A motorcycle that is loosely secured to the trailer could slip and fall during the ride. To be sure you have tied up your motorcycle in a workmanlike manner, and travel safely along the highway, you must learn the correct procedure. Follow these instructions.
Steps
Step 1. Attach the trailer to the towbar located on the back of your car or van
Step 2. Put a wheel stop at the front of the trailer
This is a sturdy metal or plastic wedge or block that fits over the front wheel of the bike to prevent it from moving.
Step 3. Load the motorcycle onto the trailer
Use a ramp to easily push it onto the trailer floor.
Step 4. Place the front wheel in the retainer you prepared
Step 5. Put soft rings on the left and right of the handlebar; in this way you avoid that the hooks of the ratchet straps scratch the bike
Step 6. Attach the ratchet straps to the handlebar rings
By doing so, you lock the bike safely; these straps are specific for transport on trailers.
Step 7. Find safe points on the trailer to attach the other ends of the straps
Step 8. Tighten the straps
Loosen the buckle and pull the fastening flap to the desired tension. When you're done, the bike should stand up on its own.
Step 9. Find a secure spot on both sides of the bike's rear frame
Since every motorcycle is different, you need to find sturdy areas of the frame where you can attach the other straps.
Step 10. Wrap a soft loop around each anchor point you have chosen
Step 11. Attach the other straps to the soft rings and the other end to secure points on the trailer
Step 12. Tighten the straps to anchor the rear side of the motorcycle as well
Step 13. Double check all straps
During anchoring some of them may become loose.
Advice
- Having a helper to keep the bike straight while you tie it up will make the whole process much easier.
- Stand on the trailer, once the bike is secured with the straps, and try jumping up and down. In this way you simulate the stresses to which the bike will be subjected during the trip and you will be able to understand if adjustments are necessary in the tension of the belts.
- You should use a ratchet strap with a sturdy metal notched buckle to securely attach the bike to the trailer.
- Stop often during the trip. Get out of the car and check the trailer, to be sure that no belt has loosened or slipped out of place.
Warnings
- Do not tighten the ratchet straps to the point of bending or deforming parts of the motorcycle.
- Check the highway code regarding the trailer before loading the motorcycle. You could face a fine.
