A dog riding aboard a two-wheeler may make for an amusing spectacle, but it can be dangerous and illegal in many countries. Pet On Wheels is a top-case designed specifically for carrying small-sized pets securely and legally on a motorcycle, scooter or bicycle.
Normally pets are not supposed to ride on any two-wheeler, yet a quick surf on the web will reveal plenty of video evidence to the contrary; most often with dogs, thanks to their adept and responsive personality. Apart from the fun side that popular videos usually focus on though, there is a practical issue at hand when a pet needs to be hauled around the city and the only available vehicle is a two-wheeler, motorized or not.
Pet On Wheels (POW) offers a solution custom-designed for this very task, and is compliant with highway and traffic codes worldwide. The Italian top case is made of injection-moulded plastic and its size can accommodate small and medium-sized pets, weighing up to 10 kg (22 lb).
It secures on a mounting plate designed to the same standards as any typical motorcycle top case, so it can be fitted to most motorcycles, scooters and bicycles, provided they're equipped with a rear rack.
It can be positioned facing either forward or backward, and it can easily be removed from the bike to carry by hand. Since it locks in place with its own key, it can be left on the parked bike while hosting gear like the helmet and gloves.
Inside the POW, the pet can relax comfortably on the included pillow, as two intakes provide fresh air while on the move. In the center of the pivoting lid a large hole with a sliding cover allows for the four-legged passenger to sit up with its head out of the carrier – dogs will probably enjoy this feature the most. An adjustable leash that attaches to the inside of the POW ensures that no one jumps out during the journey.
Most motorcycle pet carriers in the market are either fabric cases that strap onto the bike or typical motorcycle top cases transformed to pet carriers. POW brings about a welcome level of versatility, leaves the seat free for a second human passenger, and provides protection for the pet, as displayed in the video below.
The POW is now the subject of a Kickstarter campaign, where a pledge of €99 (about US$110) will get you one – if all goes according to plans. The retail price is estimated to exceed €200 ($222).
Source: Kickstarter
