Comments for The Ratchet Strap

Comment on How do I tie down my 2003 Electra Glide Classic? by Cheetah

Cheetah — Fri, 10 May 2013 21:22:59 +0000

For the front, on each side of the triple tree, just above the forks. Bring them down at least a 45 degree angle and forward. Don't use the handle bars, there's too much play from the bushings, which are probably rubber if they're still stock. For the back, use part of the frame. Keep all straps towards the front, even the back straps. Also, it's best to use a wheel chock on the front tire. This will keep the bike solid with the trailer.
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Comment on What type of "ratchet strap down cable" do you recommend for walking on to enhancing balance? by isu_trickster

isu_trickster — Fri, 10 May 2013 21:21:59 +0000

The one in the picture is a Gibbon slackline. The other poster is correct, though. No need for a ratchet. But if you are looking for ease of setup and additional tightening while using, then ratchet systems are very fast. However, with a few carabiners or rappel rings, and some 1" wide tubular webbing (all of which can be picked up at your local mom/pop outdoor store that sells climbing gear), you will be able to save yourself a few bucks. Head out and do seaches for "slacklines" and you will come up with a number of "how to" instructional videos. Be sure to use strong anchors (trees!). If you use a living anchor point (trees!) be sure to put some sort of fabric under the straps to help protect the trunk. Carpet samples work great. -Good luck
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Comment on What type of "ratchet strap down cable" do you recommend for walking on to enhancing balance? by Anonymous

Anonymous — Fri, 10 May 2013 20:57:59 +0000

Those are called "slacklines" and they are lots of fun and a good workout.

You don’t need a ratchet setup. You can use the primitive slackline technique:

http://www.nwslackline.org/96/howto-setting-up-a-basic-primitive-slackline

I actually dislike ratchet setups. The extra weight at the end of the line causes an unnatural vibration in the line and makes it hard to walk. Ratchets are only useful for longer lines where you need the mechanical strength to sufficiently tighten the line.
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Comment on Double Ratchet Auto Tie-Down Video by rollinlowford

rollinlowford — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 20:00:27 +0000

nice set up do you …
nice set up do you sell the chain type ends the driver made up ?

but your car hauler needs a lesson on tiedowns…. going outside the scrubrail isnt legal its called a “scrub” rail for a reason if he was to be sideswiped it would tear off the tiedowns and the load would fall of the trailer they must be inside the rail going under the bed or tied to the stake pocket….. and plus your required to check your load after so many miles and note it in a logbook (if commercial)

Comment on Harbor Freight 4 Piece Ratchet Strap Review by POLOLOUS3

POLOLOUS3 — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 20:00:26 +0000

Good research, I’m …
Good research, I’m always doing my homework on HF things or china made tools in general. Do some more research and if you can plan ahead. Look for Ratcheting Depot on Google. USA ratcheting straps. Self contained rachet is awesome, can’t beat it.

You wont be disappointed ever.

Comment on Harbor Freight 4 Piece Ratchet Strap Review by ghostses

ghostses — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 20:00:26 +0000

Thanks. Those ...
Thanks. Those straps do look pretty cool. Thanks for sharing, G.

Comment on How Would You Strap Down a Motorcycle to a Pickup? by Dan

Dan — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:48:59 +0000

Use a RAMP to roll up on the drivers side to passenger side.
Front wheel in corner, side stand to front for catching the weight during braking. YOU can control the acceleration, braking is the province of idiots.
Place towel over tank and using ratchet straps press down on forks and clamp, compressing the springs to hold the bike in tension. I bought a Chinese set of 4 rated at 1500 lbs each for less than $20.
Tailgate UP is best, especially if you can touch the rear tire, place ramp over tailgate and under the bike. If you can’t touch the rear tire, use another strap.
It would help to have a BIG friend go with you for loading and UNLOADING. A bike on a ramp to difficult to handle. It’s easier to load/unload if you back up to the curb, the higher the better.
Did it this way a few times. You ,of course, are buying lunch.
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Comment on How Would You Strap Down a Motorcycle to a Pickup? by DSW

DSW — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:43:59 +0000

at 3 ratchet straps should be used. 4 is even better. This way you are secure front to back and side to side. Along with putting the bike in gear.
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Comment on How Would You Strap Down a Motorcycle to a Pickup? by Jason

Jason — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:23:59 +0000

in addition to the proceeding answer put the bike in diagonally and put it in gear!
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Comment on How Would You Strap Down a Motorcycle to a Pickup? by Silent Bob

Silent Bob — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:52:59 +0000

Just get some 15' ratchet straps and put them on the forks and frame of the bike, higher is better. then attach the straps to the square holes in the bed of the truck, not that hard. Make sure to use AT LEAST 4 straps though!
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