trailer tie down and fork compression

[ClassicVW_imp]

Just like LongRanger said. Compress the forks a bit. You CAN use the handlebars if you want. Also, if your tie down ends are long, tie them off somewhere ( or to each other front to back ) to keep them from flapping in the wind. The loose ends can tear into paint and plastic parts quickly. Two weeks ago I brought a friend's BMW back from Canada, 600 miles one way, and had no issues.

I don't like the sound of that. I hope he's okay!

I don't like the sound of that. I hope he's okay!
Oh yeah, sorry. I didn't see my post that way, but now I do. He's fine. It's all good. He imported a 2005 R1200C Montauk. Only 350 made worldwide. 6 went to Canada, none to the USA. An importing nightmare though. We knew that going in though, and he contracted with a vehicle importer who does this all the time. We successfully trailered it into US past customs inspections and all, (Yes, WE picked it up, not the importer) but the importer took some shortcuts with some paperwork, and now he's stuck between NY DMV and the US DOT in trying to register it. Apparently we weren't supposed to be allowed to enter the US with it without the importer holding onto it for a DOT inspection. But the DOT guy realizes we tried to do everything the right way (my friend did weeks of paperwork ahead of the trip ) and he says we won't suffer for it, he will release the paperwork soon and then he's going after the importer for breaking several Federal regulations.

[PowerDubs_imp]

You guys are going to extreme with all the worry.

I've moved countless bikes over several decades- on trailers, in pickup truck beds- always the same simple manner- a basic push tab release tie down to each side of the handle bar- pull until tight. Nothing fancy, no wheel chocks, etc... in my younger years we drove hard enough in the pickups that the back wheels would bounce or slide around- but the front end will never move butted up against the front of the trailer or bed.

[ride4now_imp]

I may be a bit late to this discussion, but here's a photo of how I moved my CB the last time... 500 miles each way with no issues.

I use ratchet straps.... 2 down by the front axel to pull the bike forward. 2 attached to the rear frame, where the rear shock bolts to it, to pull it backwards. Then 1 on each side of the rear wheel to keep the rear from hopping or sliding from side to side. Then 2 in the front on the handlebars to stabilize the bike upright. You need very little shock compression but I would suggest some because the bike will settle. I also used strap extenders to protect the paint. Putting the actual hooks on the bike is not recommended. Make sure you stop after the first 30-50 miles to check the tension as everything will loosen up. I probably go a bit overboard, but hey... your bike is worth alot of money... why take the chance. Good luck and enjoy your new toy!




Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[buckwheat_imp]

You guys are going to extreme with all the worry.

I've moved countless bikes over several decades- on trailers, in pickup truck beds- always the same simple manner- a basic push tab release tie down to each side of the handle bar- pull until tight. Nothing fancy, no wheel chocks, etc... in my younger years we drove hard enough in the pickups that the back wheels would bounce or slide around- but the front end will never move butted up against the front of the trailer or bed.

"You guys are going to extreme with all the worry" - yes I am! lol I know you meant that to the entire thread-group but this being my 1st tie down you hit the bulls eye for me with that sentence. It really wasn't that much trouble at all.

And thank you very much for the specific mention of the push-tab style strap which is what I bought from the Honda dealer, as that was 1 of my questions for this thread. I got it home today and I don't think it moved at all.

I used the non-ratchet push-tab, pull style straps front and back. Then I used an additional ratchet strap on each fork. Overkill maybe but I just didn't trust those pull straps on the forks. After towing it and after your comment that you use them all the time, I think it would have been ok without the ratchet straps and only using the pull straps. I took plenty of pictures of the tie down and even measured with tape the compression in inches. I'll be posting those tommorow and welcome any comments on the method too. My thanks to everyone that commented. Feel free to keep posting as I am interested to know your methods and thoughts.

[buckwheat_imp]

So here are the pics of the tie down method I used. I started with the blue non-ratchet straps. Then after reconsideration I added the 2 yellow ratchet straps. For the rear I took the seat off and tied the top rail of the frame as far back as I could get it. The U-Haul motorcycle trailer has 6 D rings with 2 being in the middle. I used the middle D rings for the back ties. This put the direction of force pushing forward against the front of the trailer and not pulling the bike "out" of the trailer. I put the seat back on for transport. I stopped and checked the bike 3 times and it never moved even on the worst bumpy roads. The pic of the tape measure is the distance left on the fork after being strapped down - 3.5 inches. I took so many pics to try and help someone who is new to trailering a bike as I am. I welcome any comments on the method I used or concerns and advice.

I think everything worked out well. I also think the non-ratchet straps would have held it alone. I haven't looked or ridden the bike since taking it off the trailer but I don't think anything was bent because of the tie downs. Thanks to everyone who replied.

Oh, for reference trailer rental is $15 a day. A day to U-Haul means 24 hrs and you can drop off the trailer after business hours without a representative present.

edit: i am having technical difficulties uploading the pics. I'm not very good with technology lol

[Ron in MO_imp]

Congrats on your new CB1100 and welcome to the forum. Glad to here you got it home without any problems! Also looking forward to your pictures.

[PowerDubs_imp]

2 push release straps, one on each side to the handle bar, pulled firmly is all that is needed.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Cormanus]

Buckwheat, posting pictures takes a bit of practice. See if this thread helps, http://cb1100forum.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1913

Congratulations on getting the bike home and best wishes for many happy miles.

[buckwheat_imp]

Last of the 1st ever tie down pics.

[Cormanus]

Nice work. Thanks for sharing.