A Guide to Motorcycle and Trike Reversing Mechanisms

There are quite a number of reversing units on the market that are suitable for motorcycles, trikes, motorcycle/sidecar outfits motor scooters and quadbikes.

Generally, the options are electrically powered reversing motors or a mechanical reversing gearboxes and/or reversing differential, though there are some brand/model specific kits that modify the existing gearbox to include a reverse gear.

1. The NABD is not in a position to ‘recommend’ any of the suppliers detailed in this article, I include them simply for your information and because we have had no negative feedback on any of them.

Personally, whichever type of reverser you chose, I recommend you source it from a UK supplier and resist the urge to save money by purchasing an unknown Chinese or Indian brand, because the Chinese and Indian markets are notorious for defaulting on ‘money back’ guarantees, and much of what they produce is utter rubbish.

Electric Reversing Motors

Electric reverse systems are typically best suited to:

• Small or lightweight motorcycles
• Classic scooter and sidecar combinations

They can be fitted to larger motorcycles or trikes. However, problems sometimes occur. These may include:

• Motor burnout
• Battery drain
• Reduced performance under heavy load

Therefore, if you are considering an electric reverse for a heavier machine, you should:

• Carry out detailed research
• Check independent customer reviews
• Obtain written guarantees

Kitcar Direct (Electric Reverse Systems)

Address:
Unit 5 Kestrel Park, Finch Drive
Springwood Industrial Estate
Braintree, CM7 2SF

Telephone: 0203 432 2679
Email: sales@kitcardirect.co.uk
Website: Bike Engine Electric Reverse Systems

Other suppliers are available.

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RT Quaife Engineering Ltd

Address:
Vestry Road, Otford
Sevenoaks, Kent, TN14 5EL

Telephone: 01732 741144
Email: info@quaife.co.uk
Website: Quaife Motorcycle Engine Reverse Systems

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Elite Racing Transmissions

Address:
Salem Street
Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST1 5PR

Telephone: 01782 280136
Email: sales@eliteracingtransmissions.com
Website: Reverse Gearbox Systems

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Nova Racing Transmissions Ltd

Address:
Unit 12, Star Road Industrial Estate
Partridge Green, West Sussex, RH13 8RA

Telephone: 01403 711312
Email: sales@novaracing.co.uk
Website: In-Prop Shaft Reversing Gearbox

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Blitzworld Buggies Ltd

Address:
Unit 14, Railway Enterprise Centre
Shelton New Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 7SH

Telephone: 01782 208050
Email: sales@blitzworld.co.uk
Website: Reverse Box – Beast Vigilante

Other suppliers are available.

Mechanical Reversing Gearboxes

Mechanical reversing mechanisms are generally more robust than electric systems. When properly maintained, they offer long-term reliability.

Available types include:

• Inline reversing gearboxes for shaft-drive motorcycles
• Chain-drive compatible units
• Reversible differential boxes for trikes

If your motorcycle uses a belt drive, conversion to chain drive may improve compatibility. Belt drives do not always perform reliably with add-on reversing systems.

Harley Davidson Reversing Adaptations:
There are a number of Reversing Adaptations available for various models of Harley Davidson, some of these may be available via UK dealerships.

Reviews of Five Types of Reverse for Harley Davidson Motorcycles & Trikes:
https://eaglekingtech.com/5-best-reverse-gear-kits-for-harley-davidson-2025-review-buying-guide/

Where kits have to be imported from the USA or elsewhere, I am happy to advise NABD members how to avoid being charged import duty by customs and excise or VAT by the carriers.

1. Other suppliers are available.

Professional Installation

All reversing adaptations should be fitted by experienced engineers.

Professional installation helps ensure:

• Safe operation
• Correct alignment
• Long-term durability

Improper installation may result in mechanical failure or safety risks.

VAT Exemptions

If a reversing adaptation is required due to disability, it should qualify for 0% VAT.

For further details, please refer to the VAT Exemptions guidance on the NABD website.

Financial Help:
If the cost of purchasing and/or fitting adaptations is beyond your means, there may be help available from the NABD Adaptation Grants scheme.  See the Adaptation Grants information on the NABD website. https://nabd.org.uk

1. If you are not yet a member of the NABD, and you are finding useful and/or interesting information on this site, please consider joining now.

Membership is just £2.00 per month and it is these membership subscriptions that allow us to continue providing the information and services that help so many people.

Membership is open to everybody; you don’t have to be disabled to join the NABD and support the valuable work we do and the services we provide.

To become a member of the NABD, go to: https://nabd.org.uk/join/

When it comes to motorcycling, a disability need not be a handicap!

Rick Hulse
NABD Chairman