It’s a new product, so how does it work? What are the benefits? What’s the difference between...?
These are some pretty common questions that are coming up about our lockable tie downs.
We have formulated this information page to answer some of these questions about our product.
If there are any questions not covered please feel free to write in and let us know, and we will answer them for you as quickly as possible.
For all questions and comments please email us at - info@stickprotection.com

Q - What do the colours represent?
A - The SPT range of lockable tie downs have been classified into three easily identifiable colours to enable you to quickly recognise the best product to suit your needs.
The three colours represent the three different strap lengths, 1.5m - Blue, 2.5m - Green and 4.0m - Yellow.

Q - Which SPT tie down will best suits my needs?
A - Every customer has different requirements. It’s entirely up to you to decide what length of strap will best suit your needs. We have listed below some recommendations for each strap but if you have any doubts please feel free to contact us directly.

SPT Snow 1.5m - Designed to lock up and secure two snow boards or two sets of skis
Other applications - Single shortboard, tradesman’s tools, ladders, bikes, luggage.

SPT Surf 2.5m - Designed to lock up and secure three shortboards or two longboards
Other applications - Racing Ski’s, Rowing sculls, paddle boards, Windsurfers, bikes, luggage.

SPT Tour 4.0m - Designed to lock up and secure kayaks, canoes or anything requiring that little bit of extra strap length.
Other applications - Surfboard & longboard stacks, Windsurfers, Moto-X & trail bikes, luggage.

NB: Please note that these are only recommendations and SPT does not take responsibility for the suitability of each product.

Q - Compared to other tie downs, the SPT range seem quite expensive?
A - It is natural to compare our product to standard tie downs already on the market for around $20-$25. However our product stands in a field of it own. It is a world first on the market and provides peace of mind and security for the hundred’s and sometimes thousands of dollars worth of equipment stored on your roof racks.
The SPT Range of tie downs provides you with:
- Investment protection of sporting, personal or trade equipment.
- Peace of mind.
- Provides the same easy to use application as standard tie downs.
- Can be applied in almost any application, e.g. The SPT Tour 4.0m can be applied to a surfboards, kayaks, canoes, bicycles, luggage, windsurfers, tools and ladders. The application possibilities are only limited by your own imagination.

NB: You may be able to get reduced premiums from your insurance broker through the use of our product. SPT is investigating the provision of endorsements from these companies for our customers.

Q - Can you cut the straps?
A - No - The webbing incorporates two hardened stainless steel cables which prevents any blade from cutting through the straps. The stitching on the webbing has also been designed to clog up bolt cutter blades. You will eventually get through with bolt cutters but it is generally easier to cut through the roof rack than the straps themselves. Refer to figure 1:

Q - Can you use the tie down when it is unlocked?
A - Yes - The lockable tie down works exactly the same as a normal tie down strap when the buckle is not locked.

Q - Are there any parts in the buckle that can rust?
A - No - The lock has been designed incorporating a lever action dust shutter to prevent any water or dirt from getting into the lock. The internal spring and pin within the buckle are stainless steel.

Q - What if you lose the Key? Can you get a replacement?
A - The lockable tie down comes with two keys. One key should be stored on customers key sets and one stored as a replacement at home. If a key is lost they can be easily cut and replaced.

Q - Does the strap damage the board?
A - No. The soft webbing protects the board from the stainless steel cables. The Santoprene lock casing protects the board or car from knocks but special care should be taken (as with all tie downs) when fixing it to the rack system.

Q - Are there any other colours?
A - Other colours will be launched this year. Customers will be able to purchase the Santoprene boots separately to suit their personality or car colour.

Q - Can you slide the board out from the straps?
A - No, due to friction and the widest part of the boards it is impossible to slide the board out from the locked strap. Refer to Figure 3:

Q - Do the straps come with a bag?
A - Included with the SPT lockable tie downs are two strap ties for neat storage. SPT will be releasing a separate bag as an added accessory in the near future.

Q - Can you the lock the tie downs without tension on the straps.
A - Yes, but it is extremely difficult. The Lockable Tie Downs have been designed to work under tension and under load. Once the strap is fed through and tightened on a load, the clasp lever naturally lifts to enable you to turn the key and lock barrel.

For a photo demonstration please click the link below.

Photo demonstration (PDF) >>