Need help with dad's purchase

I like the idea posted about an Airstream toy hauler. I did not know they even made them, but then googled it and actually a few nice used ones came up. If he is set on an Airstream brand of trailer, this would be ideal and safer for him. He may feel great at 69, but that could change in a blink. Otherwise he may want to get a Class C or a Truck camper and then haul the bikes on a trailer. Good luck.

Dog Folks wrote:

davisenvy wrote:
I'm not so worried about the weight in the bed of the truck, it's how he's going to be loading/unloading a 600lb motorcycle out of his truck. He's 69 not 29.

Here is what we did to load and unload two heavy Harley Davidson's. We purchased a good set of foldable aluminum ramps.

Similar to these: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Werner-Aluminum-Folding-Arched-Ramp-R522/203247335#specifications



Mount a winch in the center of the truck bed on top of the bed rail.

Winch the bike in and out. Bike in neutral and not running.

If he is going to be loading alone he will need to straddle the bike as it goes up the ramp so get a remote operated winch control.

We found it loaded and unloaded the bikes, at our desired speed, with total control. Both in and out.

At first we tried riding the bikes up and down but the winch is SO MUCH easier and safer.

I really like this idea. I might have him sold on a toy hauler, but this sounds like a great idea. Thanks for the ideas!

davisenvy wrote:
I'm not so worried about the weight in the bed of the truck, it's how he's going to be loading/unloading a 600lb motorcycle out of his truck. He's 69 not 29.

Here is what we did to load and unload two heavy Harley Davidson's. We purchased a good set of foldable aluminum ramps.

Similar to these: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Werner-Aluminum-Folding-Arched-Ramp-R522/203247335#specifications

Mount a winch in the center of the truck bed on top of the bed rail.

Winch the bike in and out. Bike in neutral and not running.

If he is going to be loading alone he will need to straddle the bike as it goes up the ramp so get a remote operated winch control.

We found it loaded and unloaded the bikes, at our desired speed, with total control. Both in and out.

At first we tried riding the bikes up and down but the winch is SO MUCH easier and safer.

If money is no object, look into a Class A with built under garage.

I don't understand his aversion to a Toy Hauler. most of the bike guys (especially BMW drivers) like to keep their bikes clean and secure. Two parked in a pickup bed is not that.

jerem0621 wrote:
Why not compromise and let him get an Airstream Toy Hauler.
-Jeremiah

Cool idea. The OP didn't say whether or not The Dad already has his AirStream picked out. If not:

AirStream Toy Hauler

(Cheesy Music Alert: You might want to turn down your sound if you watch the video.)

Or there are lots of 'bed loader' options:

Truck Bed Loader.

EDIT: Not An Advert!

davisenvy wrote:
I'm not so worried about the weight in the bed of the truck, it's how he's going to be loading/unloading a 600lb motorcycle out of his truck. He's 69 not 29.

I believe the BMW is closer to 800#, but that's really beside the point.
The logistics of loading two bikes in the bed of a truck can be a nightmare
if the intent is to use a ramp. I have a Harley that weighs that much & there is no way at my age I'd try that. It is, as you say, an accident waiting to happen. There are fully automatic loaders on the market for truck beds, but I don't believe I've ever seen one that handles two bikes.

Loading & unloading from a TT hauler or 5'er TH would not only be easier, but safer & more convenient

Why not compromise and let him get an Airstream Toy Hauler.

he gets quality, you get peace of mind.

Thanks!

Jeremiah

Look at the Keystone 324CG. Doesn't look like a toy hauler, with all the checkered flag and obnoxious styling. I know exactly what he means.

Price range? I know he's looking at Airstream, but new/used gives a huge guessing area as far as figuring out what he's looking for.

Airstreams are very, very nice. If he wants exactly that level of form and finish, the only other option would be a high-end motor home with a cargo trailer.

How about a small motorhome with a cargo trailer for the bikes?

He could look for a nice used Pleasure Way, or other higher-end brand. They are nice inside.

I'm not so worried about the weight in the bed of the truck, it's how he's going to be loading/unloading a 600lb motorcycle out of his truck. He's 69 not 29.