How to Use a Ramp to Safely Load an ATV Onto a Loading Truck

Mar. 21 2021 Lifestyle By Dunfords of Havelock

The Right Way to Load an ATV with A Ramp

As an adventure enthusiast, you take your ATV out for rides whenever you can. You care about the condition of your equipment – that’s why you need to use a ramp to safely transport your quad onto a pickup truck or similar hauling vehicle.

Some riders don’t know how to use a ramp correctly, while others choose not to use one at all. It’s important to use ramps every time you load your ATV for your own safety and for the condition of your vehicle. Read below to learn the proper way to load with ramps, and how each type of ramp can serve your needs.

Why Ramps Offer the Best Way to Transport an ATV

Some riders choose to lift up their ATV bare-handed. This is not safe, and you run plenty of risks by doing this: dropping the ATV could cause severe injuries and damage to your vehicle.

Ramps, meanwhile, are designed to safely and efficiently transport your ATV onto a loading vehicle. They are easy to use and transport, and come in many varieties that serve the specific needs of your ATV.

READ MORE: Properly Towing Your ATV

Step-By-Step Guide

Safety First

No matter how confident you are in your ability to load an ATV, you should never forget the basics of safety. To prepare your quad and loading vehicle for a safe transport, make sure that you park on a flat surface. Some riders think parking on a slanted surface like a hill will make it easier to move your ATV – in reality, this is how accidents are caused. Make sure that both vehicles are given enough space, so that you can successfully transport and unfold your ramps before attaching them.

Make Sure Ramps are In Place

Before you start loading, you need to ensure that your ramps are put into position correctly. This is important because it will affect how the weight of your quad will be distributed.

Ramps usually need to be positioned in a specific way depending on the components that are attached. For example, if the ramp’s edges are curved, make sure to point the arch upwards.

If you are using a dual-runner ramp system, determine how far apart the two ramps should be before you load.

Secure Ramps

Once ramps are in place, they need to be secured to ensure that you can transport your ATV safely and properly. Most ramps are designed to sit on the edge of your loading vehicle. Make sure to tighten them to the edge to stop them from coming loose or falling over – otherwise, you run the risk of damage or injury.

Load The ATV Onto the Truck

Now, it’s time to start loading. This part can be difficult, and should be performed carefully to minimize risk. To begin, move your quad onto the ramp and drive slowly. Move at a consistent pace, as starting and stopping may disrupt the process.

Remove Ramps

Once your ATV has been safely brought onto the loading vehicle, you can remove the ramp. Make sure to fold your ramp properly and store it carefully on your loading vehicle.

Types of Ramps

Bi-Fold Ramp

Bi-fold ramps can fold into two, and can be used to transport most ATVs and similar equipment. When folded, they weigh less than most other kinds of ramps, making them easy to transport as well.

Tri-Fold Ramp

Tri-fold ramps earn their name from the fact that they have three panels. They are usually wider and can sustain more weight than bi-fold ramps. However, these ramps usually weigh more, as they have more components. As a result, they can be difficult to transport, should you bring one on an outing.

Dual-Runner Ramp

This style of ramp is popular because it is specifically designed for vehicles like quads. Dual-runner ramps come in a set of two, with each narrow ramp being able to fit only your ATV’s left or right wheels. This option is favourable among riders because it is easy to set up – all you have to do is determine where the ramps go based on the distance between your vehicle’s wheels. In most cases, these ramps do not fold in half, omitting the extra parts for folding and the weight that comes with them.

READ MORE: Etiquette Tips For Group ATV Rides

Trailers: An Alternative Option

You may choose to transport your ATV using a trailer rather than loading it onto the back of your vehicle. Though trailers are particularly heavy, they give you the opportunity to transport far more than you would be able to otherwise. This option is recommended for trips that will require plenty of equipment.

By using a ramp carefully and correctly, you’ll keep your ATV in top condition and avoid the risk of injury.