Hello:

I recently purchased a street bike, and I'm looking for transportation solutions. I'm trying to avoid purchasing a trailer. I'd prefer not to deal with the extended length, and I really don't have room for it.

I came across this motorcycle carrier, which fits within the tow hitch. This particular carrier is rated for 600lbs.

Has anyone tried one of these before?
If so, would you recommend it?
I have a class IV hitch, anything I should be concerned about?
Other possibilities are greatly appreciated!

I got the bike home by putting it in the back of my truck (tailgate down). Honestly, it was REALLY tough running the bike up the ramp. The truck sits so high, not sure if a 8-10' ramp would have been any easier. If I hear horror stories regarding the tow hitch carrier, I may have to opt for an extra wide ramp for the bed.

Below are pictures of the carrier and my new bike.






MY NEW BIKE

 

the only thing i would be concerned about is taking corners looks like the bike would wanna go right off the carrier but i am sure if it was strapped down good it wouldnt be an issue

 

I purchased one similar to that one but it had a rod with an adjustable arm which hooked over your motorcycle seat, no straps. Just stay away from the aluminum built ones, I know there lighter but I had one inwhich the aluminum fatigued and snapped off.

 

the hitch ones arent as bad as some people make them sound, although i would rather find an easier way to get it in my bed. I would personally feel safer that way. You're ninja's pretty light, just pick it up

 

don't have an opinion about the rack. i always just back the truck up to the end of my driveway that is sloped.. have used a ditch also.. makes it alot less steep going up the ramp into the back of the truck..

 

A single rail trailer costs under $800 brand new. Why make life difficult?

 

I have owned and used Kendon trailers before and they are just about perfect. They tilt up to store and take up very little room. Check them out at http://www.kendonusa.com/single_trailer.htm

 

The biggest concern is the weight on the hitch. Max tongue weight is, what, 500#s? Weight of the bike+weight of the carrier+ it's a lever(the distance the carrier sticks out from the receiver) all adds up.

I have one for my son's dirt bike and the 250# bike plus the hitch and the distance it sticks out brings it close to 500#s, the max of the hitch on my 1500. Mine is a single steel 2" bar with an aluminum platform.

Funny part is all the pics show a 1500 truck but when you get it delivered, then they have all the warnings about the weight plastered all over it.

 

I actually ended up purchasing the motorcycle carrier pictured above. I have the lightest sport bike (I think 335lbs dry) so hopefully it won't give me any issues...

After I get it and test it out, I'll post a follow up...

THANKS for the input