Harley-Davidson's truck-loading guide says the bed should be longer than the motorcycle and lists at least 3 motorcycle tie-down straps. Choose a truck ramp when the bed, tailgate, ramp and anchor points all suit the bike; choose a trailer when a truck bed cannot meet those checks, then verify the tow vehicle and trailer ratings.
Choose the hauling setup by the vehicle and equipment you already have. A truck ramp needs a correctly sized bed, a rated tailgate or loading surface, secure anchor points and a motorcycle ramp; a trailer needs a compatible tow vehicle and a deck with suitable capacity and tie-down locations.
Compare the two setups
| Check | Pickup bed and ramp | Motorcycle trailer |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Measure the motorcycle against the bed; check the truck’s payload and tailgate limits | Check the trailer’s rated capacity, deck length and the tow vehicle’s towing limits |
| Loading gear | Motorcycle-specific ramp, secure ramp attachment, front wheel chock and rated straps | Trailer ramp or loading system, front wheel chock and rated straps |
| Anchor points | Confirm the bed has suitable tie-down eyes and the motorcycle has approved attachment points | Confirm the trailer and motorcycle have approved tie-down points |
| Loading angle | Lower bed height and a gentler ramp angle can make loading easier | Compare deck height, ramp angle and motorcycle ground clearance |
| Best fit | An existing truck passes every size and load check | A dedicated hauler fits the bike and can be towed within the vehicle and trailer ratings |
Harley-Davidson advises measuring the bike and bed, checking tie-down eyes and the truck manual’s tailgate limit, and using a motorcycle loading ramp. Its guide also notes that the ramp should be secured to the truck and aligned with the wheel chock. These are checks for the truck setup; they do not replace the trailer or tow-vehicle manuals.
Make the loading setup match the bike
Ramp width, bed height and ground clearance affect how a motorcycle can be loaded. Harley-Davidson says a wide ramp can provide room for a helper to walk beside the bike, while a steep ramp can cause a long, low motorcycle to contact the truck at the bed edge. Use the bike maker’s transport instructions and plan the loading method before moving the motorcycle.
The loading surface is only one part of the decision. A truck or trailer still needs a front wheel chock, secure straps and anchor points approved for the exact motorcycle. Read our motorcycle and ATV tie-down guide before choosing straps or attaching them.
Choose based on repeat use and fit
- Use a truck ramp when the bike fits the bed and every truck, ramp and tie-down rating works for that specific load.
- Compare a trailer when the available bed, tailgate or anchor points do not meet the motorcycle’s needs, or when a dedicated hauling setup fits your regular transport routine.
- If the motorcycle carries luggage, account for its added width and load when checking clearances. Our guide to panniers, top cases and tank bags compares where those bags sit; hard vs soft luggage covers case construction and mounting.
- For an ATV or UTV, use its own manual and trailer ratings. Motorcycle loading instructions do not automatically apply to off-road vehicles.
Browse hauling and storage guides.
Sources
Common questions
Is a motorcycle trailer better than a truck ramp?
Neither fits every setup. Compare the bike with the truck bed, tailgate rating, ramp and anchor points first; a trailer also needs compatible towing capacity, a rated deck and secure tie-down points.
How long should a truck bed be for a motorcycle?
Harley-Davidson advises that the truck bed be longer than the motorcycle. Measure the exact bike and check the truck manual for tailgate and payload limits.
Do I need a wheel chock on a motorcycle trailer?
A chock supports the front wheel on a trailer or truck bed. Harley-Davidson includes one in its transport equipment list; use a model that fits the wheel and follow both vehicle and chock instructions.
Can I load a motorcycle alone with a narrow ramp?
Harley-Davidson says a narrow ramp can be challenging when loading solo. Choose equipment and help that fit the motorcycle, ramp and loading method described in their instructions.