerns |
| Fixed wheel chock for stability | Limited adjustability |
| Locking casters for secure placement | Caster quality may vary. |
Motorcycle Loading Techniques
Here’s where the rubber meets the… dolly. Each model has its own loading style and technique matters. Condor and Extreme Max keep it old-school – just ride straight on and into the wheel chock. It’s simple but needs elbow room for getting on and off.
The Condor offers optional loading ramps for convenience. ConStands takes the center-stand approach. Put your bike on its center stand, then roll it onto the dolly. It’s trickier if you’re not tall or strong, but works great in tight spaces.
Kendon’s integrated ramp is like having a built-in assistant. Roll your bike up the ramp and into position – perfect for solo operators. The ramp folds away when not needed, keeping things tidy.
Making Your Decision
Choosing the right dolly comes down to three things: your bike, your space, and your budget. If you have a heavyweight touring bike and don’t mind spending more for quality, the Condor is your best bet. It’s 1300-pound capacity and sturdy build will handle anything.
Working with limited space? The ConStands Smart-Mover’s compact design might be your sweet spot. It’s perfect for smaller garages and won’t break the bank. Need flexibility? Kendon’s folding design with the integrated ramp makes loading and storage easy. It’s especially handy if you’re tight on space but don’t want to compromise on features.
On a budget? The Extreme Max offers the basics without emptying your wallet. It’s a solid choice for occasional use or lighter bikes.
FAQs
- Are motorcycle dollies safe?
Yes, motorcycle dollies are generally safe when used correctly. High-quality models with sturdy construction, like the Condor or Kendon, provide excellent stability, even for heavier bikes.
- Do motorcycle wheel chocks need to be mounted?
Not all wheel chocks need mounting. Many integrated chocks in dollies, like Kendon or ConStands, are adjustable and don’t require bolting. However, fixed wheel chocks, like Extreme Max, may offer additional stability if mounted.
- What is the best material for wheel chocks?
Steel is the most common material for wheel chocks due to its durability and strength. Some premium models, like the Condor, combine aluminum and steel for enhanced performance.
Conclusion
A motorcycle dolly with a wheel chock isn’t just a garage toy – it’s an investment in your bike’s care and your garage’s functionality. Whether you go premium with the Condor, budget-friendly with the Extreme Max, space-saving with the Kendon, or middle-ground with the ConStands, each option has its sweet spot.
Remember, the best dolly is the one that fits your needs. Consider your bike’s weight, garage space, and usage frequency. Whatever you choose, your back will thank you for not wrestling your bike around the garage anymore.
Think of it this way – the right dolly turns your garage from a game of motorcycle Tetris into a well-organized workspace. And isn’t that worth the investment?
