Forum Discussion

Geocritter's avatar
Geocritter
Explorer
May 16, 2014

Hitch-mounted motorcycle rack

My toad is a 2005 Dodge Caravan. The Caravan is equipped with a Draw-Tite 1-1/4” class II hitch which has a rated tongue weight of 300 lbs. My motorcycle has a wet weight of 280 lbs, the motorcycle rack and needed 1-1/4” to 2” adapter weighs 50 lbs, thereby pushing the tongue weight to 330 lbs or 10% over the manufacturers stated weight. Before I go to the bother and expense of reequipping my Caravan with a class III/IV hitch (for only a 50 lb tongue weight capacity gain) I have to ask if anyone has used one of these hitch-mounted motorcycle racks under similar conditions.

In addition, I’ve also thought about putting a trailer hitch extension on my rigs class IV RV trailer hitch turning it into both a trailer hitch for my toad and a motorcycle rack for my motorcycle. However, the leverage created by such an extension concerns me. I currently carry my motorcycle in the rear of my Caravan during relocations but loading/unloading is a royal pain.

What to do, what to do? If only I had an unlimited budget!

Steve
Seeking Advice
  • Geocritter's avatar
    Geocritter
    Explorer
    May 19, 2014
    Valkyriebush wrote:
    Since you frame is not a unibody, I think you'll be fine. Not sure of the effects of the front end being higher on a tow dolly? Hope it doesn't act tail heavy and weave? Good luck.

    I've already been hauling the motorcycle inside the Caravan with no problem (other than it's a pain to get out). I'm thinking that at about 300 lbs total weight of the bike and C channel frame I doubt that it'll be a problem. Not to mention the fact that front wheel drive vehicles tend to be front end heavy just by the way they're built.

    I'm actually warming up to the idea of building my own carrier, this way I can haul the cycle with me when I go exploring and have it to use out in the boonies where my Caravan can't go.
  • Extremist's avatar
    Extremist
    Explorer
    May 19, 2014
    Valkyriebush wrote:
    X-2 Versahaul. 3000lb additional towing limit is why I use it on the jeep, not the RV. Had two metal plates attached to hitch undercarriage attaching hitch to bumper as well for reinforcement, and unibody braced. Used mainly for hauling only. Although I've driven the jeep short distance w/scoot loaded, I avoid it. It ain't going nowhere unless the rear of the jeep goes with it. :) I think you'll be ok, 50lb over, I wouldn't worry about it. My set up weights about 500lbs.


    Click For Full-Size Photo.


    Nice Big Ruck! I have a clone and use the same hauler on my Jeep Commander or the back of the 31' Class C. Works great!

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