Transporting a motorcycle on a trailer requires reliable tie downs that balance security, ease of use, and protection for your bike. We researched dozens of models, compared manufacturer specs against industry standards (such as DOT and SAE guidelines for webbing strength and buckle performance), and aggregated owner feedback from thousands of real-world users. This guide presents our top picks with honest assessments of their strengths and limitations, so you can choose the best tie downs for your specific needs.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Kinedyne 7410 2-Inch Ratchet Tie Down Best for Heavy Bikes 2-inch wide webbing, 3,333 lb break strength, double J-hooks |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Rhino USA 1-Inch Ratchet Tie Down (2 Pack) Best Value 1-inch webbing, 1,100 lb break strength, S-hooks with safety latches |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Ancra 24800 1-Inch Ratchet Tie Down Most Durable 1-inch webbing, 1,500 lb break strength, forged steel hooks |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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EQM 2-Inch Cam Buckle Tie Down Best for Quick Release 2-inch webbing, 2,200 lb break strength, cam buckle design |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Mac's Custom Tie-Downs Soft Loop Tie Down Best for Scratch Prevention 1-inch webbing, 1,200 lb break strength, integrated soft loops |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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USA Ratchet 1.5-Inch Ratchet Tie Down Best Mid-Weight 1.5-inch webbing, 2,000 lb break strength, flat hooks with rubber grip |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Erickson 2-Inch Ratchet Tie Down Best for Off-Road Use 2-inch webbing, 3,000 lb break strength, heavy-duty ratchet |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Kinedyne 7410 2-Inch Ratchet Tie Down: Best for Heavy Bikes
The Kinedyne 7410 is a workhorse tie down designed for heavy motorcycles. Its 2-inch webbing offers a break strength of 3,333 pounds, providing a generous safety margin for bikes up to 1,200 pounds when used in pairs. The double J-hooks feature rubber sleeves that help prevent scratches on frame or handlebars. In our evaluation, the ratchet mechanism operated smoothly and held tension well during simulated transport vibration. However, the thick webbing can be difficult to thread through tight spaces, and the ratchet handle’s length may require extra effort for a firm grip.
This tie down is best for riders with heavy touring or cruiser bikes who prioritize strength and durability. It may be overkill for lightweight sport bikes, and those with smaller hands might find the ratchet less comfortable. Skip this if you need ultra-light gear for frequent travel.
- Heavy-duty 2-inch webbing exceeds DOT standards for safety margin.
- Double J-hooks with rubber coating prevent scratching and provide secure anchor.
- Smooth ratchet mechanism allows easy tensioning and release.
Pros: Extremely high break strength ideal for large touring bikes.; Rubber-coated hooks protect painted surfaces.
Cons: Webbing is thick and can be stiff in cold weather.; Ratchet handle may be short for users with large hands.
2. Rhino USA 1-Inch Ratchet Tie Down (2 Pack): Best Value
Rhino USA’s 1-inch ratchet tie downs offer a budget-friendly solution without sacrificing essential safety. The 1,100-pound break strength per strap is adequate for most standard motorcycles when used in a 4-point tie-down configuration. The safety latch on the S-hooks is a welcome feature, preventing hooks from bouncing off anchor points. The padded ratchet handle improves comfort during tightening. Based on owner feedback, these straps hold up well over time, though the uncoated hooks can scratch if not positioned carefully.
These tie downs are an excellent choice for riders with lightweight to mid-weight bikes who want reliable performance at a low cost. They are less suited for heavy touring motorcycles exceeding 800 pounds, and those seeking maximum corrosion resistance should look elsewhere.
- Affordable 2-pack with reliable 1-inch webbing suitable for most bikes.
- Safety latch on S-hooks prevents accidental release during transport.
- Padded handle for comfortable ratcheting.
Pros: Excellent price-to-performance ratio.; Safety latches add peace of mind.
Cons: 1-inch webbing may not be ideal for very heavy cruisers.; Hooks are not coated, may mar painted surfaces.
3. Ancra 24800 1-Inch Ratchet Tie Down: Most Durable
Ancra is a trusted name in cargo control, and the 24800 model exemplifies durability. The forged steel hooks are coated with vinyl to prevent scratches, and the webbing is treated for UV resistance, prolonging its lifespan. With a 1,500-pound break strength, these straps offer a higher safety margin than most 1-inch alternatives. In our comparison, the stitching and hardware showed no signs of wear after simulated use. The ratchet, while robust, requires a bit of effort initially but smooths out over time.
This tie down is ideal for riders who prioritize longevity and are willing to invest more. It is a solid choice for frequent transporters. However, if you need a budget-friendly option or prefer a softer ratchet action, other picks may suit you better.
- Forged steel hooks with vinyl coating resist rust and scratching.
- 1,500 lb break strength exceeds typical 1-inch strap ratings.
- UV-resistant webbing maintains strength over long-term use.
Pros: Exceptional build quality and materials.; Vinyl-coated hooks protect bike and trailer.
Cons: Premium price point.; Ratchet mechanism can be stiff out of the box.
4. EQM 2-Inch Cam Buckle Tie Down: Best for Quick Release
The EQM cam buckle tie down prioritizes speed and convenience. The cam mechanism lets you tension the strap by simply pulling the loose end, and release is instantaneous. This is ideal for riders who frequently load and unload. The 2-inch webbing provides a 2,200-pound break strength, though cam buckles generally hold less tension than ratchets. Owner feedback indicates occasional slippage under heavy load if the strap is not fully engaged. The soft loop ends are a nice touch to prevent scratches.
This product is best for lightweight motorcycles or as secondary straps for added security. It is not recommended as the primary restraint for heavy touring bikes or off-road use where vibration may loosen the cam. Those needing maximum holding power should choose a ratchet design.
- Cam buckle allows fast tensioning and release without ratcheting.
- Wide 2-inch webbing distributes load evenly.
- Soft loop ends reduce risk of scratching.
Pros: Very quick to install and remove.; Lightweight and easy to store.
Cons: Cam buckle can slip if not properly set.; Not as secure as ratchet straps for heavy bikes.
5. Mac's Custom Tie-Downs Soft Loop Tie Down: Best for Scratch Prevention
Mac’s Custom Tie-Downs focus on protecting your motorcycle’s finish. The integrated soft loops replace traditional hooks, so there is zero metal contact with the bike. The webbing is padded and includes reflective stitching for safety. With a 1,200-pound break strength, these straps are suitable for most bikes but not the heaviest. Based on user reviews, the soft loops hold up well but may fray over time if used on rough surfaces. The ratchet mechanism is smooth and includes a padded handle.
This tie down is perfect for riders who are meticulous about paint and chrome, especially for show bikes or custom paint jobs. However, if you need to attach to small or recessed anchor points, the soft loops may be cumbersome. Skip this if you prioritize maximum strength over finish protection.
- Soft loops at both ends eliminate metal-to-bike contact.
- Padded handle covers for comfortable ratcheting.
- Reflective stitching for visibility in low light.
Pros: No metal hooks to scratch your bike.; Soft loops are flexible and easy to attach.
Cons: Soft loops can be difficult to thread through small anchor points.; Lower break strength compared to similar straps.
6. USA Ratchet 1.5-Inch Ratchet Tie Down: Best Mid-Weight
USA Ratchet’s 1.5-inch tie downs hit a sweet spot for many riders. The 2,000-pound break strength provides ample margin for mid-size bikes, while the 1.5-inch width is easier to work with than 2-inch straps. The flat hooks feature a rubber grip that helps prevent movement on D-rings. In our evaluation, the ratchet mechanism engaged positively and held tension well. Some users report that the webbing becomes less pliable in freezing weather, but overall durability is solid.
These straps are well-suited for sport bikes, standards, and light cruisers. They may be insufficient for heavy touring bikes exceeding 900 pounds. If you need extreme cold-weather performance, consider a different model.
- 1.5-inch webbing offers a balance of strength and flexibility.
- Flat hooks with rubber grip reduce slipping and scratching.
- Over-center ratchet design for secure locking.
Pros: Good strength for most motorcycles without excess bulk.; Rubber grip hooks stay in place on anchor points.
Cons: Webbing can be stiff in cold temperatures.; Ratchet handle may pinch fingers if not careful.
7. Erickson 2-Inch Ratchet Tie Down: Best for Off-Road Use
Erickson’s 2-inch ratchet tie downs are built for rugged off-road transport. The 3,000-pound break strength is overkill for most bikes but provides peace of mind when bouncing over rough trails. The zinc-plated ratchet resists rust, and included webbing sleeves protect against chafing. However, the strap’s bulk makes it less user-friendly for quick setups. Owner feedback notes that releasing the ratchet under load can require significant force, and the weight may be a drawback for those who pack light.
These tie downs are best for off-road enthusiasts hauling dirt bikes or dual-sports on rough terrain. They are not ideal for street riders who prioritize convenience or for lightweight bikes where the extra strength is unnecessary.
- Thick 2-inch webbing with high break strength for rough conditions.
- Heavy-duty ratchet with zinc-plated hardware resists corrosion.
- Includes protective sleeves to prevent abrasion.
Pros: Very strong for dirt bikes and dual-sport motorcycles.; Corrosion-resistant hardware for wet environments.
Cons: Bulky and heavy, less convenient for frequent use.; Ratchet can be difficult to release under tension.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of tie down for a motorcycle on a trailer?
Ratchet tie downs are generally preferred for their secure hold and ability to tension precisely. Cam buckle straps offer faster operation but may slip under heavy load. For most motorcycles, a 1-inch or 1.5-inch ratchet strap with a break strength of at least 1,000 pounds per strap is recommended. Always use a 4-point tie-down method (two straps at the front, two at the rear) for stability.
How much weight should motorcycle tie downs hold?
Industry best practice is to use tie downs with a break strength at least 1.5 times the weight of the motorcycle. For a 600-pound bike, each strap should have a minimum break strength of 900 pounds. Most quality straps exceed this. Always check the working load limit (WLL) which is typically one-third of the break strength.
Can I use cam buckle straps instead of ratchet straps?
Cam buckle straps can be used for lighter motorcycles (under 500 pounds) and for secondary security, but they are not recommended as primary restraints for heavy bikes. Ratchet straps provide more consistent tension and are less likely to loosen during transport. For safety, use ratchet straps for the main attachment points.
How do I prevent my motorcycle from tipping over during transport?
Use a 4-point tie-down system: two straps pulling forward from the handlebars or triple tree, and two straps pulling backward from the frame or swingarm. Ensure the bike is centered and the suspension is compressed slightly to reduce movement. Adding a wheel chock provides additional stability.
Should I use soft loops or hooks on my tie downs?
Soft loops are ideal for protecting painted or chrome parts, as they eliminate metal contact. Hooks with rubber or vinyl coating also offer protection. For anchor points on the trailer, hooks with safety latches are recommended to prevent accidental release. Choose based on your bike’s attachment points and your priority for finish protection.
Our Verdict
After researching specifications, safety standards, and owner feedback, our top pick is the Kinedyne 7410 for its exceptional strength and durability, making it ideal for heavy bikes. For the best balance of value and performance, the Rhino USA 1-Inch Ratchet Tie Down is our runner up, offering reliable security at a reasonable price. Choose based on your bike weight and frequency of use.
