I currently use my front hitch to carry my generator and extra fuel. I would like to use my rear hitch to carry a relatively lightweight motorcycle. (280 lbs.)I have to clear my rear bumper and Fox Landing so I would need to use a 41" Hitch Extension like a Titan Hitch Extension.The 41" Extension is rated for 500 lb. tongue weight. Does anyone have any experience with using a hitch extension for hauling something like a motorcycle as opposed to towing.I will probably be able to strengthen the set up with diagonal cables or chains with a tensioner.It seems that as long as I am substantially under the 500 lb tongue weight, I should be ok. Or am I missing something? A Verahaul VH 55 is 74 lbs so my total weight would be under 400 lbs.Thoughts?

Is that 500 lb weight limit static? Seems like when going over bumps the weight of that motorcycle can become significantly more.

mkletka wrote:Is that 500 lb weight limit static? Seems like when going over bumps the weight of that motorcycle can become significantly more.I thought about that, but isn't the same true for the 500 lbs of the front of the trailer bouncing down the road. I'm not sure. Good question.

The torque due to the extension is what I would be concerned with. Why not put the motorcycle on the front and the lighter load at the back. I have driven the last 2 years with a motorcycle in front. It collects bug, but if it was at the back it would be collecting mud and road grime when it rains.

Do you already have a Reese hitch on your truck? I have a Torklift Super Hitch with twin receivers and they make a 42" Super Truss that will carry 1,200 lbs. of tongue weight.

GeoBoy wrote:Do you already have a Reese hitch on your truck? I have a Torklift Super Hitch with twin receivers and they make a 42" Super Truss that will carry 1,200 lbs. of tongue weight.600 lbs, you can do 1200 only with a weight distribution hitch.

TC Hitch Extension/Motorcycle Carry | Good Sam Community

mkletka
Explorer
Jun 22, 2013
Is that 500 lb weight limit static? Seems like when going over bumps the weight of that motorcycle can become significantly more.
Crazy_Creek
Explorer
Jun 22, 2013
mkletka wrote:
Is that 500 lb weight limit static? Seems like when going over bumps the weight of that motorcycle can become significantly more.

I thought about that, but isn't the same true for the 500 lbs of the front of the trailer bouncing down the road. I'm not sure.

Good question.
ejfranz
Explorer
Jun 23, 2013
The torque due to the extension is what I would be concerned with. Why not put the motorcycle on the front and the lighter load at the back. I have driven the last 2 years with a motorcycle in front. It collects bug, but if it was at the back it would be collecting mud and road grime when it rains.
GeoBoy
Explorer
Jun 23, 2013
Do you already have a Reese hitch on your truck? I have a Torklift Super Hitch with twin receivers and they make a 42" Super Truss that will carry 1,200 lbs. of tongue weight.
mountainkowboy
Explorer
Jun 23, 2013
GeoBoy wrote:
Do you already have a Reese hitch on your truck? I have a Torklift Super Hitch with twin receivers and they make a 42" Super Truss that will carry 1,200 lbs. of tongue weight.

600 lbs, you can do 1200 only with a weight distribution hitch.
Crazy_Creek
Explorer
Jun 23, 2013
I guess it has been done. Looks like he is bracing to the jacks.
CAJW
Explorer
Jun 23, 2013
CC,
I've got a 300 lb. DRZ400 that I'm probably going to put a double receiver hitch up front to carry it as opposed to my current enclosed trailer, but would be interested to see what you come up with. Depending on one's rig, moving the weight up front seems to be where the smart money is, but if you have the axle capacity and lucky enough to have a side entrance, then the rear mount would be a good setup.
Crazy_Creek
Explorer
Jun 23, 2013
Reasons I am thinking rear mount.

1. My Fox Landing (entry steps) are essentially side entry so the bike is not in the way if carried in rear.

2. I am at my front axle rating now with the generator and box up front. My camper is only 9.5 long so there is more weight forward.

3. I can't see my generator box so it does not obstruct my view. The bike will be a different story if I mounted it up front.

4. The generator box does not block air flow or headlights. I am not sure that would be true about a bike mounted on the front.
Hey_there
Explorer
Jun 23, 2013
edited by me.
ecoast
Explorer
Jun 23, 2013
I carry a similar bike; in front...BUT- on the way back today, saw a guy w/a small pickup and he was towing with front wheel elevated in chock type arrangement...

dunno if he removed chain.

Looks like it is a bit easier to load, and of course, practically no weight on hitch.
I liked it, and am thinking of trying that next.