Road Racerz is proudly supported by our readers. Products purchased through links on our site may provide us a commission. Learn More
Transporting a motorcycle is sometimes quite stressful for some people. Riding the bike to a certain destination is one thing, but transporting it on a trailer is an entirely different experience.
Although there are many safe methods of transporting all motorcycles, you want to ensure as much safety as possible. The best way to do this is by using quality motorcycle tie-down straps.
Straps ensure that your bike stays in place during transportation. For this reason, it’s essential to choose quality ones that can endure the pressure.
Take a moment to discover the best straps and read our buyer’s guide on how to choose among as many.
8 Highest Rated Motorcycle Tie Down Straps Review
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|
Pro Taper  | Pro Taper Features: Industrial strength, versatile use Weight Capacity: 1200 pounds Dimensions: 84 x 1.5 inches | Check Price |
JACO Superior Products  | JACO Superior Products Features: Carrying bag included Weight Capacity: 1.823 lbs Dimensions: 1 inch x 15 ft | Check Price |
DC Cargo Mall  | DC Cargo Mall Features: Plastic-covered hooks, reliable safety latches Weight Capacity: 3,000 pounds Dimensions: 8 x 1-1/2inches | Check Price |
ROK Straps  | Cobra Features: Easy to use, non-slippery Weight Capacity: 200 pounds Dimensions: 1 inch x 18 to 60 inches | Check Price |
SMARTSTRAPS  | SMARTSTRAPS Features: Abrasion-resistant, easy and quick use Weight Capacity: 900 pounds Dimensions: 10 ft long | Check Price |
CargoBuckle  | CargoBuckle Features: Anti-corrosive, for heavy loads Weight Capacity: 3500 lbs Dimensions: 2 x 72 inches | Check Price |
Rhino USA  | Rhino USA Features: Heavy-duty endurance, great break strength Weight Capacity: 5,208lbs Dimensions: 1.6 x 8 inches | Check Price |
LOCKDOWN  | LOCKDOWN Features: Ergonomically designed handlesnaps, long Weight Capacity: 3,372lbs Dimensions: 15ft | Check Price |
Pro Taper – Non-slip
Pro Taper is a pair of tie-downs usually used to secure heavy-duty motorcycles. One of the best things about this pair is that they feature a swivel carabineer base hook that allows movement and ease of use.
The straps measure 84 x 1.5 inches and feature nylon webbing for some added strength and security. These are resistant and durable, which makes them excellent for securing precious cargo such as motorbikes.
It’s important to mention the 1200-pound straight tension strength that makes these as secure. This is to show just how much they can endure, allowing you to use them for all kinds of transportation.
Also, these feature a non-slip cam buckle that’s equally as strong. Other than that, they’re pretty soft and comfortable to touch.
PROS
- Industrial strength
- Wide and long
- Versatile use
CONS
- The buckle is somewhat too large
JACO Superior Products – Break Strength
These are made to secure your motorbike, UTV, ATV, paddleboard, kayak, dirt bike, and other similar vehicles and objects. You can use them to secure the cargo on your truck bed, roof rack, and utility trailer.
The tie-downs are rugged and weather-proof. They’re adjustable to 15ft. and made of industrial-grade polyester webbing that’s strong but also soft to touch. It won’t scratch or damage your vehicle.
The material has a break strength rated to 1.823 lbs. Another thing worth noting is the ratchet crank handles that have a rubberized coating. Plus, the solid steel ratcheting mechanism and the quick-release lever allow easy and quick use.
Its s-shape hooks have a rust-proof vinyl finish and are rubber-coated. These are secure and reliable, keeping your cargo in place at all times.
PROS
- Carrying bag included
- Weather-proof material
- Vinyl-coated S-hooks
CONS
- The rubber is sometimes too stiff
DC Cargo Mall – Soft-tie
DC Cargo Mall could be the best option if you’re looking for a soft-tie strap. It’s strong enough to secure your motorcycle, dirt bike, lawnmower, kayak, and other similar vehicles and items.
The package includes two tie-downs that are equally as strong, providing security and reliability during transportation.
These stand out thanks to the soft tie that protects your vehicle from scratches. The non-adjustable side is longer and features a sewn-in D-ring.
Loop it around the frame or handlebars before attaching the end back to itself. Snap the hook into the D-right, and you’ll have a safely secured motorcycle.
These measure 8’ x 1-1/2’’ and have 3,000-pounds break strength. They’re made of heavy-duty polyester webbing and are resistant to tear, stretch, and also weather elements.
PROS
- Plastic-covered hooks
- Reliable safety latches
- Bright orange color
CONS
- Bulky buckle
ROK Straps – Reflective
ROK Straps are made for light-duty transportation since their burst strength is at 200 pounds. These are an inch wide and 18 to 60 inches long.
One of the best things about these is that they’re easy to use. It takes less than a minute to attach and tighten them around your motorcycle or ATV.
It’s a two-piece, featuring a webbing element and loop attachments. It also has a quick-release buckle that adds even more to its overall ease of use.
There’s an elastic section that provides tension, ensuring that it doesn’t break mid-use. Also, keep in mind that the package includes two pieces.
They’re still safer than bungee cords, although they’re designed for light-duty use only. The looped end attachments won’t scratch your vehicle while holding everything in place.
PROS
- Easy to use
- Non-slippery
- Elastic and non-scratching
CONS
- Might start to fray quickly
SMARTSTRAPS – Best Security
Smartstraps are ratchet tie-downs that can endure lots of pressure. It’s an ideal choice for heavy-duty cargo, such as motorcycles. But, you can also use it on fragile loads as well.
The package includes four pieces that have a breaking strength of 900 pounds. However, the safest workload is 300 pounds.
These cam buckle straps are easier to use than rope and far more secure as well. It’s advised to use them with cargo that assists in applying tension to the straps. These are typically motocross bikes, ATVs, and other similar lightweight vehicles.
They’re quite durable and resistant to weather elements. They’re built to last a long time without showing any signs of wear and tear.
The non-marring coated steel S-hooks ensure that your cargo stays in place at all times. They won’t damage the vehicle or whatever item you use them with.
PROS
- Non-marring
- Abrasion-resistant
- Easy and quick use
CONS
- Not for heavyweight motorcycles
CargoBuckle – Anti-corrosive
CargoBuckle is an anti-corrosive retractable ratchet tie-downs. It’s a durable and resistant strap designed for securing heavy-duty loads, motorcycles, ATVs, and other similar vehicles and items.
The package comes with two pieces that have a six-foot reach. They retract, which makes it easy to carry them around even when not in use.
One of the best things about these is their resistance to weather elements and overall rough use. These have an anti-corrosive construction and won’t show any signs of wear and tear as quickly.
Another thing worth noting is the dual-safety lock that adds to its overall security. This makes the straps ideal for transporting heavyweight motorcycles, keeping them in place, and preventing wobbling.
The polyester webbing is durable and enduring. It can handle the pressure and weight but won’t scratch your motorbike.
PROS
- Anti-corrosive
- For heavy loads
- Retracting
CONS
- The orange handle breaks easily
Rhino USA – Heavy Duty
Rhino USA is a family business in California. Its straps are of great quality, offering reliability and durability that you need when transporting motorcycles.
These come with coated steel ratchets and Chromoly S-hooks. Another thing that adds to the overall durability and endurance is the PolyBlend webbing.
The kit includes several pieces with 5,208lb break strength. They’re ideal for securing and transporting your motorbike, UTV, ATV, and other similar vehicles and items.
They measure 1.6’’ x 8,’’ and although they’re not the longest, they’re pretty durable and useful. Plus, you can carry them with you at all times because they’re easy to pack.
The ratchet mechanism is made of steel and easy to use. You’ll probably have to keep it away from weather elements to avoid rust.
PROS
- Heavy-duty endurance
- Great break strength
- Chrome-coated hooks
CONS
- A bit short
LOCKDOWN – Durable
These premium ratchet straps measure 15ft. and have a maximum break strength of 3,372lbs. This allows you to haul heavyweight motorcycles and other types of precious cargo.
They’re made of heavy-duty webbing and can endure up to 1686 pounds without losing their tensile strength or stretching. They’re wide and thick, which makes them ideal for heavy-duty hauling and transporting.
It’s important to mention that these come with double J-hooks and extra-large stitching reinforcement. This provides some added strength and durability that makes these a reliable choice.
These are conveniently designed with handles and release levers that are comfortable and easy to use. Also, these come with soft loop anchoring straps as a bonus.
The manufacturer included a carrying bag as well, which makes it much easier to carry and store these.
PROS
- Long
- Ergonomically designed handlesnaps
- Secure double J-hooks
CONS
- Plastic ratchet mechanism
What to Consider in Buying Regular and Street Bike Straps
Features
Straps don’t have many features, so there are only a few things you should pay attention to. The first thing you should check is the ratchet mechanism and how well-made it is. Some are made of plastic and aren’t as durable as those made of metal.
J-hooks and S-hooks are also important features to consider. Some models have soft loops that are even gentler on your bike and whatever other items you’re using them with.
Type (Ratchets, Buckles, etc.)
As you noticed, there are only a few different types to choose from. The most popular are ratchets and the cam buckle.
Ratchets are usually the most favorite because they’re sturdy and deliver higher tension.
Cam buckle straps are reliable enough to use for transporting motorcycles. However, they’re not as reliable and durable as ratchets.
It’s up to you to choose between the two types depending on your needs and preferences.
Size
The size is always important to consider when choosing a motorcycle tie-down straps. These come in all sizes, so it’s up to you to think about which dimensions would work the best for the size of the load you’re transporting.
Make sure that the straps aren’t too thin or narrow. You want them to be wide and thick since those are usually more secure than thin and narrow ones.
Also, your tie-downs should be long enough to cover the size of your bike.
Design
There’s not much to say about design because most straps are similar to one another. The difference is usually in the strength, although most appear the same when you look at them.
Look for those that are easy and comfortable to use. Those that have ergonomically designed handles and buckles are far more comfortable than the rest.
This may not be the most important factor to consider if you’re only using the tie downs once a year.
Material
Your choice of materials plays a major role. Durable materials are able to endure more abuse and also harsh weather, offering the same quality and reliability for a long period.
The most common choices are nylon and polyester. Nylon is more affordable and possibly a good choice for lightweight motorcycles and cargo. It’s not the most durable option.
Polyester, on the other hand, is far more durable and suitable for frequent use. It’s abrasion-resistant, weather-resistant, and unlikely to stretch.
Weight Capacity
As you probably noticed, straps come with weight capacity and break strength. These are important figures to consider because they speak about the capabilities of the strap you’re interested in.
Look for a model that has the highest break strength you can find. In most cases, it should be three times the load capacity.
The best way to figure out the weight capacity is to know the weight of your load. Make sure that the weight capacity of the tie downs is higher than the weight of your motorbike.
Hooks
In most cases, you’ll come across J-hooks and S-hooks. You can choose either based on your needs and preferences.
An S-hook may be the best choice if you’re looking to haul your motorbike on a truck. A closed S-hook is better for trailers.
Make sure that the hook is strong and durable. The last thing you want is for it to break mid-process, which can easily happen if you’re on a rough road.
Weather Resistance
Weather resistance is important if you want your strap to last a long time. Models that aren’t weather resistant usually deteriorate quite quickly when exposed to harsh weather.
The best way to figure this out is to check how thick the tie-down is. Thick polyester webbing can usually endure all kinds of weather conditions.
However, make sure that the other points, such as metal buckles, are equally as resistant. Sometimes, these parts show signs of rust and corrosion rather quickly.
More Reading: Top rain gear
Quality
You should always go for a quality tie-down to use for transporting your motorcycle. Quality depends on many things like materials, stitching, and design.
Pay close attention to these three factors when figuring out whether a strap is quality-made or not. The best ones are thick and have reinforced stitching.
These are typically made of durable materials such as polyester. Keep in mind that you should only use the most quality ones to secure your bike.
Length
Length is always important, but it’s up to you to decide what works best for your needs. Some straps are longer than others, so make sure to check this detail before purchasing.
Most models measure between 8 to 15 feet long. Taller bikes require longer straps to safely secure them in place. You can use shorter ones to further secure the vehicle.
This is something you have to figure out before purchasing any particular tie-downs.
How to Tie Down a Motorcycle
Place your motorcycle in the back of the truck. It’s best you do this nose forward so that it’s easier for you to get in and out.
Use two straps per side in the front. They should go from different side rails and to the bar harness. It’s the best way of protecting the bike in case one tie-down goes loose.
All four pieces should be tensioned evenly so that none is pulling the vehicle. Tie the wheel from each side to stop movements as well.
You can also use some bungee cords to further secure the vehicle in order to prevent movements and avoid scratches.
Tying Tips to Remember
The first thing you should remember is that you have to secure the bike from all sides. This is the best way to have it balanced and ready for transportation.
You might want to consider using a wheel stand if you have a heavy motorcycle. This will help to keep it in place, especially if you’re transporting it across bumpy terrain.
Make sure to think about the weight capacity and how heavy your bike is. The two have to match in order to avoid any accidents.
Also, consider using soft tie-downs for areas of your motorcycle that are easy to scratch and damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tie-down straps do I need for a trailer?
In most cases, you can get away with using four tie-downs since this is enough to secure all sides of your bike.
However, you can always use more if you need to further secure and balance the vehicle. It all depends on your bike and how many straps you need to immobilize it.
Can these be used for other vehicles?
You can use these tie downs for other vehicles as long as the vehicle isn’t heavier than the maximum weight capacity of the strap.
Using straps that are too weak to handle the weight of the vehicle will result in damage. This is a critical factor to consider when it comes to the safety of use.
How to store tie-down straps?
Separate your straps and fold them using an industrial-grade band. Make sure that they’re dry because a tie-down will deteriorate if stored when wet.
Some models come with carrying bags you can use for storage as well. This helps you to keep them all in one place.
Conclusion
Having the best tie downs makes all the difference when transporting and hauling your motorcycle. For this reason, make sure to consider the buying factors we discussed.
The information we shared can help you choose one of the straps we reviewed if you haven’t already. These are the best that the market has to offer, so just make sure to keep your needs and preferences in mind.
Some straps are more suitable for heavyweight bikes, while others are better for lightweight vehicles. You should go for the most reliable model since those ensure the best quality and durability.
