Motorcycle loading ramps

[Bret SD]

I'm looking for a nice, heavy duty, wide, collapsible loading ramp for my pick-up truck. It would be nice to take the bike on longer trips when with my woman, she doesn't like extended rides. I've rented a trailer but feel like it's throwing money away.
 
Preferably something under 5-600 dollars, does anyone have a ramp they'd recommend for our Valks? My truck isn't lifted but has some heavy duty suspension.

[Rams]

I have a couple of sets of ramps, really don't like using ramps because rarely are they wide enough to put your feet down should that be necessary.   Narrow ramps for me require a bit of speed to get up, on and off of them before stopping.   When loading into a pickup truck, that doesn't leave much room for stopping before the tire meets the front of the bed.   I have the widest ramps I could find at the time.
  I can just barely put my feet down on each side while loading.   I don't recommend them.  Then, once loaded, I still have to throw them into be back of the pickup and secure them for unloading.  Again, just my opinion.  

I highly recommend just buying or renting a trailer or, get a good set of wide ramps.   I've used ramps many times in the past loading and unloading.  Coming off that pickup bed can be interesting also.
You can probably build a wide ramp cheaper than buying one but, then you'll need to rent a trailer to haul it on.  

Edited:  I've transported a lot of vehicles in the past and have several trailers.  Here is what I did so I could transport my two Valkyries, one trike and one bike.   Not suggesting it's an option for you but, it works for me. 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/valkyrieriderscruiserclub/?multi_permalinks=10158038775537727&comment_id=10158038846272727&notif_id=1619277165396643&notif_t=feedback_reaction_generic&ref=notif

Rams

[hubcapsc]

The angle where the ramp meets the truck needs to be
obtuse enough to make it unlikely that you'll drag your
Valkyrie right where the hollow cross-member is. These
guys loaded my Valkyrie when I bought it, people here
hated this picture, but my cross-member was not damaged...



-Mike

[Avanti]

You could build a two layered floor system in your pick-up so that once the bike is loaded the wide ramp would be able to slide in underneath. There are also some trolley systems that you can check out that are available for loading.

[Rams]

The angle where the ramp meets the truck needs to be
obtuse enough to make it unlikely that you'll drag your
Valkyrie right where the hollow cross-member is. These
guys loaded my Valkyrie when I bought it, people here
hated this picture, but my cross-member was not damaged...



-Mike

Loading like that is precisely how my kick stand bolt got broke.   They should have reduced the angle by backing into a ditch or up to a curb.  Never again.

There are also some trolley systems that you can check out that are available for loading.

Saw my first version of those at Billings.   Was pretty slick.  Used basically a flat surface ramp that got winched up into the pickup bed after the bike was secured to the ramp.    What I didn't like about it was, unless you use it often, the bed of your pickup is pretty much worthless unless it's taken out, appeared to be bolted into the bed and looked like a significant task to remove it.   I could be wrong on that, never dealt with one.   Was excellent for loading and unloading our big bikes.
But, one of those wouldn't work for me, I pull too many gooseneck trailers to tie my bed up with one.

Rams

[Jess from VA]

Using a truck loading dock or a ditch can make cheaper or shorter loading ramps work OK.  And a ditch may require no ramp at all.

But you have to have a loading dock or a ditch you can actually use... at both ends of the trip.  

My theory on loading your bike up a ramp is to go at it quickly and with authority.  You don't need any help that way, but you must make sure the freeking ramp doesn't move under you you when you hit it.  I rode my dresser hog up a short ramp into a semi trailer (higher than a pickup bed) quickly, and then honked on the brakes hard to not hit the other wall.  The guys I've seen drop their bike off the ramp went too slow and expected spotters to help (but the spotters got the hell out of the way when it fell).  BAM!

Backing it down is another story.  Here, spotters may be more necessary.  But I'd get the bike lined up and centered then back it down never touching the brakes.... it's all or nothing.

Ditch. The worst part is riding in the the weeds and dirt and wet grass to line up the easy ditch load or unload.  People would probably not approve of you using their private property ditch, and cops might ticket you for a public ditch use.  


Can't find a loading dock picture.  Semi trailers are taller than pickup beds, so you probably go downhill to load your bike from one.  A loading dock may therefore not work to back off a pickup truck (uphill).

[Avanti]

The angle where the ramp meets the truck needs to be
obtuse enough to make it unlikely that you'll drag your
Valkyrie right where the hollow cross-member is. These
guys loaded my Valkyrie when I bought it, people here
hated this picture, but my cross-member was not damaged...



-Mike

Loading like that is precisely how my kick stand bolt got broke.   They should have reduced the angle by backing into a ditch or up to a curb.  Never again.

There are also some trolley systems that you can check out that are available for loading.

Saw my first version of those at Billings.   Was pretty slick.  Used basically a flat surface ramp that got winched up into the pickup bed after the bike was secured to the ramp.    What I didn't like about it was, unless you use it often, the bed of your pickup is pretty much worthless unless it's taken out, appeared to be bolted into the bed and looked like a significant task to remove it.   I could be wrong on that, never dealt with one.   Was excellent for loading and unloading our big bikes.
But, one of those wouldn't work for me, I pull too many gooseneck trailers to tie my bed up with one.

Rams

If you have removable gooseneck ball the trolley system can be mounted in the same pin box.

[old2soon]

       Look around some of the larger M/C shops or farm implement dealers. A Lot of them already have pickup sized permanent loading ramps. Some farm/ranch stores have similar options. IS Cheaper than purchasing "stuff"! RIDE SAFE.

[Chrisj CMA]

Big boy arched ramps. Works for me

http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,52144.0.html

[da prez]

BE  S U R E  the ramps are fully attached to the truck. Not just a drop in pin. I have seen many accidents from " it'l be ok".

                         da prez

[Rams]

If you have removable gooseneck ball the trolley system can be mounted in the same pin box.

Well, you learn something every day if you read or listen enough.   Didn't know how those trolley things mounted or should I say, didn't know they could be secured like that.   Thanks.

Unfortunately, I'm almost always coupled up to one gooseneck trailer or another and have already converted my stock trailer for hauling Wild Valkyries.   

Rams

[Avanti]

BE  S U R E  the ramps are fully attached to the truck. Not just a drop in pin. I have seen many accidents from " it'l be ok".

                         da prez

“It’l be ok”, hardly ever is!

[Avanti]

If you have removable gooseneck ball the trolley system can be mounted in the same pin box.

Well, you learn something every day if you read or listen enough.   Didn't know how those trolley things mounted or should I say, didn't know they could be secured like that.   Thanks.

Unfortunately, I'm almost always coupled up to one gooseneck trailer or another and have already converted my stock trailer for hauling Wild Valkyries.   

Rams

Didn’t know a stock trailer could subdue a Wild Valkyrie, good to know.

[f6john]

I have a 12’ double axle trailer with a 2’ dovetail and a 2’ folding ramp. Without a loading dock I wouldn’t want to put a Valkyrie in the back of a truck. Trailers do create storage issues. Maybe one of those single rail folding trailers.

[Oss]

up at americade I have seen several like this    Pretty awesome IMHO

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUVN3pOjTno


have also seen these with metal welded to the floor
Personally I also like the single rail trailers, very light and can tow without a big vehicle

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Carry-On-Trailer-4-ft-x-6-ft-Wire-Mesh-Utility-Trailer-with-Ramp-Gate/3013702?cm_mmc=shp-_-c-_-prd-_-hdw-_-google-_-lia-_-214-_-trailersrampsandtowing-_-3013702-_-0&placeholder=null&ds_rl=1286981&gclid=CjwKCAjwkN6EBhBNEiwADVfyawVjMNYb_2-r55J99F3IyjH7fKBQACmJTgxLw9EONj1Gk4lvWxaDFhoCjCYQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

[scooperhsd]

The biggest bikes I have ever moved were CB750's - and I used a trailer for both of them. This maybe a case of either continue to rent, or fork out for the trailer. And the determining factors for that - how often are you going to use it, and can you store it when it is not in use. That is ultimately why I got rid of my trailer - no place to store when not in use.

[Valker]

I've used this one for several years. Ride right up with the Valk. As wide as the truck bed. I weight over 250 and no issues at all. "Humped" so nothing drags while going in. I'm not sure where to get one.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvfFnVc0yRA

[Jess from VA]

I looked for a weight limit on the Neo-Dyne, and there is no mention of it.

It seems relevant to a big honking Valk backing out onto that contraption.

My van has a 20" floor, from ground.      (Pickup beds are 32-35 inches off the ground. )


And a row of high strength tie downs along each side.

Course, it costs a bit more than long ramps.

[Avanti]

The curve and length of loading ramps will need to be determined by the height of the truck bed or you may still have a clearance problem.

[Avanti]

I looked for a weight limit on the Neodyne, and there is no mention of it.

It seems relevant to a big honking Valk backing out onto that contraption.

My van has a 20" floor.   


And a row of high strength tie downs along each side.

Course, it costs a bit more than long ramps.

Now that is a great safe way to haul a motorcycle and keep it clean at the same time.

[Jess from VA]

I suppose I should use a bike wheel chock, but I haven't tried it yet.

I did get the whole floor and up the walls a bit sprayed with Rhinoliner, which is sure better than that slippery floor.

[Chrisj CMA]

Using a truck loading dock or a ditch can make cheaper or shorter loading ramps work OK.  And a ditch may require no ramp at all.

But you have to have a loading dock or a ditch you can actually use... at both ends of the trip.  

My theory on loading your bike up a ramp is to go at it quickly and with authority.  You don't need any help that way, but you must make sure the freeking ramp doesn't move under you you when you hit it.  I rode my dresser hog up a short ramp into a semi trailer (higher than a pickup bed) quickly, and then honked on the brakes hard to not hit the other wall.  The guys I've seen drop their bike off the ramp went too slow and expected spotters to help (but the spotters got the hell out of the way when it fell).  BAM!

Backing it down is another story.  Here, spotters may be more necessary.  But I'd get the bike lined up and centered then back it down never touching the brakes.... it's all or nothing.

Ditch. The worst part is riding in the the weeds and dirt and wet grass to line up the easy ditch load or unload.  People would probably not approve of you using their private property ditch, and cops might ticket you for a public ditch use.  


Can't find a loading dock picture.  Semi trailers are taller than pickup beds, so you probably go downhill to load your bike from one.  A loading dock may therefore not work to back off a pickup truck (uphill).

Jess,  with my ramps I can stop and start on the ramp as many times as I want on the way up. I can inch my way up very controlled and same on the way down. Front front brake on all the way down. Speed is controlled by the brake and I take it very slow coming down as well. 

[Rams]

I have a 12’  Trailers do create storage issues. Maybe one of those single rail folding trailers.

Rainmaker in Texas has a dandy one for sale.  Assuming it hasn't already been sold.

Rams

[Bret SD]

Thanks for all the good info, I'll be going over it for a spell 

[Jess from VA]

Jess,  with my ramps I can stop and start on the ramp as many times as I want on the way up.

Well sure, with foot ramps.

The only ramp I rode up was about 18" wide.  So I went up fast.   

[Rams]

If you have removable gooseneck ball the trolley system can be mounted in the same pin box.

Well, you learn something every day if you read or listen enough.   Didn't know how those trolley things mounted or should I say, didn't know they could be secured like that.   Thanks.

Unfortunately, I'm almost always coupled up to one gooseneck trailer or another and have already converted my stock trailer for hauling Wild Valkyries.  

Rams

Didn’t know a stock trailer could subdue a Wild Valkyrie, good to know.

Well, I wouldn't say subdued, ya still have to tie'em down to keep them from escaping.  

up at americade I have seen several like this    Pretty awesome IMHO

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUVN3pOjTno


have also seen these with metal welded to the floor
Personally I also like the single rail trailers, very light and can tow without a big vehicle

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Carry-On-Trailer-4-ft-x-6-ft-Wire-Mesh-Utility-Trailer-with-Ramp-Gate/3013702?cm_mmc=shp-_-c-_-prd-_-hdw-_-google-_-lia-_-214-_-trailersrampsandtowing-_-3013702-_-0&placeholder=null&ds_rl=1286981&gclid=CjwKCAjwkN6EBhBNEiwADVfyawVjMNYb_2-r55J99F3IyjH7fKBQACmJTgxLw9EONj1Gk4lvWxaDFhoCjCYQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

That first video is pretty much what I saw someone use to load a Valkyrie in Billings.   Was pretty cool.

The second ad from Lowe's for the single axle trailer, not what I'd use but, if that's what you want, I've got a similar one not getting used here.  

Rams

[Bret SD]

Think I found some ramps but they'll have to wait, the tax man sent me a love letter. :/

[Chrisj CMA]

Finally found the picture. I too was concerned about those skinny cables so I got these. No more worries. They are the perfect length so with no weight on the gate the cables take all the load. As soon as you load the gate and the cables stretch just a hair the bars take over. It’s a beautiful thing 

[cookiedough]

Finally found the picture. I too was concerned about those skinny cables so I got these. No more worries. They are the perfect length so with no weight on the gate the cables take all the load. As soon as you load the gate and the cables stretch just a hair the bars take over. It’s a beautiful thing 

good idea to get the tailgate supports.  Those cables can easily SNAP loading up a 600-800lb. ATV with near 300lbs. of rider.  My guess is 1000lbs. max on those cables, if that, before SNAPPING.  I have loaded up my ATV weighing over 600lbs. with me 275ish at the time with my very heavy duty 2000lb. OHIO STEEL 7 ft arched ramps and always worried me the tailgate cables would SNAP, but did not on a 1/2 ton truck.   A valk weighing 800lbs. and me pushing 300 would not be good on just the truck tailgate cables.

[Bret SD]

Finally found the picture. I too was concerned about those skinny cables so I got these. No more worries. They are the perfect length so with no weight on the gate the cables take all the load. As soon as you load the gate and the cables stretch just a hair the bars take over. It’s a beautiful thing  

Thanks Jeff, I have seen these around, also I have some good news regarding taxes, the California Franchise Tax Board sent me an estimated amount due versus what I really owed. The FTB makes the IRS look like choirboys, I was threatened with leins and or wage garnishment if I didn't pay within 14 days..

Long story short I may have found some ramps on eBay, don't know if they'll be shipped on time for an upcoming trip in early June, though the website says they will be shipped in plenty of time, provided I can get the Third ramp. Titan and Black Widow ramps have been showing none in stock for months.

This listing on eBay is for two ramps, I want to add a third one to the order but I'm not sure if I can. They don't want to break up the sets and I don't really want two sets. I'm actually surprised to have found these.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/302012290650?epid=1611828578&hash=item465155d65a:g:E~0AAOSwgPZgmQgU

Question: are those ramps supports vehicle specific?

[Chrisj CMA]

Question: are those ramps supports vehicle specific?

Yes they are, they need to clip into the latching mechanisms

[Rams]

Question: are those ramps supports vehicle specific?

Yes they are, they need to clip into the latching mechanisms

Actually, I believe they simply lay on top of the tail gate.   Notice the tie straps shown that in the pic go down to the receiver hitch to keep the ramps from sliding back off the tail gate.   This, is a good idea.
I could be wrong but, I don't think so.

Rams

[hubcapsc]

The most common cable used for tailgate support cables is 3/16” stainless wire
rope (¼”with vinyl jacket). An individual cable has a breaking strength of about
4200 lbs. and a safe working load of about 840 lbs.

I've always replaced the cables on my used trucks with new OEM ones. If I needed
those bars that Jeff uses, my old Tacoma's tailgate would fold up like a taco ...

-Mike

[Bret SD]

Question: are those ramps supports vehicle specific?

Yes they are, they need to clip into the latching mechanisms

Thank you sir

[Chrisj CMA]

Question: are those ramps supports vehicle specific?

Yes they are, they need to clip into the latching mechanisms

Actually, I believe they simply lay on top of the tail gate.   Notice the tie straps shown that in the pic go down to the receiver hitch to keep the ramps from sliding back off the tail gate.   This, is a good idea.
I could be wrong but, I don't think so.

Rams

Don’t know what picture you are talking about. These bars hang from the latching posts and the other end locks into the latches.

[Rams]

Question: are those ramps supports vehicle specific?

Yes they are, they need to clip into the latching mechanisms

Actually, I believe they simply lay on top of the tail gate.   Notice the tie straps shown that in the pic go down to the receiver hitch to keep the ramps from sliding back off the tail gate.   This, is a good idea.
I could be wrong but, I don't think so.

Rams

Don’t know what picture you are talking about. These bars hang from the latching posts and the other end locks into the latches.

Sorry, my mistake, I thought you were talking about the ramps, not the bars on the side.

Rams

[cookiedough]

safe working load around 850lbs. sounds about right on the tailgate cables but snapping/breaking at over 4000lbs. seems very very HIGH know they will SNAP well before 4000lbs..   800lb. valk + 250lb. person is over 1000 lbs. but then again all 800lbs. of cycle is NOT on the tailgate all at once only 1 tire at a time on the tailgate.  And here I worried a smidge having five 5 gallon buckets on the tailgate all at once guessing 40lbs. tops each bucket so 200lbs. on tailgate plus me at near 300lbs. worried about snapping the tailgate cables at 500lbs. on them. 

I like those tailgate supports on each side by the cables if going to load valks, lawnmowers, etc. more than 1-2 times per year in the bed of the 1/2 ton truck,  good investment LONG term.

On my OHIO STEEL 7-8ft arched steel ramps set of 2 I just use bungee cords clipped onto each ramp onto the openings of the receiver hitch of truck down below in the middle but there is so much GRIP on the ramps doubt they would slide backwards unless giving the ATV or cycle VERY QUICK throttle going up but with that much weight on each ramp doubt they would budge at all.

I hear yah though need 3 ramps (not just 2)  each about 10-12 inches wide, at most 12 inches, to be safe having a place on each side of the valk tires going up to have your feet on each side ramp.  sucks most do not let you buy 3 ramps vs. 2 ramps not wanting or needing another set of 2 to make 4 individual ramps.

[Bret SD]

safe working load around 850lbs. sounds about right on the tailgate cables but snapping/breaking at over 4000lbs. seems very very HIGH know they will SNAP well before 4000lbs..   800lb. valk + 250lb. person is over 1000 lbs. but then again all 800lbs. of cycle is NOT on the tailgate all at once only 1 tire at a time on the tailgate.  And here I worried a smidge having five 5 gallon buckets on the tailgate all at once guessing 40lbs. tops each bucket so 200lbs. on tailgate plus me at near 300lbs. worried about snapping the tailgate cables at 500lbs. on them. 

I like those tailgate supports on each side by the cables if going to load valks, lawnmowers, etc. more than 1-2 times per year in the bed of the 1/2 ton truck,  good investment LONG term.

On my OHIO STEEL 7-8ft arched steel ramps set of 2 I just use bungee cords clipped onto each ramp onto the openings of the receiver hitch of truck down below in the middle but there is so much GRIP on the ramps doubt they would slide backwards unless giving the ATV or cycle VERY QUICK throttle going up but with that much weight on each ramp doubt they would budge at all.

I hear yah though need 3 ramps (not just 2)  each about 10-12 inches wide, at most 12 inches, to be safe having a place on each side of the valk tires going up to have your feet on each side ramp.  sucks most do not let you buy 3 ramps vs. 2 ramps not wanting or needing another set of 2 to make 4 individual ramps.

Still waiting to hear back from a sales person at the store. I can't get to the customer service hotline phone number from the website and ebay policy forbids them from giving it over email.

I need to ask if they have a split set around so I can get the third ramp, two I wouldn't be comfortable with.