09/15/2026
When your buddy’s bike decides it’s done adventuring… a little practice now can sure make a breakdown less stressful later.
Here are five tips for footpeg-to-footpeg ADV towing from Jocelin Snow from her class at GRIT this summer…
1. LEAD BIKE: LOOP IT — Secure the strap’s loop fully over the towing bike’s right foot peg.
2. TOWED BIKE: WRAP IT TWICE — Wrap your tow strap around the towed bike’s left footpeg twice. Don’t attach a closed loop here. It needs to unwrap when the rider releases it.
3. FOOT DOWN. LIFT TO RELEASE — The towed rider holds the strap in place with firm left-foot pressure. Lifting that foot should let the strap unwrap and disconnect the bikes. Check that it releases freely before rolling.
4. TALK BEFORE YOU TOW — Intercoms like Cardo Systems make communication easier. No intercom? Agree on signals beforehand, like two horn beeps for “I’m stopping”. Always signal turns early so your buddy has enough going on without guessing your next move.
5. LEFT TURNS TIGHT. RIGHT TURNS WIDE — The towed bike rides staggered to the right. For this setup, Jocelin advises the lead rider to take a tighter line on left turns and allow extra room on right turns. Keep every turn slow, smooth, and as predictable as possible.
Quick setup check: Sharp footpeg teeth can catch the strap and prevent release. Cover the towed bike’s peg with duct tape or a riding glove before wrapping if needed, and verify that the strap releases freely.
Practice with two working bikes, keep speeds low, and take up strap slack gently… Remember, it’s easier to learn when the breakdown is fictional!
📸: Tyler
📍: Grit Moto Ranch
