Converting a single motorcycle into a sidecar tricycle means adding a sidecar to your regular motorcycle to carry more passengers or cargo. It turns your two-wheeled ride into a more stable, three-wheeled vehicle that’s practical for family use or small business transport. But, is it legally doable? Apparently, yes — you can legally convert a single motorcycle into a sidecar tricycle, but it must first be properly registered with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), thanks to the changes it makes to the vehicle’s body design.
While this change is possible to do legally, the sidecar tricycle can’t be used on public roads until it’s officially recognized as a “motorcycle with sidecar”. This means completing the inspection, securing the right documents, and paying the LTO registration fees for the change of body design. Listed below is a clear, step-by-step guide on how to do this, according to the LTO process.
Why Convert Your Motorcycle Into a Tricycle?
Many riders choose to convert their single motorcycles into sidecar tricycles because it’s a practical and affordable way to upgrade their ride. It allows them to carry more passengers, transport goods, or even use it for small business purposes.
Here are some of the most common reasons why people make the conversion:
- Added passenger and cargo capacity
- Better balance and road stability
- Lower fuel and maintenance costs compared to cars
- Ideal for family or delivery use
- Can be registered as a private or “for hire” tricycle for extra income
Safety Considerations When Adding a Sidecar
When converting a motorcycle into a sidecar tricycle, safety should always come first. A poorly built or attached sidecar can affect balance, steering, and braking, putting both the driver and passengers at risk.
To keep your tricycle safe and roadworthy, here are some important safety considerations to remember:
- Make sure the sidecar is securely attached by a qualified mechanic.
- Use high-quality bolts, brackets, and welds to prevent detachment or wobbling.
- Keep the weight balanced between the motorcycle and sidecar to avoid tipping.
- Regularly check tire pressure and alignment for even handling.
- Ensure the brakes and lights work properly on both the motorcycle and sidecar.
- Drive at moderate speeds, especially on turns or uneven roads.
- Always wear helmets and follow traffic laws to stay safe on the road.
Once the sidecar is attached to the motorcycle, you are then expected to get it registered at the LTO.
Why Register Your Motorcycle with a Sidecar
While attaching a sidecar adds stability, safety, and extra space, it also changes your motorcycle’s structure — so it is necessary for the LTO to inspect and approve it. Having said that, driving an unregistered sidecar tricycle is illegal and may result in penalties or impoundment. With proper registration, you can be sure that you are protected and that your tricycle is legal for use on public roads.
You can also ask to link your vehicle to your LTMS account for easier renewals in the future: How to Create an LTMS Account.
Estimated LTO Fees and Costs (Private Tricycle)
You also need to be ready to pay the following:
- Affidavit of Attachment: ₱300
- CTPL Insurance: ₱350
- Emission Test: ₱450
- MVUC: ₱240
- Science Tax: ₱4.50
- Legal Research Fee: ₱10
- Change of Body Design: ₱100
Note: Fees may vary depending on location or late renewal penalties. Registering your sidecar during your annual renewal helps you save time and avoid multiple visits to the LTO.
Important Reminders
For your reference, you might want to keep these things in mind:
- No plate number yet? You can still register your tricycle using a temporary plate. The PETC can help you get one for emission testing and insurance purposes.
- No sidecar receipt? You can get one from a licensed sidecar builder who issues official receipts for a fee.
- Can you drive without LTO registration? No. It’s illegal and you can be fined or have your tricycle impounded.
- Can’t find the former owner? You must secure the former owner’s ID copies and signatures — otherwise, registration won’t be processed.
For a more detailed guide on registering your motorcycle with a sidecar, you may check out this guide on how to modify a motor vehicle’s body design at LTO.