Trailer hitch rack for dirtbike?

[Jason277]

I just picked up a used Suzuki R -Z400, Im looking for any suggestions or things to watch out for regarding trailer hitch racks? The bike weights 317-320 lbs. I have a 6 speed Tacoma . Thanks in advance Jason

 

[Mike Islander]

Weight is probably the big differentiator. Also the stabilizing fixture. The Harbor Freight aluminum model is $160. It's a decent unit. Lasted about 6 years, then I changed to a Black Widow.

 

[Jason277]

Weight is probably the big differentiator. Also the stabilizing fixture. The Harbor Freight aluminum model is $160. It's a decent unit. Lasted about 6 years, then I changed to a Black Widow.

How do you like the Black Widow?

 

[Steve300xcw]

A block under the skid plate is a nice thing. Lets you pull down on your straps and not have the suspension fighting you.

 

[mtnbound]

I just picked up a used Suzuki R -Z400, Im looking for any suggestions or things to watch out for regarding trailer hitch racks? The bike weights 317-320 lbs. I have a 6 speed Tacoma . Thanks in advance Jason

I have this one.

Tilting Dirt Bike Hitch Carrier for Hassle-Free Loading

Based in Brooklyn, NY, Mockins specializes in versatile automotive essentials. Our innovative product line features heavy-duty hitch cargo carrier sets, adaptable car roof storage, durable cargo bags, road-tested truck grille guards, secure car covers, and more. Mockins - Built for the Long Haul.

mockins.com

 

[Blockcaver]

I don't have enough miles or time on my Black Widow to tell you anything useful....a year and maybe 500 miles with a 200# Honda Trail 110 on board. And over the last 5 months just one 130 mile trip with a 240# Yamaha XT225 that replaced the Trail 110.

The Black Widow seems to be fairly well built but not sure I'd want the Yamaha on it for say a 5,000 mile trip to AZ over the next 6 weeks. Seems to have a bit too much rocking motion. I'd ultimately be concerned about fatigue failure of the aluminum rails, bolts, etc. Would be ugly to have a carrier failure and the bike dragging along behind for a bit.

 

[Steve300xcw]

And you do know you can put the bike in the bed of the truck right?

 

[DuckDawg22]

You'll definitely want an anti-rattle clamp to lock the rack to your hitch, not just for security but to keep it from wobbling. Think about how much slop most ball mounts have and then think about 350 pounds back there. My mom worked at an aerospace fab shop and their guys welded me one up for my RM250 a dozen years ago. Used it on my 2 door Explorer Sport. Had to add airbags to the back of that thing and I still drug across most driveways. Why not run the bike in your bed and get a hitch-mount cargo rack if space is an issue? The DRZ is kind of a pig

 

[Haro450]

I have the more heavy duty one from harbor freight. I have traveled all of and never had a problem. Ran it on the front of my truck because I pull and camp trailer and only have a 5.5ft bed. They work great. Run the anti raddle clamp and make sure lights are visible is my only advice.

 

[Blockcaver]

The Aluminum Black Widow I have does have the anti-rattle clamp which helps reduce rocking, but still had some rocking even with lighter 200# or 240# bikes on board.

 

[Sully_44]

A block under the skid plate is a nice thing. Lets you pull down on your straps and not have the suspension fighting you.

When you’re going on a week long or longer hunting trip by yourself, let alone with a buddy or two, those mid size trucks fill up quick. The hitch racks are awesome for extra bed space without hauling a trailer. Plus, loading a bike 18 inches off the ground vs 3 feet is so much easier and safer.

 

[Steve300xcw]

When you’re going on a week long or longer hunting trip by yourself, let alone with a buddy or two, those mid size trucks fill up quick. The hitch racks are awesome for extra bed space without hauling a trailer. Plus, loading a bike 18 inches off the ground vs 3 feet is so much easier

Makes plenty of sense

and safer.

If loading a bike in the bed of a truck is too dangerous for you. Should you really be riding one?

 

[Sully_44]

Makes plenty of sense




If loading a bike in the bed of a truck is too dangerous for you. Should you really be riding one?

I bought my first bike when I was 5 years old and have ridden in multiple states and countries. 90% of the time loading is not an issue. I know multiple people including myself that have either crashed or gotten injured some other way while away from the truck. When you’re alone and it takes all you’ve got just to hold on to the bike (hurt arms, or legs, or in my case a broken shoulder), it sure is nice not to have to ride into the bed of a truck.

With your logic, should we get rid of seat belts, PPE on construction sites and science labs, kids car seats, safeties on guns, and anything else that helps with some form of safety in our lives?

 

[Steve300xcw]

I bought my first bike when I was 5 years old

really?

and have ridden in multiple states and countries. 90% of the time loading is not an issue. I know multiple people including myself that have either crashed or gotten injured some other way while away from the truck. When you’re alone and it takes all you’ve got just to hold on to the bike (hurt arms, or legs, or in my case a broken shoulder), it sure is nice not to have to ride into the bed of a truck.

Yes getting hurt sucks

With your logic, should we get rid of seat belts, PPE on construction sites and science labs, kids car seats, safeties on guns, and anything else that helps with some form of safety in our lives?

Really reaching here arent ya

 

[Steve300xcw]

Something else thats handy if you do load in the truck, and need a lil extra room. Is one of the folding ramps