How to Transport a Motorcycle and a Quad Bike

For many people, motorcycles are more than just a form of transport, it's their hobby and a way of life. But even if you belong to this group of passionate bikers, there are situations when you cannot simply take your motorcycle for a ride to get to your destination, and you need to find another way to transport it. This is often the case when travelling internationally, for example.

Whether you're moving to another country permanently or planning a motorcycle road trip abroad, finding a way to transport your motorbike from point A to point B safely can be a headache-inducing process. The same holds true for other vehicles, such as trike motorcycles or quad bikes. In the article below, we'll explain the ins and outs of motorcycle transport to help you plan your move without stress!

But before we talk about how to prepare your motorcycle for transport, it's worth noting that you do not have to do it yourself! Suppose you don't have the time, the right tools and the necessary know-how. In that case, you can leave this job to shipping companies with extensive experience in international removals and vehicle transportation. Move your motorcycle from Germany to the UK (or from the UK to Germany) with Bright Removals Ltd and enjoy a safe, fast and hassle-free shipping process at a reasonable price!

Helpful Tips for Motorcycle and Quad Bike Transport

Get the Right Equipment

Even though loading a motorcycle or a quad bike into a moving van may seem straightforward at first glance, there are a few essential steps you need to take to do it safely and secure your vehicle for the duration of transport. These include using the right equipment, such as:

• loading ramps,

• ratchet straps,

• chocks.

It may also be a good idea to get special tie-downs used for motorcycle transport: a Canyon Dancer Bar harness and a soft loop strap. Their design makes it possible to secure the handlebars and keep the motorcycle in place without the risk of scratches and damage.

Another useful thing to have on hand is a motorcycle or a quad bike cover to prevent scratches on the paintwork. If you don't have any, you can use moving blankets instead and add stretch wrap for extra protection.

Find Someone To Help You

As a safety precaution, it's recommended to always have at least one person with you to help with loading and securing the vehicle. This will make the whole process not only easier but also safer. Keep in mind that motorcycles and quad bikes are heavy, and pushing them up the loading ramp on your own can result in accidents, e.g., your motorcycle falling off the ramp. Having someone there to help you manoeuvre the vehicle is a great way to reduce the risk of damage and injury.

Choose the Right Moving Vehicle

Although loading a motorcycle onto the back of a pickup truck works well for short-distance transport, for longer routes, it is best to opt for an enclosed vehicle such as a moving van. This will keep your motorcycle or quad bike protected from weather conditions and other potential hazards during transport. And if you want to protect your vehicle even further, you can also crate your motorcycle.

How to Transport a Motorcycle

• Prepare your motorcycle for transport

1. Wash your motorcycle to remove all accumulated dirt and dust from the vehicle itself and the tyres.

2. Look for scratches or dents on the paintwork and document any existing mechanical problems. If it's not possible to fix issues such as leaks before transport, additional safety precautions will be required to avoid further damage.

3. Remove all loose parts and accessories.

4. Empty the fuel tank to 1/4 (some moving companies require the fuel tank to be completely empty) and make sure the tyres are properly inflated.

• Load your motorcycle

Always load your motorcycle on solid and level ground and make sure that the motorcycle ramp is properly attached to the moving van so that it doesn't move or collapse under the weight of your motorcycle. Don't rush and push the motorcycle carefully into the van while having someone with you to help you keep it steady the whole time.

• Secure your motorcycle

1. Once the motorcycle is safely inside, it's time to secure it with chocks and ratchet straps. First, put the chocks in front of the front wheel and behind the rear wheel to prevent movement during transport. Then, following the product instructions, secure the motorcycle using the Canyon Dancer harness and soft loop strap.

2. Remember that the front suspension should be compressed when fastening the ratchet straps to stop the motorcycle from moving.

How to Transport a Quad Bike

• Prepare your quad bike for transport

1. Clean your quad bike and carefully inspect its condition to document any existing damages and mechanical issues.

2. Remove all accessories and loose elements.

3. Empty the fuel tank according to the instructions from your chosen moving company.

• Load your quad bike

Before loading your quad bike, make sure that the loading ramp is secured in place and is capable of withstanding the weight of your vehicle. It's an easy step that can prevent many potential accidents, so don't skip it. As quad bikes are heavy and it may be difficult to manoeuvre your vehicle when pushing it up the ramp, get at least one of your helpers to assist you.

• Secure your quad bike

To safely transport your quad bike, you need to make sure it's secured and cannot move inside the moving vehicle. Use heavy-duty ratchet straps to prevent any movement during transport to protect your quad bike and any other items moved alongside it.

What Are the Benefits of Transporting Motorcycles and Quad Bikes With a Shipping Company?

• It's faster. Experienced movers deal with packing and transporting various items every single day. So while you need to figure out how to prepare and secure your motorcycle, they already have the necessary knowledge and experience. There's no need to look for equipment, find helpers or hire a moving van on your own. We can take care of every stage of your quad bike or motorcycle transport. This speeds up the entire process and enables you to focus on other aspects of your move or travel.

• It's safer. Of course, you can secure and move your vehicle on your own, but are you 100% sure that you can do it right? With our services, you have a guarantee of efficient loading and secure transport, as well as insurance coverage.

• It's hassle-free. With a reliable quad bike and motorcycle transport service, you don't have to worry about anything. We have professional equipment and an experienced team capable of delivering your motorcycle and other belongings to your chosen destination safely and on time!