Best Way To Transport A Motorcycle In A Van
Transporting a motorcycle in a van is a common practice for many motorcycle owners. This is especially true for those who want to take their bike to a track day or for those who are moving to a new location. However, transporting a motorcycle in a van can be tricky if you don't know what you're doing. In this post, we'll look at the best way to transport a motorcycle in a van.
Preparing the Van
The first step in transporting a motorcycle in a van is to prepare the van. Start by removing any loose objects from the van that may cause damage to the motorcycle during transport. This includes tools, spare parts, and any other items that may shift during transport.
Next, you should lay down a protective layer on the floor of the van. You can use a blanket, a tarp, or any other protective layer that will prevent the motorcycle from getting scratched or damaged during transport.
Finally, you should secure the motorcycle tie-downs to the floor of the van. You can use eye bolts or D-rings that are attached to the van's frame. This will ensure that the motorcycle is securely fastened to the van during transport.
Choosing the Right Tie-Downs
Choosing the right tie-downs is essential when transporting a motorcycle in a van. You want to use tie-downs that are strong enough to hold the weight of the motorcycle and that won't damage the motorcycle during transport.
The most common types of tie-downs used for transporting motorcycles are ratchet straps and cam buckle straps. Ratchet straps are the strongest and most secure type of tie-downs and are recommended for heavy motorcycles. Cam buckle straps are easier to use and are better for lighter motorcycles.
Securing the Motorcycle
When securing the motorcycle, it is important to follow a few guidelines to ensure that the motorcycle is properly secured and protected during transport.
The first step is to position the motorcycle in the center of the van, with the front wheel facing forward. This will ensure that the motorcycle is balanced and won't tip over during transport.
Next, you should use four tie-downs to secure the motorcycle to the van. Two tie-downs should be attached to the front of the motorcycle and two should be attached to the back. The tie-downs should be attached to the strongest parts of the motorcycle, such as the frame or the triple clamp.
Finally, you should tighten the tie-downs until the motorcycle is firmly secured to the van. You should be able to push and pull on the motorcycle and feel that it is securely fastened to the van.
Driving the Van
Once the motorcycle is securely fastened to the van, it's time to hit the road. However, you need to be aware of a few things when driving the van with a motorcycle in the back.
The first thing to keep in mind is to drive carefully and slowly. You should avoid sudden stops and sharp turns that may cause the motorcycle to shift or tip over.
You should also check the tie-downs periodically during the drive to ensure that they are still tight and secure. If you notice any looseness or shifting, you should pull over and adjust the tie-downs before continuing.
Conclusion
Transporting a motorcycle in a van can be a safe and convenient way to transport your bike. However, it's important to follow the guidelines outlined in this post to ensure that your motorcycle is securely fastened and protected during transport.
Remember to prepare the van, choose the right tie-downs, secure the motorcycle properly, and drive carefully. By following these guidelines, you can safely transport your motorcycle in a van and enjoy a stress-free ride.