The Definitive Guide for Those Looking to Buy a Motorcycle Ramp
As a rider, it is easier to move around if your motorcycle is just with you all the time. And having it the back of your ute during long trips is the best option. But loading it on your vehicle before any trip can be tedious. Without a ramp, it's also risky.
For every rider, having a ramp makes loading your motorcycle efficiently and safely on your vehicle. However, choosing the right ramp is a very serious matter. Getting the wrong one can lead to serious problems not only to your precious toy but to your safety as well.
There are a number of factors that go into finding the right ramp for your motorcycle requirement. With so many motorcycle ramps available out there, how do you know the best ramp for you? Well, we'll make it easy for you.
Before buying a motorcycle loading ramp, there are five basic but equally important things you must take into consideration. These are essential factors that will determine the ramp that is right for you.
1. Loading Height
Every vehicle you are loading the bike on is different from another and will most likely have a different total height from the ground. This is something you need to factor in.
If you have different vehicles to load your motorcycle into, take into consideration the height of each type of vehicles.
As a general rule of thumb, a 1:4 ratio is recommended. For example; if your trailer height is less than 730mm high, then a 2.3m long ramp would be suitable.
Remember - the steeper the ramp, the harder and less safe it is to push the bike.
2. Load Capacity
You should never buy a ramp that is not labelled or if the load rating is not listed (what it will load and how much weight it will hold). If you plan on using the ramp for a number of different motorcycles, then the ramp you choose should have a load rating that covers the weight and load rating of the heaviest motorcycle.
If it is not labelled to load your particular bikes, then you need to find a ramp that suits that weight of your motorcycle. Your ramp’s style will also define the weight distribution of your motorcycle when using the ramp.
Accuracy regarding vehicle load height, wheelbase, and length, width and weight capacities are the most crucial factors when deciding on the right ramp.
Also, remember that although a single person can actually load a motorcycle on ramps, it is always recommended that two people should load or unload a motorcycle at all times. So aside from the motorcycle weight, you might also include the rider's weight for the ramp's load capacity.
3. Connection Points
The connection system is a very important factor to consider when buying a motorcycle loading ramp and there a few different options available to choose from.
Our basic motorcycle loading ramps come with soft tip synthetic coated loading points to protect and grip to your tray while our more advanced motorbike ramps come with a solid loading plate and locking pin to ensure a positive connection - meaning there is no chance of the ramp moving when loading and unloading.
4. Ramp Features
Each type of ramp has it’s different unique features. It’s important to know what features are most important to you.
Some features to look for in a ramp include an anti-slip feature, soft tip synthetic coated loading points to protect your tray, corrosion-free material such as marine grade alloy, or high-grade aluminium, ramp style such as curve, straight or fold away design, and support legs for extra stability.
5. Weight
Although most ramps are made from durable lightweight aluminium, it’s important to consider the weight of the motorcycle ramp and know that you’re capable of lifting it without risking your health. Make sure that the ramp is light-weight and safe and easy to carry. Convinience in storing it when not in use or after loading and unloading your motorbike is a plus factor.
If you have any questions regarding what ramp will suit your bike, our ramp experts here at Ramp Champ have the answers you need.
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