Many motorcyclists find themselves with new dilemmas that they have probably never experienced in the past. One of these is trying to tie down their bike which allows them to transport their expensive motorcycle safely. However, there are only a few tried and true methods to make sure a motorcycle can be transported without any issues.
Here is a list of basic equipment needed for securing a motorcycle for transportation/hauling: (4) high strength/good quality ratchet straps (2) ratchets and (2) cam buckle straps will do, however the preferred method is via (4) ratchet straps), and (4) soft loops. (Soft loops are special straps that keep the hooks of your cam/ratchet straps away from your bike to prevent scratching during the trip.)
Please note, when purchasing your straps please pay close attention to buckle section as it should be a nice strong metal with the preferred tooth style strap gripping plate. Now that you have the required items begin the tie-down process as outlined below.
Step 1: Once bike is in the truck or trailer, wrap soft loop around base of Left handle bar and place hook end of strap through soft loop and secure other hook of strap to secure spot in truck or trailer, pull slack out of strap and ratchet a few times, repeat for Right handle bar.
Step 2: Once both Ratchet straps are in place, tighten each snugly so that bike will sit in the upright position on its own. BE SURE TO NOT COMPRESS THE FRONT FORKS, SERIOUS DAMAGE MAY OCCUR TO SUSPENSION OF BIKE (see owners manual).
Step 3: Now for the rear of the bike. Find a stable member of the bike and wrap soft loop around and secure in same fashion as front (because each bike is a little different there is not just one specific spot to wrap the soft loop.)
Step 4: Periodically check tightness and condition of straps and load before and during trip, to ensure stability.
Step 5 Optional: The use of a wheel chock is a great security feature for your bike. If you choose to use one position straps so that they are pulling the bike in the forward position against the wheel chock.
