Extreme Max Motorcycle Wheel Chock Review

It’s Time to Talk About the Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide

The Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide promises a cost-effective solution for securing your motorcycle during transport or storage. This isn’t a heavy-duty, chrome-plated showpiece, but rather a practical tool designed for lighter-duty applications, focusing on functionality and affordability. For anyone who’s ever wrestled with tie-down straps and a shifting motorcycle, the appeal of a simple wheel chock is undeniable.

I’d been searching for a reliable yet budget-friendly way to stabilize my vintage Honda CB750 in my truck bed for occasional trips to shows and service appointments. Tired of the constant readjustment of straps and the nagging worry of the bike tipping, I needed a solution that was easy to install and use, without breaking the bank. After seeing the Extreme Max option, I was intrigued by its simple design and low price point.

Upon unboxing, the Extreme Max chock impressed me with its solid, powder-coated steel construction. The three pieces, requiring simple bolt-together assembly, felt surprisingly sturdy. While lightweight, the steel seemed durable enough for my intended use.

I considered several other wheel chocks, including some single-piece designs and heavier-duty options. However, I chose the Extreme Max due to its compact, three-piece design, which seemed easier to store when not in use, and its significantly lower price point. Single-piece options felt overkill, and the heavier-duty chocks were outside my budget for what I considered a secondary need.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide appeared to be a no-frills, functional solution that addressed my need for a stable motorcycle transport system. However, the “light-duty” disclaimer in the product description made me wonder if it would truly hold up under real-world conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test involved mounting the Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide in the bed of my pickup truck. I used basic hardware to secure it to the existing bed rails, ensuring a solid connection. The process was straightforward, although I recommend using larger washers than those initially provided to distribute the load more effectively.

I tested the chock during a 50-mile trip, mostly on paved roads with some sections of gravel. My Honda CB750, weighing around 500 pounds, fit snugly within the 5.5-inch width. The chock kept the front wheel stable, minimizing side-to-side movement. I still used tie-down straps, as recommended, but the chock significantly reduced the pressure on the straps.

The ease of use was a pleasant surprise. Loading the motorcycle into the chock was a one-person job, and securing the straps felt much quicker and more confident. I didn’t encounter any major issues, but the “light-duty” nature of the chock became apparent on the gravel sections, where there was a noticeable flex in the steel.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use (approximately twice a month for short trips), the Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the steel itself, but the powder coating has chipped in a few spots, likely due to vibration and contact with the motorcycle’s tire.

The durability is adequate for lighter bikes and smooth roads, but I wouldn’t trust it with a heavier motorcycle or prolonged off-road use. The maintenance is simple – I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime.

Compared to my previous method of relying solely on tie-down straps, the Extreme Max chock provides a noticeable improvement in stability and peace of mind. While it doesn’t eliminate the need for straps, it significantly reduces the strain on them and minimizes the risk of the motorcycle shifting during transit. However, I still find myself double-checking the mounting bolts and straps regularly, given the chock’s lightweight construction.

Breaking Down the Features of Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide

Specifications

• Maximum Tire Width: 5.5 inches, limiting its use to smaller motorcycles. Heavier bikes with wider tires will not fit securely.
• Construction: Powder-coated steel, offering decent protection against rust and corrosion. The powder coating, however, is prone to chipping with regular use.
• Assembly: Bolt-together, requiring minimal tools and effort. The simple assembly allows for easy storage when disassembled.
• Mounting Pattern: Four-hole, providing secure attachment to truck beds, trailers, or garage floors. The four-hole pattern requires drilling into the mounting surface for permanent installation.
• Intended Use: Light-duty applications, primarily for transport and storage assistance. This limitation prevents usage as a standalone support.
• Weight: Lightweight design, making it easy to handle and maneuver. The lightweight can be a downside because this affects its overall strength.

These specifications highlight the Extreme Max’s intended purpose: a supplemental tool for motorcycle transport and storage, not a heavy-duty, standalone solution. The 5.5-inch width limitation is crucial, as exceeding it will compromise stability and safety. The powder-coated steel offers basic protection, but the light-duty designation underscores the need for caution when transporting heavier motorcycles or driving on rough terrain.

Performance & Functionality

The Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide performs its core function adequately, which is to stabilize the front wheel of a motorcycle. It does this by preventing lateral movement and distributing the load more evenly. However, its limitations must be considered.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity, ease of installation, and affordability. Its weaknesses are its light-duty construction, limited tire width capacity, and the need for supplementary tie-down straps. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly solution, but it doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetics. The materials used are adequate for the intended purpose, but the overall build quality reflects the product’s low price point. The light weight makes it easy to handle, but also contributes to its limited load capacity.

The Extreme Max is user-friendly, requiring no specialized skills or tools for assembly and installation. There is no learning curve, and its operation is intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its light-duty designation, the Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide is not expected to last indefinitely, especially with frequent use or exposure to harsh conditions. However, with proper care and maintenance, it should provide several years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection of the mounting bolts. Repairing damaged components may be difficult, as replacement parts are not readily available.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited, primarily revolving around the method of mounting and the use of different hardware.

It is compatible with standard tie-down straps and other motorcycle transport accessories. However, given its light-duty nature, it is not recommended to use it with accessories designed for heavier motorcycles.

Pros and Cons of Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide

Who Should Buy Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide?

The Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide is perfect for motorcycle owners who need a budget-friendly solution for occasional transport or storage of lighter motorcycles with narrow tires. It is ideal for riders who primarily travel on paved roads and prioritize ease of use and affordability over heavy-duty performance. This is suitable for vintage bike owners.

Individuals who own heavier motorcycles, frequently transport their bikes on rough terrain, or require a standalone support for maintenance or storage should skip this product.

Must-have accessories include high-quality tie-down straps and appropriate mounting hardware. Consider using larger washers and lock nuts to ensure a secure and stable installation.

Conclusion on Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide

The Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide is a decent option for those seeking a cost-effective and lightweight solution for securing smaller motorcycles during transport or storage. While it doesn’t offer the robustness of higher-end models, it provides a noticeable improvement in stability compared to relying solely on tie-down straps.

The price is justified for its intended purpose, which is light-duty use with smaller bikes. However, buyers should be aware of its limitations and avoid using it with heavier motorcycles or in demanding conditions.

I would personally recommend it to riders on a budget who need a basic wheel chock for occasional transport or storage. If you have a lightweight bike and prioritize affordability over heavy-duty performance, the Extreme Max 3 Piece Motorcycle Wheel Chock 5.5″ Wide is worth considering. Give it a try and see if it meets your needs for simple, secure motorcycle transport!