Best Way To Strap A Motorcycle Down
Transporting a motorcycle can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to it. However, with the right equipment and knowledge, strapping a motorcycle down can be done easily and safely. In this article, we will discuss the best way to strap a motorcycle down so that you can transport it with peace of mind.
Choosing the Right Straps
The first step in strapping a motorcycle down is choosing the right straps. You need to ensure that the straps are strong enough to hold the weight of the motorcycle and that they are long enough to wrap around the bike and secure it to the trailer or truck bed. The best straps for this job are ratchet straps or cam buckle straps. They are strong and easy to use.
When choosing your straps, make sure that they have a weight limit that exceeds the weight of your motorcycle. You don't want to risk using straps that are not strong enough to hold your bike securely in place.
Preparing the Motorcycle
Before you can start strapping your motorcycle down, you need to prepare it for transport. Start by turning off the engine and removing the key. This ensures that the motorcycle is not accidentally started during transport. Next, make sure that the kickstand is up and that the bike is in neutral. This will make it easier to move the motorcycle into position.
You may also want to remove any loose or detachable parts such as mirrors, saddlebags, or windshields. This will reduce the risk of these parts getting damaged during transport. If you do remove any parts, make sure to store them securely away from the motorcycle.
Positioning the Motorcycle
Once the motorcycle is prepared, you need to position it in the trailer or truck bed. Start by placing the motorcycle in the center of the trailer or bed. This will distribute the weight evenly and help prevent the motorcycle from tipping over during transport.
You may want to use a wheel chock to hold the front wheel in place. This will help keep the motorcycle stable during transport. If you don't have a wheel chock, you can use a piece of wood or a folded towel to keep the front wheel from moving.
Securing the Motorcycle
Now it's time to secure the motorcycle in place. Start by securing the back wheel first. Place a strap over the seat and pull it tight. This will prevent the motorcycle from moving forward during transport. Next, wrap a strap around the rear wheel and tighten it down using a ratchet or cam buckle. Make sure that the strap is tight enough to prevent the wheel from moving, but not so tight that it damages the wheel or tire.
Once the back wheel is secure, move on to the front wheel. If you are using a wheel chock, simply strap the front wheel down using a ratchet or cam buckle. If you are not using a wheel chock, you will need to use a fork brace to hold the front wheel in place. Strap the fork brace down using a ratchet or cam buckle, making sure that the front wheel is secure and cannot move during transport.
Double Check Everything
Once you have strapped the motorcycle down, double check everything to make sure that it is secure. Give the motorcycle a gentle shake to make sure that it does not move. Check that all the straps are tight and that there are no loose parts on the motorcycle.
It's also a good idea to stop and check the straps periodically during transport. This will give you peace of mind and ensure that the motorcycle remains secure throughout the journey.
Conclusion
Transporting a motorcycle can be stressful, but with the right equipment and knowledge, it can be done safely and easily. By choosing the right straps, preparing the motorcycle, positioning it correctly, and securing it properly, you can transport your motorcycle with confidence. Remember to double check everything and check the straps periodically during transport to ensure that the motorcycle remains secure throughout the journey.
