Hitch mounted bike carrier

[rdsarefun]

I was looking into purchasing a hitch mounted bike carrier as opposed to a ramp for my Tacoma.  I was wondering if anyone has used one of these and can give recommendations of what to look for.  Lots of cheap items on Amazon, not looking to spend a fortune but willing to spend extra for something sturdy and of quality.  Thanks 

[DesmoDrew]

I have this one. It works fine for hauling my dirt bikes. The heaviest I've ever had on there is a touch over 300 pounds. I've had it for several years, and I used it just the other day.  The 400# version works fine for me.

https://www.harborfreight.com/400-lb-capacity-receiver-mount-aluminum-motorcycle-carrier-62837.html

[Simoniz]

I've got this Black Widow one with the single rail. It works fine and is easy to load up. Only has tie down points in the middle across the rail, and can rattle a bit when driving if you don't put something in the receiver to dampen it down. I got it used and cheap so I don't mind that. I wouldn't put a Goldwing on it but most old RDs and the like will be just fine on it. I carried the scooter in the picture on a 9 hour drive with no issues.

[rodneya]

I recommend an anti rattle hitch clamp to stop it wobbling around soo much

[RDDave]

I recommend those anti rattle clamps for all hitches. We use them on every hitch that we have.

[irk_miller]

I've been using the Harbor Freight version for a few years now.  It's been great.  I've heard of guys putting big street bikes on theirs, though I wouldn't myself.

[rdsarefun]

Only putting an RD on it, ~350 pounds "wet".  I have heard horror stories of these bending, still on the fence about this or a ramp.  With the low ground clearance, ramps are a pain.  What does your bike weigh that you have on your van?

[irk_miller]

Only putting an RD on it, ~350 pounds "wet".  I have heard horror stories of these bending, still on the fence about this or a ramp.  With the low ground clearance, ramps are a pain.  What does your bike weigh that you have on your van?

The DR370 weighs about 270lbs.  My RD weighs 275lbs and I've carried it on there, as well.  The only things that have bent are two brackets for the straps on the receiver bar.  Nothing that effects the performance of the carrier.  The van has a 3" lift and adjustable air shocks on the rear. That pic is when I was loading the DR, so I don't think I've added air to the shocks yet. I like the height for loading the bikes.  It hasn't dragged the ground yet, afaik

[rdsarefun]

After much back and forth, ended up with a 10 foot long aluminum ramp rated at 600 pounds that folds in half verses a hitch carrier. Heavily discounted for $99, all in at $120 shipped to my door, Titan brand arched.

[scully]

I bought the 600 lb harbor frieght carrier and used it recently. worked fine easy to load and unload on the back of my f150...carrying my rd400.

[SoCal250]

If anyone is considering one of these carriers, here's a coupon good through Jan 1

[scully]

[axldk6]

I have been thinking about one myself, since I  sold my 2 bike trailer a while back. that Harbor freight one looks good tho. and btw , Scully thats one nice RD !