Are you looking forward to doing some exploring in the great outdoors? Before you can do that you have to get your quad to the trail. And unless the trail is close by, your only option will be to load it up and haul it there.
It’s important to load your ATV the right way and that requires some know-how. If you don’t load properly, you may be putting yourself at risk of an accident. And you also risk damaging your equipment. Keep reading to find out exactly how to load and secure your ATV onto a pick-up or trailer.
If you are loading onto a trailer, be sure to hitch the trailer to the tow vehicle before you load your ATV. That way the trailer won’t rock or tip during loading.
Use only those ramps that have a loading capacity that can handle the combined weight of the four wheeler, along with any equipment that is attached to it. Remember that if you ride your ATV up the ramp, your weight counts in the total as well.
Riding a quad up a ramp is dangerous. Improper loading results in more accidents than you might expect. If you do have to ride your quad in order to load, at least wear protective gear like helmet, goggles, gloves, and boots.
When loading, use first gear if possible or the lowest gear that will work to get up the ramps. Try to avoid erratic starts and stops while you are on the ramps. Do not approach the ramps at high speeds. Doing so could cause the ramps to buckle or slam into the back of the truck or trailer.
The safest way to load up your quad is by using a winch. Doing this allows you to stand well clear of the quad. It also provides you with control of the speed and more precision in the loading.
Once you have your ATV safely loaded, the next step is to balance the weight directly over the trailer or truck axle to distribute the load evenly. Put the ATV into park and then secure it to the truck or trailer bed using tie down straps.
Plan on putting two straps on the front part of the ATV, and two straps on the back. Ratchet the straps down tightly. They should be tight enough to immobilize your ATV, even if you try to rock it. Additionally, the tires should look as if they are under load.
Finally, loop the excess lengths of strap so it doesn’t flap around or drag. Then you are ready to hit the road and head for the trail of your choice with your ATV.