Hitch Mounted Motorcycle Rack

[Lindan n Jim]

I guess this is kind of a TOAD question..........

We won't have enough time to research, acquire, prepare and hook up a toad for our big trip coming up. Plus, I'm running out of money for the project! LOL!

As an alternative, we are exploring the option of going with a hitch mounted motorcycle carrier. We have seen a couple that appear to be pretty stout. They'll have to be to handle our Goldwing (mine) or our Concours (DWs). Goldwing runs about 900# and the Concours about #800 wet.

They look like they fit into the receiver and have a channel the tires sit in. There also appears to be some additional structure that is used for tiedowms.

Anyone have any experience with any of these? Recommendations? I'm a little leery of some of them. but I like the idea of having another vehicle without having to deal with a trailer/lighting/parking/etc.

[A32Deuce]

Better check and see if you have a hitch receiver that can handle that weight first.

[Lindan n Jim]

Should be close. Towing capacity is 5,000#, but hitch weight capacity is 500#.

oops. uh.....good call.........

[Lindan n Jim]

I just spoke with a motorcycle carrier manufacturer and he said their carriers are most definitely NOT recommended for installation on motorhomes. He said the "bounce" was too much for the bike and the carrier itself.

Good to know for future information.

[Podivin]

I agree that the bounce of just the Goldwing would be substantial.
Could you use a bike trailer instead, or are you trying to avoid having another set of wheels on the ground at all?
I've towed these behind a car, nothing to it.
Tracks for the tires and good tie-down spots.

[vsheetz]

Way too much motorcycle to put on there. Unless you have a DP with the carry capacity and something stout such as a hydralift setup.

Way back when I had a motorcycle tow setup that plugged into a receiver and cradled the front tire. The rear tire, and most if the weight, was then on the ground. Maybe something like this would an option.

[FIRE UP]

Originally Posted by Lindan n Jim

I just spoke with a motorcycle carrier manufacturer and he said their carriers are most definitely NOT recommended for installation on motorhomes. He said the "bounce" was too much for the bike and the carrier itself.

Good to know for future information.

Well,
As you've read, the system needed to carry a Honda Goldwing, or Concourse is quite substantial. I know, I did it. I installed a Hydralift. It by far, is the most outstanding lift/carrier on the market for this application. But, a couple of items here.

1. VERY costly, new--about $4,500, not including tax, shipping and install.
2. While it is the best unit, there's a whole TON of stuff to consider prior to the project.

There are multiple alternatives to your issue.

1. A trailer, open, closed or in between.
2. tow a pickup and let it carry the Wing, that's how we presently do it.

There's also this:

https://www.google.com/maps/uv?hl=en...DlsQoioIoQEwDg

We've also considered this. This company is here in our local town of Lake Havasu City AZ. I've seen those units up and close. Pretty darn good construction. There is little to no weight on rear of the motor home. And, it's easy to back up, if and when needed. Just something to think about.
Scott