Hey guys! I've been lurking here for a while now. I've learned lots here and have finally found the bike I want.

I bought a 2006 Road King Standard last week. I'm going to pick it up this weekend. It's over 300 miles away and I've got no one to take me there. My question is this: can I safely transport the bike in the backend of a shortbox Ford pickup? The dealer says no problem, my buddy says no way.

Can someone here give me some useful advice?

Thanks!!!

I'll post some pics once I get it home.

 

only help I can offer,,, I hauled my Dyna in chevy colorado,, with the tail gate left down!
measure wheel base of bike and bed of truck with gate down

 

Sure, just strap in down good and put a piece of plywood over the tailgate or you will dent it with the tire. Oh and measure the distance between the tire patches making sure it will fit.

 

Your bigger challenge will be getting the bike in the back of the truck. Invest in a ramp and have friends available to help you. Check out Hog Ties to strap her down or something similiar.

 

The dealer should know. They load and unload bikes everyday. The dealer in VA Beach used to (Still might?) use an S10 pickup to pick up bikes. Just get some good tie down straps.

 

back up to a small hill ,mound, thats even with tailgate, drive it on, thats what I do

 

The guys at the dealership will help you get it in your truck, the challenging part will be getting it out of the bed by yourself. Could always invite a couple neighbors over for a cpld one, "oh hey, while your here can you you help me get this out of the truck?"

 

No sweat... but take the plywood advice seriously. Tailgates aint what the used to be.

 

Thanks guys for all the advice!! I can't wait to get it home and on the road!!!