Tips on Securing a Motorcycle on a Trailer
The kind of straps that one uses to tie down a motorcycle with is highly dependent on the model and make, but most people agree to use a mounted frame or a solid part of such on the frame as an attachment hold. Mostly two tie-downs at the front and another two on either side are enough for most bikes, but if one needs extra assurance, more ratchet tie downs(four in front and two back) can guarantee top notch security, even for a heavy machine.
An incorrectly tied down motorcycle to your trailer may end up in your motorcycle drifting or getting knocked over during transportation, or even falling off the trailer. In order to assure your motorcycle is safely tied down during trips, you should learn the correct procedures. Know how to choose an appropriate trailer, secure the motorcycle to it, and cautious driving.
Straps for tie down come in either cam or ratchet buckles style. Cam buckles apply friction it creates as it passes through a spring, cam-shaped buckle to secure the strap firm. Ratchet straps work in much the same way, only that it has a ratchet buckle to affirm the strap. Both allow one to secure the bike by you and bump up tension on the suspension to minimize shock loading. Shock loading takes effect when the vehicle pulling the bike trailer hits a rough section on the road, which causes the bike's suspension to compress making the straps slack, and as it rebounds, the tie-downs snap hard again - a thing that can ultimately loosen and break them. The more the load suspension is applied during tie-down, the less it will compress when towing. Some people are of the opinion that ratchet straps are most effective at maximizing compression, while others are comfortable with the cams for they could be easier to work with.
At the rear of the bike during fastening, use a stout part of the motorcycle and tie a smooth loop around it, then go on to secure the straps to the cycle in the same formation as done in the front.
Fasten each ratchet strap in a position that ensures the bike will sit in an upright position on its own.
Tie down the other hooked end of the strap to a firm spot in the truck or trailer floor, at an angle preferably for maximum stability.
A motorcycle wheel chock could be installed in the trailer or pick-up truck, and remember well to position the straps in their correct manner so that they will pull the bike in towards the wheel chock. To affirm stability, often check the strap tightness and the prevailing condition of the straps along with the load itself before and during the trip.
A wheel chock is a heavy material made of metal or hard elements that is set on the front wheel of the motorcycle to prevent it from any mobility. While the wheel chock is not mandatory to trailer your bike, it particularly makes the work much lighter, more so when you are loading and strapping without assistance.
A basic guide for tying down motorcycles is to attach the straps high on the bike and lowest possible on the trailer to achieve the greatest pull power for effective holding down. An "X" pattern should be used in fastening to ensure maximum stability. As one ratchets the straps down, it is required to make sure the suspension is fully compressed.