There are a few ways to get your bike to the trail or track. Riding is one option, though rarely recommended, and for dirt bikes, illegal if you’re using paved roads. The other more reasonable alternative is getting your bike on a ute, trailer or van. Utes are what most Aussies choose to get their two-wheelers to the races. Tubs and trays have enough space for bigger bikes, all necessary gear and a decently appointed ramp. And they remove the hassle of hauling a trailer longer distances, often over bad roads.
Bike ramps come in different lengths, widths, designs, and the ability to carry one or several types of bikes. If you need a quick and pain-free way to get your machine to the motocross tracks or trails, a reliable dirt bike ramp meets most needs. These are lightweight, easy to store and fit at the back of the ute without encroaching on usable space. For bigger bikes, you’ll be looking for something with a higher weight loading and bigger in all dimensions to avoid scratches and scuffs from plates or rungs.
Why They’re an Absolute Necessity
Investing in a quality ramp, regardless of the type of bike you ride, provides safety and speed when getting bikes on or off ute tubs and trays (or trailers and vans). They’re durable enough to handle the weight of the bike (ride-up types the weight of the rider too), are made of lightweight yet sturdy materials that will last in all weather conditions and can be used repeatedly without fuss.
Ramps prevent accidents and injuries, reduce the risk of damage, and speed up the whole process. They’re convenient, provide a stable surface, and make loading quick and stress-free. The different types and designs also mean they’re easy to store once you load or unload the motorcycle.
Choosing What’s Right for Your Bike
What many riders get wrong is choosing the right ramp. Motorcycles vary greatly in size, weight and ground clearance, so a matching ramp reduces the likelihood of something going wrong. These loading tools differ in size, design, the weight they can comfortably carry, the materials they’re made of and various features that enhance safety and speed. By carefully ticking all the right boxes, you’ll end up with something that meets all your needs, without spending a cent more.
Lengths and Widths
Length is the first buying factor. This impacts the angle at which the motorcycle is loaded, and to a large extent how easily that can be done. Shorter ramps work in tighter spaces but are steeper, so are suited to lighter motorcycles with more ground clearance. For bigger and heavier touring and cruiser motorcycles, longer variants work better. They’ll make loading easier with a more subtle angle, and prevent scraping parts like foot pegs or exhausts.
The same applies to widths. Here ramps can be of the single-runner type, with walk-up units used mostly for lighter motocross and enduro bikes. Again, for heavier two-wheelers, and if you prefer riding up, choose full-width ramps for the best stability and safety.
Arched or Straight?
Arched motorcycle types reduce the loading angle halfway up, allowing for smoother loading. Choose these for bikes with longer wheelbases. A straight ramp is just that and often longer to tame angles and prevent scuffs, dents and scratches. While these are considered sturdier, they’re also less expensive but can take up more space.
Do You Need a Folding Ramp?
If you’re carrying more than one motorcycle, then space on the ute, trailer or van can be limited. This is where folding ramps show their worth. Folding types essentially halve the length (or width), making stowing them easier and more convenient. They’ll additionally free up more space on the transport vehicle. The downside is the price. For lighter dirt bikes, a simple non-folding ramp is cheaper, and in many ways, all the ramp you’ll ever need.
Materials
Aluminium and steel are the two main contenders here. Go with steel if you’re loading bigger bikes across shorter distances. The material is stronger, won’t buckle under the extra weight, is more durable and often cheaper. Just mind rain or mud, as it can also rust. For a dirt bike ramp, you’re better off with the lower weight and simplicity of aluminium. This comes at 30 per cent lighter, has almost the same strength, and is rust and care-free. Aluminium types will be easier to set and get on the vehicle and should last longer in typical track and trail conditions.
Design and Safety Features
Plates and rungs are the two types of surfaces you’ll encounter. Rungs are more common, offer decent grip and stability, and are lightweight too. You’ll find them mostly in shorter ramps. Plates feature in longer variants and have better grip and traction levels, but this comes with a weight penalty. Lastly, to ensure no slippage and entailing accidents, choose ramps with secure tie-down points or locking features that secure them to the transport vehicle.
