Will the Erickson Hide-A-Hook Tie Downs Support a 450 lb Sport Bike in the Bed of a 1972 El Camino

Updated 06/09/2014 | Published 06/06/2014

Question:

If I install one hook at each corner of the bed of my 72 El Camino, is this product heavy duty enough to keep a 450# sportbike in place with 4 tie down straps? Do you have a pre-drilled backing plate and some longer bolts with locknuts to make it more secure on the sheet-metal?

asked by: James H

Expert Reply:

The Erickson Hide-A-Hook Tie Downs, # EM09094, are heavy duty enough to hold your 450 lb sport bike, but you will want to consider the attachment location on your El Camino as well. Since this is a universal item, it is important for the installer to make sure they are mounted in a location that can support the weight of the bike.

These tie downs have a weight capacity of 1,200 lbs per pair. It would be best to use 4 tie downs at each corner like you mentioned for added stability of the bike. Erickson does not offer pre-drilled backing plates for these tie downs, but I have attached a picture of the dimensions of this tie down if you would like to make your own backing plates. Backing plates would be a good idea to reinforce the area of the bed where these tie downs will be mounted.

expert reply by: John H