We spend much of our hard earned paychecks purchasing our dream rides and then dump still more cash into customizing them. Whether it's a chromed out blinger that may spend more time in a trailer than on the road, a fully modded racebike with the latest in performance and lightweight accessories, or a beaten stunt bike held together with zip ties and duct tape, they all eventually end up being transported in the back of a truck or trailer.
All too often, the straps that keep your ride from becoming a hot heap are bought in the bargain aisle of a local hardware store. Penny-pinching on tie-downs can mean thousands of dollars of damage if the blue-light-special straps should fail.
Tie-downs typically come in two different styles: ratchet and cam buckle. Ratchet tie-downs fasten with a lever that gradually snugs the strap with each click, while a cam buckle uses tension and nonslip buckles to keep the strap from slipping. Either strap type is based more on personal preference and varies depending on usage and the weight of the bike. A good rule of thumb is that ratchet-style straps won't loosen as easily as cam buckles, but that doesn't mean either is failure proof. It's a good idea to check for tightness at every gas stop or after a particularly twisty or bumpy section of road.
More expensive tie-downs usually come with some type of looping mechanism that makes attaching them to the motorcycle easier. This provides a softer surface that comes in contact with the motorcycle, as opposed to a hook. The use of soft ties is not necessary, but allows the pulling forces to spread over a larger area. There's no bigger pain than regret, and when bolting down your beauty be sure and buy a tie-down that will leave your bike looking as nice coming off the truck as when you put it on.
Fly Racing
Fly Racing's tie-downs have a thick, wide surface with an imprinted design that runs the length of the strap. A wide cam buckle with rubber-coated hooks along with built-in soft ties make for a secure strap.
Ancra Rat Pak
Ancra Rat Pack straps come with two 6-foot-long straps with vinyl-coated hooks. The buckles are large and sturdy, and offer the secure feeling they won't slip. They are available in red and black.
Ancra Rat Pak
Price: $33.50
+ Quality material
- No built-in soft tie
www.ancra.com
High Roller Stay-Lock
High Roller tie-downs have an uncoated locking hook for the mounting end along with a rubber-coated hook with built-in soft ties on top. They are available in red, blue and black.