Q - This is the biggest question we get: HOW DO YOU STOP IT?
A - It's a great question. The solution was pure genius. The answer is in 1 of the 2 worldwide patents held by Retriever. Essentially there is a mechanical mechanism that activates a braking system on the trailer depending on how much deceleration is occurring. There can be no deceleration forces placed on the motorcycle or the motorcycle will flip over. The trailer is equipped with vented/drilled disc brakes with 2x2 calliper pistons PER SIDE.
Q - Does Retriever meet US DOT and Transport Canada standards?
A - Yes. Retriever will be federally compliant in all 50 states and in Canada meeting or exceeding all federal safety standards.
Q - Can Honda maintain the modified Goldwing platform?
A - Yes. There are no major modifications to the Goldwing and none to most major components of the bike including the drive train.
Q - Can I get an Air-Bag equipped platform?
A- Yes. It is an option and there is an additional cost associated with it.
Q - Will it be difficult to insure Retriever?
A - We have been in contact with many of the large insurance companies and from those conversations, there should be no issues insuring Retriever in your area.
Q - What is my expected fuel savings?
A - We estimate that that you will save 75-85% in fuel op costs.
Q - How much more business are operators doing with Retriever versus a truck?
A - Our customers in other parts of the world are doing 50-100% more business with Retriever depending on local regulations for motorcycles.
Q - If I put the fuel saving and increased revenue projections together, what is the bottom line?
A - Our calculations show that between fuel saving and increased revenue, an operator will pay for Retriever well inside of 1 year.
Q - What does the towing mechanism weigh?
A - The towing mechanism weighs approximately 115kg (250 lbs)
Q - Are the trailer tires run-flats?
A - No. Currently the trailer section has been DOT approved without run-flat tires. We are always looking to improve our product however and are investigating several options for compliance.
Q - How many Retrievers are in use worldwide?
A - The number changes on almost a daily basis, but as of December 2007 it was approximately 50 in over 10 different countries.
Q - When will the first Retriever be available in Canada and the USA?
A - Retriever's are on order as of February 2008 with expected deliver of the first 5 in May. If you wish to see one for yourself, contact us and we will do our best to accommodate you. UPDATE: The first unit has arrived in Canada and is now in service with CAA in Toronto, Canada.
Q - Are dealer territories available?
A - Yes. We are looking for established towing equipment re-sellers to establish territory contracts with.
Q - Does Retriever North America sell at retail?
A - Yes, assuming it does not conflict with any territory agreements that have been or will be established.
Q - What is the maximum weight Retriever can tow?
A - 2500kg (5500lbs)
Q - Can I tow a motorcycle with Retriever?
A - Yes. In fact, as far as we are aware, Retriever is the only platform in the world that can tow a motorcycle.
Q - What is the warranty on Retriever?
A - The manufacturer limited warranty is 1-year or 30,000 km (20,000 miles).
Q - How long should the rear tire last considering the load on it?
A - We have increased the size of the rear tire to accommodate the load and believe that the tire should last more or less about as it would in the normal Goldwing configuration.
If you have any questions that we haven't answered here, please feel free to send us a message and we will do our best to get back to you ASAP.
Disclaimer: Information in this Q&A is not guaranteed to be 100% accurate but we are doing our best to ensure it is.