Motorcycle crates typically have a recessed or walled floor that stop the wheels from moving during transport. Air can be released from the tires to help the wheel fit snugly between the walls. Next, have four ratchet straps secure each corner of the bike to the corner of the crate. I prefer to have a second person compress the suspension slightly while I tighten the straps to ensure it is as snug as possible. Using the kickstand is not generally required but I do it whenever possible. Fully-walled, wooden motorcycle crates can provide the best strength and security. When moving in Toronto and Ontario, I can have my motorcycle on board the moving truck and load on top of the crate if needed. If by chance something fell and hit the crate the wood would be more than enough to stop the impact. Wooden crates can be bulky, but can be DIY with little experience or tools. The most practical and lightweight crates I have seen are the Harley-Davidson Motorcycle crates. Although more expensive they are highly portable and can break down and store easily. They consist of an aluminum base and cardboard walls. The Harley-Davidson Motorcycle crates can be purchased through Mackie Harley-Davidson in Oshawa Ontario.
Shipping a motorcycle on your next move does not mean you need a crate. A few straps and a steady driver is more than enough to get your bike home in a small trailer or flatbed. I once shipped 8 dirt bikes from Toronto to New Jersey with just straps. I had the bikes in a row perpendicular to my direction of travel. One person applied pressure to the suspension while I ratchet strapped all four corners of each bike. I then placed metal decking bars wrapped in furniture pads on each side of the bike to provide a secondary support if by chance the strapping failed. No kickstands were used in this case, and everything reached their destination safe and secure.
Drive safe & Keep it on two wheels.
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