When backing a heavy bike down a steep ramp using only the front brake, the front tire may skid on the ramp. I leave the engine off and put the bike in 1st gear. Then backing down I use the clutch lever as a rear wheel "brake" still keeping both feet on the ramp for balance.
That's what happened to me when the front tire skidded. Fortunately, no damage to my BMW F750GS or me. Will keep the bike in gear next time. Good suggestion! Thanks.
from someone that transports bike for a living its always interesting to see these videos when they pop up. Really well done and properly informative for those that may be looking to transport there own bike here and there.
The wood and right side detention with kickstand down is priceless. U-da-man Matt. Two weeks ago I took delivery on a 2020 Fat Boy “Killmonger” Vivid Black 160 miles. Sunday I completely the Seminole Harley Riding Academy. I’m taking the Motorman, and MotoJitsu courses as well as learning to be a Simmons Preloader. I installed a Lindby, LED’s front and rear, and am looking for a swept pointed sissy bar. I will go with an enclosed trailer and chock, but I will not forget your advice. I have learned so much from your unique tall man perspective and vast level of knowledge. Still watching.
Matt, I'm 6'4", fit at 195lbs, riding, racing and loading bikes for over 40 years but you've got a bigger set than me walking/feathering a touring bike up a single narrow ramp solo into a pickup bed! ...thanks for revoking my mancard!!!
@@StoneE4 That's only because Matt used the self loading videos from the fortnine commenters as the, "don't do this", examples. 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Sorry, I couldn't help myself. 🙊
Being very tall like Matt increases leverage and safety and makes chores like this a whole lot easier. For the majority of folks, loading and unloading is quite the stressful experience, depending on the bike weight, rider height, and the ramp length, width and angle.
Really great video Matt, I recently rented a low motorcycle trailer from uhaul. It is the very best way to go since you can.load it yourself very safely and transport it securely.. Just like the one you demonstrated. Matt, I remember transporting my freshly restored vintage 1971 super glide boat tail night train in the back of my ranger pickup truck from Jim’s Harley-Davidson in Ohio to my home in Illinois. As I was approaching a over pass on the interstate at 65 mph I noticed 3 teenagers throwing rocks at vehicles, they seem me coming and started throwing rocks down at me. I swerved at the last second and the little SOBs missed my freshly restored 71 vintage Night train. Truly, if I had a machine gun mounted to the roof of my pickup pointed up I would have taken them little SOBs all out before they let the rocks drop on me. Thanks for the video Matt. I would use a enclosed trailer for longer distance hauling...out of sight out of mind!
Those sort of "pranks" have caused accidents that have resulted in deaths, so if you do shoot those delinquents and are charged, if I'm on the jury, I'll be voting to acquit.
Come on Paul, a "1971 super-glide-boat-tail-night-train"??? WTH is that, a model you made up lol? That sounds like something a drunk biker would say when a bunch of guys are sitting around the garage telling lies LOL Night Train didn't come out until 1998, discontinued in 2010. I have a 2004, super sweet bike that I will have until I die!! Rock on Harley bros!
Thank you for posting this.. I've always used my handlebars and wondered if there was a better way.. I've seen folks use the fork sliders but I didn't like that for risk of paint scuffs. Using the frame seems like the way to go.. nice to know I been doing it wrong all these years! Will try this next time I trailer it. I use the same harley cam lock straps and pull them as tight as I can.. I'm paranoid of hitting a large bump and the hook slack for a moment and come off.. on a trailer where there's little suspension under the bike, it's probably important to tighten more that what would be needed in the back of a truck. Thanks for the detailed explanation of the different approaches.
Great video with excellent samples of how to properly load a bike. Have been to the dealer and received terrible service. Have been a good customer since your location was in SG. I must comment there was a very nice young lady working in part. She was very knowledgeable and was able to get the part I need it.
I am 5'9 so loading and unloading my harley on my pickup was a bit scary. I had to have someone spot me and hold the bike in place as I stepped up and down from the bed. Thank you for making this video, good useful tips here.
This is great Matt, thanks! The clips of the guys dropping them off the ramp are nightmare stuff.. yessir, pay close attention, this is very helpful 👍🏻👍🏻
Great video. Next time I haul my SG I’ll use that method. I’ve been using soft ties on the lower fork tubes right above the fender bolts. Works good but like the frame/crash bar method better. I didn’t see any straps on the back of the bike. I typically tie down the back at the saddle bag rails or around the passenger foot pegs.
Another great video, Matt. Thanks! I would only add that straps need to be put on the rear of the motorcycle, as well as the front. This required removing the saddlebags in order to access the swing arms. Another thing I discovered was that you need to keep the fob in proximity to the bike or the alarm system will activate due to the bike’s movement on the trailer while you’re going down the road. And I had no issues with the front straps interfering with the leg fairings on my 2020 Ultra Limited.
You don't have to remove saddle bags, tie down the rear by looping the strap on one side through the wheel & back to the same side. Then loop another strap from the other side through the wheel & return to the same side as well.
Good information especially since so many people screw this up. On another note, you're 6'6''? We are both the same height...give or take a foot or so...
When I have to trailer my RKS and wife’s Sportster I use soft loops wrapped in microfiber rags and I tie down the forks below shocks (around fender mounts). That way I don’t compress the shocks and let bikes “float” with the road profile. Never had to re-tighten straps due to bike bouncing and adding an additional dynamic “stretch” to the straps. Soft loops wrapped in the rugs protect the paint and I’ve never had any issues with this method even though Matt didn’t recommend it.
The ratchet style won't come loose as easily and the cam type straps y'all are using in this video.. I've had these cam type straps come loose during transport! Everything else is common sense! I won't use a skinny ramp! Very good video!
When I was younger and stronger (and stupider) I used to occasionally load my 82 Suzuki 750 into the back of a full sized van using a long 2x8. If I ever need to trailer my Road King I think I’m going to rent a U-Haul trailer. Good info on where to tie down though! Could also be useful if you ever take your bike on a ferry boat. I know the one that crosses Lake Michigan requires you to bring your own straps and tie it down. Now I know how to do it right, I used to tie to the handlebars. Thanks!
Very good, thorough video. I load dirt bikes frequently into my van, but the harley is entirely different. The wide ramp for foot placement and balance is essential, I wouldn't use my narrow dirt bike ramps to load the fatboy I own. This video very useful, thanks Matt.
Do you guys secure somehow that wooden block from moving? In 16:28 I can see the tire is not pushing the block against the wall. Isn't it dangerous? I mean that play between the wheel and the wall can make the bike unstable during transport.
Back in the early days of my starting to ride, I did the Evel Knievel while trying to load my 600 lb low rider on to my truck with a skinny ramp. Got the bike on to the truck, but collapse the front of the bed unto the cab of my truck. What a disaster I ain't 6'6". I use a trailer now. LOL.
Those tailgate braces aren't really going to help prevent the center of the tailgate from tacoing when you're using a single ramp. The weakest point in any tailgate is right in the center. Maybe the braces make the tailgate a little bit more rigid because they go to the upper edge of the tailgate, but not much. It makes more sense to me (with a single ramp) to place it off-center to the right just a bit.
I got a 19 Electra Glide Standard. My setup is a Aluma 5410 (54 wide by 120 inch long), custom welded on 72 inch long bi fold aluminum ramp off a car hauler. I got the removable Condor wheel chock. I use endless ratchet straps (no hooks) that I loop through the frame in front. I use 2, loosely, on the rear through the saddle bag guards (added to the bike) to make sure the rear doesn't shift to much. I've actually never had the rear shift on me though, during transport.
I have transported it in the bed of a 14 and 20, Silverado 1500 reg cab long box. I got the trailer cause it's just a far safer way to load and unload. I took the original ramp off the trailer and had the 72 inch bi fold car hauler ramp custom welded on for increased safety while loading and unloading.
Don't hate,I do load my bikes in the back of my 2003 tacoma w/ bike off on one ramp and a 5gal bucket(I'm only 6'4"). It works, really liked the tailgate support bars.
I do load my bikes in the back of my 2003 tacoma w/ bike off on one ramp and a 5gal bucket(I'm only 6'4"). It works, really liked the tailgate support bars.
Very good video Matt! I use a motorcycle trailer when needed. I'm 6'3" and there's no way I'm walking my Ultra up that skinny ramp. You've probably been doing it your whole life and have tons of practice.
Never tried a solo load... with that kind of weight! Worked at Hempstead Harley, big eye opener, on Harley weight. That first month I had to grow wrist muscles, my bike experience at that time, was zero Harley, all Japanese...big difference! I did dry prep, unloading, unnboxing (ours were always fully wood boxes, then moved into the aluminum spars. Roll it in, after the mech, took it for the test ride, I wash and polish, move it to the showroom. We used to lift the front of the crate bottom, I get on, partner pops the straps, the tilt makes it bump over the crate spars. Wax on, wax off!
Thanks for this Matt. Funny, we have been tieing down to the front Engine Guard for years, I now understand that is not a good idea. Question, could you show us how you tie down an Ultra with Lowers?
One of the most practical videos I've seen on this subject. Though he demonstrated these techniques on Harley's, the principles apply to other bikes too. Nice job!
Good information and well presented. There's one situation that you didn't address. I've been using a tilt bed utility trailer with side rails to transport bikes for many years. I use a front wheel chock very similar to the ones in your video, permanently mounted to the trailer. I tie down as you recommend, but also secure the rear wheel side to side for added stability. Of course, no ramp is needed with a tilt bed. I would like to see how you would using a trailer of this type. I have a Sportster, Dyna and Road King. Also use the trailer on the farm for multiple purposes.
I'm surprised that that dealer truck doesn't have something to stabilize that front wheel in a straight up fashion. Strapping the bike down with the kickstand down has the potential to do damage to the kickstand, frame and truck bed where the kickstand sits when you hit potholes and such. The majority of the weight goes down on the kickstand when the suspension gives. If you have to strap it down with the stand down because of urgency then do it, but I like to go upright.
I don't stress the front suspension. I use a HF wheel chock which allows me to get off the bike. Then I use soft ties around the front fender bolts to hold the wheel into the chock. Then I tie down at the saddlebag guards while sitting on the bike. That worked for a while, then I got the Biker Bar for my new enclosed trailer, and now I don't have to use any straps.
Great video thx! I have 2 trailers and will be using your methods going forward. A 5x8 for short trips and my toyhauler that I built myself for loonngg roadtrips!
This was a great video. Im not good at loading a bike and I never want to be good at it. It only means one thing. I broke down!!! This video shows tips im always wondering about when I do load a bike though
I have a Tacoma but no CVO. What a better reason to go buy one now. Great video. Learned a lot of useful points. Really liked the loading fails and what not to do and why not to do them.
One suggestion. Before tying the loose end of the strap wrap it around the strap at the bottom of the buckle, that way if the buckle mechanism breaks or loosens the strap will pull tight against the buckle frame and hold the bike tight.
Cool video guys. Can’t say that I’d want to use anything other than a trailer in future. Just recently recovered my Ninja and had to load it into a van. That was bad enough, but my Harley is SOOO much heavier.
As I do. I just thought it would be much more helpful to show the masses how to do it. I am of the crowd that only trailers a bike if it not able to be ridden mechanically. I just loaded an in storage for 7 years '91 Police bike with the winch by myself, the owner was impressed I must say.
I have watched other people talk about not getting the tie down above the shock (not physically) because how tight will you compress the shock? Or will the bike strap loosen up if the shock is allowed to work and the strap is getting stressed? I towed mine without constricting the shock at all. It worked well and just seems better for the bike and shocks.
The problem is ,is if you compress the fork tubes to much and then hit tracks to hard you'll blow the fork seals. Also if you have a touring bike you have to put it to sleep before towing it your security alarm will go off the whole time. I always tie down on the lower forks and again on the bag bars.
Great vid. I don't haul mine in a pickup anymore, but that bit about strapping the ramp to the truck was really smart. I never had a problem, but now I feel lucky about that. Especially with all your crash footage. Yikes!
Very good video. I need to load my 2020 48 up for transport once I hit the first service this spring. Was gonna invest in a wheel choke but it seem unnecessary when it's just 1 trip a year. Good to know where I should strap as well, to the forks and not the frame as on the softtails. Just gotta decide now whether to use a VW crafter or a proper truck with a loading ramp. 😀
I learned years ago to go around forks just above fender mount this way the suspension of bike has free travel without straps ever becoming loose when suspension compresses when hitting bumps or turning. I also never use a hook in any tie down location using strap to go thru tie down eye then thru eye of hook. Just my opinion. Are others doin this way? What do you think? Also I do soft strap in rear to prevent side to side movements. Great video.
That’s a decent way to do it and will work in most cases. The way I show isn’t the only way to skin a cat. The problem with strapping a big heavy Harley right there is you can easily put pressure on the fender and mess up the paint or bend the fender. Also it doesn’t anchor the bike in as well as using the frame.
Excellent content, love all your videos, some are very helpful, currently without a bike, it would be an honor to give my business, but am all the way in Florida. Keep up the good work. Loading a bike on a pick up truck is like an art and no everyone is capable of giving a good hair cut so best to leave that stuff to the artist.
Thank you for the excellent video. That is how I have been securing motorcycles for year's.loading yes and no.yave had more motorcycles in my past 36+ yrs then most have had vehicles.thank you again keep up the good work
One question I have is there any reason to tie down the back end of a bike? I own a 2004 Electra Glide Classic is my reason for asking. Great video by the way!
Yes you should tie it down in front and back. And use stronger straps then they use in this video. Regards Truck driver for 25 years in Norway. If your bike is about 350kg you should use straps that can take same force as 350kg in front and back of your bike. And for god sake not use straps with that type of lock.
I have the Biker Bar in my tralier, just connect the bar to the bottom of the frame drive onto tralier and it locks down get off bike and go no tie downs or nothing. Luv it.
@@tahoe9882 -- Interesting concept... If they made it a bit wider, it would even make it impossible to drop your bike on the side while moving it around in your garage. It would be like having a kickstand down on both sides... :) I had actually though about doing something similar to that using a length 2x4 to make it easier to move my Harley around in my garage. I was thinking of mounting it to the crash bar instead though. I've never dropped my Harley while moving it around in my garage, but I have dropped *lighter* bikes unfortunately...
years ago if you had a harley davidson you must have a pick up truck to take it home or a friends harley they broke down all the time in the 60's when i was a kid no joke and if you rode 300 miles in one day that was a good day and someone always broke down ... now we have a new type of harley that 1000 miles in one day is a good day Mr. Matt....
I was hoping to see the touring bike go up the slim ramp. Great video! Oh ya I was there last Saturday for the first time, did some shopping. Nice dealership and great service.
Hi Matt. Great video. I have a 08 Ultra . I was one to collapse the suspension. No more. I use a Canam single bike folding trailer. It has ties for the front and rear. I notice you didn't tie down the rear at all. The Canam has a front-wheel cage like yours. Do you find you do not need rear tie-down? Also, as a professional car hauler and heavy equipment hauler, you soon learn to always set your hooks in place from under. That way if something comes loose the hooks stay in place.
Good video !! Some people barely strap these suckers down. I’m still gonna do the tested tank straps method though. Got me through a 13 hour rough terrain trip in a van with 2 bikes strapped down that way. Plus the quality of the straps makes a big difference.
great innovative video idea... bike reviews are everywhere but practical videos like this are a bit more thin on the ground... was also great to see some of the fails for contrast
When backing a heavy bike down a steep ramp using only the front brake, the front tire may skid on the ramp. I leave the engine off and put the bike in 1st gear. Then backing down I use the clutch lever as a rear wheel "brake" still keeping both feet on the ramp for balance.
Great idea.
True that.
Smart!
That's what happened to me when the front tire skidded. Fortunately, no damage to my BMW F750GS or me. Will keep the bike in gear next time. Good suggestion! Thanks.
Helpful. Thanks.
from someone that transports bike for a living its always interesting to see these videos when they pop up. Really well done and properly informative for those that may be looking to transport there own bike here and there.
The wood and right side detention with kickstand down is priceless. U-da-man Matt. Two weeks ago I took delivery on a 2020 Fat Boy “Killmonger” Vivid Black 160 miles. Sunday I completely the Seminole Harley Riding Academy. I’m taking the Motorman, and MotoJitsu courses as well as learning to be a Simmons Preloader. I installed a Lindby, LED’s front and rear, and am looking for a swept pointed sissy bar. I will go with an enclosed trailer and chock, but I will not forget your advice. I have learned so much from your unique tall man perspective and vast level of knowledge. Still watching.
Matt, I'm 6'4", fit at 195lbs, riding, racing and loading bikes for over 40 years but you've got a bigger set than me walking/feathering a touring bike up a single narrow ramp solo into a pickup bed! ...thanks for revoking my mancard!!!
Yh
I really fail to understand why would one dislike such video. Thank you Matt for these demonstrations. 👍🏻
Thank you for the positive feedback
People are haters, especially the Indian Challenger folks.
Honda Shadow owner
The vast majority of people who comment on fortnine videos would dislike this video, without watching it, after seeing the word "Harley" in the title.
@@StoneE4 That's only because Matt used the self loading videos from the fortnine commenters as the, "don't do this", examples. 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Sorry, I couldn't help myself. 🙊
At 5”4 I won’t be attempting to load my CVO on the back of a truck any time soon, but very educational Matt! And enjoyable as always.
Being very tall like Matt increases leverage and safety and makes chores like this a whole lot easier. For the majority of folks, loading and unloading is quite the stressful experience, depending on the bike weight, rider height, and the ramp length, width and angle.
Really great video Matt, I recently rented a low motorcycle trailer from uhaul. It is the very best way to go since you can.load it yourself very safely and transport it securely.. Just like the one you demonstrated.
Matt, I remember transporting my freshly restored vintage 1971 super glide boat tail night train in the back of my ranger pickup truck from Jim’s Harley-Davidson in Ohio to my home in Illinois. As I was approaching a over pass on the interstate at 65 mph I noticed 3 teenagers throwing rocks at vehicles, they seem me coming and started throwing rocks down at me. I swerved at the last second and the little SOBs missed my freshly restored 71 vintage Night train. Truly, if I had a machine gun mounted to the roof of my pickup pointed up I would have taken them little SOBs all out before they let the rocks drop on me. Thanks for the video Matt. I would use a enclosed trailer for longer distance hauling...out of sight out of mind!
Those sort of "pranks" have caused accidents that have resulted in deaths, so if you do shoot those delinquents and are charged, if I'm on the jury, I'll be voting to acquit.
Come on Paul, a "1971 super-glide-boat-tail-night-train"??? WTH is that, a model you made up lol? That sounds like something a drunk biker would say when a bunch of guys are sitting around the garage telling lies LOL
Night Train didn't come out until 1998, discontinued in 2010. I have a 2004, super sweet bike that I will have until I die!! Rock on Harley bros!
this is a good video to put out for sure. so many horror stories of people dropping their bikes on the way up the ramp. uggggh. good stuff man.
Thank you for posting this.. I've always used my handlebars and wondered if there was a better way.. I've seen folks use the fork sliders but I didn't like that for risk of paint scuffs. Using the frame seems like the way to go.. nice to know I been doing it wrong all these years! Will try this next time I trailer it. I use the same harley cam lock straps and pull them as tight as I can.. I'm paranoid of hitting a large bump and the hook slack for a moment and come off.. on a trailer where there's little suspension under the bike, it's probably important to tighten more that what would be needed in the back of a truck. Thanks for the detailed explanation of the different approaches.
Great video with excellent samples of how to properly load a bike. Have been to the dealer and received terrible service. Have been a good customer since your location was in SG. I must comment there was a very nice young lady working in part. She was very knowledgeable and was able to get the part I need it.
I liked the video, just because of the demonstration of the van door window crank. The other demonstrations were cool too.
I am 5'9 so loading and unloading my harley on my pickup was a bit scary. I had to have someone spot me and hold the bike in place as I stepped up and down from the bed. Thank you for making this video, good useful tips here.
This is great Matt, thanks! The clips of the guys dropping them off the ramp are nightmare stuff.. yessir, pay close attention, this is very helpful 👍🏻👍🏻
Glad I could help.
As always "The King of All Harley Videos" has spoken. Listen and learn. It will be time well spent.
Great video. Next time I haul my SG I’ll use that method. I’ve been using soft ties on the lower fork tubes right above the fender bolts. Works good but like the frame/crash bar method better. I didn’t see any straps on the back of the bike. I typically tie down the back at the saddle bag rails or around the passenger foot pegs.
yes more of these types of videos. very well explained, filmed and well done all around
Just in time! Best info, for me, was how much to ratchet and compress the front suspension. 1" to 1-1/2" Thanks!
Glad I could help.
The bike will loosen after a while, probably will need to tighten down more even with initial 1 1/2 inch.
Loved the video. Any suggestions as to how to kid a non running bike on the side of the road-other than the obvious “push hard”? Thanks.
Another great video, Matt. Thanks! I would only add that straps need to be put on the rear of the motorcycle, as well as the front. This required removing the saddlebags in order to access the swing arms. Another thing I discovered was that you need to keep the fob in proximity to the bike or the alarm system will activate due to the bike’s movement on the trailer while you’re going down the road. And I had no issues with the front straps interfering with the leg fairings on my 2020 Ultra Limited.
You don't have to remove saddle bags, tie down the rear by looping the strap on one side through the wheel & back to the same side. Then loop another strap from the other side through the wheel & return to the same side as well.
Good information especially since so many people screw this up. On another note, you're 6'6''? We are both the same height...give or take a foot or so...
Thanks Jerry.
Yes sir. 😂
@@MattLaidlaw I do at times identify as a 6'6'' person so...
I love your videos Jerry
I’m an inch taller but man my old knees don’t wanna lift me into the back of a truck like that anymore!
@@jedicazador -- Hell, my old knees don't even like stepping over a *curb* ... :(
absolutely the very best video I have ever seen on this topic
Thank you Matt and John. Very useful information. Much appreciate. 113 people apparently thought this information was not useful.
When I have to trailer my RKS and wife’s Sportster I use soft loops wrapped in microfiber rags and I tie down the forks below shocks (around fender mounts). That way I don’t compress the shocks and let bikes “float” with the road profile. Never had to re-tighten straps due to bike bouncing and adding an additional dynamic “stretch” to the straps. Soft loops wrapped in the rugs protect the paint and I’ve never had any issues with this method even though Matt didn’t recommend it.
isn't it amazing that no matter how tightly secured your bike is that you still have to stop every 20mins and readjust it!
U must not know how 2 cinch down your straps, I've gone x-country w/chinching down, just checked every gas stop.
The ratchet style won't come loose as easily and the cam type straps y'all are using in this video.. I've had these cam type straps come loose during transport! Everything else is common sense! I won't use a skinny ramp! Very good video!
agreed the ratchet style are the best.
I also agree. Ive hit a bump and they come loose. Have ratchet straps now. Thanks for the videos!
When I was younger and stronger (and stupider) I used to occasionally load my 82 Suzuki 750 into the back of a full sized van using a long 2x8. If I ever need to trailer my Road King I think I’m going to rent a U-Haul trailer. Good info on where to tie down though! Could also be useful if you ever take your bike on a ferry boat. I know the one that crosses Lake Michigan requires you to bring your own straps and tie it down. Now I know how to do it right, I used to tie to the handlebars. Thanks!
Very good, thorough video. I load dirt bikes frequently into my van, but the harley is entirely different. The wide ramp for foot placement and balance is essential, I wouldn't use my narrow dirt bike ramps to load the fatboy I own. This video very useful, thanks Matt.
Thank You. Laidlaws has been around for a Min!
Do you guys secure somehow that wooden block from moving? In 16:28 I can see the tire is not pushing the block against the wall. Isn't it dangerous? I mean that play between the wheel and the wall can make the bike unstable during transport.
Back in the early days of my starting to ride, I did the Evel Knievel while trying to load my 600 lb low rider on to my truck with a skinny ramp. Got the bike on to the truck, but collapse the front of the bed unto the cab of my truck. What a disaster I ain't 6'6". I use a trailer now. LOL.
matt!! it also helps if you are 6'5 when loading one of these on a truck!! :)
I was thinking the same thing with my 5'2" self🤣
I'm 5'7 and I've loaded everything form sport bikes to dirt bikes and adventure bikes into my pickup truck. But I use a ramp to walk up with my bike.
Great video, Matt. Please bring us more.
I'm 6 foot and those extra inches in height would be helpful
“Get Tacoed,” I love it! Thanks for a great video about our recreation and Rides.
Haha thanks man. Thanks for watching.
Those tailgate braces aren't really going to help prevent the center of the tailgate from tacoing when you're using a single ramp. The weakest point in any tailgate is right in the center. Maybe the braces make the tailgate a little bit more rigid because they go to the upper edge of the tailgate, but not much.
It makes more sense to me (with a single ramp) to place it off-center to the right just a bit.
I got a 19 Electra Glide Standard.
My setup is a Aluma 5410 (54 wide by 120 inch long), custom welded on 72 inch long bi fold aluminum ramp off a car hauler. I got the removable Condor wheel chock. I use endless ratchet straps (no hooks) that I loop through the frame in front.
I use 2, loosely, on the rear through the saddle bag guards (added to the bike) to make sure the rear doesn't shift to much. I've actually never had the rear shift on me though, during transport.
I have transported it in the bed of a 14 and 20, Silverado 1500 reg cab long box. I got the trailer cause it's just a far safer way to load and unload. I took the original ramp off the trailer and had the 72 inch bi fold car hauler ramp custom welded on for increased safety while loading and unloading.
Don't hate,I do load my bikes in the back of my 2003 tacoma w/ bike off on one ramp and a 5gal bucket(I'm only 6'4"). It works, really liked the tailgate support bars.
I do load my bikes in the back of my 2003 tacoma w/ bike off on one ramp and a 5gal bucket(I'm only 6'4"). It works, really liked the tailgate support bars.
Thanks Matt for this motorcycle loading video it was very help full especially for bikes that heavy
Very good video Matt! I use a motorcycle trailer when needed. I'm 6'3" and there's no way I'm walking my Ultra up that skinny ramp. You've probably been doing it your whole life and have tons of practice.
I’ve done it once or twice. Yes, the wide ramp is the way to go
Never tried a solo load... with that kind of weight! Worked at Hempstead Harley, big eye opener, on Harley weight. That first month I had to grow wrist muscles, my bike experience at that time, was zero Harley, all Japanese...big difference! I did dry prep, unloading, unnboxing (ours were always fully wood boxes, then moved into the aluminum spars. Roll it in, after the mech, took it for the test ride, I wash and polish, move it to the showroom. We used to lift the front of the crate bottom, I get on, partner pops the straps, the tilt makes it bump over the crate spars.
Wax on, wax off!
I've seen people walk a bike in like that. They just did it when I bought my new bike. Really impresses me. Thanks for the video.
Thanks for watching. 👍🏻
It helps to be tall and be around bikes a lot.
Thanks for this Matt. Funny, we have been tieing down to the front Engine Guard for years, I now understand that is not a good idea. Question, could you show us how you tie down an Ultra with Lowers?
yea, I might have to re do this video with that info.
@@MattLaidlaw Thanks 🙏
Great video.Very informative. You make that single ramp look so easy, but no thanks. Glad I have trailer. Thanks for the video.
One of the most practical videos I've seen on this subject. Though he demonstrated these techniques on Harley's, the principles apply to other bikes too. Nice job!
Thanks for introducing new transportation terminology like soft tie and methodology like triangulating and describing frame tie points.
Thanks for watching
Good information and well presented.
There's one situation that you didn't address. I've been using a tilt bed utility trailer with side rails to transport bikes for many years. I use a front wheel chock very similar to the ones in your video, permanently mounted to the trailer. I tie down as you recommend, but also secure the rear wheel side to side for added stability.
Of course, no ramp is needed with a tilt bed.
I would like to see how you would using a trailer of this type.
I have a Sportster, Dyna and Road King.
Also use the trailer on the farm for multiple purposes.
I'm surprised that that dealer truck doesn't have something to stabilize that front wheel in a straight up fashion. Strapping the bike down with the kickstand down has the potential to do damage to the kickstand, frame and truck bed where the kickstand sits when you hit potholes and such. The majority of the weight goes down on the kickstand when the suspension gives. If you have to strap it down with the stand down because of urgency then do it, but I like to go upright.
Thanks great advice and video. All should watch even if your an experienced rider. I learned alot. Thanks again!!
I don't stress the front suspension. I use a HF wheel chock which allows me to get off the bike. Then I use soft ties around the front fender bolts to hold the wheel into the chock. Then I tie down at the saddlebag guards while sitting on the bike. That worked for a while, then I got the Biker Bar for my new enclosed trailer, and now I don't have to use any straps.
I love my biker bar
That last load was Masterfully executed 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Thank you
Great video thx! I have 2 trailers and will be using your methods going forward. A 5x8 for short trips and my toyhauler that I built myself for loonngg roadtrips!
Matt your videos are always informative, thanks.
Thank you.
This was a great video. Im not good at loading a bike and I never want to be good at it. It only means one thing. I broke down!!! This video shows tips im always wondering about when I do load a bike though
Best Matt quote: “now you know how to load a CVO limited in the back of a Toyota Tacoma” 🤣🤣🤣
I have a Tacoma but no CVO. What a better reason to go buy one now. Great video. Learned a lot of useful points. Really liked the loading fails and what not to do and why not to do them.
Thanks Murph. I always appreciate the comments. 👍🏻
Great video, it's been very helpful! Do I need the tailgate support bars to load my 2018 Street Bob into my 2017 Ford F150?
Thank you! I’m not sure. Couldn’t hurt.
Wow..something free from Laidlaw?????? Great video and Jerry welded my shovelhead inner prmary in 1985. 35 years later still holding strong!!!
Nice I’ll let Jerry know his welding skills are still holding up 👍🏻
One suggestion. Before tying the loose end of the strap wrap it around the strap at the bottom of the buckle, that way if the buckle mechanism breaks or loosens the strap will pull tight against the buckle frame and hold the bike tight.
Great videos. As a fellow tall guy. 6’6” as well. What seat would you recommend for a 04 heritage softail?
Omg Matt this is definitely one of your best videos..... 🤘😎🤘
Great content ! And I been tying my bike down the wrong way for a long time
Good job Matt! Nice coverage and tips - keep the videos coming!!!
Good advice here. Especially the ramp placement for pickups...(Of course if your Harley ain’t running, make sure you have four friends on standby...)
Really enjoy your videos! Thanks for sharing. Very informative. By the way, what type of polish you guys use ? Those bikes Shine !
Thanks.
Nothing is particular. Just H-D’s cleaners.
Great info Matt, i have the tie down fork brackets on my 2014 FLHTK but i like the motor mound system and will they that next time i tow it.
thanks for the video, very informative. What was the bed size of truck used in this video?
Cool video guys. Can’t say that I’d want to use anything other than a trailer in future. Just recently recovered my Ninja and had to load it into a van. That was bad enough, but my Harley is SOOO much heavier.
That's great. How bout showing how to do it when the bike cannot be powered up a ramp. Like a broken belt?
I have a winch on my motorcycle trailer all the dead bikes when friends call.
As I do. I just thought it would be much more helpful to show the masses how to do it. I am of the crowd that only trailers a bike if it not able to be ridden mechanically. I just loaded an in storage for 7 years '91 Police bike with the winch by myself, the owner was impressed I must say.
Great video , getting ready to head to Daytona from ny loading my bike in the pickup. Do you leave those tailgate supports on for the trip ?
If you have an air compressor you can let air out of the rear tires to lower the rear end. Then reinflate the tires.
True. That could help in desperate situations.
I have watched other people talk about not getting the tie down above the shock (not physically) because how tight will you compress the shock? Or will the bike strap loosen up if the shock is allowed to work and the strap is getting stressed? I towed mine without constricting the shock at all. It worked well and just seems better for the bike and shocks.
The problem is ,is if you compress the fork tubes to much and then hit tracks to hard you'll blow the fork seals. Also if you have a touring bike you have to put it to sleep before towing it your security alarm will go off the whole time. I always tie down on the lower forks and again on the bag bars.
Great vid. I don't haul mine in a pickup anymore, but that bit about strapping the ramp to the truck was really smart. I never had a problem, but now I feel lucky about that. Especially with all your crash footage. Yikes!
Great info.I always questioned loading my bike. Now my question is how can it be loaded on a short bed truck?
Says alot about recent quality of Harleys. Back in the 60's and 70's this was a well practiced skill.
Very good video. I need to load my 2020 48 up for transport once I hit the first service this spring. Was gonna invest in a wheel choke but it seem unnecessary when it's just 1 trip a year. Good to know where I should strap as well, to the forks and not the frame as on the softtails. Just gotta decide now whether to use a VW crafter or a proper truck with a loading ramp. 😀
Outstanding! Does the truck have an 8 track...you know, for the Millennials?
I learned years ago to go around forks just above fender mount this way the suspension of bike has free travel without straps ever becoming loose when suspension compresses when hitting bumps or turning. I also never use a hook in any tie down location using strap to go thru tie down eye then thru eye of hook. Just my opinion. Are others doin this way? What do you think? Also I do soft strap in rear to prevent side to side movements. Great video.
That’s a decent way to do it and will work in most cases. The way I show isn’t the only way to skin a cat. The problem with strapping a big heavy Harley right there is you can easily put pressure on the fender and mess up the paint or bend the fender. Also it doesn’t anchor the bike in as well as using the frame.
Excellent content, love all your videos, some are very helpful, currently without a bike, it would be an honor to give my business, but am all the way in Florida. Keep up the good work. Loading a bike on a pick up truck is like an art and no everyone is capable of giving a good hair cut so best to leave that stuff to the artist.
thanks for the great info... do you use the clutch, while in gear, to control the bike when unloading with a narrow ramp, then step down?
Thank you for the excellent video. That is how I have been securing motorcycles for year's.loading yes and no.yave had more motorcycles in my past 36+ yrs then most have had vehicles.thank you again keep up the good work
Thanks man. Much appreciated.
One question I have is there any reason to tie down the back end of a bike? I own a 2004 Electra Glide Classic is my reason for asking. Great video by the way!
Yes you should tie it down in front and back. And use stronger straps then they use in this video. Regards Truck driver for 25 years in Norway. If your bike is about 350kg you should use straps that can take same force as 350kg in front and back of your bike. And for god sake not use straps with that type of lock.
We’re do you get the truck bed holders those would be nice
I have the Biker Bar in my tralier, just connect the bar to the bottom of the frame drive onto tralier and it locks down get off bike and go no tie downs or nothing. Luv it.
Nice. I’ll have to check that out
@@MattLaidlaw Matt put in biker bar motorcycle mount on here and different videos will come up.
@@tahoe9882 -- Interesting concept... If they made it a bit wider, it would even make it impossible to drop your bike on the side while moving it around in your garage. It would be like having a kickstand down on both sides... :)
I had actually though about doing something similar to that using a length 2x4 to make it easier to move my Harley around in my garage. I was thinking of mounting it to the crash bar instead though. I've never dropped my Harley while moving it around in my garage, but I have dropped *lighter* bikes unfortunately...
years ago if you had a harley davidson you must have a pick up truck to take it home or a friends harley they broke down all the time in the 60's when i was a kid no joke and if you rode 300 miles in one day that was a good day and someone always broke down ... now we have a new type of harley that 1000 miles in one day is a good day Mr. Matt....
Great video Matt, useful information. I'm still chuckling over the "taco'd tailgate" comment as an aside. It visually perfectly nailed it.
A lot of people don’t use common sense when loading and unloading their scooter, Great video for people that don’t have common sense!
Thank you for this info. I'm renting a uhaul soon for my fat Bob. Fat Bob video was great and thanks again
I was hoping to see the touring bike go up the slim ramp. Great video! Oh ya I was there last Saturday for the first time, did some shopping. Nice dealership and great service.
Thanks for stopping in. I should have done the limited up the small ramp. I was lazy that day 😜
Matt Laidlaw 🤙🏽🤣🤣
Hi Matt. Great video. I have a 08 Ultra . I was one to collapse the suspension. No more. I use a Canam single bike folding trailer. It has ties for the front and rear. I notice you didn't tie down the rear at all. The Canam has a front-wheel cage like yours. Do you find you do not need rear tie-down? Also, as a professional car hauler and heavy equipment hauler, you soon learn to always set your hooks in place from under. That way if something comes loose the hooks stay in place.
On longer trips I tie the rear wheel down so it doesn’t hop around. I’ll try the hook suggestion.
I know this is an older video, but do you have suggestions on tie-down method for the Pan America? Thanks.
Dude thank you for posting this ❤
Good video !! Some people barely strap these suckers down. I’m still gonna do the tested tank straps method though. Got me through a 13 hour rough terrain trip in a van with 2 bikes strapped down that way. Plus the quality of the straps makes a big difference.
Great video, sure could've used this info a couple of years ago. SRK Cycles sells a great set of tie straps for those interested.
Tank straps are the best
Thank You Matt you rock! That is great information for hauling motorcycles!
Can you guys show us how to use that window handle "thingee" .... again ! That was funny !
Great tips Matt.Thanks for making this video!👍👍
Thanks for watching.
I would have liked watching you demonstrate unloading with the single ramp... 👍
agree
great innovative video idea... bike reviews are everywhere but practical videos like this are a bit more thin on the ground... was also great to see some of the fails for contrast
Awesome video! Really useful. Thanks a lot for sharing it.
Thanks for watching. 👍🏻
When using a narrow ramp would it work to have a small step stool just below the tailgate to make it easier to get onto the truck bed?
You will never see my Ultra Limited tied down with spring tensioner things, ratchets only! I'm amazed your using them.