Improving tailgate strength...... Update

[chris smith 5]

About 6 months ago I was headed off to Texas for 3 months and wanted to take my Buell along with me. From Minot AFB to Lackland AFB its 1600+ miles and I was worried about the strength of the tailgate for such a long trip so I asked for some input. This is what I came up with:



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Well over 4,500 miles now with the bike stuffed back there and its been great. Get about 18 MPG at 75 MPH too.





It may be overkill considering my XB only has a 52" wheel base and sits pretty far foward on the tailgate anyway, but better safe than sorry.

 

[FlipTrac_511]

I've also discovered how incredibly versatile our small beds can be. Just a few bungie cords and smart use of bed tie downs and you're good to go.

 

[Woppy V]

I was concerned about that too. But I don't drive that far. But Nice Work!!

 

[Ryan D]

Yep . .I just took my R6 from Fort Campbell, KY to Indianapolis w/out any extra tailgate support. No problems. I used some ratchets secured to the subframe and the first hooks in the bed to pull the majority of the weight up . . . . Great trip. I love this little truck.

 

[Ray McIntireJr]

Better safe than sorry.

 

[Bill Ellis]

Yep, versatile but short bed....about 2 inches short of being able to close tailgate when I hauled a washer and dryer this weekend. No problem though with proper use of rope and straps.

 

[Jeffksf B]

IMO the most important thing to keep and eye here are the tailgate cables, any sign of corrosion or fraying, they should be replaced ASAP.

 

[Gavin Allan]

Looks good! Maybe you could patent your design and sell it to Ford as an option to be used on the Generation III Sport Tracs! :lol:

 

[Brian Curry]

What year is the XB? Chain drive,is that a conversion?

 

[chris smith 5]

The bike is an 03'. I had a belt pick up a few rocks and make a few holes last summer while riding through yellowstone. The belt didnt break but obviously needed to be replaced so I bought a chain conversion instead of new belt.

 

[Richard Kolb]

What's the platform, wood or something else?

 

[chris smith 5]

Its 3/4" plywood. The hinges are stainless steel, and I added the hooks so nothing slides around. They're really not necessary because the weight of the bike holds it in place. Total parts cost was about $18.