Hauling a motorcycle typically requires an open-bed pickup truck. The motorcycle owner rolls the bike into the open bed. Four ratchet straps attach the bike to the bed by using the truck's floor or frame loops. The ratchet mechanism allows slow tightening of the straps for the best bike stabilization. In fact, many motorcycle riders use wheel chocks for extra stabilization on the front wheel.
The motorcycle's front end must have two ratchet straps extending from the left and right sides of the bike to the truck bed connection points. In particular, the Electra Glide has a smooth front end construction for aerodynamics, hiding the handlebars behind the dashboard and headlight assemblies. Attach a soft loop strap to the base of the left side handlebar and connect the ratchet strap to the loop's end. The soft loop prevents the ratchet strap's hook from scratching the handlebars or surrounding paint job. Connect the opposite end of the ratchet strap to the truck's bed connection points. Repeat this procedure for the right side handlebar. After both sides are secured, use the ratchet mechanism on each strap for tightening the bike to the truck bed. The motorcycle should be able to stand upright after tightening.
The back of the motorcycle is supported in the same way as the front end. Attach two ratchet straps on either side of the motorcycle, with the help of soft loops, to the Electra Glide's chassis that connects to the rear wheel. Use the soft loops for this particular area since the Electra Glide has nearby storage bins and exhaust pipes that may become damaged from the ratchet's hook.
Do not attach any ratchet straps to other portions of the Electra Glide. The ratchet strap tightening procedure can easily warp and damage sensitive parts, such as the exhaust pipe or front wheel fork.
