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Specifications
- Capacity : 400 pounds
- Material: Lightweight aluminum
- Vehicle class hitch receiver: II, IV
- Locking system : Anti-rattle
- Dimension: 75” x 5.5”
- Loading ramp included:
Durable, thus perfect for dirt bikes and motorcycles, manufactured from lightweight aluminum, it can hold up to
400 pounds. It measures 75 inches in length and 5.5 inches in width and, it has a
self-storing, 45.5-inch long, ramp which can be installed on both sides, with a roll-on, roll-off design for easier loading and unloading. It comes with all the parts you need, to install it on your own, and with a 1-year warranty from the moment of your purchase.
Accessories
Designed for bikes with wheels up to 5-1/2 inches wide, with Class II or IV hitch receivers, it weighs only 33.5 pounds, making it easier to install and lift than its steel counterparts. It also includes an anti-rattle system, which will keep your bike safe even on bumpy and uneven roads; and a spacer bar adapter to fit the 50-80cc dirt bikes. However, it is not fit for scooters as they might drop more than intended when loaded onto the carrier.
PROS
- High-strength aluminum
- Rust and corrosion resistant
- Lightweight and easy to lift and install
CONS
- Some complained about the anti-rattling system loosening up quickly
- There were some complaints about it not being time-resistant.
Verdict
Despite being able to hold just 400 pounds, it provides you with an easy way of moving your bike from one place to another. Designed to hold medium bikes, it is lightweight and affordable. Corrosion and rust resistant, it is durable and time-resistant
2. Goplus Motorcycle Carrier
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Goplus Motorcycle Carrier
Specifications
- Capacity : 600 pounds
- Material: Impermeable steel construction
- Vehicle class hitch receiver: Any 2” receiver
- Locking system : Anti-wobble
- Dimension: 79” x 31” x 13”
- Loading ramp included:
Its
durable and solid impermeable steel construction can support up to 600 pounds, allowing you to use it with any vehicle’s 2″ receiver. It won’t rust regardless of how much rain it has to endure, thanks to its powder-coated design and it is able to hold both types of motorcycles, light and heavy. However, it is kind of heavy, weighing 91 pounds, and it is not advised to exceed 55 MPH while it is attached.
The 79-inch long, 31-inch wide and 13-inch height rail, with a raised adjustable wheel stop that will make sure to stabilize your bike, and an included hitch-pin, it offers you only the best support when traveling. Thanks to its 2 quick release locks, you can fasten up your bike, and it comes equipped with a long, 72-inch ramp which will help you put your motorcycle in place with less effort while it can easily fold for a safer journey.
PROS
- 2 quick release locks
- Long off-loading ramp
- Powder coated for anti-rust effect
CONS
- It is quite heavy
- Doesn’t have an anti-rattle system installed
Verdict
Offering a sturdy and durable way of carrying around your bike, it is quite heavy to lift, as it weighs 91 pounds. The installing manual is a bit on the unclear side, but it’s quality and great features make up for it completely.
3. Best Choice Products SKY1375
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Best Choice Products SKY1375
Specifications
- Capacity : 500 pounds
- Material: Heavy-duty steel
- Vehicle class hitch receiver: II, III, IV, V
- Locking system : Anti-tilt
- Dimension: 76” x 7” x1”
- Loading ramp included:
It carries dirt bikes and motorcycles while it comes equipped with an
anti-tilt locking system that will prevent wobbling and rattling even on bumpy roads. Plus it has
tie-down sites on both sides of the track, so you can be sure your bike will not move from the place you put it. Despite being made with heavy-duty steel, it only weighs 51 pounds, and it measures 76 inches in length, 20 inches in width and 2.5 inches in height, making it easy to install, assemble and use.
Durable, made with heavy-duty steel, it can hold up to 500 pounds at a time, thus making it extremely versatile. It has a 2-inch square receiver for classes II, III, IV or even V hitch receivers. Additionally, its portable design features a 38 and 1/2-inch ramp, making it easier for you to load your bike onto the carrier. Thanks to its bolts and nuts it can be easily assembled and it can also be multi-loaded.
PROS
- Solid construction
- Anti-tilt lock
- Easy to install, assemble and use
CONS
- Doesn’t come with a hitch pin
- Some complained about its durability
Verdict
Easy to assemble, while able to support up to 500 pounds, it is also time-resistant and rust proof, thus making it a great way for you to take your bike with you while traveling. Moreover, it has tie-down sites, so you can easily secure your bike in place.
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Specifications
- Capacity : 500 pounds
- Material: Heavy-duty powder coated steel frame
- Vehicle class hitch receiver: II, III, IV, V
- Locking system : Anti-tilt
- Dimension: 76” x 7”
- Loading ramp included:
It measures 76 inches in length and 7 inches in width, and it weighs 53.6 pounds. It has a
heavy-duty powder-coated steel frame, which makes it reliable, as it provides you with a durable and strong way to transport your bike. It can hold up to
500 pounds, making it a great choice for transporting motocross bikes, scooters, and off-road dirt bikes.
Additionally, it comes with a ramp measuring 38.5 inches in length and 4.75 inches in width, which will help you load and unload the bike easier, on either side of the carrier. It is compatible with any 2-inch square receivers for class II, III, IV or V trailer hitches, and it comes with an anti-tilt locking system to keep your bike safely fixed even on bumpy roads. It comes with a limited 5-year warranty from the moment of your purchase.
PROS
- Powder-coated for anti-rust effect
- Anti-tilt lock
- Loading ramp include
CONS
- Some complained about the ramp length
- There were some complaints about the instructions not being clear
Verdict
It allows you to quickly load and unload your bike, regardless of which side of the carrier you choose, thanks to its ramp. Moreover, it comes with an anti-tilt system, which will keep your bike stable during your trip even on bumpy roads. Additionally, the carrier is made from heavy-duty stainless steel, which is not only durable and strong but thanks to its powder-coating it won’t rust. Therefore, you can use it for a lengthy time period.
5. Direct Aftermarket Steel Motorcycle Carrier
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Direct Aftermarket Steel Motorcycle Carrier
Specifications
- Capacity : 500 pounds
- Material: Heavy-duty steel
- Vehicle class hitch receiver: III, IV
- Locking system : Anti-tilt
- Dimension: 76” x 33” x 2”
- Loading ramp included:
Sturdy, with a frame
made of steel, it will help you move bikes weighing up to 500 pounds. A scooter, a classic motorcycle, street bikes, sports bikes or dirt bikes, this carrier will offer you only the perfect security thanks to its
anti-wobble lock. Easy to assemble, it also has a 38 inches long and 5 inches wide loading ramp which will definitely improve your maneuverability.
It cab be attached to both sides, for a more convenient handling and loading, it is compatible with class III or IV trailer hitch. It requires a 2 inches square hole – the hitch pin is not included – and you can be sure it will not rust or corrode as it has an epoxy powder coating which makes it impermeable to water. Weighing 58 pounds, and measuring 76 inches in length and 7 inches in width it is easy to assemble.
PROS
- Has an anti-wobble lock
- Loading ramp included
- Rust resistant
CONS
- Some complained about the instructions not being clear enough
- There were some complaints about it not being time resistant
Verdict
Despite being quite heavy, it offers you the support and easy way of moving your motorcycle around, taking it with you while traveling. Thanks to its anti-wobble locking system, your bike will stay secure at the back of your car
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Specifications
- Capacity : 600 pounds
- Material: Heavy-duty steel
- Vehicle class hitch receiver: III, IV
- Locking system : Anti-rattle
- Dimension: 79” x 34.5” x 10”
- Loading ramp included:
It is made from heavy-duty steel and has a capacity of
600 pounds, and it measures 79 inches in length, 34.5 inches in width and 10 inches in depth. It is able to be used with bikes up to
8 inches wide and it is designed for class III or IV, 2 inches hitch receivers. It can be used to transport off-road-motorcycles, street-cruiser-motorcycles, street-sport-motorcycles. It has a
black powder finish coat that protects it against even the harshest climatic conditions and rust, making it time resistant and reliable.
This hitch doesn’t come alone, it offers you a 71-inch loading ramp which can be stored on the carrier when not in use. Easy to install and assemble, if the need arises, you can even remove the ramp for easier transportation. It comes with an anti-tilt, anti-rattle and 5/8 inches hitch pin, along with several bolts that will make your installation hassle-free. With the 7-point adjustable wheel chock and 4 integrated tie-down points securing the motorcycle, you don’t have to worry about its safety. Just roll the bike up the ramp, secure it and you are ready to go.
PROS
- Removable load ramp
- Heavy-duty
- 7-point adjustable wheel clock
CONS
- It can be pricy
- Some complained about it bending easily
Verdict
Able to carry different types of motorcycles, from light to heavy while assuring you they are safe and secure while transporting them. Plus, it can be installed at the back of your car effortlessly.
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Specifications
- Capacity : 500 pounds
- Material: Heavy-duty steel, with a durable powder coated frame
- Vehicle class hitch receiver: II,III, IV, V
- Locking system : Anti-tilt
- Dimension: 76” x 20” x 2.5”
- Loading ramp included:
Made of heavy-duty steel, with a durable powder coated frame, created to resist chipping, scratching, fading and wearing, it is perfect for carrying around your motorbike, scooter, and even off-road dirt bikes. Thanks to its
2-inch receiver – not included – for classes II, III, IV or V trailer hitches, it requires a 2″ square hole for you to easily attach it to your car.
Versatile, it features a dual-sided 38-inch long and 5-inch wide loading ramp which will definitely make your job a lot easier. Plus, thanks to its anti-tilt locking system, your bike will stay still, tightly fixed the whole journey. It includes downsides on either side of the track for added security which has been time tested and proven to work extremely well, so you won’t have to stress over your bike’s condition. Capable of sustaining up to 500 pounds, it measures 76 inches in width and 33 inches in length.
PROS
- Has an anti-wobble and anti-tilt locking system
- Loading ramp included
- Time resistant
CONS
- Some complained about it breaking easily
- There were some complaints about its overall time resistance
Verdict
Able to support up to 500 pounds, you won’t have to worry about your bike staying behind as you travel. It comes with an anti-tilting features, so all you have to do is attach it to your car, secure the bike and you’re ready to go.
8. Goplus 500 Hitch Mount
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Specifications
- Capacity : 500 pounds
- Material: Heavy duty 18-inch long steel tubing
- Vehicle class hitch receiver: III, IV, V
- Locking system : Anti-tilt
- Dimension: 76” x 38 3/5”
- Loading ramp included:
Made to be solid, with sturdy and reliable construction, it is made from heavy duty 18-inch long steel tubing, and it can
support up to 500 pounds. It is easy to assemble, as it comes with all the necessary hardware included, and it has a
loading ramp, which can be placed on either side, to allow you to maneuver your bike easier. Once the bike loaded, the ramp can be attached on the carrier, next to the carrier track for easy transport.
The ramp measures 39 and 2/5 inches in length and 6 inches in width. It has an anti-tilt locking device which prevents wobble, so your bike will be safe regardless of the road is bumpy. It can fit any 2-inch square receiver, class III, IV or V trailer hitch, making it an excellent way to transport any bikes, scooter and off-road dirt bikes. It measures 76 inches in length, and 38 3/5 inches in width, and it weighs 55 pounds.
PROS
- Loading ramp included
- Sturdy, powerful and strong
- Large supported capacity
CONS
- There were some complaints about it not being time resistant
- Some complained about the anti-tilting system
Verdict
It will allow you to take your bike with you wherever you go, as it has an anti-tilt locking system which will keep your bike secure even on bumpy roads, and it has a capacity of 500 pounds. Thanks to the loading ramp which can be attached on both sides, you can easily maneuver your bike onto the carrier.
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Specifications
- Capacity : 500 pounds
- Material: Heavy duty steel
- Vehicle class hitch receiver: III, IV
- Locking system : Anti-tilt
- Dimension: 71.5” x 6.37”
- Loading ramp included:
It measures 71.5 inches in length, 6.37 inches in width, and it measures 21.5 inches from the pin to the center of the rail, and it weighs 94 pounds. For additional help in maneuvering your bike, it
comes with a 57.5-inch long, 5.5-inch wide ramp, and it is able to fit class III and IV hitch. It is able to support up to
500 pounds, and it comes with a powder coat finish, thus you won’t have to worry about it rusting away.
It comes with an anti-tilt lock bracket of 24 inches from the main tube, so you won’t have to worry about your motorcycle even on bumpy roads, as it will stay securely, in place. Moreover, in order to provide you with easier navigation, it comes with already installed taillights, thus you won’t have to worry about the cars behind you. Plus, thanks to its four retractable tie-down bars, your bike will remain secure during the entire ride. It comes with a limited 1-year warranty from the moment of your purchase.
PROS
- Already installed taillights
- Included ramp
- 4 retractable tie-down bars
CONS
- Some complained about the hatch pin
- There were some complaints about the instructions it came with
Verdict
Easy to use, it comes with a detachable ramp, which will help you maneuver your bike easier, while thanks to its already installed taillights, you won’t’ have to worry about other cars. Additionally, it comes with an anti-tilt system which will make sure your bike is secured, while thanks to its 4 retractable tie-down bars, you can have peace of mind even on bumpy roads.
Specifications
- Capacity: 500 pounds
- Material : Heavy-duty steel with powder coated finish
- Vehicle class hitch receiver : II, III, IV or V
- Locking system :
- Dimension : 76” x 7”
- Loading ramp included :
It measures
76” in length and 7” in width, therefore it is large enough to support several types of bikes, yet still compact for a hassle-free store, and it is relatively easy to maneuver around as it weighs 48.22 pounds. Made from
heavy-duty steel, it is sturdy and durable, as it can support bikes that weigh up to 500 pounds, while thanks to its powder-coat it won’t rust or corrode with time. Therefore, it can be used with motocross bikes, scooters, and off-road dirt bikes.
Additionally, it features easy installation, as it comes with 8 bolts and nuts included. Incorporated with it is a loading ramp, which will increase the easiness of loading and unloading your bike, as it measures 38.5” in length and 4.75” in width. Even more, it can be stored onboard, so you’ll be able to take it with you. The main tube hitch is 18” in length, and the unit is compatible with any 2” square receiver, as well as classes II, III, IV or V, for trailer hitches.
PROS
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy and durable
- Comes with detachable loading ramp
CONS
- Some complained about the instruction manual not being clear
- The trailer pin is not included
Verdict
Sturdy and durable, thanks to its steel construction and powder-coat finish, it can support up to 500 pounds. It comes with a loading ramp that can be installed on both sides, making the loading and unloading process easier. However, the trailer pin is not included, so you’ll have to buy it separately.
11. MotoGroup Carrier Closeout
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MotoGroup Carrier Closeout
Specifications
- Capacity : 400 pounds
- Material: Lightweight aluminum
- Vehicle class hitch receiver: II, III, IV, V
- Locking system : Anti-wobble
- Dimension: 75” x 7.5”
- Loading ramp included:
It is made from
lightweight aircraft aluminum, and it has a grey powder-coated steel sub-frame, therefore you won’t ever have to worry about corrosion or rust. It can be easily maneuvered around, as it weighs only 36 pounds, and it measures 75 inches in length and 7.5 inches in width. It can hold
up to 400 pounds, and it can be used with off-road dirt bikes, motocross bikes, and scooters with tires that are up to 5 ½” width. It can also fit any motorcycle and scooter that reaches up to 75 inches in length.
It is compatible with any class II, III, IV or V trailer hitches, as well as any 2-inch hitch receivers. Additionally, the unit comes with a loading ramp which can be stored onboard, can be used on both sides, and it measures 6.5 inches in width and 47 inches in length. Moreover, it comes with an anti-wobble feature. Thanks to the 3 locking screws that will keep your bike in place, you don’t have to worry about it, regardless of how bumpy the road is. It comes with a limited 2-year warranty from the moment of your purchase.
PROS
- Rust and corrosion-free
- Self-storing loading ramp
- Sturdy and durable
CONS
- Trailer hitch pin is not included
- There were some complaints about the ramp
Verdict
Easy to use, it is made from lightweight aircraft aluminum, therefore not only can you feely maneuver it around as it is lightweight, but it is also rust-proof and corrosion-free. Additionally, it comes with a loading ramp, which will help you easily set your bike, and an anti-wobble system, to prevent it from moving even on bumpy roads.
Installing The Right Equipment
To be able to take your motorcycle with you while traveling offers you peace of mind and certain, peculiar freedom which you can’t feel unless you’ve traveled at least once with one. While the concept of taking your bike with you might be entertaining and seem, at first sight, simple, it can, however, pose certain complications. There are
several features you have to keep in mind when you decide to engage in traveling with your motorcycle, some of which might even pose a serious danger for those in traffic.
Get the right equipment for your car and motorcycle
You have to keep in mind that with different types of cars and motorcycle come different types of hitch carriers. While some may work perfectly for many, you should check if it’s a match for you, as well.
What to keep in mind?
- Construction material: steel or aluminum. While both are durable, resistant and corrosion free, there are differences that will make a huge impact on your choice. Despite being heavier than aluminum, steel can withstand heavy-duty motorbikes. So, if your bike is on the heavy side, it’s best to choose a steel carrier.
- Hitch compatibility. Now that you’ve chosen the material, you have to keep in mind your car type. Is it an SUV? A family car? A van? They range from class I to V and their tongue capacity goes higher as they go up. For example, class I has a tongue capacity of 300 pounds, class III of 1200 pounds and class V of 2700 pounds. Thus, check your car and see in which class it fits.
- Carrier’s loading capacity. Ok, you made sure your car can handle your bike. But can your carrier handle your bike? There are several carriers with different capacity loads, like 400 up to 600 pounds. According to your bike type – lightweight or heavy-duty – you will have to pick one or the other.
- Installation and accessories. A feature that can be a deal breaker for many is how fast you can install your carrier. Plus, it is best if it comes with additional accessories like a ramp, so you can load and unload your bike faster and easier.
How to install a motorcycle support in 5 steps
While it is always best to consult the manual they come with, there are a few steps that can be found in all types of carriers.
- Step 1. Put together the hitch bar and support brackets using a head bolt, nuts or the lock washers. Be sure to tighten them.
- Step 2. Attach the motorcycle rack to the hitch bar alongside the support brackets. Secure it in place with the bolts or nuts you received with it.
- Step 3. Install the tie-down arms and the wheel stop, to the long bar along the tire track and be sure to have them secured as well.
- Step 4. Mount the ramp as it gives you more accessibility, easy maneuvering and hassle-free loading and unloading.
- Step 5. Load the bike and secure it to the carrier. Use the tie-down straps and secure your bine in place, making sure it is wobble and rattle-free.
Tip! Before you start your journey, make sure your bike doesn’t block your car’s license plate and tail lights. If it does, though, install additional lights on your carrier if it allows, so you will be on the safe side of the journey
All in all, it is important to pick up a hitch that will fit both your car and your bike when you decide traveling, as it will make your journey, easier, more pleasant and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
? Are they safe?
Yes they are. Even more, they provide a hassle-free way of taking your bike with you when you go on holiday.
? What are the hitch receiver classes?
The class I hitch receiver class includes light trailers and accessories, and are usually used with bike racks, jet skis or tent campers. They are usually attached to any type of compact vehicle, sedan autos or CUVs. The class II receivers are used for medium-weight trailers and accessories which include bike racks, boats, or campers, and are usually used with sedans, CUVs or minivans.
Class III includes larger trailers and similar accessories, like campers, boats or utilities, and they can be used with vehicles like SUVs, pickups or vans. Class IV is similar to the class III, with a few exceptions: it can be used with campers, and horse ‘homes’, and they can be attached to large SUVs, pickup trucks or vans. Last but not least, class V hitches can be used to transport extra-large weight, that goes up to 12.000 pounds, like heavy campers, or utility trailers, and they can only be used with large SUVs, pickup trucks or vans.
? What types of bikes can I put on the carrier?
The bike type you can take with you is highly dependent on a few factors. The bike carriers can hold up to 600 pounds maximum, so you’ll have to make sure your bike is the right weight, as otherwise, the carrier won’t be able to sustain it. Aside from the bike’s weight, you’ll also have to consider its length. Is the carrier long enough to keep the entire bike’s length? Also, once you’ve determined that the carrier and bike type match, ensure your car can hold that much additional weight.
? Will my car be damaged in the process?
No, it won’t. If you stick to the instructions and keep the bike within the carrier’s weight limit and you choose an adequate type of car, there shouldn’t be any unpleasant incidents along the way.
? How do I install one?
Firstly you have to install the hitch and the brackets on which the carrier would stand. When that has been done, place the carrier and secure it with bolts. If it comes with anti-tilting devices, install them next. Set the rack on the hitch, secure it with the hitch pin and place the ramp. Secure everything in place before you attempt to load the bike.
Whenever you go on a trip, and you don’t want to leave your bike at home, you can easily take it with you if you have the right tow hitch. A secure way to travel, the right type of carrier will make sure your bike arrives safe and sound to your destination. So, if you’re still not sure which unit suits your needs best, let’s review them once again quick:
Best Overall
: Black Widow AMC-400
Black Widow AMC-400 is not only powerful and strong, as it can support up to 400 pounds, but it also comes with a self-storing ramp, which will help you maneuver your bike easier. It is rust and corrosion resistant, so you won’t have to worry about rain, and it features an anti-rattling system that will make sure your bike is in place even on bumpy roads.
Our Choice
: Goplus Motorcycle Carrier
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty unit, then you should consider Goplus Motorcycle Carrier. It is made from impermeable steel construction, so you don’t have to worry about its durability, and it can hold up to 600 pounds. Moreover, it comes with a raised, adjustable wheel stop, which will ensure the stability of our bike, and a hitch-pin, so you’ll easily be able to attach it to your car. Furthermore, to aid you in loading your bike, it comes with a long, 72-inch ramp, while thanks to its anti-wobble system, it offers you great support when traveling.
Best Budget-friendly Motorcycle Tow Hitch
: Direct Aftermarket Steel Motorcycle Carrier
If you’re on a restricted budget and you don’t want to leave your bike at home, Direct Aftermarket’s Steel Motorcycle Carrier is an option you should consider. With an asking price under $100, it provides you with a capacity of 500 pounds, making it a perfect match for several types of classic motorcycle models, street bikes, sport types or off-road models. The anti-tilt will make sure your bike is stable during the trip, while the epoxy powder coating will keep away rust and corrosion, so you don’t have to worry if you encounter rain on the road.
Best Weight Capacity
: Black Widow MCC-600
If your motorcycle is a bit on the heavy side and you’re looking for a sturdier carrier, Black Widow’s MCC-600 comes with a heavy-duty capacity of 600 pounds. Sturdy enough to transport off-road bikes, street cruisers, or sports models, it comes with an anti-tilting safety feature which will make sure your bike remains in place regardless of how bumpy the road might be. Additionally, it comes with a self-storing ramp, which will lessen the struggle of loading and unloading your bike.
