How Long Should ATV Ramps Be: A Complete Guide
Share
Choosing the right 4 wheeler ramps for your truck is one of the most critical safety decisions you'll make. A ramp that’s too short creates a dangerously steep ramp incline, while one that’s too long can be cumbersome. This raises the essential question for every rider: how long should ATV ramps be? Answering this correctly is the first step to ensuring a safe and stress-free loading process every time. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Key Factors That Determine Ramp Length
To find the perfect long atv ramp, you must start with a few key measurements. Don't guess—taking a few moments to measure will guarantee you buy the right quad ramps for your specific setup.
- Loading Height (Tailgate Height): Use a tape measure to find the distance from the ground to the top of your truck’s tailgate. This is the single most important factor.
- ATV Wheelbase: Measure the distance from the center of your ATV's front tire to its rear tire. A longer atv wheelbase needs a longer ramp to avoid getting stuck at the breakover angle where the ramp meets the truck.
- Total Weight & Ramp Weight Capacity: Know the total weight of your ATV (with fluids and any gear) and ensure your chosen ramps have a ramp weight capacity that comfortably exceeds it.
So, How Long Should ATV Ramps Be for a Safe Angle?
The single most important factor for ATV loading safety is the loading angle. For maximum safety, you should aim for an angle of 15 degrees or less. This shallow incline makes it easy to control your machine.
Here’s a simple chart to help you choose the right long atv loading ramps based on your truck's tailgate height.
| Tailgate Height (Ground to Tailgate) | Minimum Recommended Ramp Length |
| Up to 30 inches (Standard 2WD Truck) | 8 feet |
| 30 - 36 inches (Standard 4x4 Truck) | 9.5 feet |
| 37 - 44 inches (Lifted Truck) | 11 feet |
| 45+ inches (Large Lifted Truck) | 11 feet or longer |
For a deeper dive into finding the perfect fit for your specific vehicle and ATV, check out our complete guide on How to Choose The Right Loading Ramp.
Why Extra Long ATV Ramps Are the Superior Choice
Choosing extra long ATV loading ramps provides several key benefits beyond just the initial loading. These long ramps for ATV owners are a game-changer.
- Improved Safety: The gradual incline on ATV long ramps makes it easier to control your speed and is the key to how to load an ATV safely.
- Better Clearance: Extra long ATV ramps protect machines with low ground clearance, like golf carts, from scraping the top of the ramp.
- Easier on Your Machine: A gentle incline on a proper ATV ramp for a truck puts less stress on your machine's clutch.
The peace of mind that comes with using properly sized long ramps ATV setups is invaluable. Ready to find the perfect long atv ramp? Browse our full selection of heavy-duty Aluminum ATV Ramps.
Frequently Asked Questions About ATV Ramp Length
1. How long should ATV ramps be?
The ideal length depends on your truck's height. We recommend choosing a specific ramp length based on your vehicle type to ensure a safe loading angle:
- For standard trucks (up to 30" tailgate height): 8ft Aluminum ATV Ramps
- For standard 4x4 trucks (30"-36" height): 9.5ft Aluminum ATV Ramps
- For lifted trucks (37" height and above): 11ft Aluminum ATV Ramps
2. What size ramps do I need for my ATV?
Measure the height from the ground to your truck’s tailgate. Use this height to consult the chart above or a ramp length calculator. This will help you select the right long atv loading ramps.
3. How do you calculate the length of an ATV ramp?
The precise formula is: Ramp Length (in inches) = Loading Height (in inches) / sin(Desired Angle). For a 15-degree angle, the sine is approximately 0.2588. So, the formula is Ramp Length = Height / 0.2588.
4. Are 8-foot ramps long enough for a lifted truck?
Generally, no. An 8-foot ramp on a lifted truck creates a dangerously steep angle. A set of extra long ATV ramps is a much safer solution.
5. What is a safe loading angle for a four-wheeler?
A safe loading angle is 15 degrees or less. Using ATV long ramps is the easiest way to achieve this.
6. Is an arched or straight ramp better for an ATV?
Arched quad ramps provide better clearance and are ideal for ATVs with a long wheelbase or low ground clearance. The arch on these 4 wheeler ramps helps prevent the machine from bottoming out.
7. How do you stop ATV ramps from slipping?
Always use tie-down straps to secure the ramps firmly to the truck. This is the most important part of using any extra long ATV loading ramps. For detailed safety procedures, review our Step-by-Step Instructions for Safely Loading Your ATV.