Motorcycle Tie Down Solutions Please

[bcbackrider]

I have just purchased a Mirage 6x12 cargo trailer and am trying to figure out the best way to install motorcycle tie downs. It is just one big empty box right now, but I want to take my time and do it right the first time. You know, measure twice, cut once and all.

I have 3 motorcycles that need to be hauled, one 650 dirt and 2 smaller ones (80 and 100). My thoughts are to locate them over the axle as much as possible but I am concerned about how strong the floor will be with the stress of having anchors installed.

I do have a bunch of my own ideas, but I also like to hear what others may have done, as I may not have thought about all the possibilities.

Thanks in advance for any help.

[edcasey]

I usually use an E-track system like this one http://www.pegasusautoracing.com/group.asp?GroupID=ETRACK. I use 5' long tracks because this allows me to bolt it through the floor in several locations and I can usually hit one or two cross members under the floor to make it really strong. The system is inexpensive and gives you a lot of flexibility.

[MidTNJasonF]

Unless you have hollow rear axles the best option out there for bike towing is the Baxley Chock.
http://www.baxleycompanies.com/

Followed closely by the offering from Condor.
http://www.condor-lift.com/products.asp


You almost do not need ratchet straps when using the above chocks. I had one of two ratchet straps come loose once when pulling a bike in a small enclosed. I went at least 260 miles before I checked on the trailer at the next fuel stop and found the bike had not moved even with the strap hanging free. They are extremely secure but they are a little pricey.

I am also a big fan of the e track mentioned above.

As far as securing things and floor strength I like to use a large washer on both sides of the floor if the location is not through a cross beam under the floor. Last time I set one up I made some nice big 3 inch washers to sandwich the floor plywood.

[ARIZONA GUIDE]

I have the d ring style in the floor of my trailer. They fall flat and out of the way when not in use. They use them in toy haulers as well i think. Then again i only tie down a quad and all it has to do is keep it from moving back and forth. I know on a bike they need to be pulled down beter and the susp needs to be held good so it does not bounce out of the strap somehow and fall over. A quad will only fall over if my wheels of the trailer are no longer on the road but my roof of the trailer is.

[bcbackrider]

Seems to me this site will prove to be a wealth of info for my new found hobby.

Thanks again for the responses. I will post what I eventually do.

[MikeIA]

I know some people like the flexibility of aircraft logistic track.
I'd put a metal plate as backing for the plywood floor, if you can't attach to the stringers.
www.uscargocontrol.com has the best prices I've found so far.

Mike

[toyota_mdt_tech]

I have just purchased a Mirage 6x12 cargo trailer and am trying to figure out the best way to install motorcycle tie downs. It is just one big empty box right now, but I want to take my time and do it right the first time. You know, measure twice, cut once and all.

I have 3 motorcycles that need to be hauled, one 650 dirt and 2 smaller ones (80 and 100). My thoughts are to locate them over the axle as much as possible but I am concerned about how strong the floor will be with the stress of having anchors installed.

I do have a bunch of my own ideas, but I also like to hear what others may have done, as I may not have thought about all the possibilities.

Thanks in advance for any help.

I also haul bikes in mine. I used the flush mounted "D" rings. I mounted them to the floor and then added a piece of 2" plate on the underside in which the tie down hooks too. No way will the D rings pull out thsi way. I have it all laid out http://home.comcast.net/~ssauer40/cargomate/cargomate.html