Tie Down Straps
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 15,259
Likes: 5,383
From: Delaware
Ratchet are easier to get tight. They are also the easiest with which to destroy your front fork internals. Too many people think the suspension has to be compressed to the point where there is no movement. They only need be compressed to the point where they don't bounce so much, the straps come loose. Just remember the suspension is always pushing back against your straps and you'll be fine.
One thing I always do. I always figure my bike is worth a little over kill. Use more straps than necessary. A broken strap can destroy a bike and ruin your day.
One thing I always do. I always figure my bike is worth a little over kill. Use more straps than necessary. A broken strap can destroy a bike and ruin your day.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 1,937
Likes: 254
From: US
I have 4 of the HD ratchet straps with the safety lever. Cant fall off.
I also have an extra set from Menards for secondary strapping. Even though they are advertised as same rating as my HD straps, the strapping is 1/2 as thick.
I prefer the ratchet vs the cinch type. A method that relies on a means to clamp down on the webbing doesnt appeal to me. It seems to be putting wear on a valuable piece of the system. But thats just me.
I also have an extra set from Menards for secondary strapping. Even though they are advertised as same rating as my HD straps, the strapping is 1/2 as thick.
I prefer the ratchet vs the cinch type. A method that relies on a means to clamp down on the webbing doesnt appeal to me. It seems to be putting wear on a valuable piece of the system. But thats just me.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 4,585
Likes: 673
From: Rolla
Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 1,416
Likes: 317
From: CA
I love the new generation of cam buckle straps but I don't fully trust them - yet. When I transported a bike recently in a trailer - I did cams front/back but then redundant set of good old ratchets in the front. It was all solid.
The advantage of ratchets is that it takes less manhandling to get the level of compression. I always heard "half of travel" so that's what I shoot for.
I don't do this much but hope to more in the future!
As far as brands - I'm not sure what to use. Just don't get the Harbor Freight ones - in this case - the material they used was garbage. My local Home Depot had a great set for only $12.99 for 4 (cam buckle that is).
PS - do get the "soft straps" for the bars - very useful. Another option is the "canyon dancer" type for holding down bars. Minimal paint contact is the play here.
The advantage of ratchets is that it takes less manhandling to get the level of compression. I always heard "half of travel" so that's what I shoot for.
I don't do this much but hope to more in the future!
As far as brands - I'm not sure what to use. Just don't get the Harbor Freight ones - in this case - the material they used was garbage. My local Home Depot had a great set for only $12.99 for 4 (cam buckle that is).
PS - do get the "soft straps" for the bars - very useful. Another option is the "canyon dancer" type for holding down bars. Minimal paint contact is the play here.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 9,384
Likes: 1,776
From: Central Texas
I just throw a 3/8 chain over my gas tank and boom it down. LOL Really I use four ratchet straps.
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