How to Load a Motorcycle on a Utility Trailer

Take care when loading a motorcycle onto a trailer.

As much as motorcyclists prefer to ride wherever they go, transporting their motorcycles on a trailer is sometimes necessary. Since most trailers are not built specifically for motorcycle transportation, they often lack the amenities to load and secure a motorcycle. This can create a great deal of stress for the machine's owner, who is forced to find a way to load and tie the motorcycle down safely. You'll need a ramp and a good set of tie down straps.

Things You'll Need

• Loading ramps
• Tie down straps

Instructions

1. Place a set of loading ramps at the rear of the trailer, setting the ramps' fingers against the edge of the trailer's frame. Center one ramp in the middle of the trailer and set the second ramp a small distance away and to the left. You will use the second ramp to walk onto the trailer.

2. Hook one end of a tie down strap to each ramp, securing the other end against the trailer's frame. This will prevent the ramps from slipping away while the motorcycle is being loaded.

3. Lift the motorcycle off its kickstand and roll it forward. Roll the motorcycle up the center ramp while you walk up the second ramp. Maintain your momentum, using the weight of the motorcycle to pull itself up the ramp and onto the trailer. Push the motorcycle to the front of the trailer, resting its front tire against the trailer's frame. Lower the motorcycle onto its kickstand.

4. Shift the motorcycle into first gear, pulling in the clutch lever on the left handlebar and pressing the shift lever downward until it clicks into gear.

5. Hook a tie down strap to both forward corners of the trailer's frame, selecting a sturdy portion of the frame or a tie down eyelet. Attach the opposite ends of the tie down straps to the motorcycle, wrapping the strap around the handlebars.

6. Raise the motorcycle off of its kickstand and hold it upright. Tighten the tie down straps until the tension supports the motorcycle in an upright position. Shake the motorcycle slightly to ensure that it will not tip over in either direction. If the motorcycle begins to lean to one side, lift it upright again and tighten the loose strap.

7. Remove the ramps from the trailer.

Tips & Warnings

• Enlist the aid of a friend or assistant to help you load and secure the motorcycle.

• Do not compress the front fork while tightening the tie down straps. Over-compressing the fork can rupture the fork's seals, creating a loss of suspension efficiency.

• Do not attempt this task by yourself if you doubt your ability to complete it safely.

References

• "The Professional Motorcycle Repair Program; Professional Career Development Institute"; Prentice-Hall; 1995