Forum Discussion

tuna_fisher's avatar
tuna_fisher
Explorer
Aug 05, 2016

Front carrier motorcycle

I've carried my CT110 up front for years with no problems, it weighs 200lb, my question is I want to carry a heavier bike that weighs 300lb. Now I know a diesel is front heavy anyway. Does anybody see any problem carrying the more weight up front? I know it's only another 100lbs but where do you draw the line?
  • :) Hey how have you been?! Has the carrier been working ok for you all this time?

    I doubt the extra 100 lbs would put your truck over the front axle weight limit, unless you're already very close. Have you weighed the front axle with the camper and motorcycle on it?

    If it feels nose-heavy with the bigger bike, or is too close or over the rating, you may be able to change the front springs to heavier duty ones. I think your truck has torsion bar front suspension?

    Also check the weight carrying rating of your receiver hitch.
  • Carrier has been great except it's going to the new owner of my CT and now I want to keep it as I think the TW I'm getting will fit on it and don't know how to tell the guy No as he's driving all the way from Wa. also my Rox risers I want to keep. I'll weigh the truck as that's the only way to know for sure. Are you still fab stuff now that your in Az.?
  • Timely topic for me as I'm contemplating doing the same but with a heavier bike. My weight including a carrier may be close to 400# (XL650). My big question is if anybody has used the front tow hook mounts on the SD Fords as receivers? This would distribute the load, help prevent sway.

    I also am curious to the legalities, if I have my headlights unobstructed.
  • tuna fisher wrote:
    Carrier has been great except it's going to the new owner of my CT and now I want to keep it as I think the TW I'm getting will fit on it and don't know how to tell the guy No as he's driving all the way from Wa. also my Rox risers I want to keep. I'll weigh the truck as that's the only way to know for sure. Are you still fab stuff now that your in Az.?
    Glad to hear it's still working good!

    Yes I still do welding and fabrication, in my new/bigger shop, near Wickenburg. You're welcome to call any time, same California phone number.
  • tuna fisher wrote:
    I've carried my CT110 up front for years with no problems, it weighs 200lb, my question is I want to carry a heavier bike that weighs 300lb. Now I know a diesel is front heavy anyway. Does anybody see any problem carrying the more weight up front? I know it's only another 100lbs but where do you draw the line?


    The line is drawn by the the front axle capacity . Just for reference , all winter I carry a 1000# snow plow up front .