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Loading your motorcycle into a truck might seem straightforward, but it’s surprisingly easy to make mistakes that can lead to expensive damage or worse, injuries.
If you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner looking to improve your loading skills, here are the most common mistakes you should avoid when loading and tying down your motorcycle!
1. Too Steep of a Loading Angle
One of the first mistakes people make is loading a motorcycle at too steep of an angle.
If you find yourself throttling the engine and playing with the clutch just to get the bike halfway up, or worse, if you kill the engine and can’t push the bike up, it’s time to rethink your loading approach.
If it's too steep, find a curb!
Solution: If you're struggling to get that bottom end of the ramp higher, move the truck and find raised ground or a curb to give you more of a level approach.
In addition, having a step up to the truck tailgate will also help you keep your hands on the levers at a height that gives you greater control.
A little adjustment in your ramp's angle or a step up to the tailgate can save you a lot of frustration and avoid engine stalling or dropping your bike.
2. Not Securing the Ramp Properly
Another common mistake is neglecting to properly secure your ramp. Even if the motorcycle is heavy enough to stay in place, the ramp can shift unexpectedly, causing a dangerous situation.
Take the time to strap the ramp!
Solution: Take 30 extra seconds to secure your ramp with a couple of simple straps. A small mistake can lead to big expenses, and more importantly, injuries.
Securing the ramp is as important as securing the bike.
3. Riding the Motorcycle Up the Ramp
While it might seem easier to ride your bike up the ramp, this can lead to accidents, especially if you lose control or the engine stalls halfway.
Don't ride up the ramp!
Solution: Never ride your bike up the ramp unless you’re certain you have the momentum and control. If you decide to ride, make sure the ramp is level and your confidence matches your skills.
But really, it’s safer and easier to push the bike or ask a buddy to help you.
4. Not Considering Your Reach and Height
Before you even begin loading, it’s crucial to evaluate the situation. How tall is your bike? How high is the truck bed? Is there a step or gate that might complicate the transition?
Assess the situation first!
Solution: Think about your reach and the transition between the ramp and truck. Test it out before you load up—mock it up and see if there are any challenges in getting the bike safely into the truck.
It's always a good idea to have a second person helping just in case.
5. Using Straps with Open Hooks
Open-hook straps are convenient but dangerous when securing your bike. They can slip loose during transport, especially when the bike moves or bumps along the road.
We also live in a day and age that clip on hooks are abundant and cheap.
Use closed clips
Solution: Always use straps with closed hooks or secure open hooks with a zip tie to prevent them from slipping out of place.
You want to make sure your straps stay tight no matter how bumpy the ride gets.
6. Skipping Soft Straps
Soft straps can make a big difference when securing your motorcycle. Hard hooks can scratch your bike’s frame and, worse, they don't absorb vibrations like soft straps do.
Use soft straps
Solution: Soft straps are your best bet. They protect the bike and absorb vibrations, preventing potential damage from the constant shaking on the road.
Plus, they’re gentler on your motorcycle’s paint and parts.
7. Ignoring the Motorcycle’s Tie-Down Points
The next mistake involves not paying attention to where you’re placing the straps. Securing them around sharp edges or bolts can damage your straps and cause failures during transport.
Be mindful of your tie-down points.
Solution: Check your bike’s manufacturer recommendations for proper tie-down points. If you have any sharp edges where the strap might rub, add padding to protect the strap.
This is a small step that prevents the strap from breaking under pressure.
8. Not Securing the Front Wheel Properly
Many riders think that securing the bike from both sides is enough. However, if the front wheel isn’t properly secured, it can turn and shift during the ride, which may cause the bike to fall over.
Don't forget to tie down that front wheel!
Solution: Always secure the front wheel, even if you're using two tie-down points. If you can, use a wheel chalk or wrap the straps around the front wheel to ensure it doesn’t shift while driving.
9. Forgetting to Secure the Rear of the Motorcycle
Finally, many riders think securing the front of the bike is enough. But what happens if one of the front straps fails or comes loose? The rear of the bike can shift and cause the bike to tip over.
Strap that back wheel!
Solution: It’s always a good idea to use a couple of extra straps at the back of the bike. Strapping down the rear wheel or swing arm helps keep the bike upright in case anything goes wrong with the front straps.
It’s a little extra time that adds to much more security and peace of mind.
Conclusion
Loading your motorcycle properly isn’t just about getting your bike from point A to point B. It’s about keeping your motorcycle safe, preventing damage, and, most importantly, ensuring your own safety.
By avoiding these nine common mistakes, you’ll ensure your bike stays secure during transport, and you’ll save yourself from unnecessary hassle or potential injury.
And remember, if you're looking to improve your riding skills and learn more about safe practices like these, consider signing up for one of our Motorcycle Training Courses in Bend or outside Las Vegas.
→Read More:
Parking A Motorcycle: 6 Rookie Mistakes to Avoid
6 ADV Riding Techniques For Your Next Adventure RIDE
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