j-d wrote:
We get into motorbike/cycle carriage on the main Class C forum. A number of us do it, but not me personally. There's a formula, detailing how many KG will load the rear axle and unload the front, depending on wheelbase, overhang from Axle to weight of Bike, and of course Weight of Bike. What does the Bike weigh, and do you have reserve capacity on the rear axle? My guess is, you'd be OK carrying that bike on either end of your Class C, rear probably better.
j-d -- you beat me to it. Unloading the front axle due to extra rear weight is the most important factor as it can/will affect vehicle handling. The Dana 70 axle and rear suspension in most motorhomes can handle any reasonably added weight.
The weight capacity of the receiver hitch is also a consideration. In this case, the tongue weight capacity of the hitch is a controlling factor. IIRC, 500 pounds tongue weight is the limit for most Class III receiver hitches without load-distributing hardware. Personally, I wouldn't put more than 250 pounds on a receiver hitch mounted carrier. Even then, I'd expect some effect on vehicle handling.
I cringe whenever I see a heavily loaded receiver hitch carrier. I also give such vehicles extra room on the highway because they are -- to various degrees -- an accident waiting to happen.
I often ask people why they don't just go to a small trailer instead of a receiver hitch carrier. (Corporation would have been unhappy if they knew I recommend customers get a small trailer from Lowes or Home Depot instead of selling them a special order receiver hitch carrier.)
Eric -- the fat off-road tires on your Suzuki may create problems for you. Most motorcycle carriers are made for narrower highway motorcycle tires.
You'll want to make sure the motorcycle is secure to the carrier and the motorhome. Bungee cords won't be sufficient because they'll allow the bike to wiggle, creating more stress on the carrier and hitch.
Theft is a potential problem so you'll want to use a padlock and chain. Run the chain through the motorcycle frame as well as both tires. You can also run the chain through the hitch safety chain brackets so someone doesn't just disconnect the carrier from the receiver. Finally, a locking drawbar pin would be a good idea. (Hitch drawbars and carriers tend to disappear in parking lots.) Thieves are opportunists so the more difficult you make it, the more likely they are to try elsewhere.
