Loading your ATV into a Truck

There's only one barrier between you and flying down the trail on your ATV: getting your ATV to the trail. Loading an ATV into a truck or trailer may not sound difficult, but there are few important points to keep in mind if you want to avoid damaging your investment or hurting yourself. Taking it slow and doing it right every time will help you make sure the real challenges will be on the trails, and not in your driveway. Destination Powersports in Punta Gorda, Florida offers a broad selection of accessories to help transport your ATV (not to mention replacement parts should something go wrong). Customers in Punta Gorda, Fort Myers, and Cape Coral, Florida will find everything they need.

Get Good Ramps

The old adage 'you get what you pay for' is even more poignant when you've got your truck AND your ATV on the line, so make sure you invest in a good set of ramps. Find some that are rated for the weight of your vehicle and you should be okay. Line up your ATV with the bed of the truck, then put your ramps in place centered on the wheels.

Secure the Ramps

There are plenty of ways to secure your ramps to the bed of the truck ,but the most important thing is that you do it. Unsecured ramps are an accident waiting to happen. Keeping your tie down straps out of the way is important, so use the safety chain tie down next to the hitch receiver and tighten the ramp down so it's got plenty of downward pressure on the back of the truck.

Loading

Because you're going to be riding your ATV, WEAR A HELMET. Sure you're only going a few feet, it's always better safe than sorry. Shift your ATV into four wheel low and gently but firmly apply the throttle to climb the ramp in one smooth motion. When your rear wheels have cleared the ramp and reached the tailgate, continue to inch forward until you're as far into the bed of the truck as possible. Shut off the ATV, and apply the parking brake (or put the machine in park). Don't leave your key in the ignition.

Securing the ATV

Obviously you'll want to close up your tailgate if possible. To tie down your ATV, you'll want to compress the suspension with your straps. This is easier if you've got front and rear cargo racks to take advantage of. Putting pressure on the suspension will keep the ATV from bouncing in the bed of your truck, and reduce side to side sway that can be a little hairy when you get up to speed.

Remember: take your time, double check your straps, and invest in quality ramps and getting your ATV to the trail won't be a problem. The veteran team of motorsport enthusiasts at Destination Powersports can set you up with all the gear you need to transport your ATV. They can also help you find riding gear, replacement parts, and anything else you might need. If you live in Punta Gorda, Cape Coral, or Fort Myers, Florida, stop by our showroom and see how true ATV professionals handle their rides.