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How to Load a Motorcycle on a Trailer

Thursday, March 05, 2009
Related Tags: trailer | motorcycle | tie | straps | ramps
 

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

  • Trailer Motorcycle Heavy tie-down straps Ramps (optional)
  • Step 1:
    Prepare the trailer for loading. Make sure the trailer is clear of debris and is in safe, operable condition. Test the trailer's lights to ensure that they are in proper working condition.
  • Step 2:
    Place ramps at the back of the trailer. You can purchase metal loading ramps at any auto parts store. The bottom of the ramp should be placed flat on the ground, so that the top of the ramp will be level with the trailer. This will enable you to drive your motorcycle onto the trailer with little effort.
  • Step 3:
    Carefully ride your motorcycle up the ramps and onto the trailer.
  • Step 4:
    Position your motorcycle safely in the center of the trailer, and lower the kickstand to the floor of the trailer.
  • Step 5:
    Secure the motorcycle to the trailer using the tie-down straps. You should use a minimum of four tie-down straps to secure the motorcycle to each side of the trailer at the front and back of the bike. If you have more than four, you may wish to use them to ensure that the bike will be held in place in the event that one of the tie-downs breaks. You can purchase tie-down straps at any auto parts store or motorcycle dealership. While there are several different types of tie-down straps, the best type to use for this job are heavy-duty nylon tie-down straps with ratchets and metal anchors at each end. Simply attach one of the hooks at the end of the tie-down to the side of your trailer. Secure the other end of the tie-down to your motorcycle, and use the ratchet to tighten the tie-down as tight as you can get it.

Tips & Warnings

  • Many people find the assistance of a friend to be helpful. Your friend can help support the bike as you tie it down to the trailer.
  • Ensure that you use heavy tie-down straps that will support the weight of your motorcycle on the trailer. Using the wrong tie-down straps can cause thousands of dollars in damage to your motorcycle if the bike falls, and could possibly damage your trailer as well.

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