I'm 54 years old and no longer a young stud and have the same problem, I do not have the strength in my legs or my back to pick up a 500 lb bike facing away from the bike. As you just shown, impossible. What I do is make sure the bike is in gear, kick stand down. The handle bars are going to be the highest part of the bike and gives you the most Leverage. Position your chest between the gas tank and the handlebars putting one hand on the highest hand grip and your other arm underneath the handlebars, and drive the bike forward and diagonal with your legs, the bike won't roll because its in gear and the weight of your body with the driving force of your legs will upright the bike, your not lifting with your back, your driving the bike forward, no strain on your back because your facing the bike and using your legs and your weight. Thanks for sharing this video I will keep your idea in mind when I can no longer use my method.
Great article. I just ordered the winch Tuesday. I dropped my pan America in sugar sand and trapped my leg under the mosko pannier. I hurt my ankle and twisted my knee, i was fully geared up and wearing mx boots. I hate to think if i had hard panniers.I couldn't lift that bike. I'm in good shape for 63 but the injury hindered my picking the bike up. I realized being alone most of the time, i needed this winch. I had to trek out 2 miles to find someone to help. I'm finally learning to keep my ego in check and use help instead of muscle only.
Wow. Good testimony. That is why we seniors, who want to keep riding alone at times, need to have all our safety kits in order. I use soft panniers to protect me from being pinned and injured. I don’t want to walk out for help, especially if I’m injured, so for me the motowinch is a worthy investment too.
If you HADN'T have had those protective boots-on, YIKES! Statistically, lower leg an ankle injuries are SUPER-common, and people just want to wear sneakers, or low-cut hiking boots. Yeah, I know, I've ridden in combat boots, but it's not smart.
Good day to you! I am HONDA Cross Cub senior rider from Japan. Enjoying touring , camping and video editing. It is great accessory video ! So nice ! I leave Have a nice day my friend !!
Thanks for sharing 👍. I recently bought the same lyft kit and have yet to use it. I have klx230 that fell over on the grass. An couldn't pick it up. Got help to pick it up. An then I found your video. An purchased it. I'm 70 also. An ride alone. Hope to find some riding buds. Thanks again.
Thanks for sharing such a good idea in a very informative and methodical way. I'm 74 and still love to ride and tour. This is very helpful. Downsizing my motors to smaller ones is a hard pill to swallow. On the bright side, though, it's the best time ever in terms of lighter weight choices of machines on the market!! Keep the shiny side up, my man.
A VERY hard pill to swallow , My beautiful Daughter helped me by telling me "Dad , don't let your ego ruin what has been one of the largest joys of your Life for over 60 years by ending on a debilitating or tragic finale , keep on doing what you love with adjustments"......Everyone should have a Daughter like mine !
Interesting, I agree, a nice tool to have on board. Especially for us older guys that ride alone, or when you may take a hard fall and an injury that might impede you in picking up bike . Thanks for sharing and demonstrating.
Yup. 64, dropped my CRF300L…all alone…on a slippery slope. Laid down so flat it was hard to find a handhold. It took me 150% effort to stand it up and had to stop for some time to let my heart catch a break! Lol Definitely hurt my back with compression of the spine so off to the chiropractor for me.🍺🇨🇦
Well this looks great. I am a 5'2" 110 lb woman that rides solo. I could pick up my first bike, but my BMW F800, lays quite flat and it's heavy. I'm not able to pick it up by myself. I was told to "master the machine", so that I would never have to pick her up. I will be purchasing this tool. Just in case. THANK YOU!!!!
I’m 67 and I’m 5’4”. If I still owned my Africa Twin I’d consider buying one of these. I sold it and bought a Himalayan. I really like it and I very confident on it off road. Like you I do a lot of solo ridding, sometimes it is in very remote areas.
@@gcprost You are most welcome. Not fear Mo getting, but I dropped the T7 less than 30 seconds after getting on it. That tells me a lot about my skill level but also about the bike. It’s a great bike so long as you are aware of its limitations. Big Rock does a fantastic job of identifying the T7s 4 main issues; worth a watch before you buy/ride that bike.
Yep I’m in the same boat. 68 yrs old and rattle! Can not budge the F850 GSA but could pick up my R1250GSA. So I recently made a device similar chopping up an aluminium crutch. Works a treat. I enjoy your videos.
Thank you for this video. I'm a 5'3, 54 yr old female who is just getting into riding. I have been reluctant to buy because I will be a lone rider and was concerned about being able to pick up a 500+ motorcycle. This is giving me the confidence to start looking for my first bike.
UA-cam channel BadWheelie has a similar device. Instead of hooking the handlebar he took the strap under the bike and fastened to the opposite footpeg. This allowed him to bring the bike fully upright without risking back strain.
Thank you very much for the video. At 70 and prior to back surgery, I was able to lift my Road King by myself. Of course the bike was at a 45 degree angle-as it was resting on its engine guard. Recently, I sold my Harley to my son and probably will buy a much smaller bike. TW200 comes to mind. my touring days are over. so sad indeed.
What a great addition to a safety kit. I went from a Harley Road king to a Triumph Tiger 800. Love the Tiger but when I went down the crash bar trapped my leg and it was difficult getting out. Then getting it up from that flat position was ugly. I've been reluctant to ride alone because of my inability to pick it up. Now with this Jack as a 72 yr old I think I'll have the confidence to ride alone again. Thanks.
I am 160 cms tall and not very tough. I actually managed to fracture two vertebrae trying to lift my sfv 650 late September of 2021. I thought I was going to have to give up riding solo, which is most of my riding. I am so happy you posted this video. I have been wondering if there was such an aid. Thanks for posting.😊
I like it. Just found your videos. I’m 15 yrs younger but severely broke my leg 2 years ago so now I have issues with heavy bikes. I’m seriously considering the T7 to replace my softail. Thanks for turning me on to the wench.
I appreciate the time you took to show us this device. I’m also getting older but love adventure motorcycling this could be a good alternative to harming my back. Believe me, it doesn’t need any more abuse and it’s already taken. Thank you again.
I took 2 18 inch long x1 in diameter water pipes and a connector from Home Depot. Cost about $20 bucks. I put them together and got a ratchet strap I already had around the house. Took the long end of the strap and put it under the bike. Took the ratchet itself and hooked it to the top of the 1 inch pipe and cranked up the bike. It is a little heavier, but your wallet is only out about 20-25 bucks and it works just as well.
I've done the same, but 3 pipes and connectors. (Also metric, so 450mm X 20mm pipe) There's also a footplate that screws straight on. I run the strap through the crashbar and back to the top which cuts the load on the strap in half. Whole thing weighs 3kg so a bit heavier than the factory thing. It fits in my top box so I can get at it even if the bike is on its side.
@@gasdive I started to do 3 pipes but decided that 2 was enough. If I had a bigger bike I would go with 3. But I came home and laid the bike down and tried it out and 2 would get it high enough I could go ahead and finish lifting it.
Thanks for sharing your experience with this piece of equipment. I think I will add a baseplate (of sorts) to expand that rubber crutch tip in softer soil (which is where I'm most likely to dump the bike)
Very cool tool! I could have put that to use when I layed down my dyna glide . I was able to lift it up by myself but it wasn’t easy. Especially being injured in the accident. I have to give the person who designed it a big thumbs up. I never knew there was a tool like that moto jack strap out there. Another excellent video thank you!
I just ordered one of these. I guess I’m gonna find out how it works on my Harley Road King. I’m going to try to attach it to the passenger footpeg mount or the crash guard. I once bent my handlebars muscling up my Harley in my younger years. At 64 and a long term cancer patient I’m definitely not as strong as I used to be. I understand that ideally you probably shouldn’t ride a bike that you can’t lift however I’m 6’3” with a 36” inseam so a bike I can actually lift is going to be too small for me to ride. A trike might be in my future but for now I’m thinking this tool is a bit of insurance when I ride alone. Thanks for the demo!
56 years old, love touring, and even a simple drop makes the bike soooo difficult to get back up when it's laid flat. It's always great to see these young guys just hoisting their machines back up, but squatting down and trying to get a grip...well, I mourn the loss of 30 year old me, but 26 years later the I suppose the trade-off is wisdom for muscle, and this is a great little piece of wisdom...give me a long enough lever and I'll lift the world (in this case, a wee bit of metal and a ratchet winch and I'll lift my XCA). I'm getting one. Thanks for this excellent tip!
I dropped my ‘98 VFR today and same issue with it being very difficult to lift due to it laying flat. Not a young man either. After trying a strap and a couple different jacks and damaging my tank I got my neighbor’s help. Frustrated and angry with myself. I will consider this device. Thanks. I did subscribe too!
I have a T12 Super Tenere, I bought a Moto Winch two years ago and never leave home with out it, for the same reasons as you great video cheers from Australia.
Thanks for the tip 👍. I am transitioning to a expedition sidecar for my main travel rig with a 1200 Yamaha Tenere as the tug. I'm keeping my Triumph Bonneville as my twisties bike. I am buying your lifting device for that bike and my Yamaha XT 250. I just discovered your UA-cam channel and have subscribed. Take care. Vaughn
I always carry a 5 $ strap and the Motowinch along! Better be safe than sorry. Also, I suggest to carry a pair of strap-on crampons, to avoid boot slip when on humid ground, such as mud, grass, etc... They are tiny, but super useful.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Thanks for posting this. I have been considering getting back into motorcycling, would like to do some adventure riding. But, at 72 with some health problems the strength I had is gone, and I have been concerned about the weight of a bike if I dropped it. This makes me feel more like it's something that is do-able for me. Liked and subscribed!
Neat gizmo. $200 sounds like a bit steep price for a strap, ratchet and a few tubes. But it does beat have to call for help or breaking my back. Thanks for showing it. One thing I would like to highlight, being 60 now, is that at this age bracket we need to keep up with our fitness the best we can. That also helps us get out of some unexpected predicament while riding.
You were right that to be an adventure bike rider you should be in decent shape. We are all trying to find that sweet space between having an adventure and having an ordeal, and being fit helps.
Very cool idea. Thanks for sharing this information. I’ll be adding this to my “Wish list”! BTW, I’m 64 and ride both dual sport for travel and a dedicated dirt bike for trail riding. Getting older doesn’t mean giving up things you like to do. You just need to plan better…this item is a great example!
I have ridden and dropped my BMW GS without panniers, and the bike drops flat like your Yamaha. I used the 'back up to your bike' method which worked fine for me. I'm only 5'9 and 85kg, so I'm not a big guy, yet I have no problems lifting using this method.
I practiced this with my KLR. Bike in gear. Grab the lower handle bar grip and the bottom handle of the rear rack. I can do it facing the bike. Neither of the two methods you tried would have worked, regardless of body strength. Once you got the bike lifted with that tool, you finally used the correct technique that would have probably worked from the start.
@@abdulazizsaleh9567 I watched a UA-cam. You need to turn the handle bars towards the side it fell on. Put it in gear so it does not roll. Then grab the end of the handlebar that is on the ground and the lower handle on the rear rack and just pull it up. I was amazed how easy it was. The alternative way to lift is to back up to the cycle, grab those same points and squat down and lift with your legs if you have back safety concerns. You just have to try it to see if that works. I have the crash bars on the KLR, so it’s not completely flat.
I'm 70. My upper body strength is a pleasant memory. I ride a Yamaha Super Tenere. Top heavy with a total weight of +700lbs when fully fueled. Will definitely check this out. I must comment though on your technique before using the Hoist. You need to put your butt flat on the ground, your back against the seat and start walking backwards. You are just squatting down, your butt still 4-6" above the ground and trying to lift it using strength instead of the leverage the walking backwards provides. I suspect you could lift it without the hoist with the right technique. Thanks for the vid though.
Richard, that isn't going to help at all. I tried that with my CSC RX4 a 450lb bike that is much like the T7 if you sit on the ground the strength isn't there, it's a struggle just to get YOU up yet alone the bike too ! pluss traction for your feet is not at that angle, you'll slip... I laid my New bike down on the pavement on my first ride gently but I did manage to get it upright again by sheer brute force and it was just about all I could do ! a winch like this would indeed be handy.... i'm 69yrs old and my strength is not what it used to be either .... I'm not going to do 50 squat-jumps a day just so I can ride ! I'll buy or make a winch like that ! ....
700+ lbs, are you sure? That must be fully loaded with gear. The actual weight of 2022 model is 584 lbs wet (gas, oil, and coolant included). So we are talking about well over 100 lbs in gear. I didn’t realize the ST weighted that much. At 584 it is just a few lbs lighter than a BMW 1250GS.
I’ll reach 72 this riding season, if I don’t do anything too dang foolish beyond my abilities..and I just sold my Super T last summer to replace with a Beemer f800GS..loved the ST while the wheels were turning but it was a beast to handle off road and at crawling speeds.. 575 lbs vs 456.4 lbs wet doesn’t seem like much at my previous age under 60 but it sure makes a difference now..the Super T replaced a Goldwing 1800 and now I’m on the 800..so, at this rate, I’ll be riding an old Honda Trail 50 by the time I quit riding..on TWO wheels..
@@AlaskanAdventure Know the feeling. I was on a Goldwing when I went to the Super T as well. Current one is actually my second. First ST was a very basic, no cruise control but it had the panniers and top case. Rode it to Newfoundland across the TransLabrador Highway. Loved it so much I immediately traded it for a Super Tenere that came with the heated grips, cruise control, etc. and took the panniers and top case with me to the new machine. Really a great ride... Pretty sure it is my last bike but I'm sure putting off my last ride!
@@richardmourdock2719 Heated grips are ride changers for certain..the butt warmer on the Wing was also pretty dang nice for this Alaskan..riding season is shorter up here but as long as the roads are without too much ice, those heaters PLUS the right riding gear can extend it a bit further..
thanks for video - the winch section of the pole is overkill - a much smaller device - like a tie down sized strap would work. That winch is for holding down a huge tractor... Keep riding!
I own a R1200GS and the first thing that I noticed about your bike is how close it was lying to the ground compared to my bike. I can see that the task is more difficult. Depending on the incline of the terrain this job can be made even more difficult.
Actually I own a Tenere 700 since April 2021, I dropped it, and I was able to lift it without any problems, and I'm not a heavy weight lifter nor a 20 years old guy (I'm 43). I have no reason to doubt about this video but it's a fact that a lot of people exaggerated a little bit on this topic. Maybe it's a little bit harder than a GS1200, but on the other side the bike is a lot lighter, narrow and agile compared to the GS (which is a great bike btw).
Hi I am 62, I also mostly ride solo, I ride a KTM 450 & 890 adv r. I have been using the moto winch for about 2 seasons. It works GREAT ! ! In addition to picking up it is useful for dragging bike around, when it needs to be repositioned for a lift. With some extra rope or webbing its possible to attach to a tree or large rock and drag bike. It's also super helpful if you get a flat, makes it easy to jack up the front or rear wheel, for removal in the field. ALL mid weight or heavier adv rider should carry this product. Scott
Hi For rear wheel lift ... Lock front on .... Attach winch strap to swingarm opposite side of kickstand .and winch ...bike will be 3 point balance...f tire, kickstand, & Jack stand. For front wheel, block rear wheel, attach strap swing arm as far forward as possible opposite side of kickstand. Pull bike onto kickstand to balance front wheel in the air ... Jack up to maintain this position. Scott
Oh heavy motorcycles at our age I hear you. I run around the mountains of Southern Oregon with my Honda trail 90 light light simple and fast enough for me blessings
Can we give a shout-out to the absolute gentleman who came by with the tractor to offer help? Guy is a gem. Cool device sir. I can lift my Goldwing without any fancy tricks and muscle it up by the bars, but I’m 35, lift weights, and significantly more muscular than most. I don’t plan to ever stop lifting, but I’m sure I’ll one day be nowhere near as strong. Fantastic invention that I’d love to have when the time comes.
Yes. This product is definitely a great idea and a life saver. I saw it 4 or 5 years ago for the first time. And the once the idea is out there, it becomes very easy to replicate for 10% of the asking price.
My Pan America 1250 is 560 lbs plus luggage. I'm 58 and have a bad back from previous onjuries. I can lift the bike but risk ruining a trip by reinjuring muself. I too purchaed an EastBound MotoWinch. I've had to use it twice already. Both times the bike was in a remote location laying with the wheels slightly higher than the tank down an incline. The MotoWinch stood the bike up without any issues and saved me from unpacking the bike. The MotoWinch goes everywhere with me now.
I built an own one and place it with velcro straps exactly in the middle on top of my seat backpack, so that I can reach reach it even from the bottom. I don.t put it inside the bag, but outside to get it in every situation. I will try an experiment if I lay with a leg under the bike to get it done. I have a BMW 1150GSA and have no chance anymore (with 69y.) to lift my bike any inch! But the fortune is, that the GS never lies 90° on the bottom (sth. about 60°), so it.s a bit easier, but I can.t do it anymore without cracking my back. Thanx MSM for this vid, have always a safe ride!!! KR Henry 😊✌
I've found it's easier that way with the bikes that lay almost flat on the ground. I would put my chest on the seat and drive forward with my legs to pick my Africa Twin up.
66 in Jan 2023. My 2022 r1250gs fell over in my shed/garage. I tried the reverse lift, but it was within a foot of the wall. So I thought f'it. I squatted and lift it. It was difficult, but that's why I hit the gym, twice weekly. Of course the GS sits at 45 degrees when down.
Nice report thank you for sharing Adv bikes have become rather heavy i had the same problem with my Honda AT DCT and did not find any solution here in 🇸🇪 Sweden so i mad my own crane to bring with me yes it gives a good feeling that you are able to pick up your bike to its wheels again when you are in the middle alone in the Swedish forest 🌳 👍
The Motowinch is very effective . I see what you’re talking about . The fact that you’re motorcycle lies so flat that you can’t get low enough to use you’re back and legs to push it upwards. That method works well on a large touring bike with bags and engine guards . 👍
I have a 1986 GL1200 GoldWing and can no longer lift it when it goes down (most recently on slippery wet grass in my yard). I currently use 2 standard (2ton) automotive hydraulic dolly jacks. I find any spot I can get to to lift it enough to get the other jack under the engine guard. Then alternate ensuring I have two good jack points in case it slips off of one. I tilts it up far enough that I can fairly easily get it onto the side kickstand. I have only used these around the house because of the amount of weight (that I do not want to haul and possibly damage side/rear storage compartments) but I think this lightweight jack might work but, for the cost, I might first try using two small hydraulic jacks (regular bottle jacks rather than dolly) I might try to find or make a piece-together pole like that though, as that could assist as a brace during the jacking process to help steady the lifting and prevent losing ground when switching between jacks. -- Thanks for sharing!
I’m over 60 and 5’8”. Picking up the adv bike by using the back up method is a no go especially on lose terrain. The easiest way to pick it up is to turn the handle bar so the light faces up. Then grasp the grip on the far side with both hands while facing the bike and lift straight up with your legs. By using this method you’re maximizing mechanical advantage. I’ve picked up 600lb bikes using this method.
Despide my initial pessimism I think this is a great idea. I also often carry a ratchet strap but I replaced the strap with some high strength/no stretch/small diameter cord (about 5mm dia). This takes less space and is smaller to stow.
I prefer 6mm or 8mm, and a few 'biners with a small climber's pulley. Static (no stretch) line works best. Your nearest mountain climbers shop has the stuff.
I actually had a similar idea in my head, using a ratchet strap and makeshift gin pole. A small pulley or two would make it easier. In the east, where we tend to ride wooded trails. Anchor points are usually easier to reach. Like this gentleman, I'm older now, and my strength is a fraction of what it used to be.
Me to.😁 I'm 70 now, 6'-3" & 165 lbs. Not a bodybuilder & haven't been in a gym in 45 years. I've been riding 1 up for 60 years. My exercise routine is riding 600-900 pound HD Sportsters solo. The weights are approximate based on years of reading various authorities. As of summer 2021 I could still lift either of them off the ground by myself but I have noticed they're both gaining weight faster than I'm losing it!😂 Last summer I managed to lay the heavier bike on it's side so close to my P/U that I couldn't get a safe position on it to lift it & I couldn't move the truck at the time. It's good to be friends with your neighbor.😁 That's when I began toying with the idea of a Jackpole & snatchblock using nylon webbing in combination with a ratchet. Now I can quit drawing pictures and scratching my head. My redneck engineering process always makes my wife scratch her head & wonder about my sanity.😂
I'm 69 and retired from street & track riding 10 years ago but never lost the itch so I recently bought a 300 lb dual-sport to try something new. I live in the same area as you up in GP and on my first off-road adventure along the Illinois river out of Selma there was a relatively short but very gnarly stretch on NS 152 with mud, deep ruts and large diameter fallen branches. Front tire got cockeyed in a rut suddenly and kerplunk I was on the ground. On open terrain I can lift this bike with a couple of techniques but this was a steep shelf road and the bike fell over on the high side of the road, flush up against a steep embankment and fallen branches so I could not get my body in to the necessary position. I could not lift the bike after several tries because of how and where it fell. Not wanting to walk out 10 miles or camp there for the night I gave one last effort, got it upright and though no bike damage got a badly strained wrist for the effort. The moral of my story is that Murphy's Law strikes when least expected and you will not always drop the bike in a nice flat open area as you always see when folks demonstrate lifting techniques. So I'll be checking out this ratcheting tool for my kit. Is there a U.S. distributor for Eastbound or did you import?
I’m more than capable of lifting my bike, but I carry one too. Just in case. BTW, it’s good to see a “how to lift a heavy adventure bike” video that doesn’t use a BMW laying down at a mere 45 degrees.
Thanks for this video, it is very useful. I will be buying one. I ride a 2002 HD Heritage Softail Springer that weighs 750 lbs dry. I managed to pick it up twice by myself but it was all that I could do and my heart did not appreciate it one bit (especially after damage from 4 heart attacks). I am lucky that my bike has both front crash guards/highway bars and saddlebag bars so the bike is not completely flat. I will be adding this tool to my saddle bags for both my Harley and my Honda VFR800 which is taller by 6" and more difficult to lift than the Harley ( I tried :) )
I’m 75 and ride solo. I’m trying to decide if I need the 1500 or 2500. I have a BMW 1200GS, Husqvarna 701 and Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. I may be selling the BMW soon.
Excellent review. I am going to add a ratchet strap to my kit. With that and a hand saw I could make a mast to use with the ratchet strap even if one arm was injured from a fall.
Pretty incredible I'd say!! I'm 62 and am deciding to get back into travelling on a bike. And strangely enough I know you and many may think I'm crazy but I'm saving up for the Honda Super Cub 125!!!! I can manage picking up that kind of weight and I'm ok with going slow to enjoy the scenery and the gas mileage is crazy good. Mind you I'm coming off of a Ducati 906, and a Kawasaki 900. Nothing to do with the Honda I've mentioned. Important thing I think is to get out there on a bike you love and go for it!!!
Wow, thanks for this video. I have a new Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor and it too is top heavy and lies very flat so that it is impossible to get your butt on the seat for walking back. I have dropped it a few times and only once was I able to pick it up and I think I may have damaged my left knee doing so. Every other time people have rushed over to help. I will look into this product because I too travel by myself most places. Oh yeah, I'm a really short guy with a 28 inseam.
I've seen videos similar product where the strap is attached to the frame about center of the engine instead of the handle bar this way the Jack lifts the bike more than 45 degrees. Thanks for the Great video's.
we used to inflate a hard plastic bag (mini air bed) with mini compressor and valve. Had the bag underneath the bike and leave it to inflate it lifted the bike slowly but easily to the point of being able to lift it the rest of the way up. Didnt cost $200. But after all that I ended up selling my 650 and getting a WR450. So much lighter.
I agree that getting a large adventure bike with wheels in the air is a physical challenge for the over 60's set. Those videos of little ladies picking up a GS on concrete are misleading. On a down slope with slippery gravel, or even worse clay, soon causes me to raise a sweat. Even my ADV-ised DRZ400 with a 28L tank was a PIA to lift up on a clay surface. I removed the soft luggage on the accessible sides, but managed to get it upright using a straight back lift on the handlebar end, repack the luggage and then had to repeat the process all over again 30 seconds later. Digging a small trench to stop the rear wheel sliding laterally helped a bit too. One of these winch devices makes sense if you venture off the main roads solo.
Looks like a great product. I’m going to practice picking up my KTM890 Adv R when it gets warmer outside and I can get some buddy’s to spot me. I’ll feel a lot better if I know I can do it by myself. I think the KTM may be easier than the T7.
That made me go back to the original video. And yes, I too winced when I saw that stooped over spine; just waiting to pop some of those here spinal discs. I also then went to look for the moto winch. But it seems there's supply chain and availability issues. Also $200....dang.
5 months ago I hurt my back trying to lift my CRF250L. Dropped in a ditch, the bars were lower than the tires. My neighbor had to come & help me! PT & exercises got me back to normal, but I've been trying to come up with a method to right the bike if I drop it on the TAT this summer. This gave me an idea!
I watched your previous video where you used a cam strap to lift the bike using your back and I was probably one of the people who gently cautioned against a back injury. The MotoWinch looks like a clever and reasonable way to lift the top heavy T7 that lays flat on the ground. I'm in a similar situation with a narrow baby GS (not a boxer that only tips over halfway), but my baby GS only weighs 374 pounds and I'm 13 years younger than you. It'd probably still be difficult for me to lift. I carry 50 feet of 1200 pound tensile strength Spectra cord and a cam strap. I hope to be able to improvise some method to lift my bike if needed. I do ultralight motorcycle camping and I can't justify the size and weight of the MotoWinch, clever and well made as it is.
I'm 54 years old and no longer a young stud and have the same problem, I do not have the strength in my legs or my back to pick up a 500 lb bike facing away from the bike. As you just shown, impossible.
What I do is make sure the bike is in gear, kick stand down. The handle bars are going to be the highest part of the bike and gives you the most Leverage. Position your chest between the gas tank and the handlebars putting one hand on the highest hand grip and your other arm underneath the handlebars, and drive the bike forward and diagonal with your legs, the bike won't roll because its in gear and the weight of your body with the driving force of your legs will upright the bike, your not lifting with your back, your driving the bike forward, no strain on your back because your facing the bike and using your legs and your weight.
Thanks for sharing this video I will keep your idea in mind when I can no longer use my method.
Great article. I just ordered the winch Tuesday. I dropped my pan America in sugar sand and trapped my leg under the mosko pannier. I hurt my ankle and twisted my knee, i was fully geared up and wearing mx boots. I hate to think if i had hard panniers.I couldn't lift that bike. I'm in good shape for 63 but the injury hindered my picking the bike up. I realized being alone most of the time, i needed this winch. I had to trek out 2 miles to find someone to help. I'm finally learning to keep my ego in check and use help instead of muscle only.
Wow. Good testimony. That is why we seniors, who want to keep riding alone at times, need to have all our safety kits in order. I use soft panniers to protect me from being pinned and injured. I don’t want to walk out for help, especially if I’m injured, so for me the motowinch is a worthy investment too.
Yeah, me too. "Slow learner," as they say!
If you HADN'T have had those protective boots-on, YIKES! Statistically, lower leg an ankle injuries are SUPER-common, and people just want to wear sneakers, or low-cut hiking boots. Yeah, I know, I've ridden in combat boots, but it's not smart.
This is why I only drop my bike, around young people.
Good day to you!
I am HONDA Cross Cub senior rider from Japan.
Enjoying touring , camping and video editing.
It is great accessory video !
So nice !
I leave
Have a nice day my friend !!
Hello Japan
Thanks for sharing 👍. I recently bought the same lyft kit and have yet to use it. I have klx230 that fell over on the grass. An couldn't pick it up. Got help to pick it up. An then I found your video. An purchased it. I'm 70 also. An ride alone. Hope to find some riding buds. Thanks again.
Thanks for sharing such a good idea in a very informative and methodical way. I'm 74 and still love to ride and tour. This is very helpful. Downsizing my motors to smaller ones is a hard pill to swallow. On the bright side, though, it's the best time ever in terms of lighter weight choices of machines on the market!! Keep the shiny side up, my man.
A VERY hard pill to swallow , My beautiful Daughter helped me by telling me "Dad , don't let your ego ruin what has been one of the largest joys of your Life for over 60 years by ending on a debilitating or tragic finale , keep on doing what you love with adjustments"......Everyone should have a Daughter like mine !
Dear Kent
I am 72 and would like to downsize from xr600. Could you let me know which lighter dirt bikes you would recommend?
Glen , look at the Kawasaki x300 . I’m 84 and had to quit because of lack of balance. I love this bike but had to give it up this year.
Interesting, I agree, a nice tool to have on board. Especially for us older guys that ride alone, or when you may take a hard fall and an injury that might impede you in picking up bike . Thanks for sharing and demonstrating.
Yup. 64, dropped my CRF300L…all alone…on a slippery slope. Laid down so flat it was hard to find a handhold. It took me 150% effort to stand it up and had to stop for some time to let my heart catch a break! Lol
Definitely hurt my back with compression of the spine so off to the chiropractor for me.🍺🇨🇦
Well this looks great. I am a 5'2" 110 lb woman that rides solo. I could pick up my first bike, but my BMW F800, lays quite flat and it's heavy. I'm not able to pick it up by myself. I was told to "master the machine", so that I would never have to pick her up.
I will be purchasing this tool. Just in case. THANK YOU!!!!
I’m 67 and I’m 5’4”. If I still owned my Africa Twin I’d consider buying one of these. I sold it and bought a Himalayan. I really like it and I very confident on it off road. Like you I do a lot of solo ridding, sometimes it is in very remote areas.
I own both bikes. The T7 is very top heavy. Just an FYI.
@@John-zb2kw Thanks for the info.
@@gcprost You are most welcome. Not fear Mo getting, but I dropped the T7 less than 30 seconds after getting on it. That tells me a lot about my skill level but also about the bike. It’s a great bike so long as you are aware of its limitations. Big Rock does a fantastic job of identifying the T7s 4 main issues; worth a watch before you buy/ride that bike.
…not a fear monger…
Great idea buying what you confidently can handle. I will do the same.
Yep I’m in the same boat. 68 yrs old and rattle! Can not budge the F850 GSA but could pick up my R1250GSA. So I recently made a device similar chopping up an aluminium crutch. Works a treat.
I enjoy your videos.
Thank you for this video. I'm a 5'3, 54 yr old female who is just getting into riding. I have been reluctant to buy because I will be a lone rider and was concerned about being able to pick up a 500+ motorcycle. This is giving me the confidence to start looking for my first bike.
UA-cam channel BadWheelie has a similar device. Instead of hooking the handlebar he took the strap under the bike and fastened to the opposite footpeg. This allowed him to bring the bike fully upright without risking back strain.
As we get older, there comes a time where we struggle to get it up. I'm glad you found something to help you get it up.
Thank you very much for the video. At 70 and prior to back surgery, I was able to lift my Road King by myself. Of course the bike was at a 45 degree angle-as it was resting on its engine guard. Recently, I sold my Harley to my son and probably will buy a much smaller bike. TW200 comes to mind. my touring days are over. so sad indeed.
What a great addition to a safety kit. I went from a Harley Road king to a Triumph Tiger 800. Love the Tiger but when I went down the crash bar trapped my leg and it was difficult getting out. Then getting it up from that flat position was ugly. I've been reluctant to ride alone because of my inability to pick it up. Now with this Jack as a 72 yr old I think I'll have the confidence to ride alone again. Thanks.
I am 160 cms tall and not very tough. I actually managed to fracture two vertebrae trying to lift my sfv 650 late September of 2021. I thought I was going to have to give up riding solo, which is most of my riding. I am so happy you posted this video. I have been wondering if there was such an aid. Thanks for posting.😊
I like it. Just found your videos. I’m 15 yrs younger but severely broke my leg 2 years ago so now I have issues with heavy bikes. I’m seriously considering the T7 to replace my softail. Thanks for turning me on to the wench.
Sorry to hear that. The T7 is still a fairly heavy bike.
Thank you so much for this video. I recently sprained my back lifting my bike several times in one day. I plan to get a winch like you are using!
I appreciate the time you took to show us this device. I’m also getting older but love adventure motorcycling this could be a good alternative to harming my back. Believe me, it doesn’t need any more abuse and it’s already taken. Thank you again.
Great tool. Work smarter not harder! I am 66 with a bad knee so this tool would give me peace of mind.
I took 2 18 inch long x1 in diameter water pipes and a connector from Home Depot. Cost about $20 bucks. I put them together and got a ratchet strap I already had around the house. Took the long end of the strap and put it under the bike. Took the ratchet itself and hooked it to the top of the 1 inch pipe and cranked up the bike. It is a little heavier, but your wallet is only out about 20-25 bucks and it works just as well.
I've done the same, but 3 pipes and connectors. (Also metric, so 450mm X 20mm pipe) There's also a footplate that screws straight on. I run the strap through the crashbar and back to the top which cuts the load on the strap in half. Whole thing weighs 3kg so a bit heavier than the factory thing. It fits in my top box so I can get at it even if the bike is on its side.
@@gasdive I started to do 3 pipes but decided that 2 was enough. If I had a bigger bike I would go with 3. But I came home and laid the bike down and tried it out and 2 would get it high enough I could go ahead and finish lifting it.
Thanks for sharing your experience with this piece of equipment. I think I will add a baseplate (of sorts) to expand that rubber crutch tip in softer soil (which is where I'm most likely to dump the bike)
Glad you got it. Eastbound has save me and my T7 2 more times since your last video. RideOn!
Very cool tool! I could have put that to use when I layed down my dyna glide . I was able to lift it up by myself but it wasn’t easy. Especially being injured in the accident. I have to give the person who designed it a big thumbs up. I never knew there was a tool like that moto jack strap out there. Another excellent video thank you!
I just ordered one of these. I guess I’m gonna find out how it works on my Harley Road King. I’m going to try to attach it to the passenger footpeg mount or the crash guard. I once bent my handlebars muscling up my Harley in my younger years. At 64 and a long term cancer patient I’m definitely not as strong as I used to be. I understand that ideally you probably shouldn’t ride a bike that you can’t lift however I’m 6’3” with a 36” inseam so a bike I can actually lift is going to be too small for me to ride. A trike might be in my future but for now I’m thinking this tool is a bit of insurance when I ride alone. Thanks for the demo!
56 years old, love touring, and even a simple drop makes the bike soooo difficult to get back up when it's laid flat. It's always great to see these young guys just hoisting their machines back up, but squatting down and trying to get a grip...well, I mourn the loss of 30 year old me, but 26 years later the I suppose the trade-off is wisdom for muscle, and this is a great little piece of wisdom...give me a long enough lever and I'll lift the world (in this case, a wee bit of metal and a ratchet winch and I'll lift my XCA). I'm getting one. Thanks for this excellent tip!
I dropped my ‘98 VFR today and same issue with it being very difficult to lift due to it laying flat. Not a young man either. After trying a strap and a couple different jacks and damaging my tank I got my neighbor’s help. Frustrated and angry with myself. I will consider this device. Thanks. I did subscribe too!
This is the most brilliant and helpful video and tool I have seen aimed at older and weaker bike riders thank you man.
I never had a problem lifting my Honda Monkey! Your video is very informative.
Turning 61, dropped my bike in a rock slide about 3k weeks ago. I can totally relate. I enjoyed the video and subscribe.
I have a T12 Super Tenere, I bought a Moto Winch two years ago and never leave home with out it, for the same reasons as you great video cheers from Australia.
Thanks for the tip 👍. I am transitioning to a expedition sidecar for my main travel rig with a 1200 Yamaha Tenere as the tug. I'm keeping my Triumph Bonneville as my twisties bike. I am buying your lifting device for that bike and my Yamaha XT 250. I just discovered your UA-cam channel and have subscribed. Take care. Vaughn
I have one and love it! You could have winched it higher, though, trust me! You were still working harder than you had to.
I always carry a 5 $ strap and the Motowinch along! Better be safe than sorry. Also, I suggest to carry a pair of strap-on crampons, to avoid boot slip when on humid ground, such as mud, grass, etc... They are tiny, but super useful.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Thanks for posting this. I have been considering getting back into motorcycling, would like to do some adventure riding. But, at 72 with some health problems the strength I had is gone, and I have been concerned about the weight of a bike if I dropped it. This makes me feel more like it's something that is do-able for me. Liked and subscribed!
I too am over 70. I'm maxed out weight wise with a Himalayan, thankfully it has a LCG.. my bench pressing days are long gone. 😆
Neat gizmo. $200 sounds like a bit steep price for a strap, ratchet and a few tubes. But it does beat have to call for help or breaking my back. Thanks for showing it. One thing I would like to highlight, being 60 now, is that at this age bracket we need to keep up with our fitness the best we can. That also helps us get out of some unexpected predicament while riding.
You were right that to be an adventure bike rider you should be in decent shape. We are all trying to find that sweet space between having an adventure and having an ordeal, and being fit helps.
Thanks for this. Watched it a few months ago and ordered one to carry in my R1200GS.
Great video and no broken back thanks for the information and sharing 👍 that tool is the real deal.
Very cool idea. Thanks for sharing this information. I’ll be adding this to my “Wish list”!
BTW, I’m 64 and ride both dual sport for travel and a dedicated dirt bike for trail riding. Getting older doesn’t mean giving up things you like to do. You just need to plan better…this item is a great example!
I have ridden and dropped my BMW GS without panniers, and the bike drops flat like your Yamaha. I used the 'back up to your bike' method which worked fine for me. I'm only 5'9 and 85kg, so I'm not a big guy, yet I have no problems lifting using this method.
I practiced this with my KLR. Bike in gear. Grab the lower handle bar grip and the bottom handle of the rear rack. I can do it facing the bike. Neither of the two methods you tried would have worked, regardless of body strength. Once you got the bike lifted with that tool, you finally used the correct technique that would have probably worked from the start.
Wish if you can explain it again with simple words....I appreciate it 💯 🙏
@@abdulazizsaleh9567 I watched a UA-cam. You need to turn the handle bars towards the side it fell on. Put it in gear so it does not roll. Then grab the end of the handlebar that is on the ground and the lower handle on the rear rack and just pull it up. I was amazed how easy it was. The alternative way to lift is to back up to the cycle, grab those same points and squat down and lift with your legs if you have back safety concerns. You just have to try it to see if that works. I have the crash bars on the KLR, so it’s not completely flat.
outstanding critical information; You have help us a lot.
You have given seniors hope of riding again.
I have it and it works incredible. I’m 58 and I have no problems to lift a 240 kgs bike 👍🏻
I'm 70. My upper body strength is a pleasant memory. I ride a Yamaha Super Tenere. Top heavy with a total weight of +700lbs when fully fueled. Will definitely check this out. I must comment though on your technique before using the Hoist. You need to put your butt flat on the ground, your back against the seat and start walking backwards. You are just squatting down, your butt still 4-6" above the ground and trying to lift it using strength instead of the leverage the walking backwards provides. I suspect you could lift it without the hoist with the right technique. Thanks for the vid though.
Richard, that isn't going to help at all. I tried that with my CSC RX4 a 450lb bike
that is much like the T7 if you sit on the ground the strength isn't there, it's a struggle just to get YOU up yet alone the bike too ! pluss traction for your feet is not at that angle, you'll slip...
I laid my New bike down on the pavement on my first ride gently but I did manage to get it upright again by sheer brute force and it was just about all I could do !
a winch like this would indeed be handy.... i'm 69yrs old and my strength is not what it used to be either .... I'm not going to do 50 squat-jumps a day just so I can ride ! I'll buy or make a winch like that ! ....
700+ lbs, are you sure? That must be fully loaded with gear. The actual weight of 2022 model is 584 lbs wet (gas, oil, and coolant included). So we are talking about well over 100 lbs in gear.
I didn’t realize the ST weighted that much. At 584 it is just a few lbs lighter than a BMW 1250GS.
I’ll reach 72 this riding season, if I don’t do anything too dang foolish beyond my abilities..and I just sold my Super T last summer to replace with a Beemer f800GS..loved the ST while the wheels were turning but it was a beast to handle off road and at crawling speeds.. 575 lbs vs 456.4 lbs wet doesn’t seem like much at my previous age under 60 but it sure makes a difference now..the Super T replaced a Goldwing 1800 and now I’m on the 800..so, at this rate, I’ll be riding an old Honda Trail 50 by the time I quit riding..on TWO wheels..
@@AlaskanAdventure Know the feeling. I was on a Goldwing when I went to the Super T as well. Current one is actually my second. First ST was a very basic, no cruise control but it had the panniers and top case. Rode it to Newfoundland across the TransLabrador Highway. Loved it so much I immediately traded it for a Super Tenere that came with the heated grips, cruise control, etc. and took the panniers and top case with me to the new machine. Really a great ride... Pretty sure it is my last bike but I'm sure putting off my last ride!
@@richardmourdock2719 Heated grips are ride changers for certain..the butt warmer on the Wing was also pretty dang nice for this Alaskan..riding season is shorter up here but as long as the roads are without too much ice, those heaters PLUS the right riding gear can extend it a bit further..
Very informative and
thank you for sharing.
Enjoy the ride and be safe 🙏
thanks for video - the winch section of the pole is overkill - a much smaller device - like a tie down sized strap would work. That winch is for holding down a huge tractor... Keep riding!
I own a R1200GS and the first thing that I noticed about your bike is how close it was lying to the ground compared to my bike. I can see that the task is more difficult. Depending on the incline of the terrain this job can be made even more difficult.
There is a reason why the big GSes are so popular. It's really the only big bike that you can take off road unless you really know what you're doing.
Actually I own a Tenere 700 since April 2021, I dropped it, and I was able to lift it without any problems, and I'm not a heavy weight lifter nor a 20 years old guy (I'm 43).
I have no reason to doubt about this video but it's a fact that a lot of people exaggerated a little bit on this topic.
Maybe it's a little bit harder than a GS1200, but on the other side the bike is a lot lighter, narrow and agile compared to the GS (which is a great bike btw).
@@RitzSamaritano, all the best and safe travels.
Your response was interesting.
Really good review and demonstration. With careful placement of the winch "foot", it is possible to lift the motorcycle even more than 45°.
Hi
I am 62, I also mostly ride solo, I ride a KTM 450 & 890 adv r.
I have been using the moto winch for about 2 seasons.
It works GREAT ! !
In addition to picking up it is useful for dragging bike around, when it needs to be repositioned for a lift.
With some extra rope or webbing its possible to attach to a tree or large rock and drag bike.
It's also super helpful if you get a flat, makes it easy to jack up the front or rear wheel, for removal in the field.
ALL mid weight or heavier adv rider should carry this product.
Scott
Saved my butt a few times. I have not figured out yet how to use it to lift the front or rear tire for servicing.
Hi
For rear wheel lift ... Lock front on .... Attach winch strap to swingarm opposite side of kickstand .and winch ...bike will be 3 point balance...f tire, kickstand, & Jack stand.
For front wheel, block rear wheel, attach strap swing arm as far forward as possible opposite side of kickstand. Pull bike onto kickstand to balance front wheel in the air ... Jack up to maintain this position.
Scott
I'm 60. Did my back recently trying to lift my Yamaha Tracer 700. Bloody good advice. Thanks mate. 😁👍🇭🇲🦘
Oh heavy motorcycles at our age I hear you. I run around the mountains of Southern Oregon with my Honda trail 90 light light simple and fast enough for me blessings
Can we give a shout-out to the absolute gentleman who came by with the tractor to offer help? Guy is a gem.
Cool device sir. I can lift my Goldwing without any fancy tricks and muscle it up by the bars, but I’m 35, lift weights, and significantly more muscular than most. I don’t plan to ever stop lifting, but I’m sure I’ll one day be nowhere near as strong. Fantastic invention that I’d love to have when the time comes.
Yes. This product is definitely a great idea and a life saver. I saw it 4 or 5 years ago for the first time. And the once the idea is out there, it becomes very easy to replicate for 10% of the asking price.
My Pan America 1250 is 560 lbs plus luggage. I'm 58 and have a bad back from previous onjuries. I can lift the bike but risk ruining a trip by reinjuring muself. I too purchaed an EastBound MotoWinch. I've had to use it twice already. Both times the bike was in a remote location laying with the wheels slightly higher than the tank down an incline. The MotoWinch stood the bike up without any issues and saved me from unpacking the bike. The MotoWinch goes everywhere with me now.
I built an own one and place it with velcro straps exactly in the middle on top of my seat backpack, so that I can reach reach it even from the bottom. I don.t put it inside the bag, but outside to get it in every situation. I will try an experiment if I lay with a leg under the bike to get it done. I have a BMW 1150GSA and have no chance anymore (with 69y.) to lift my bike any inch! But the fortune is, that the GS never lies 90° on the bottom (sth. about 60°), so it.s a bit easier, but I can.t do it anymore without cracking my back. Thanx MSM for this vid, have always a safe ride!!! KR Henry 😊✌
You’re amazing. I wonder if the knees on the ground and chest against the seat method would work for you… keep up the great videos!
I've found it's easier that way with the bikes that lay almost flat on the ground. I would put my chest on the seat and drive forward with my legs to pick my Africa Twin up.
66 in Jan 2023. My 2022 r1250gs fell over in my shed/garage. I tried the reverse lift, but it was within a foot of the wall.
So I thought f'it. I squatted and lift it. It was difficult, but that's why I hit the gym, twice weekly. Of course the GS sits at 45 degrees when down.
Thanks for a very informative video. I look forward to watching more of your library…and I am buying the winch!
Nice report thank you for sharing
Adv bikes have become rather heavy i had the same problem with my Honda AT DCT and did not find any solution here in 🇸🇪 Sweden so i mad my own crane to bring with me yes it gives a good feeling that you are able to pick up your bike to its wheels again when you are in the middle alone in the Swedish forest 🌳 👍
Never seen one of these before. It’s a brilliant tool. Thanks
Very interesting solution. Thanks for the information. I find it very difficult to lift my 510 lbs (230 kg) bike alone.
The Motowinch is very effective . I see what you’re talking about . The fact that you’re motorcycle lies so flat that you can’t get low enough to use you’re back and legs to push it upwards. That method works well on a large touring bike with bags and engine guards .
👍
I have a 1986 GL1200 GoldWing and can no longer lift it when it goes down (most recently on slippery wet grass in my yard).
I currently use 2 standard (2ton) automotive hydraulic dolly jacks.
I find any spot I can get to to lift it enough to get the other jack under the engine guard.
Then alternate ensuring I have two good jack points in case it slips off of one.
I tilts it up far enough that I can fairly easily get it onto the side kickstand.
I have only used these around the house because of the amount of weight (that I do not want to haul and possibly damage side/rear storage compartments) but I think this lightweight jack might work but, for the cost, I might first try using two small hydraulic jacks (regular bottle jacks rather than dolly)
I might try to find or make a piece-together pole like that though, as that could assist as a brace during the jacking process to help steady the lifting and prevent losing ground when switching between jacks.
--
Thanks for sharing!
A climbing sling is light and works great. Has many other applications, as well.
If you can lift it with handle bars turned the other way it should make it easier aswell
I’m over 60 and 5’8”. Picking up the adv bike by using the back up method is a no go especially on lose terrain. The easiest way to pick it up is to turn the handle bar so the light faces up. Then grasp the grip on the far side with both hands while facing the bike and lift straight up with your legs. By using this method you’re maximizing mechanical advantage. I’ve picked up 600lb bikes using this method.
I also use this type of big bike lift, especially off road. Safe travels my friend!
There are LOTS of situations were that will NOT WORK.
Get the jack if you ride solo
Great video. I just received my winch today!
Despide my initial pessimism I think this is a great idea. I also often carry a ratchet strap but I replaced the strap with some high strength/no stretch/small diameter cord (about 5mm dia). This takes less space and is smaller to stow.
I prefer 6mm or 8mm, and a few 'biners with a small climber's pulley. Static (no stretch) line works best. Your nearest mountain climbers shop has the stuff.
that would be a great little buddy to have when you ride alone forsure good video thanks for sharing take care
Great video. Thank you. I will order one in a few days when they are back in stock. I see you purchased the heavy duty version.
I actually had a similar idea in my head, using a ratchet strap and makeshift gin pole. A small pulley or two would make it easier. In the east, where we tend to ride wooded trails. Anchor points are usually easier to reach. Like this gentleman, I'm older now, and my strength is a fraction of what it used to be.
Me to.😁 I'm 70 now, 6'-3" & 165 lbs. Not a bodybuilder & haven't been in a gym in 45 years. I've been riding 1 up for 60 years. My exercise routine is riding 600-900 pound HD Sportsters solo. The weights are approximate based on years of reading various authorities. As of summer 2021 I could still lift either of them off the ground by myself but I have noticed they're both gaining weight faster than I'm losing it!😂
Last summer I managed to lay the heavier bike on it's side so close to my P/U that I couldn't get a safe position on it to lift it & I couldn't move the truck at the time. It's good to be friends with your neighbor.😁 That's when I began toying with the idea of a Jackpole & snatchblock using nylon webbing in combination with a ratchet.
Now I can quit drawing pictures and scratching my head. My redneck engineering process always makes my wife scratch her head & wonder about my sanity.😂
My KLR lies flat like that. Great invention.
That’s a clever idea. Thank you for sharing. Ride safe.
I'm 69 and retired from street & track riding 10 years ago but never lost the itch so I recently bought a 300 lb dual-sport to try something new. I live in the same area as you up in GP and on my first off-road adventure along the Illinois river out of Selma there was a relatively short but very gnarly stretch on NS 152 with mud, deep ruts and large diameter fallen branches. Front tire got cockeyed in a rut suddenly and kerplunk I was on the ground.
On open terrain I can lift this bike with a couple of techniques but this was a steep shelf road and the bike fell over on the high side of the road, flush up against a steep embankment and fallen branches so I could not get my body in to the necessary position. I could not lift the bike after several tries because of how and where it fell. Not wanting to walk out 10 miles or camp there for the night I gave one last effort, got it upright and though no bike damage got a badly strained wrist for the effort.
The moral of my story is that Murphy's Law strikes when least expected and you will not always drop the bike in a nice flat open area as you always see when folks demonstrate lifting techniques. So I'll be checking out this ratcheting tool for my kit. Is there a U.S. distributor for Eastbound or did you import?
Thanks for sharing your story. no you have to buy the winch from eastbound as there's no local distributor.
I’m more than capable of lifting my bike, but I carry one too. Just in case. BTW, it’s good to see a “how to lift a heavy adventure bike” video that doesn’t use a BMW laying down at a mere 45 degrees.
Have you ever tried turning the bars Opposite of the fall ? Seemed to work better for me.
Thks. This 79 yr old appreciates this info.
Thanks for this video, it is very useful. I will be buying one. I ride a 2002 HD Heritage Softail Springer that weighs 750 lbs dry. I managed to pick it up twice by myself but it was all that I could do and my heart did not appreciate it one bit (especially after damage from 4 heart attacks). I am lucky that my bike has both front crash guards/highway bars and saddlebag bars so the bike is not completely flat. I will be adding this tool to my saddle bags for both my Harley and my Honda VFR800 which is taller by 6" and more difficult to lift than the Harley ( I tried :) )
I’m 75 and ride solo. I’m trying to decide if I need the 1500 or 2500. I have a BMW 1200GS, Husqvarna 701 and Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. I may be selling the BMW soon.
Excellent review. I am going to add a ratchet strap to my kit. With that and a hand saw I could make a mast to use with the ratchet strap even if one arm was injured from a fall.
Pretty incredible I'd say!! I'm 62 and am deciding to get back into travelling on a bike.
And strangely enough I know you and many may think I'm crazy but I'm saving up for the Honda Super Cub 125!!!! I can manage picking up that kind of weight and I'm ok with going slow to enjoy the scenery and the gas mileage is crazy good. Mind you I'm coming off of a Ducati 906, and a Kawasaki 900. Nothing to do with the Honda I've mentioned. Important thing I think is to get out there on a bike you love and go for it!!!
Super Cub is a fun bike. I learned to ride on a Honda 50 Sport.
Just brilliant! Thanks for sharing!! (P.S. Love your videos of Southern Oregon! I was raised in Medford, college in Ashland….wonderful region! )
Wow, thanks for this video. I have a new Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor and it too is top heavy and lies very flat so that it is impossible to get your butt on the seat for walking back. I have dropped it a few times and only once was I able to pick it up and I think I may have damaged my left knee doing so. Every other time people have rushed over to help. I will look into this product because I too travel by myself most places. Oh yeah, I'm a really short guy with a 28 inseam.
That's a nice simple little piece of kit there.
Thanks MSM. Great job. Good info. God bless. Happy trails.
At 68 might be a worthwhile purchase....thanks for the vid
I've seen videos similar product where the strap is attached to the frame about center of the engine instead of the handle bar this way the Jack lifts the bike more than 45 degrees. Thanks for the Great video's.
we used to inflate a hard plastic bag (mini air bed) with mini compressor and valve. Had the bag underneath the bike and leave it to inflate it lifted the bike slowly but easily to the point of being able to lift it the rest of the way up. Didnt cost $200. But after all that I ended up selling my 650 and getting a WR450. So much lighter.
I agree that getting a large adventure bike with wheels in the air is a physical challenge for the over 60's set.
Those videos of little ladies picking up a GS on concrete are misleading. On a down slope with slippery gravel, or even worse clay, soon causes me to raise a sweat. Even my ADV-ised DRZ400 with a 28L tank was a PIA to lift up on a clay surface. I removed the soft luggage on the accessible sides, but managed to get it upright using a straight back lift on the handlebar end, repack the luggage and then had to repeat the process all over again 30 seconds later. Digging a small trench to stop the rear wheel sliding laterally helped a bit too. One of these winch devices makes sense if you venture off the main roads solo.
Looks like a great product. I’m going to practice picking up my KTM890 Adv R when it gets warmer outside and I can get some buddy’s to spot me. I’ll feel a lot better if I know I can do it by myself. I think the KTM may be easier than the T7.
That made me go back to the original video. And yes, I too winced when I saw that stooped over spine; just waiting to pop some of those here spinal discs. I also then went to look for the moto winch. But it seems there's supply chain and availability issues. Also $200....dang.
Can be very helpful indeed. Sure thing we will loose strenght so this gadget will save the day.
very cool. yea heavy bikes man.... rough stuff... this is why i got a drz400. 300 lbs baby!
what camera are you using on the Left hand side - WoW! 😮 the clarity and overall color is fantastic
I like it. Seems like a good tool to have. Thanks for sharing! 👍🏾
Same thing with the tiger 955 it's top heavy and it almost lays past flat. I can't pick it up by myself anymore, good video.
That winch is impressive. Thank you for posting this!
Glad you liked it!
5 months ago I hurt my back trying to lift my CRF250L. Dropped in a ditch, the bars were lower than the tires. My neighbor had to come & help me! PT & exercises got me back to normal, but I've been trying to come up with a method to right the bike if I drop it on the TAT this summer. This gave me an idea!
i like the gs, it has a built in lean angle limiter. from 65 degrees it is much more pleasant.
I watched your previous video where you used a cam strap to lift the bike using your back and I was probably one of the people who gently cautioned against a back injury. The MotoWinch looks like a clever and reasonable way to lift the top heavy T7 that lays flat on the ground. I'm in a similar situation with a narrow baby GS (not a boxer that only tips over halfway), but my baby GS only weighs 374 pounds and I'm 13 years younger than you. It'd probably still be difficult for me to lift. I carry 50 feet of 1200 pound tensile strength Spectra cord and a cam strap. I hope to be able to improvise some method to lift my bike if needed. I do ultralight motorcycle camping and I can't justify the size and weight of the MotoWinch, clever and well made as it is.
I ride light bikes, 250cc max , been all over the world. in my 50's.