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CALIFORNIA SIDECAR

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Trailers

1. Do the trailers come with a license plate frame installed?

No. There are some states that do not require a license plate, and those that do, offer either automotive size (large) or motorcycle size (small) plates. Order the Chrome Accent Package and specify the size of the license plate frame, large or small.
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2. How do I adjust the air shock suspension?

All Escapade trailers (except Eclipse model) are equipped with a valve inside the trailer which fills both Progressive® air shocks simultaneously. Each trailer comes with a suspension pump with pressure gauge. The air shocks should not be filled using compressed air.
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3. What wheels and tongue will I get if I don't order them in chrome?

Escapade trailers come standard with a white painted rim with tire and a black powder coated tongue & coupler.
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4. What is the optimum ball height for pulling an Escapade trailer?

13 inches. Back to top

5. What style wiring harness does Escapade use?

All Escapade trailers come with a wiring harness for the motorcycle. It is a 6-pin rectangular plug. Wiring instructions can be found in our Owners Manual.
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6. Will my Escapade trailer come with a spare tire?

Escapade trailers do not include a spare tire as standard equipment. They can be purchased as an option for all trailers. LE, SE, and Elite models are built with a spare tire compartment in the floor of the trailer.
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7. Will Escapade trailers bounce or "fishtail"?

No. With proper tire pressure and appropriate air shock pressure, Escapade trailers will stay "glued" to the road under every condition.
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8. Do I have to always carry weight in the trailer to make it perform well?

No. Escapade trailers will perform exceptionally under all conditions, loaded or not.
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9. Does the trailer come with tools to change a tire?

No
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Sidecars

1. Will a sidecar fit on any motorcycle?

California Sidecar offers several sidecar models for many applications. We engineer and manufacture mounting hardware that is specific to a particular motorcycle. Please see our Sidecar Mounting Applications list.
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2. After the sidecar is installed, can I take it off and ride the motorcycle only?

Yes. The quick disconnect mounting system uses rod end and clevis mounts with 3/8" and 5/8" Grade 8 fasteners. The sidecar can come on and off in 10-20 minutes. Our sidecar disc brake system utilizes a quick-disconnect coupler which allows removal 3-5 times before the brake system may need to be bled.
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3. Is there any welding involved with the sidecar mounts?

No. All mounting hardware is bolt-on and is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible.
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4. Does a bike with a sidecar handle differently than a two-wheeler?

Yes. The bike will not "lean" anymore in corners, and all steering is done with the handlebars. It takes a few miles of riding to adjust to the difference, but in no time, it will be as natural as "riding a bike".
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5. If I buy a new bike, will my California Sidecar mount to the new bike.

Sidecars will fit on many different motorcycles, but our mounting hardware is specific to a particular motorcycle. Contact our Parts & Service Department to find out what hardware you will need.
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Trikes

1. How long does it take to install a California Sidecar Trike trike kit?

At our factory we ask to keep the bike for three full days to complete an installation. The installation hours will vary depending on which options are purchased with the kit. Check with your nearest Authorized Dealer for more details.
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2. Can I install the kit myself?

All California Sidecar trike kits must be installed by one of our authorized factory trained dealers.
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3. Is there any welding involved in the installation?

No. It is a completely bolt-on installation.
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4. Will a trike kit affect my fuel economy?

The impact on gas mileage depends on several factors, including the rider, style of riding, passengers or cargo weight, and geography. Some trike owners report negligible changes in fuel economy, while others may experience a 5-10% reduction. Order our optional Auxiliary Fuel Tank to increase your range.
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5. Do you offer different gear ratios with the trike kit?

No. We have designed our kits with a specific gear ratio to achieve optimum performance and lifespan.
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6. How can I test ride a trike before I buy one?

Check with your nearest Authorized Dealer to arrange a demonstration ride. Also check our Events Schedule to see the rallys at which we will be represented, either by our factory representatives or one of our dealers.
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7. Can I convert back to a two-wheeler after I do a California Sidecar Trike?

Yes, but you won't want to after riding such an amazing trike! Seriously though, the only items that would need to be replaced are the driveshaft & yoke, and the saddlebag subframe. All other original components will fit back on the motorcycle.
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8. Do I need a Park Brake kit for my trike?

U.S. regulations do not require a parking brake. Some other countries do require one, which is why we offer it as an option. It is also an extra measure of security for parking a trike on steep hills. Trikes left in gear or in reverse should keep the bike stationary under most conditions.
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9. Do I need to have the Power Trak if I have a trike?

Its is not mandatory, but it is recommended. Most people find that it makes the trike easier to steer and maneuver, and more comfortable for the upper body.
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General

1. Can I purchase direct from the factory?

Yes, however, all direct trike purchases must be installed by the factory.
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2. May I pick-up my trailer, trike or sidecar at the California Sidecar factory?

Yes, you may arrange for a factory pick-up on Monday – Thursday, between 8am-5:30pm.
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3. How much does it cost to ship a trailer, trike or sidecar?

Freight charges will vary depending on the product and the destination. You may inquire with one of our sales representatives or your local dealer to find out specific rates and costs.
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4. How will my trailer, trike or sidecar ship?

We securely pallatize and crate each unit with lumber and heavy duty cardboard. Trailer crates are 50”x72”x38” and weigh around 350 lbs**. Trike crates are 50”x72”x38” (48” high with ground effects) and weigh around 600 lbs**. Sidecar crates are 48”x96”x48” and weigh around 500 lbs**. Dimensions are WxLxH. **(weights will vary depending on the model).
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5. What is paint ready?

Paint ready is a body finish that has been sanded, primed and is ready to go into our paint booth. The Color Match paint options include "Paint Ready" finish in the price.
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6. How long do I have to wait if I order a trike kit, trailer or sidecar?

All our products are built to order. The lead time varies so check with your local Authorized Dealer or California Sidecar for scheduling information.
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