Can You Fit a Dirtbike in a Short Bed Truck?

For anyone looking to transport a dirt bike, the question of whether or not a short bed truck will suffice often comes up. Short bed trucks offer a convenient alternative to larger pickup trucks and trailers, but the amount of space available can be an issue.

The good news is that, with careful planning and consideration of your bike’s dimensions, it is possible to fit a dirt bike in a short bed truck.

Before attempting to load your dirt bike into any vehicle, you should always measure the length and width of your bike. The length of your bike will determine how much room you need in the bed of your truck, while the width will determine whether or not you can fit it between the wheel wells. Most full-size dirt bikes measure around 85 inches in length and 30 inches in width.

The next step is assessing the size of your truck’s bed. While most standard short beds measure around 72 inches long and 56 inches wide between the wheel wells, these measurements can vary depending on the make and model of your truck. It’s important to double-check this before loading any cargo.

Once you know both measurements, it should be relatively easy to decide if a dirt bike will fit in a short bed truck. If your bike is shorter than 72 inches long and narrower than 56 inches wide, then it should fit easily with room to spare for additional cargo or equipment.

Safety Considerations

In addition to assessing dimensions for size compatibility, there are also safety considerations when transporting a dirt bike by truck. Depending on how you plan on securing your cargo, there are several different methods available that are designed specifically for transporting motorcycles safely.

Tie Downs

The most common method used for securing motorcycles is tie downs which can be used with either rope or straps specifically designed for bikes. When using tie downs it’s important to make sure they are securely fastened and evenly distributed across both sides of the load.

Wheel Chocks

Wheel chocks are another popular option for securing motorcycles during transportation by truck.

These devices can be mounted directly onto the floor or mounted on boards that can then be lashed down with straps or rope. Wheel chocks provide extra stability and ensure that the motorcycle does not move during transport.

Conclusion

: With careful planning and consideration for size compatibility as well as proper safety precautions such as tie-downs or wheel chocks, it is possible to fit a dirtbike in a short bed truck without issue.

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Karen Watkins