As you can see in the pictures below, we had to carefully follow the rules governing the exportation of a motorcycle from the USA. This GL affectionately named "Aussie" was sold to an individual in Australia.

After the specifications for the crate were considered, Pistol Pete's staff designed a sturdy skid that would carry the entire load of Aussie and yet be strong enough to strap her securely into place for the journey. She will be picked up by commercial carrier and transported to the west coast. She will be loaded on to a cargo ship for the ocean passage to "Down Under"

Strength is the key work here as the skid has to be strong in order to support and stabilize Aussie when loaded

Once the skid was made, it was set upon a small transporting trailer for the short journey to the shipping center. The eyebolt positions were engineered to allow Aussie to be strapped down to the skid while not allowing the straps to chafe the bike components and to dis-allow movement front to rear as well as side to side.

With the skid in place on the trailer, we can now load Aussie

Aussie was rolled onto the skid and the side stand lowered for easy centering. Note the beam at the front of the wheel to prevent Pete's Acura from becoming the bike stop. After she was carefully centered onto the skid, Aussie was ready to strap down. The small box contains the mirrors and was the only items removed for crating.

As there was limited room inside the crate, Aussie was centered very carefully to avoid possibly contacting the crate

Several things were considered when stabilizing Aussie for shipment to Australia. Each of the straps are 3000# max strength and locking ratchet type. They incorporate non maring hooks that are 3/8 inch diameter. Notice the beams directly beneath the wheel centerlines for load strength.

After strapping, each wheel was sufficiently chocked for additional stability.

Shipping criteria required that all of the fuel was to be drained and the battery lead wires be disconnected and wrapped so that they would not contact the battery terminals. All of the straps were securely taped together as well as double wire tied and taped to each hook and hook point. This will prevent the possibility of the hooks coming loose from the the bike framework or the eyebolts.

Note the beam directly under the engine. Aussie is securely pulled down onto this strong member for rigidity.

The final results of the packageing process are seem below. Aussie is safely inside and will not see the light of day until Customs officials inspect her. The crate skeleton is made from 2 x 4 construction timbers and the outer cover is 1/2 inch plywood with the top being 3/8 inch thick.

Note the skid will allow fork lift pickup from each side as well as the ends.

More pictures with Aussie at the shipping center. Click here to see the crate loading.

Can we build a GL1000 and ship it for you?

Shown as purchased

This unit is serial number GL1-1000548, has 17660 actual miles and will be availble for sale in mid-January.

She is home now in Australia click here for the new owners first email to Pistol Pete after his first ride on her.

petesgl@comcast.net for details