Front fork tie-down tool?

Greetings to all;
Here's a question for anyone who has put their SWing into the back of a pickup truck.... Are there methods of preventing the front forks from being compressed during the tie-down process?

Here's some details: We've recently brought out 2006 SWing from Canada south to Arizona (Quartzite). Upon arrival, I see one of the fork tube's has dripped a bit of oil, and I'm thinking it was because of the fork compression which was maintained over a number of days during transit.
So I'm looking to prevent the front forks from compressing, yet still allow the SWing to be tied and secured in the bed of the truck. Any thoughts?
In past years, on other motorcycles, I've seen blocks of wood placed between the front wheel and the tripletree to perform this same shipping tool function. But I'm thinking there might be a way to make a tool for each fork tube out of some PVC pipe which will do the same job (but not damage the front fender).

Thanks for your thoughts and replies.

Kev

While others will chime in about the "proper" way to tie down a bike for transit, if using a 2"x4" block of wood between the wheel & 'triple tree' works. Why not go that way. It's not all that difficult to remove the front.
fender.

BTW you're going to need to remove that fender in order to remove the fork tube to replace that leaking fork seal. It's doable without pulling the entire front body. Just be sure to break the pinch bolts loose while the scoot wheel and weight is on the ground. Very few tools required.

I have hauled bikes around in my pickup for years. Never used the "block of wood" method. I strap the bike/scoot down but not so tight to bottom forks. My logic is to leave just a little play so they can flex a bit if needed. Every night on the road I loosen the straps to remove pressure on the forks. Re-tighten before leaving in the morning. I too used to blow seals but so far haven't using the above method!

BTW if you are in Quartzsite we are only 100 miles apart... Hint, hint.

There's a tool available at cycle gear, currently $10 but regularly $20.
http://www.cyclegear.com/eng/product/Fork_Brace/web1007453

I can't guarantee it works.

Jesse

You actually want the bike to be able to ride its shocks so that they will absorb bumps and prevent damage. When tying down, the rule of thumb is about 1/2 compression so that there is some play to absorb bumps. If you prevent any travel, you risk more damage to the bike than a leaky shock.

A few years ago, someone one this forum recommended and I bought, a pair of nylon, green straps from Walmart for around $ 6.00 a pair.
They are about 2 ft long and wrap around the forks themselves rather than having to attach something to your handle bars. and put pressure on the tubes.
Then, all you need are the come-a longs, or tie downs that attach securely to straps.
I have never had to use them as of yet but when I was towed years ago by a tow truck I never wanted to have my bike strapped down again like that.