Best Way To Tie Down A Motorcycle On Trailer
Transporting a motorcycle can be a daunting task. Whether you are moving, going on a road trip, or taking your bike to a repair shop, you need to ensure that your motorcycle is securely tied down to the trailer to avoid any damage or accidents. In this article, we will discuss the best way to tie down a motorcycle on a trailer.
Choose the Right Trailer
Before you start tying down your motorcycle, you need to ensure that you have the right trailer for the job. Choose a trailer that is specifically designed for transporting motorcycles. A motorcycle trailer will have features such as a chock, tie-down points, and a ramp that will make it easier and safer to load and transport your motorcycle.
Use High-Quality Tie-Down Straps
The next step is to choose high-quality tie-down straps. Do not skimp on the quality of straps as they play a crucial role in securing your motorcycle. Look for straps that have a minimum break strength of at least 1,500 lbs. Ratchet straps are the most popular type of tie-down straps for motorcycles as they provide a strong and secure hold.
Position the Motorcycle Correctly
Before you start tying down your motorcycle, you need to ensure that it is positioned correctly on the trailer. The motorcycle should be centered in the trailer and facing forward. The kickstand should be up, and the wheels should be in contact with the chock or the trailer bed.
Secure the Front Wheel
The front wheel of the motorcycle is the most crucial part to secure as it keeps the motorcycle upright. Use a wheel chock to keep the front wheel in place. Then, attach the tie-down straps to the handlebars on either side of the motorcycle. Make sure the straps are not twisted and that they are tight enough to keep the motorcycle from moving.
Secure the Rear Wheel
After securing the front wheel, the next step is to secure the rear wheel. Use a tie-down strap to attach the rear wheel to the trailer bed. The strap should be threaded through the rear wheel and tightened to keep the motorcycle from moving side to side.
Check the Tension
After securing the front and rear wheels, check the tension of the tie-down straps. The straps should be tight enough to keep the motorcycle stationary but not so tight that they damage the motorcycle. Test the tension by pushing and pulling the motorcycle, and adjust the straps as necessary.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when tying down your motorcycle on a trailer:
- Use soft ties to avoid damaging the motorcycle's paint or chrome.
- Do not tie down the motorcycle by the suspension or exhaust system.
- Double-check all tie-downs before hitting the road.
- Drive cautiously and avoid sudden stops or turns.
Conclusion
Transporting your motorcycle on a trailer can be stressful, but by following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your motorcycle is securely tied down and ready for transport. Remember to choose the right trailer, use high-quality tie-down straps, position the motorcycle correctly, and check the tension of the straps before hitting the road.