Transporting a motorcycle by pickup truck is quite common, but not everyone knows the proper techniques to ensure safety and avoid traffic law violations. This article will guide you on how to safely and effectively load a motorcycle onto a pickup truck.
Loading a motorcycle onto a pickup truck using ramps.
Is It Illegal to Transport a Motorcycle on a Pickup Truck?
According to Circular 46/2015/TT-BGTVT, transporting motorcycles by pickup trucks is not prohibited. However, the dimensions of the cargo, including the motorcycle, must comply with regulations:
- Height: Not exceeding 2.8m (measured from the road surface).
- Length: Not greater than 1.1 times the overall designed length of the vehicle and not exceeding 20m.
- Cargo: Must be securely tied, supported, and wedged to ensure safety when participating in traffic.
Note: You need to prepare documents proving the origin of the motorcycle, especially when transporting it interprovincially.
Guide to Safely Loading a Motorcycle onto a Pickup Truck
Essential tools for securing a motorcycle on a pickup truck, including ramps and ratchet straps.
Necessary Tools
- Ramps: Used to easily and safely load the motorcycle onto the pickup truck bed.
- Ratchet Straps: You should use quality straps that meet GS/TUV safety standards, at least 2 sets.
Steps to Follow
- Load the motorcycle onto the truck bed: Use ramps to guide the motorcycle onto the pickup truck bed. Lock the steering lock and use wheel chocks to secure its position.
- Secure the handlebars: Hook the straps to the handlebars, locking the left and right handlebar movement. Attach the hook ends of the ratchet straps to a secure anchor point on the pickup truck.
- Secure the rear wheel: Hook the second set of straps to the rear wheel to lock the rear wheel’s position.
- Tighten the straps: Thread the straps through the ratchet, adjust the ratchet to tighten the straps firmly, securing the motorcycle upright and preventing shaking.
Important Notes
- Choose suitable straps: Use straps with appropriate load capacity, from 2 tons upwards for regular motorcycles and from 3 tons upwards for heavy moto bikes.
- Always use ramps: You should not lift the motorcycle onto the pickup truck bed without using ramps to avoid causing damage or scratches to the motorcycle and ensure the safety of the person performing the task.
Conclusion
Loading a motorcycle onto a pickup truck correctly not only ensures the safety of people and vehicles but also helps you avoid legal issues related to traffic laws. We hope this article has provided you with useful information on how to safely and legally load a motorcycle onto a pickup truck.
