Would you tow a motorcycle with your SL? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

spinedoc · #1 08-10-2006, 05:28 PM

Been enjoying my motorcycle for the summer, a nice Vrod. It weighs about 600 lbs. and I would assume a trailer weighs around 200lbs.

Would any of you tow 800lbs with a SL500? It is a V8 after all. And I don't mean beating on it, but nice smooth highway towing, no mountains or continuous steep roads.

page62 · #2 08-10-2006, 05:34 PM

Sure, why not? You have a hitch, I assume...

fastpakr · #3 08-10-2006, 05:41 PM

That little bit of weight? Without a moment's hesitation.

bamerson · #4 08-10-2006, 05:55 PM

Personally, I wouldn't tow anything behind an SL. The car is the type that would imply that the motorcycle would be waiting for you at your destination. Just kidding. I would check the owner's manual and follow the guidelines. Having had approx. 10 Mercedes, we've never personally towed anything behind them but......

bamerson

iwrock · #5 08-10-2006, 07:15 PM

I towed a ditch witch behind my 400E once.... I am sure it is possible. Just make sure you get something like a hidden hitch.

spinedoc · #6 08-10-2006, 07:21 PM

Ive seen some hidden hitches, just have to see if I can get it mounted somewhere. Thanks guys, going to tow!

Carson357 · #7 08-10-2006, 09:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spinedoc

Ive seen some hidden hitches, just have to see if I can get it mounted somewhere. Thanks guys, going to tow!

why not tow your SL with the motorcycle instead!!

http://www.comingthrough.se/main.php?lang=UK&page=pro&del=film

iwrock · #8 08-10-2006, 09:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Carson357

why not tow your SL with the motorcycle instead!!

http://www.comingthrough.se/main.php?lang=UK&page=pro&del=film

Damn, thats got to be weird stopping that much weight with motorcycle brakes.

cbdo · #9 08-10-2006, 09:18 PM

A factory brochure for one of the years of production of the 107 shows it towing a boat--just can't remember which year or model.

jjrodger · #10 08-11-2006, 05:05 AM

One of the early '80s brochures shows a 107 towing a boat.

A removable towbar is a dealer fit accessory for the R129. I've often thought about having one installed (the factory cycle rack fits onto such a tow bar) and I wouldn't hesitate to tow up to 3,000lbs (maybe more, the vehicle's curb weight is nearly 4,000lbs) with a braked trailer.

spinedoc · #11 08-11-2006, 08:05 AM

JJ any chance you have a part number? That really sounds like it would fit the bill.

Quote:

Originally Posted by jjrodger

One of the early '80s brochures shows a 107 towing a boat.

A removable towbar is a dealer fit accessory for the R129. I've often thought about having one installed (the factory cycle rack fits onto such a tow bar) and I wouldn't hesitate to tow up to 3,000lbs (maybe more, the vehicle's curb weight is nearly 4,000lbs) with a braked trailer.

jjrodger · #12 08-11-2006, 08:15 AM

I don't have it to hand (I'm at work), but I'll look for it over the weekend and post again on Monday am.

spinedoc · #13 08-11-2006, 08:24 AM

Thanks much. I called the dealer and they said they do not offer it.

Mike Miller · #14 08-12-2006, 04:05 PM

JJ,
I am also very intersted in a "removable' tow bar. I would not want to spoil the look when not towing.

page62 · #15 08-14-2006, 08:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spinedoc

Thanks much. I called the dealer and they said they do not offer it.

I think you'll find it's offered in Europe, but not in the USA. Why? Because in Europe, folks use Mercedes (and cars in general) as utility vehicles on a regular basis. Whereas in the USA, many people have some sort of truck in their personal vehicle fleet...or at least have a "friend" with one...