Tips & Tricks: How To Fail With Loading Ramps

In the sphere of power sports, loading ramps are an everyday thing. We all learn that ramps can either be your friend or your enemy.

If you tend to have issues when using ramps to load a motorcycle, ATV or snowmobile, we're giving you sure ways how NOT to fail in loading your machine 

1. Secure the Ramp

If you’re loading an ATV, motorcycle, or snowmobile, use a tie-down or two to secure your loading ramp. This will keep it tight against the tailgate and keep it from moving under force and momentum put on by your vehicle. Also, you should also have rubber on the part that contacts the truck tailgate to help prevent it from sliding. Lastly, remember that some ramps also have an option to secure the middle to your trucks tow hitch for even more stability.

2. Don’t make the mistake of making the Ramp Angle as Steep as Possible

Even if you’re confident at loading, when conditions are wet and slippery, icy, snowy, muddy, etc. there’s a greater chance for your tyre to slip on the ramp when you’re ascending it. So keep your ramp angle low as you will need less throttle and even less momentum to load your machine. This will make sure you load safely. When you park in a low spot or against a hill you can decrease the angle or you may use a longer ramp and make loading easier.

3. Use a sturdy ramp like aluminium or rubber ramps

Using wood boards or planks is always a bad idea. Yes, it might support the weight of the vehicle, but it’s not secured. Why? Because they’re extremely slippery and they move very easily where they contact the ground and the tailgate. Loading ramps come in a variety of designs and styles so choose one that will work for your vehicle. Consider ramp that can fasten to your truck or trailer with a strap, and has good traction.

4. Never Load by Yourself

If you have two people, it’s best to load a vehicle up a ramp. Your buddy should standby either to help you get it up the ramp or to help steady it in the back of the truck once you’ve come up the ramp. Have them stand near the ramp so they don’t get hurt in the truck bed and can assist if you have trouble ascending the ramp. And they can also film you while you’re loading for such moments as when you drop your bike or run your ATV into the back window of your truck.

5. Always Check the Clearance

Always keep in mind that the steeper the ramp angle is, the more ground clearance will be needed on your vehicle. Also, remember that street bikes don’t have much and get high-centred on most ramps.

We hope that some of these tips will be remembered for your next trip out so you can avoid some common pitfalls.

Confused in choosing what load ramp will be best for your needs? Check out RampChamp.com.au and you can very conveniently place an online order for load ramps.

You can and should compare the various models so you will have an idea about the pricing and benefits offered. Lastly, when purchasing a ramp, ensure that the loading ramp that you choose comes with a manufacturer's warranty.