ReadyRamp Review
Maximizing the available bed space of a mid-size pickup truck is a top priority when it comes transporting multiple motorcycles, extra fuel, riding gear, beverage cooler, etc. Never was this more apparent than during my recent downsizing from a vintage 1966 Ford F250 to a late-model Toyota Tacoma. In the exchange I effectively lost 2.5 feet of bed length.
Lowering the tailgate on the Tacoma regains 18 inches of lost length but sacrifices the security of having the tailgate in the upright and locked position. A bed extender seemed the obvious answer, but while researching available options, it became apparent that owning both a bed extender and motorcycle ramp was redundant. So I searched for a combined version and found ReadyRamp.
While ReadyRamp isn’t a new product, 2013 models feature a new I-beam construction that ReadyRamp claims is both stronger and lighter than previous versions. Weighing 19 and 21 pounds for the compact and full-size versions, respectively, both are constructed of 6061 T6 aluminum and rated with a 600-pound load capacity. According ReadyRamp’s Shawn Ryan, their products have been tested up to 1100 pounds, but advertising at nearly half that strength should ensure no liability issues.
Once assembled we went to install the ReadyRamp on the tailgate as a bed extender but were tripped up when we realized we didn’t know how to properly attach the device to the truck. No instructions were included in our package, ReadyRamp’s website was down, and any amateur instructions found on the internet were deficient in their explanation.
Ryan was able to talk us through this part of the installation process over the phone, but, considering the variety of different ways in which to affix the ReadyRamp to a tailgate and variety of included hardware with which to do so, it would behoove the company to either include these instructions in the delivered box or have the instructions more readily available on the ReadyRamp website.
With an MSRP of $270, the compact ReadyRamp is $30 less expensive than the full size’s $300 asking price. Both prices include shipping costs.
Each rung is cut in a V shape to create more traction than a similar rung with a simple square shape. All the components of the ReadyRamp are top quality and its application is well thought out. Silver ramps are anodized and clear coated, while black ones are E-dipped, “a wet coating process using heat and an electric charge that leaves a durable finish,” says Ryan.
With a price similar, if not less than, purchasing both a bed extender and a ramp separately, we don’t see a reason, other than load capacity, to consider another product(s).
In the upcoming months we’ll be using the ReadyRamp to load and unload a plethora of motorcycles from scooters to sportbikes to cruisers — some of which will assuredly weigh more than 600 pounds. If the ReadyRamp fails in its duties, you’ll be hearing from us. For more information contact ReadyRamp.
More by Tom Roderick
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