CitizenShipper · Updated July 1, 2024
Everyone knows that a proper loading ramp is indispensable when loading/unloading bikes onto/from a truck bed. Well, maybe not “indispensable”. It’s strongly recommended at best.
As previously discussed, you can safely unload a motorcycle without using a ramp. It might take a bit of elbow grease, but it’s perfectly doable. So how do you load a dirt bike without a ramp, then? Here’s a couple of different options you could try if you’re feeling adventurous.
Before you start, make sure you have all the lashing straps and wheel chocks in place. Then, you either…
Option one, tough it out
Unlike their larger cousins, dirt bikes aren’t that heavy. It’s usually possible to just pick one up off the ground and place it in the truck bed, one wheel at a time. Remember to lift with your legs, not your back! An extra pair of hands wouldn’t hurt, either. We wouldn’t recommend trying this if you’re tired after a long day of riding, or you have a health issue.
If you’d rather not risk straining your back, you can always…
Option two, improvise a ramp
The height differential between your average pickup and the road isn’t that big. Try to find a small incline that you can push the bike up. Then pull up to the other side in the truck, and simply roll the bike on.
If there aren’t any convenient ledges and hillocks around, you can use a grocery store loading dock instead.
If there’s nothing of the sort in the area, you could jury-rig a loading ramp using a simple two-by-four. Just don’t try to ride the bike up, or you might end up like one of these guys:
“I don’t think so…” You got that right, lady!
For more motorcycle shipping tips and tricks, check out this article.
CitizenShipper is a two-sided marketplace for hard-to-ship items such as dogs, cats, motorcycles, boats, cars, and more. CitizenShipper puts you in touch with experienced, background-verified, and user-rated transporters. A quality experience — quick, safe, and affordable!
