What is the Motorcycle Recovery System (MRS)?
The MRS is a z-drag rope-and-pulley system originally developed for mountaineering and rescue teams. That system was modified for motorcycle recovery operations. Recovery refers to the process of getting the bike back on the road or trail after taking an unexpected detour, or the process of getting the bike out of a bog or a sandpit.
The MRS reduces an object's lifting or pulling weight by 2/3, which means a solo rider can literally lift a 600-pound motorcycle completely off the ground. They can easily drag the bike out of any situation. Think of it this way - if the Egypians were able to build the pyramids using ropes and pulleys, you can use those same techniques to recover your fallen motorcycle. Instructions clearly explain how to tie knots, how to hook up your bike, and how to use the system for maximum advantage. Once you understand the system you'll find yourself looking around for things to lift or pull or move - we did. (As we practiced various recovery scenarios we found outselves sitting in an easy chair, pulling the chair and self across the living room. That exercise was quickly terminated when Mrs. BestRest walked in...)
In the photo below, the yellow strap is attached to your anchor point (tree, large rock, other immovable object), the motorcycle would be attached to the rope at right, and you would be pulling on the rope at lower left. As you pull the rope the motorcycle is easily pulled forward, or up, or out, depending on your situation.
Photos courtesy of Puget Sound Safety.
If you reverse the setup described above and connect the yellow strap to your bike (and the rope at right to your anchor point), you can literally sit astride the motorcycle while you pull on the rope. As you pull, the bike will be inexorably drawn toward the anchor point. Alternatively, you can stand alongside the bike and pull the rope, or you can stand at the anchor point and pull the bike toward you. Two person recovery is easiest, but SOLO recovery is also possible. We practice the solo method, since that's the way we normally ride.
The MRS is great for every trail rider, dualsport rider, and adventure rider. Whether you ride solo most of the time (like Mr. BestRest), or with a group of fellow enthusiasts, the MRS provides the means and methods to get your bike out of a difficult situation.
Want to see it in action? Here's a short YouTube clip: MRS in Action
What does the system include?
- 10 ft - 1 inch wide webbing strap
- 60 ft - primary cord, 8mm diameter (5/16") 3,000 lbs. load rating
- 2 ea - pre-tied prusik loops
- 2 ea - rescue-quality non-locking carabiners
- 2 ea - rescue-quality prusik-minding pulleys
- 1 ea - quick reference "crib card" showing knots and setup
- 1 ea - detailed instruction booklet - this info makes all the difference !!!
- 1 ea - black nylon carry bag
- Total size = 5x6x11" - easily fits in saddlebag or on tail rack
- Total weight = 2 lb. 13 oz.
We REALLY like the fact that you can use the kit's components for other applications, besides just the recovery function. Additional uses include:
- Secure a camp shelter or tent ridge
- Hoist food up a tree to keep critters at bay when camping
- Tie down the bike in a truck or trailer
- Towing system in case of mechanical failure
- Lash gear to the bike
The kit's hardware has ratings comparable to those used by emergency personnel and rescue crews. The contents are made and assembled in the USA.
Comments from Mr. BestRest about alternative recovery systems:
Warn Industries makes great electric winch system. We've seen it in action and it's pretty slick. Unfortunately it'll cost you over $650 w/ the mounting plate, which (to us) is the financial equivalent of an arm and a leg. The winch and plate are dead weight on the bike - about 10 lbs. Unlike the MRS, the winch serves no other purpose. The Warn winch pulls well, but the steel cable is actually rated for lifting (or pulling) less weight than the MRS.
If you're a rock climber or sailing enthusiast, you're familiar with ropes and pulleys and knots and that sort of stuff. You can probably cobble together your own kit for a few dollars less than an MRS. Go for it! However for most of us the MRS brings together a full kit of field tested components, plus it gives you all the diagrams, tips, and methods needed for effective motorcycle recovery. From our perspective that makes the MRS worth every penny.
