Introduction
As someone who’s been in the UTV community for years, I’ve had my fair share of experiences hauling these machines to various riding areas. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the world of UTVs, you’ll eventually face the challenge of transporting your side by side. While trailers are a popular option, not everyone has the space or budget for one. That’s where your trusty pickup truck comes into play. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of hauling your UTV in a truck bed, ensuring a safe and efficient transport.
UTV
First things first, let’s talk about the UTV itself. UTVs, or Utility Task Vehicles, are versatile machines designed for both work and play. They come in various sizes and weights, which is crucial to consider when planning to haul your UTV. Before you even think about loading it into your truck bed, you need to know the dimensions and weight of your UTV. Check the owner’s manual for this information as it will guide you in selecting the right equipment for transport.
Trailer vs. Truck Bed
When it comes to hauling a UTV, you generally have two options: using a trailer or your truck bed. Trailers offer more space and can often accommodate multiple UTVs or ATVs. However, they require additional storage space and can be expensive. On the other hand, using your truck bed is more convenient and cost-effective, especially for short trips. But you’ll need to make sure your pickup truck is up to the task in terms of payload capacity and bed size.
Haul Your UTV in Your Truck Bed
So, you’ve decided to go the truck bed route. Excellent choice! But before you start loading, you’ll need a few essential items: ramps for loading and unloading, straps to secure the UTV, and possibly some wheel chocks to keep your machine from moving during transport.
Loading
The first step in the process is loading your UTV into the bed of your truck. Position your ramps securely against the tailgate and double-check to ensure they’re wide enough for your UTV’s wheels. Drive the UTV up the ramps slowly, making sure the front wheels align with the wheel wells in the truck bed. Once the UTV is in the bed, put it in park and engage the parking brake.
Strapping Down
Now comes the crucial part—securing your UTV. Use heavy-duty straps to tie down your machine. Attach the straps to the UTV’s frame and the truck bed’s factory tie-down hooks. Make sure to strap the UTV down well so it doesn’t move during transit. Double-check all the straps to ensure they’re tight and secure.
Unloading
When you arrive at your riding area, unloading is pretty much the reverse process of loading. Remove the straps and carefully back your UTV down the ramps. Always make sure the area behind you is clear before you start unloading.
Using a Trailer
If you opt for using a trailer to haul your UTV, there are a few additional considerations. First, you’ll need to attach the trailer to your truck’s hitch securely. Make sure the trailer’s axle is in good condition and that the payload capacity is sufficient for your UTV’s weight. Load your UTV onto the trailer just as you would into a truck bed, using ramps and straps to secure it.
Tow Vehicle
When using a trailer, your tow vehicle’s capabilities become even more critical. Check your truck’s owner’s manual to find out its towing capacity. You’ll want to make sure your truck can handle the combined weight of the trailer and UTV. Some heavy-duty trucks come with additional features like air springs to improve ride quality while towing.
Best Way to Haul
So, what’s the best way to haul your UTV? It ultimately depends on your needs, the type of UTV you own, and the distance you’ll be traveling. If you’re going on a short trip and have a full-size pickup truck, using the truck bed is an easy and convenient option. For longer journeys or multiple machines, a trailer might be more suitable.
Conclusion
Hauling a UTV in a truck bed is not as daunting as it may seem. With the right equipment and some careful planning, you can safely and efficiently transport your machine to your next adventure. Whether you choose to use your truck bed or a trailer, always prioritize safety. Double-check all your tie-downs, and don’t forget to consult your owner’s manual for specific guidelines. Happy riding!