A 2-metre (6’6″) ramp is a little short for an SUV or utility. Loading the trike requires a bit of extra push, and unloading needs more care with the steep slope. Conversely, 3 metres (10′) is too long to carry around as a single piece. One solution is to hinge each ramp. When folded, it is short enough for storage. While previous ramps used 3mm thick aluminium, I went for 1.6mm. The lighter weight makes it easier to handle.
Construction
I liked the 100mm wide by 50mm high channels I selected for the 3-piece ramps. I found the 3mm thick sections a bit heavy. Back to the aluminium store. The only other thickness with similar dimensions was 1.6mm thick. As it happens, this flexes but supports the trike’s weight.
I riveted 50mm square, 3mm thick pieces of aluminium to the sides of the ramp closest to the hinge. These take the weight of the trike. At first I made the mistake of using aluminium rivets, but these sheer under pressure. Steel rivets are best.
I reinforced the hinges with additional 50mm x 100mm x 3mm strips. I wasn’t sure if this was strictly necessary, but the ramp without them bent around the hinge when the side pieces sheered.
Benefits
- The 3-metre ramp is light and easy to move around.
- The folded ramp fits easily under the trike on all the tested vehicles.
- Aluminium is sold by weight. These ramps are half the price of those made of 3mm sections.
Disadvantages
- The ramp flexes slightly as the trike is loaded. The amount is not enough to make loading more difficult.
- There is a slight twisting if the trike wheels are to the outside of the ramp. There is no risk of the trike falling.
- Folding and unfolding the ramp can be awkward – particularly in tight places.
Example
The video is of loading two trikes on the tub of an Isuzu D-Max utility. The far ramp is no longer straight. It was damaged when the aluminium rivets sheared. I replace all side supports with steel rivets.
Conclusion
While the lighter material makes the ramp feel less solid, it still beats carrying the extra weight. I want to try 2.2mm when I can find some. Please provide your comments and suggestions below.