Best Way To Strap Down A Motorcycle In A Trailer
Transporting a motorcycle from one place to another can be challenging, especially if you don't know how to secure it properly. Whether you are moving or taking your bike to a rally, you need to ensure that it is correctly strapped down in a trailer. In this article, we will discuss the best way to strap down a motorcycle in a trailer to ensure that it arrives at its destination safely.
Choosing the Right Trailer
The first thing you need to consider is the type of trailer you will use to transport your motorcycle. There are several types of trailers available, including enclosed, open, and flatbed trailers. Enclosed trailers offer the most protection for your motorcycle, while open trailers are more affordable and easier to load and unload. Flatbed trailers are suitable for larger motorcycles, but they are not enclosed, which means that your bike will be exposed to the elements.
Once you have decided on the type of trailer, you need to ensure that it is in good condition. Check the tires, brakes, lights, and hitch to ensure that they are working correctly. Also, make sure that the trailer is the right size for your motorcycle and that it has enough tie-down points.
Gathering the Necessary Equipment
Before you start strapping down your motorcycle, you need to gather the necessary equipment. This includes tie-down straps, ratchet straps, soft ties, and wheel chocks. Tie-down straps are used to secure the motorcycle to the trailer, while soft ties are used to prevent damage to the handlebars and other parts of the bike. Wheel chocks are used to keep the motorcycle in place during transit.
It is essential to use high-quality straps that are designed specifically for securing motorcycles. Don't use bungee cords or ropes, as they can stretch and break during transit. Also, make sure that the straps are not frayed or damaged and that they are long enough to reach the tie-down points on the trailer.
Positioning the Motorcycle in the Trailer
The next step is to position the motorcycle in the trailer. Make sure that it is centered and that the wheels are in the wheel chocks. If you are using an enclosed trailer, make sure that the bike is not touching the walls or the roof. Also, make sure that the kickstand is up, and the transmission is in neutral.
If you are transporting multiple motorcycles, make sure that they are positioned in such a way that they do not touch each other. Also, make sure that the weight is evenly distributed to prevent the trailer from swaying during transit.
Securing the Motorcycle to the Trailer
Once you have positioned the motorcycle in the trailer, it is time to secure it. Start by attaching the soft ties to the handlebars or other parts of the bike that you want to protect. Then, attach the tie-down straps to the soft ties and the tie-down points on the trailer.
Make sure that the straps are not twisted and that they are tight enough to keep the motorcycle in place. Use the ratchet straps to tighten the tie-down straps and ensure that the bike is secure. Push down on the motorcycle to compress the suspension, which will help keep it in place during transit.
Checking the Straps
Before you hit the road, it is essential to check the straps to ensure that they are secure. Make sure that they are tight and that the motorcycle is not moving. Also, make sure that the soft ties are still in place and that the bike is not touching the walls or the roof of the trailer.
It is also a good idea to check the straps periodically during transit to ensure that they are still tight. If you notice that the straps are loose or that the motorcycle is moving, pull over and re-secure it.
Conclusion
Transporting a motorcycle in a trailer can be stressful, but with the right equipment and techniques, you can ensure that it arrives at its destination safely. Remember to choose the right trailer, gather the necessary equipment, position the motorcycle correctly, secure it properly, and check the straps before hitting the road.