An aluminum ATV ramp is a device used to help load an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) into the bed of a pickup truck or into another type of vehicle such as a box truck. The ramp is usually sold as a set of two individual pieces, and in many cases, the pieces are hinged so they can be folded for more efficient storage. Aluminum is used to make such ramps because it is lightweight and inexpensive, and while steel is generally a stronger metal, it is also much heavier.
The design of the aluminum ATV ramp makes it possible to drive an ATV from the ground up onto the bed of a pickup truck, which is raised far enough off the ground that the ATV cannot simply be lifted into place. Once the ATV is in the truck bed, the aluminum ATV ramp can be removed from its position at the rear of the truck bed, folded, and then stored in the bed with the ATV. The ramp can then be put back into place when the rider reaches his or her destination so the ATV can be unloaded quickly and easily.
Some aluminum ATV ramp models feature a center piece that makes loading motorcycles into the bed of a truck much easier. This means the ramp can be used for both ATVs, which have wider wheel bases, and motorcycles, which feature narrow wheels in line with each other. The aluminum is strong enough to handle the weight of the heavy vehicles being loaded into the truck, but it will be important for the user to properly position the aluminum ATV ramp so it does not shift out of position during use. This can lead to damage to the ATV or injury to the rider. Helmets and other safety equipment should be worn when loading and unloading an ATV using a ramp.
Each individual ramp features two long uprights and several cross pieces, much like a ladder design. This helps increase the amount of traction the tires of the ATV can gain when driving on the otherwise smooth ramps. One end of the ramp will feature specially designed feet that grab onto the lip of the truck bed, while the other end will be designed in such a way that gaining purchase on various types of terrain will be possible, thereby ensuring the ramps will stay in place when in use.
