When I got the Shark Kage truck ramp my first impression was that it was big, bulky and would take up a bunch of bed space. I was wrong, but that's a bit ahead of the game. The heavy duty aluminum loading ramp is intended to provide added safety when loading a motorcycle into a truck bed by attaching to the tailgate. But let's get to the install. The directions are clear, well laid out and very easy to follow. I opted to take my measurements three or four times before drilling, a good general rule simply because incorrectly drilling into a tailgate is permanent.

Total installation time took about an hour and a half. One word of caution, don't overtighten the threaded insert tool, it will distort the inserts and possibly break off. If your truck is equipped with a plastic bed liner, make accommodations by adjusting the location of the base bracket which attaches to the tailgate. I found I had to offset the tailgate bracket just a bit to allow for the bed liner.

After the install it was put to use. The Shark Kage can certainly hold a load and is rated to 750 lbs. I used it for loading everything I had from my vintage enduro to my lawnmower, with complete ease. But the Shark Kage has many other uses. After the install I tackled a tire change. Following the instructions I set the Shark Kage up as a work table and was able to change two tires at standing height not bending down or leaning over. This made for a much easier afternoon. With the optional poles the Shark Kage can even turn into a nice spot to get out of the elements as a small but usable awning. The tool box feature works well, however it can only be used if the bed is closed.

I like the Shark Kage. Yes, it is big and, yes, it does take up some bed space even when not in use. But if all you have is a truck you're going to need a ramp to haul your bike, so why not get a ramp that can do more than one thing? I really appreciate the safety and security of having a dedicated secured ramp that won't fall off the tailgate when I'm loading bikes. MSRP: $299 SharkKage.com