In a perfect world, we'd ride our motorcycles everywhere, but there are times when they need to be transported in a truck or trailer. In order to load them, you need a good, high-quality ramp. Not all motorcycle ramps are created equal. I found some of the best motorcycle ramps, so the next time you have to trailer your broken-down bagger to the shop or bring your dirt bike to the track, you can do so with ease.
Our Methodology
I took several factors into consideration when compiling this list of the best motorcycle ramps, the number one being their ability to specifically accommodate motorcycles. For example, some ramps are fine for ATVs, but the surface area may have too many gaps to accommodate the more skinny tires of a two-wheeled bike. Yes, ATV ramps (or those for lawn mowers) may tolerate the weight of a motorcycle, but they’re not necessarily ideal for a sport bike, dirt bike, cruiser, or bagger. I chose ramps from well-known brands with a reputation for producing high-quality equipment. I picked ramps in a range of prices to suit a variety of budgets, and I read what consumers had to say about these ramps to see how they performed in real-world conditions. For more information on our methodology, go here.
Best Overall: Trackside Heavy-Duty Wide Aluminum Folding Ramp
Best Value: Trackside Aluminum Folding Ramp
Premium Pick: Rage Powersports Black Widow Arched Folding Motorcycle Ramp
Best Portable: Oxford Aluminum Folding Ramp
Best Arched Design: Titan Aluminum Loading Ramps
Best for Loading at Night: CargoSmart Hybrid S-Curve Truck Loading Ramp
Best Motorcycle Ramp Reviews & Recommendations
Our Verdict
My top pick is the Trackside Heavy-Duty Wide Aluminum Folding Ramp. With a 1,500-pound weight capacity, it can accommodate most motorcycles on the market. It has a slight arch, which makes it easier to transition a bike from the ramp onto a trailer or truck bed, and it folds up nicely for storage. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Trackside Aluminum Folding Ramp.
Consider Secondhand
When we start shopping for tools and products, we never overlook the secondhand market. In fact, it’s usually the first place I look. Whether you’re scrolling through Amazon’s Renewed section, eBay for car parts or tools, or flipping through the pages of Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, you have hundreds of thousands of used tools, parts, and gear ready to be shipped to your doorstep. Refurbished to like-new status, they’ll be willing to give you many more years of faithful service all while saving you money.
Secondhand Tips
To make your secondhand search easier, here are two tips for finding the best deals and making sure your new-to-you stuff wasn’t destroyed by the previous owner.
- Get the specs on the ramps to make sure they can accommodate your bike’s weight. If possible, look up the make and model of the ramp online to ensure that it has the proper capability.
- Inspect the structural integrity of the ramps. Make sure the joints and hinges are strong and the area that leans against the trailer or truck bed is solid.
What to Consider When Buying Motorcycle Ramps
Weight Capacity
It's critical that the ramps can tolerate the weight of your motorcycle. Determine the weight of your bike, then check the load rating of the ramp you intend on purchasing. If your bike is 800 pounds, a ramp with a 600-pound capacity will not work. It's better to go bigger in terms of the load limit, so the ramps can safely tolerate your motorcycle’s weight.
Length and Width
The longer a ramp is, the less steep and more stable it will be, particularly when loading a bike into a truck bed. Ramps are available in a variety of lengths, from 6 to 12 feet long. Longer ramps provide a bit more safety, so if you have the option, select a longer one. Wider is also better, especially if you have a heavy bike to move. If you have a wide ramp, you will have more space for the tires and room to walk next to it. You can also put two single ramps next to each other for added support.
Arched vs. Straight
Arched ramps have an arch that’s in proximity to the area that connects to a truck bed. It provides a smoother area to transition the bike from the ramp to the bed. A straight ramp has an angle that leans against the truck bed, which can be problematic for low-profile bikes because they can get hung up on that spot. This can make the loading/unloading process unstable and can potentially damage the bike.
Pricing
Ramps can range from $100 and up, but the less-expensive options typically involve only one ramp. For safety, two narrow ramps or a wide one are a better option, because they give you more control when loading and unloading a bike into a truck bed. Expect to pay around $200 for a decent pair of motorcycle ramps, but sometimes they cost a little bit less. More expensive options tend to be larger in width and/or have more features.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
