How to load your bike on a ute

Motorbikes and utes go together like beer and pizza, but loading a bike onto a tray can be one of those jobs that looks easy until gravity wins. Luckily, with the right prep and technique, it’s a smooth, stress-free process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your pride and joy aboard without drama.

Before you even wheel the bike out, make sure you’ve got the essentials on hand. Start with a sturdy ramp, ideally one that’s rated for your bike’s weight. Folding ramps are great for portability, and locking pins offer peace of mind by preventing mid-load collapses. Next, grab a pair of quality tie-downs and a ratchet strap for the rear wheel. Finally, find yourself a small step or platform. It doesn’t need to be fancy — even a bike stand works — but having something to step onto halfway up the ramp will make life much easier.

A smooth load starts with a tidy tray. Clear out loose gear, then hook your two front tie-downs to the tray’s corners, leaving enough slack to reach the handlebars later. Protect your tailgate with a mat or towel if you like, then line up the ramp so it’s centred or positioned on the side you prefer to walk. The ramp must sit flat and secure. Place your step beside the ramp so it’s ready when you need it.

Roll the bike into position with the front wheel lined up straight. I prefer standing on the left so I can cover the front brake easily, but depending on which side you’re loading from, adjust as needed. When you’re ready, push with steady momentum. Don’t sprint; just commit to a smooth, controlled climb. As you near the top, step onto your platform so you stay balanced while keeping a finger on the brake. If you need to pause, hold the brake, breathe, reset, and continue. For heavier bikes, you can let the engine help. Slip it into first gear and gently feed out the clutch so the motor takes the weight, keeping your hand on both the brake and clutch.

Once you’re on the tray, push the front wheel firmly against the front wall. A wheel chock is a bonus, but not essential. Keeping the bike in first gear will also help stop it rolling backwards. Lean the bike on its side stand if you need a moment, otherwise keep it upright while you grab the left tie-down and hook it to the bar. Avoid cables if possible. If the right strap is out of reach, loosen the left slightly so the bike leans over and the strap takes the weight, then move around and hook up the right side.

Tension both tie-downs gradually, alternating sides so everything stays even. You want the suspension compressed enough that the bike can’t rock side-to-side, but not so much that the forks are bottomed out.

Run your ratchet strap across the rear wheel, high and tight, so the tyre is pulled firmly into the tray. Alternatively, thread the strap through the spokes and around the rim. Both work pretty well.

Pack up your gear, then do a full walk-around. Check for rubbing, loose straps, or anything that doesn’t look right. This final minute of inspection can save you from heartache on the road.

When it’s time to unload, simply reverse the process.

With a bit of preparation and calm technique, loading a bike onto a ute becomes a reliable, drama-free routine. Stick to this method and you’ll avoid the mishaps that make their way into those infamous loading-fail videos.