Picture yourself riding down the street on your Honda Ruckus with a sidecar by your side. Now, you can carry your pet, groceries, or even a friend with ease. Sounds exciting, right? Adding a sidecar not only makes your scooter more practical but also adds fun to every ride. Whether you need extra storage or want to take your dog on an adventure, a sidecar can turn your scooter into the perfect companion.
In this guide, we’ll show you the best sidecar options, how to install them, and what you need to know about safety and performance to get the most out of your Honda Ruckus.
Why Add a Sidecar to Your Honda Ruckus?
A sidecar is an extra seat or storage space that attaches to the side of a scooter like the Honda Ruckus. More people are adding sidecars to their scooters, and there are many reasons why. A sidecar can make your scooter more fun and useful by giving you more space and letting you take extra things with you.
Why Are Sidecars Becoming Popular?
Sidecars are becoming more popular because they let people use their Honda Ruckus for more than just riding. You can carry more items, bring a pet, or even give a friend a ride. The Honda Ruckus is already a great scooter, but with a sidecar, it becomes even more helpful in everyday life.
Common Uses for a Sidecar on a Honda Ruckus
Pet Transportation
A popular reason people add a sidecar is to transport pets, especially dogs. The sidecar gives your pet a safe and comfortable place to ride. Many pet owners enjoy taking their dogs on outdoor trips, where the dog can enjoy the fresh air. At the same time, the owner feels good knowing the pet is secure.
Grocery Runs and Errands
A sidecar makes it easy to run errands like grocery shopping. It gives you extra space for bags and boxes. This is helpful for people who use their Ruckus for daily tasks. You can load up the sidecar with groceries or other items, making your trips more convenient.
Family Trips and Fun Rides
Some riders use their sidecars for family outings or fun rides with friends. It’s a great way to bring someone along for a scenic ride. Riders have shared stories about giving their kids a safe seat or carrying gear for weekend trips.
The Best Sidecar Options for Honda Ruckus in 2024
In 2024, you can choose between two main types of sidecars for your Honda Ruckus. These are made by Industrial Moto and Keltic Sidecars. Both companies build strong, reliable sidecars that fit the Honda Ruckus perfectly.
Industrial Moto Sidecar
- Price: Around $1,945, including shipping in the U.S.
- Features: This sidecar is strong but light, so it won’t slow down your Ruckus too much. It’s perfect for carrying small things or even a pet. It also comes with a special bracket to hold your dog safely.
- Compatibility: This sidecar is made to fit the Honda Ruckus. You don’t need to make big changes to your scooter, so it’s easy to attach.
Keltic Sidecar
- Price: Usually cheaper than the Industrial Moto sidecar, but the price may vary.
- Features: The Keltic sidecar weighs about 80 lbs and can be removed when you don’t need it. It’s great for carrying smaller items or pets, and it’s light enough that it won’t slow down your scooter too much.
- Compatibility: This sidecar, like the Industrial Moto one, fits the Honda Ruckus perfectly. It’s easy to install without any complicated changes.
How Does a Sidecar Impact Your Honda Ruckus’s Performance?
Adding a sidecar to your Honda Ruckus can change how it works. The sidecar gives you more space to carry things or take a passenger, but it also makes your scooter slower and harder to handle. Let’s see how a sidecar affects your scooter and what you can do to make it better.
Reduced Speed
With a sidecar attached, your Honda Ruckus will not be as fast. Your top speed may drop to around 30 mph. This is because the sidecar adds weight, making the scooter work harder to move. The heavier the sidecar, the slower the Ruckus goes.
Changes in Handling
A sidecar also changes how your scooter moves. The extra weight on one side can make it harder to turn or balance, especially on sharp turns. You might feel the scooter pulling to one side. You’ll need to drive more carefully, especially at higher speeds or on bumpy roads.
How to Improve Performance
You can make a few changes to help your Ruckus handle the sidecar better.
- Upgrade the Suspension: The suspension helps keep your scooter balanced when it’s carrying extra weight. By upgrading it, the scooter will feel smoother and more stable, even with a sidecar.
- Add a Variator Kit: A variator kit helps your scooter go faster, even with the extra weight of a sidecar. It changes how the engine works, so the scooter can keep up its speed.
Installing a Sidecar on Your Honda Ruckus: A Simple Guide
Adding a sidecar to your Honda Ruckus is a great way to get more use out of your scooter. You can carry more things or take someone along for the ride. You can install a sidecar yourself or have a professional do it. Here’s an easy guide to help you.
Gather Tools and Mounting Kit
To install a sidecar, you will need a mounting kit. This kit includes the brackets and bolts needed to attach the sidecar to your Ruckus. You will also need:
- Wrenches
- Screwdrivers
- Drill (only for certain models)
Make sure the mounting kit is made for the Honda Ruckus. Check that all parts fit your scooter before you start.
Installation Process
Each sidecar kit comes with instructions. Here’s what the process usually looks like:
- Attach the Brackets: First, connect the mounting brackets to the frame of the Ruckus. These hold the sidecar in place.
- Bolt the Sidecar: Line up the sidecar with the brackets. Then, tightly bolt the sidecar to the frame.
- Adjust and Check: Make sure the sidecar is level and secure. If needed, adjust it for balance.
Detachable and Lightweight Sidecars
Some sidecars are detachable, meaning you can remove them when you don’t need them. This is great for flexibility. Detachable sidecars often come with quick-release mounts, so you can take them off quickly. Lightweight sidecars are also easier to manage. They don’t slow down your scooter as much and are simple to install. These are perfect for carrying small items or pets.
Time for Installation
Installing a sidecar usually takes between 2 to 4 hours. It depends on the model and your experience with tools. If you don’t feel confident, a professional can install it faster and ensure it’s done correctly.
Final Tips:
- After installation, always check if the sidecar is properly aligned with the scooter.
- Regularly inspect the bolts and brackets to ensure they stay tight, especially if you use the sidecar often.
Custom Modifications for a Honda Ruckus with Sidecar
When you add a sidecar to your Honda Ruckus, it can change how the scooter rides. To keep it running smoothly, riders often make custom modifications. These changes help the scooter handle the extra weight and keep the ride comfortable. Let’s explore some simple upgrades.
Upgraded Suspension
The suspension is the most important upgrade. It keeps the scooter balanced when carrying more weight, like a sidecar. Stronger suspension parts help make the ride smoother and safer, especially on turns and bumps. Without this upgrade, the scooter might feel shaky or unstable.
Fork Upgrades
Upgrading the forks can also improve how your scooter rides. The forks support the front of the scooter. They help it handle rough roads. Stronger or longer forks make the scooter feel more stable with a sidecar. This is useful if you plan to carry heavy loads.
Adding Footpegs
Adding footpegs is another simple upgrade. Footpegs give the rider or passenger a comfortable place to rest their feet. They are especially helpful for long rides and make the trip more enjoyable.
Can You DIY a Sidecar for Honda Ruckus?
Yes, you can build a sidecar for your Honda Ruckus! Many people have done it, but it takes planning and some mechanical skill. Let’s go over a few important things to think about before starting.
Is It Easy to Build?
Building a sidecar is possible if you have basic tools and skills. You should know a little about mechanics, welding, and working with metal. If you’re not familiar with these, it may be better to ask for help or try a simpler project first.
What to Consider
Before building a sidecar, here are some key things to consider:
- Materials: Use strong but light materials like steel or aluminum. This keeps the sidecar safe and doesn’t make your scooter too heavy.
- Balance: A sidecar can make the scooter pull to one side. You need to build it in a way that keeps the scooter balanced.
- Mounting: Make sure the sidecar is attached securely. The mounts must be strong so the sidecar doesn’t come loose while you ride.
DIY Resources
There are many online resources to help you with building a sidecar. Two popular forums are Ruckus Central and Battlescooter. People share their projects, give tips, and even post plans to guide you.
- Ruckus Central: This forum has many posts from users who have built custom sidecars. You can find pictures, plans, and advice from people who have done it before.
- Battlescooter: Another forum where Honda Ruckus owners share their DIY projects. It’s a great place to ask questions and get help from experienced builders.
Where to Buy a Sidecar for Your Honda Ruckus
If you’re planning to add a sidecar to your Honda Ruckus, there are several reliable places to buy one. These stores focus on making sidecars that fit the Honda Ruckus. They offer different choices based on what you need. Below are some top retailers and things to consider before you buy.
1. Industrial Moto
Industrial Moto is a well-known brand for strong and durable sidecars. They have a model made just for the Honda Ruckus. It is lightweight but still strong, making it perfect for carrying pets or cargo.
- Website: Industrial Moto
- Price: Around $1,945, with shipping included in the U.S.
- Considerations: Shipping is fast within the U.S., but international shipping might take longer and cost more.
2. Keltic Sidecars
Keltic Sidecars offers a more affordable sidecar option. These sidecars are easy to remove and are known for being lightweight.
- Website: Keltic Sidecars
- Price: Usually cheaper than Industrial Moto, but the price depends on the seller.
- Considerations: Shipping times depend on your location. U.S. customers usually get quick deliveries.
3. Custom Sidecar Builders
There are also small companies and custom builders who can create a sidecar for your Honda Ruckus. These builders often let you design the sidecar to meet your specific needs.
- Considerations: Custom sidecars take longer to build and ship. The price also varies based on what features you want.
Shipping Costs and Delivery Times
Before buying a sidecar, always check the shipping costs and delivery times. Most sellers offer free or low-cost shipping in the U.S., but international buyers may need to pay more. Depending on where you live, delivery times range from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Sidecar Safety and Legal Considerations
Adding a sidecar to your Honda Ruckus is exciting, but you also need to think about safety and legal rules. Let’s look at some key points to make sure you ride safely and stay within the law.
Safety Concerns
Riding with a sidecar changes how your scooter behaves. The extra weight on one side can make turning harder. You also need to be more careful when driving on rough roads or at higher speeds.
- Balance: A sidecar can make your scooter lean to one side. You should practice riding with the sidecar before going out on busy roads.
- Braking: Stopping distances may be longer because of the added weight. Always leave extra room between you and other vehicles.
- Visibility: Make sure the sidecar has reflectors or lights to be seen by other drivers, especially at night.
Legal Requirements
Each state may have different laws for riding a scooter with a sidecar. Here are some things to check:
- Licensing: In some states, you may need a special license to drive a scooter with a sidecar. Make sure to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
- Helmet Laws: Many states require both the rider and passenger to wear helmets when riding a scooter. This rule applies even if you have a sidecar.
- Insurance: Adding a sidecar may change your scooter’s insurance. Talk to your insurance company to make sure you’re covered.
State Laws
Different states have specific rules about riding with a sidecar:
- Weight Limits: Some states set weight limits for what you can carry in a sidecar.
- Passenger Rules: In certain states, passengers must be a certain age to ride in a sidecar.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sidecars for Honda Ruckus
Can you add a sidecar to a Honda Ruckus?
Yes, you can add a sidecar to a Honda Ruckus. Many people add one to carry extra things, pets, or even a passenger. There are sidecars made just for the Honda Ruckus. They come with kits that make it easy to attach the sidecar to your scooter without needing big changes.
How much does a sidecar for a Honda Ruckus cost?
The price of a sidecar depends on the brand and features. Most sidecars for the Honda Ruckus cost between $1,000 and $2,000. For example, the Industrial Moto sidecar costs around $1,945, including U.S. shipping. Some brands like Keltic Sidecars are cheaper, but they still work well.
Does a sidecar make the Ruckus slower?
Yes, a sidecar will make your Honda Ruckus slower. The extra weight makes the scooter work harder. Without upgrades, your top speed might drop to about 30 mph. The more weight you carry, the slower the scooter will go. However, you can improve speed by upgrading the suspension or adding a variator kit.
