Tuesday, August 17, 2010

ATV Loading Ramps-you should think

With such a selection of ATV loading ramps out there, it can be hard to choose just the right one. But on the other hand, because there are so many ramps out there, you'll be able to find a ramp system that will work best for your situation and set-up.
First off, you should think about both how and where you'll be using an ATV loading ramp. Will you be loading the four- wheeler onto a trailer or a truck? What kind of weather and ground conditions will you be facing? Will you have any help when loading and unloading?

Once you have answered these questions, you can then decide on the ramp style that will best suit your needs. There are four basic types of ATV loading ramps. Each has some advantages and disadvantages.


* The bi-fold ramp folds in half widthwise. Although compact, it can be harder to fit it underneath your ATV when you want to store it for travel.
* Tri-fold ramps fold in thirds widthwise. Some tri-folds come with center tracks that are open, making them easy to store underneath your ATV while traveling.
* Dual runner ramps are really two separate ramps. They are available in folding and non folding styles. These ramps are made for easy storage under the ATV as long as the ATV has a higher ground clearance.
* Finally, there are hitch mounted ramps that attach to a trailer hitch. These can be folded for storage during travel.

No matter which ramp style you go with, straight ramps will need extra length in order to avoid bottoming out the four-wheeler while loading it. One way to avoid this problem is to choose an arched ramp instead of a straight ramp.

When you are choosing your ramp, take into consideration what the total overall weight is, that the ramp has to support. The overall weight will include the weight of your ATV, accessories added, the weight of the operator, fuel, as well as the weight of any cargo being carried. Buying a ramp system that exceeds the weight capacity required makes good sense.
Another thing to think about is width of the ramp. Although you can get by with a ramp that just fits your ATV, it is easier and safer to load and unload when you have extra width to play with.
Just for example, say you've been out doing some mud riding. Chances are your tires may not get as much traction and might slide around while you are trying to load. This won't be a problem if you have a ramp that is extra wide.

There are so many ATV loading ramps on the market today, be sure to take your time looking at the various styles. Get one that will be useful even if you upgrade your ATV in the future. After all, you don't want to have to get another ramp if you get a different four wheeler.



0 comments:

Post a Comment