As a motorcycle enthusiast and specialist, I know firsthand the importance of finding the right accessories to transport your beloved bike. One of the most reliable and efficient ways to carry your motorcycle is by using a hitch carrier. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss how to choose the best hitch carrier for motorcycles, the type of vehicles you’ll need, the advantages of using a hitch carrier, and the importance of safety. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
How to Choose the Best Hitch Carrier for Your Motorcycle
To select the perfect hitch carrier, consider the following factors:
- Weight capacity: It is crucial to choose a carrier that can support the weight of your motorcycle. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the carrier’s weight limit and ensure it matches your bike’s weight.
- Hitch compatibility: Hitch carriers come in various sizes and classes, ranging from Class I to Class V. Ensure your vehicle’s hitch receiver matches the hitch carrier’s class and size.
- Material and build quality: Look for carriers made from high-quality materials such as steel or aluminum. These materials provide durability, strength, and resistance to corrosion.
- Ease of installation and use: Opt for carriers with user-friendly installation procedures and features that allow for smooth loading and unloading of your motorcycle.
- Price: Set a budget and compare the features and quality of hitch carriers within your price range.
What Kind of Vehicles Are Suitable for Hitch Carriers?
For the best hitch carrier experience, you need a vehicle with the following characteristics:
- Adequate towing capacity: Ensure your vehicle can handle the combined weight of the hitch carrier and your motorcycle.
- A hitch receiver: Your vehicle must have a hitch receiver that is compatible with the hitch carrier’s class and size.
- Stability: SUVs, trucks, and vans generally provide better stability for carrying motorcycles compared to compact cars.
Advantages of Using a Motorcycle Hitch Carrier
Here are some of the benefits of using a hitch carrier:
- Convenience: Hitch carriers make it easy to transport your motorcycle without the need for a trailer.
- Space-saving: Unlike trailers, hitch carriers do not require additional parking space and can easily be stored when not in use.
- Improved fuel efficiency: Hitch carriers reduce wind resistance compared to traditional trailers, leading to better fuel economy.
- Cost-effective: Hitch carriers are generally more affordable than trailers and do not require registration or insurance.
Safety Precautions for Hitch Carriers
Safety should be your top priority when using a hitch carrier. Follow these tips for a secure experience:
- Inspect the carrier: Regularly check for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage.
- Secure the motorcycle: Use high-quality straps and ratchets to secure your motorcycle firmly to the carrier.
- Load the carrier correctly: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper loading and weight distribution.
- Drive cautiously: Be mindful of your vehicle’s increased length and width when using a hitch carrier. Adjust your driving style accordingly, especially when turning or reversing.
Our selection:
Black Widow MCC-600 Heavy-Duty Steel Motorcycle Carrier (Click on link to shop)
The Black Widow MCC-600 Heavy-Duty Steel Motorcycle Carrier is an excellent choice for transporting your motorcycle, dirt bike, or scooter. With a massive 600 lb. capacity, it’s suitable for all but the largest bikes. In this review, we will discuss the specifications, features, benefits, and usage guidelines of the MCC-600, making it easier for you to determine if it’s the right choice for your needs.
Specifications
- Track: 79″ L x 8″ W
- Ramp: 71″ L x 7.5″ W
- Maximum Capacity: 600 lbs.
- Weight: 98 lbs.
- Hitch Size/Class: 2″/ III or IV
- Material: Steel
Features & Benefits
Traction Coating on Ramp and Track
The diamond tread and traction coating on the ramp make loading your bike a breeze. The track is also coated to maintain grip and prevent slipping.
Extra-Long Loading Ramp
The 71″ long ramp with traction coating provides a gentle slope for easy loading and unloading, ensuring safe and hassle-free transportation.
Anti-Wobble and Anti-Rattle Device
The included anti-rattle device eliminates tilt and wobble while the carrier is in use, providing a more stable and secure experience.
Built-In Adjustable Wheel Chock
The integrated wheel chock located at the front of the track features a customizable seven-position design, ensuring optimal security for various bike sizes. Four integrated tie-down points further enhance stability during transportation.
The Black Widow MCC-600 Heavy-Duty Steel Motorcycle Carrier offers a cost-effective and convenient solution for transporting motorcycles, dirt bikes, and scooters. Its robust design, safety features, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for any powersports enthusiast. Whether you’re going on a road trip or need to transport your bike to a track, the MCC-600 is a reliable and efficient option.
MotoTote m3 Motorcycle Carrier (Click on link to shop)
The MotoTote m3 Motorcycle Carrier is a versatile and reliable hitch-mounted rack designed for dirt bikes, scooters, and mopeds. With a 500 lb. weight capacity and innovative features, the m3 carrier ensures optimal performance both on the road and during loading. This review will cover the technologies and features of the MotoTote m3, helping you decide if it’s the perfect carrier for your needs.
Technologies & Features
MTX Platform
The heavy-duty steel main support connects to 2″ receivers, hauls up to 500 lbs., and supports track/chock adjustability. The platform is designed to accommodate the attachment of innovative components for enhanced performance.
Angled Steel Track
The angled track features advanced geometry to secure rear tires up to 6″ wide and adjusts to accommodate wheelbases up to 65″. This design ensures your bike stays firmly in place during transportation.
StableStop Chock
The adjustable front tire mount can secure tires up to 4.75″ wide, providing lateral support and holding the bike upright while securing tie downs. This feature ensures your motorcycle remains stable throughout the journey.
EasyLoad Ramp
The longer webbed steel ramp reduces the angle, maximizing traction and preventing bottoming out at the top of the ramp. The ramp hooks directly into the tire track, ensuring it will not disengage during loading, making it both safe and easy to use.
BroadPull Arms
The wide tie-down arms optimize strap angles and improve lateral support, providing additional stability for your motorcycle during transportation.
ZeroWobble Hitch Mount
The innovative bolt and nut assembly eliminates rack movement laterally in transport, ensuring a secure and steady ride for your motorcycle.
The MotoTote m3 Motorcycle Carrier is an excellent choice for those looking to transport their dirt bikes, scooters, or mopeds safely and efficiently. Its customizable MTX Platform, innovative attachments, and compatibility with any 2″ receiver make it a versatile and reliable option for a wide range of vehicles. With features such as the Angled Steel Track, StableStop Chock, and ZeroWobble Hitch Mount, the MotoTote m3 guarantees optimal performance and safety on the road.
MotoTote Max+ Motorcycle Carrier for Sport Bikes, Scramblers & Dual Sports (click on link to shop)
The MotoTote Max+ is a versatile and robust hitch carrier designed for sport bikes, scramblers, and dual sport motorcycles. As a wide tire variation of MotoTote’s popular m3 and Sport carriers, the Max+ is built on the reliable 600 lb. rated MTX platform and comes with improved stability, upgraded traction, and the ability to haul larger oversized tires. This review will cover the key technologies and features of the MotoTote Max+ to help you determine if it’s the right carrier for your needs.
Technologies & Features
MTX Platform
The heavy-duty steel main support connects to 2″ receivers and hauls up to 600 lbs. (272 kgs.). It supports track, chock, orientation, and distance from vehicle adjustability, as well as the attachment of innovative components.
MaxHold HD Tracks
The adjustable laser-cut track features improved geometry and reinforcements, offering unrivaled wedging and grip to secure a range of oversized rear tire sizes up to 9″ (229 mm) and adjusts for wheelbases up to 62″ (157 cm).
StableStop Chock Extra Wide
The adjustable tire mount secures front tires up to 5.5″ (139 mm), providing lateral support and holding the bike upright while securing tie-downs.
EasyLoad Ramp
The longer webbed steel ramp reduces the angle, maximizes traction, and eliminates bottoming out at the top of the ramp. The ramp hooks directly into the tire track, ensuring it will not disengage during loading.
BroadPull+ Arms
The extended length tie-down arms expand strap angles and maximize leverage, providing additional stability for your motorcycle during transportation.
ZeroWobble+ Hitch Mount
The upgraded mount eliminates rack movement laterally in transport and requires fewer tools for installation, making it easier than ever to attach to any 2″ receiver.
The MotoTote Max+ Motorcycle Carrier offers an excellent solution for those looking to transport their sport bikes, scramblers, or dual sport motorcycles with ease. Its wide tire compatibility, innovative attachments, and compatibility with any 2″ receiver make it a versatile and reliable option for a wide range of vehicles. With features such as the MaxHold HD Tracks, StableStop Chock Extra Wide, and ZeroWobble+ Hitch Mount, the MotoTote Max+ guarantees optimal performance and safety on the road, transforming your car, truck, van, or RV into a ruggedly robust motorcycle hauler.
Moto-Tote MTX Sport Bike Motorcycle Carrier (Click on link to shop)
The Moto-Tote MTX Sport Bike is the latest generation of Moto-Tote’s best-selling motorcycle carrier for sport bikes. Built upon years of customer feedback, this MTX version boasts innovative design and advanced manufacturing techniques that set it apart from the competition. Known for its product quality and sophistication, the Moto-Tote MTX Sport Bike carrier comes with several new features to ensure a seamless and secure experience for transporting your sport bike. This review will cover the key features of the Moto-Tote MTX Sport Bike carrier to help you determine if it’s the right carrier for your needs.
New Features
Loading Ramp Included
The MTX Sport Bike carrier comes with a premium-grade loading ramp that matches the rest of the unit’s construction quality. This makes loading and unloading your bike a breeze.
Easy One-Time Assembly with Minimal Tools
The carrier is designed for simple, one-time assembly using only a few tools. You can easily set it up and start using it in no time.
Reverse Assembly
The modular design allows for left or right assembly, catering to your specific needs and preferences.
Zero-Wobble Attachment to Hitch
The carrier features a zero-wobble attachment to the hitch, ensuring stability and safety during transport.
Clearance for Road Bike Fairings
The MTX Sport Bike carrier is designed to accommodate low-slung bikes with fairings, eliminating sharp edges that could scratch or gouge them. The rounded and tapered tail end of the tire track prevents damage to fairings during loading.
Tire Stick
The advanced formed tube and wire construction provides excellent traction for loading and includes a tire stick to keep the bike securely in place during transport.
Modular Design and Assembly
The carrier’s modular design allows you to assemble it according to your needs, such as left or right loading and wheelbase adjustments.
Premium Grade Hardware
Moto-Tote uses grade 8 capscrews (expensive) with nyloc nuts for superior durability and reliability.
Aircraft Inspired Beam Structure
The MTX carriers are built on the MTX Platform, a large diameter tube beam that provides structural support for all critical components. This construction ensures superior strength and structural integrity.
Adjustable for Wheelbases up to 65 Inches
The carrier can accommodate wheelbases of up to 65 inches, making it suitable for most sport bikes, which typically have wheelbases around 57 inches.
The Moto-Tote MTX Sport Bike Motorcycle Carrier offers an exceptional solution for transporting sport bikes. Its innovative features, premium-grade hardware, and attention to detail make it a top choice for riders who value quality and performance. With its easy assembly, modular design, and superior construction, the Moto-Tote MTX Sport Bike carrier ensures that your bike is transported safely and securely, giving you peace of mind on the road.
TUFFIOM Hitch Mount Motorcycle Carrier (Click the link to shop)
The TUFFIOM Hitch Mount Motorcycle Carrier is a reliable and durable solution for transporting your motorcycle, boasting a maximum loading capacity of 600lbs. This hitch mount carrier is made of high-quality steel and comes with added features like straps and reflective tapes for enhanced safety. With its adjustable wheel stop position, you can customize the carrier to fit your specific needs. This review will highlight the key features and specifications of the TUFFIOM Hitch Mount Motorcycle Carrier.
Features
Heavy-Duty Steel Construction
The TUFFIOM Hitch Mount Motorcycle Carrier is made of heavy-duty steel, ensuring its durability and resistance to rust. With its 600lbs weight capacity, you can trust this carrier to safely transport your motorcycle.
Loading Ramp Included
The carrier comes with a loading ramp, making it convenient and easy to load and unload your motorcycle. This feature is particularly helpful for those with heavier bikes.
Straps for Added Stability
Straps are included with the carrier to provide extra stability during transport, ensuring that your motorcycle stays secure throughout your journey.
Adjustable Wheel Stop Position
The carrier is designed with an adjustable wheel stop position, allowing you to customize the carrier to fit your specific needs. This feature ensures that your motorcycle is properly secured and accommodated.
Simple Structure and Easy Assembly
The TUFFIOM Hitch Mount Motorcycle Carrier has a simple structure, making it easy to assemble and start using.
The TUFFIOM Hitch Mount Motorcycle Carrier offers a strong, durable, and convenient solution for transporting your motorcycle. With its heavy-duty steel construction, adjustable wheel stop position, and loading ramp, this carrier ensures that your bike is safely and securely transported. The included straps and reflective tapes add an extra layer of safety, making the TUFFIOM Hitch Mount Motorcycle Carrier a reliable and trustworthy option for your motorcycle transportation needs.
Titan Ramps Motorcycle Carrier (Click on the link to shop)
The Titan Ramps motorcycle carrier is a versatile and convenient solution for transporting your motorcycle, dirt bike, scooter, or even bicycles that do not exceed the weight limit or tire width. With a robust 1,000 lb weight capacity and compatibility with tires up to 5 inches wide, this carrier is designed to handle a wide range of bikes. If your vehicle or trailer has a 2-inch receiver hitch, attaching the carrier is a breeze, allowing you to easily take your bike wherever you go.
Key Features
Rustproof Steel Construction
Constructed from rustproof steel, the Titan Ramps motorcycle carrier ensures durability and longevity, making it a reliable choice for transporting your bike.
Convenient Loading and Unloading
The carrier comes with a ramp that easily attaches to either end, using the included pins. This design makes loading and unloading your bike quick and convenient. Once your bike is loaded, simply remove the ramp pins and store the ramp in the designated pocket beneath the carrier.
Compatibility and Versatility
The Titan Ramps motorcycle carrier is compatible with any motorcycle, dirt bike, scooter, or bicycle that does not exceed the 1,000 lb weight capacity and has tires up to 5 inches wide. This versatility makes it a great choice for a wide range of bike enthusiasts.
Easy Attachment
The carrier is designed to easily attach to a 2-inch receiver hitch, making it simple to take your bike with you wherever you go.
The Titan Ramps motorcycle carrier is a versatile and reliable solution for transporting your bike. With its rustproof steel construction, convenient loading and unloading, and compatibility with a wide range of bikes, this carrier is an excellent choice for anyone looking to take their motorcycle, dirt bike, scooter, or bicycle on the road. Simply attach the carrier to a 2-inch receiver hitch and enjoy the freedom to take your bike wherever you want to go.
FAQ
Can you put a motorcycle on a hitch carrier?
Yes, you can put a motorcycle on a hitch-mounted trailer, provided that the trailer is specifically designed to carry motorcycles. Hitch-mounted motorcycle carriers or trailers are designed to attach to the hitch receiver of your vehicle, allowing you to transport your motorcycle securely and safely. These carriers come in various designs and weight capacities to accommodate different types and sizes of motorcycles.
Are hitch haulers safe?
Hitch haulers, also known as hitch-mounted carriers, can be safe when used correctly and with the appropriate weight limits. To ensure the safety of your hitch hauler, consider the following factors:
Vehicle compatibility: Make sure your vehicle’s hitch receiver can handle the weight of the hitch hauler and the load you plan to carry. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or consult the manufacturer for your vehicle’s maximum tongue weight and towing capacity.
Weight capacity: Choose a hitch hauler with a weight capacity that matches or exceeds the weight of the load you plan to carry. Overloading a hitch hauler can lead to instability, structural failure, and potential accidents.
Proper installation: Install the hitch hauler according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Ensure all parts are secure, and the carrier is mounted correctly to the hitch receiver. Tighten all bolts and fasteners, and use anti-rattle devices if needed to minimize wobble and movement.
Load distribution: Distribute the weight of your load evenly on the hitch hauler to maintain stability and prevent imbalances that could cause swaying or tipping.
Securing your load: Use straps, tie-downs, or other securing mechanisms recommended by the manufacturer to keep your load in place during transport. Ensure your motorcycle or cargo is properly secured to prevent movement, which could lead to accidents or damage.
Regular inspections: Regularly inspect the hitch hauler for any signs of wear, damage, or loose components. Address any issues immediately to maintain the safety and reliability of the carrier.
When used properly and with due attention to safety precautions, hitch haulers can be a safe and convenient way to transport motorcycles, cargo, and other items.
If you want to read more information on safety or failure, You can access this reddit here The general concensus is that it’s safe to use as long as you respect the points above.
In conclusion, selecting the best hitch carrier for motorcycles requires careful consideration of factors such as weight capacity, hitch compatibility, and build quality. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for hitch carriers and prioritize safety while using them. With the right carrier, you can enjoy the convenience and cost-effectiveness of transporting your motorcycle with ease.
