We have all been through the difficulty of carrying our motorcycles and bikes to load onto a vehicle to transport somewhere. The result, we look at the ways to haul our own motorcycle around by thinking about using motorcycle carriers and haulers for efficient transportation. In doing so, we find a lot of difficulties in choosing the right motorcycle hitch carrier to safely load it onto our car or truck. “Have you ever wondered why we face such difficulties in choosing the right motorcycle carrier?” I believe it is because we don’t give much thought to the body material and weight limit. This is why we either couldn’t decide to choose which motorcycle hitch carrier or we ended up with the wrong one.
Although you might be passionate about motorcycles, it’s not as if we’re always on the bike or motorcycle. Sometimes, we need to transport it, in fact, most commonly for dirt bikes and off-road riders, who regularly use motorcycle hitch carriers to transport the bike to ride on rough mountain terrains. In the past, riders used expensive motorcycle haulers. But, hitch carriers are more durable and are available at reasonable prices. So, if you are looking for a best motorcycle hitch carrier, then you can take advantage of this ultimate guide of the Best Motorcycle Hitch Carrier, which will give you the genuine reviews on the top 7 hitch carriers to buy in 2020 and how to choose the right motorcycle hitch carrier.
Check Also: Best Motorcycle Lifts & Stands Review of 2020
List of Top 7 Motorcycle Hitch Carriers
Best Motorcycle Hitch Carrier Reviews 2020
VersaHaul VH-55 Dirt Bike Hitch Carrier Review
The VersaHaul VH-55 hitch-mounted carrier is one of the most durable motorcycle carriers that was specifically designed for dirt bikes. At Motorcyclist Lifestyle, we understand how difficult it is to carry a dirt bike and mount on a hitch carrier for off-road riding. This is why we decided to put the VersaHaul hitch carrier on the first place our list. The reason for this is because of the high-precision techniques used by VersaHaul in designing this hitch carrier.
VersaHaul is a manufacturer and distributor of ATV, motorcycle, and scooter carriers. The carrier provides a carrying capacity of 500lbs. It fits any class 3 or 4 hitch. The VersaHaul hitch carrier comes with a ramp that will allow you to load and unload your dirt bike or any other motorcycle quite easily.
This hitch carrier is highly durable and heavy-duty. It is equipped with an anti-tilt lock bracket to offer additional protection to your ride and reduce any movement during transport.
The carrier rail is 71.5 inches in length and 6.375 inches wide. The ramp that comes with the VersaHaul hitch carrier is 57.5 inches in length and 5.5 inches in width. However, there are some downsides to the VersaHaul VH-55 hitch carrier.
For instance, the ramp is limited to only bikes that have a tire width of less than 5.5 inches. Also, if you own a Helix, Burgman, Gold Wing, or Majestic scooter, then these users cannot use the VH-55 ramp.
In my opinion, I would highly recommend this product for those riders who don’t use a trailer or pickup truck to carry their bikes and scooters. Also, I would highly recommend it if you are looking for a reliable solution to transport your dirt bike for off-road riding.
VersaHaul VH-55 Dirt Bike Hitch Carrier
Pros: Carrying Capacity of 500 lbs., Powercoat Finish, Fits Class III and Class IV hitch
Cons: A little expensive
GoPlus 600 LBS Hitch Carrier Review
If you are into a steel hitch mount carrier and looking for one that can be used to haul your dirt bike, then you can check out this GoPlus hitch mount carrier, which will give you a maximum capacity of 600 lbs. On top of that, you can save a few extra bucks on this one. I mean, if comparing to the Black Widow’s MCC-600 carrier, then it is quite cheap and has not all but many common features. It is constructed from heavy-duty steel, which has high strength and great toughness. This water-resistant steel will not rust in rain and can be used for years.
To some people, it is quite heavy but if you are a motorcyclist enthusiast, then you must understand the importance of why this item is heavy, which works well for lifting heavy bikes from one place to another. Plus, it has a carrier rack of 79”L x 8”W with a loading ramp of 72”L x 7.5”W.
You can use this 6 ft. ramp to lift heavy bikes easily and put it aside after lifting. This mount hitch carrier will work with the 2” vehicle receiver and the rail is 79” long with a raised adjustable wheel stop that serves as a stabilizing wheel chock.
But, you will not have the benefit of the 7-position adjustments wheel chock, which, in fact, is available with the Black Widow’s hitch carrier along with the anti-tilt bracket, which is also lacking in the GoPlus. But, you don’t have to compare everything.
Because both are unique and special in their own ways. Like, GoPlus is equipped with 2 quick-release locks, which will help secure your motorcycle. So, even if you are driving to a hillside area with a hitch carrier, then a bumpy hillside will not compromise the secure transportation of your motorcycle behind your vehicle.
GoPlus 600 LBS Hitch Carrier
Pros: High Strength & Durable Steel, 600 lbs. large load bearing capacity, Mount with 2 inch receivers, Comes with a 6 ft. loaded ramp
Cons: A little heavy
Black Widow MCC-600 Hitch Carrier Review
Black Widow’s MCC-600 hitch carrier is constructed from heavy-duty steel and is a hitch-mounted carrier for hauling Sports bikes and dirt bikes. This is quite expensive and heavy but actually, there is a reason why the Black Widow MCC-600 is one of the best hitch motorcycle carriers. It is highly durable and made up of tough steel, which makes it quite heavy but also durable. You can rely on this carrier to transport heavy motorcycles. It has a load capacity of 600 lbs., which is enough to load heavy motorcycles.
Plus, it has a usable 78.7”L x 8”W rack size with 6 inches clearance from the vehicle bumper. To lift the motorcycle easily, you can use its 70.8”L x 7.5”W ramp and put it sideways to the rack when finished lifting. This extra-long ramp of the Black Widow hitch carrier is really an amazing plus point, which makes it very simple to carry heavy bikes.
And the good thing is, this hitch works with 2”, class 3 or 4 vehicle hitches and also includes an anti-tilt bracket, four motorcycle stabilizing tie-down points, and a 7-position adjustable wheel chock.
Overall, I can say that it may be a little costly but the Black Widow MCC-600 hitch carrier is capable of a lot of things and comes with a heavy-duty steel body that is long lasting and quite reliable.
Black Widow MCC-600 Hitch Carrier
Pros: Heavy-duty steel, 7-Position adjustable wheel Chock, 600 lbs load Capacity, 6 ft. Ramp to lift weight
Cons: A little expensive
TMS T-NS-MRC001 Hitch Carrier Review
TMS presented the T-NS-MRC001, which is a newly designed motorcycle hitch carrier with a maximum hauling capacity of 500 lbs. The T-NS-MRC001 is constructed from heavy-duty steel and the frame is coated with the ability to resist fading, chipping, scratching, and wear, etc.
You can use this carrier with a 2” square receiver for class 2, 3, 4, and 5 trailer hitches. So, if you are planning to haul your off-road dirt bike, heavy sports bike, or scooter, it will be suitable to carry any one of them under 500 lbs. with ease. Plus, TMS has taken the necessary measures in providing the most reliable solution for hauling motocross, dirt, and sports bikes. Apart from this, you will get added benefits, such as anti-tilt locking (to prevent wobbling) and tie-down sites on either side of the track for additional security.
And the best part is you can get this TMS T-NS-MRC001 hitch carrier at a much lower cost than some of the other hitch carriers. This is definitely the best available hitch carrier for your motorcycle or scooter that comes at a value price. So, if you don’t have one, then get yourself a new TMS T-NS-MRC001 and use it for years.
TMS T-NS-MRC001 Hitch Carrier
Pros: Constructed from Heavy-Duty Steel, Anti-Tilt Locking Device, Fits a 2 inch receiver of class 3,4, and 5, Hauling capacity up to 500 lbs.
Cons: A little heavy
Best Choice SKY1375 Hitch Carrier Review
SKY1375 is one of the most affordable hauling solutions that you can purchase. This hitch carrier can lift your dirt bike, scooter, and off-road bikes with ease. Plus, it even costs less than the TMS T-NS-MRC001. But, there is a reason why it is less expensive.
Well, after deep research and a lot of digging, we learned that the SKY1375 has a short ramp of only 38.5”L x 4.75”W, which is relatively shorter than the other hitch carriers available on the market. I mean, it is not like “THE SHORTEST” but still, it is difficult to lift a heavy motorcycle on a short ramp. Although it has a hauling capacity of 500 lbs., which is fantastic.
I mean, in this price range, JUST WOW!
Moreover, it is constructed from heavy-duty steel, which makes it quite reliable and durable to use. It has only 8 bolts and nuts for easy assembly and made for vehicles with a 2-inch receiver from class 2 or higher. To prevent wobbling, the SKY1275 has an anti-tilt locking system and has the option to lift from either side.
Overall, if you are looking for a motorcycle hitch carrier at an affordable price, then you should go with this one. Its steel body and other features will give you benefits to use it for hauling for years for a little less than a hundred dollars.
Best Choice SKY1375 Hitch Carrier
Pros: 8 bolts and nuts for easy assembly, Constructed from heavy-duty steel, Hauling capacity of 500 lbs., A less Expensive
Cons: A short ramp
Black Widow AMC-400 Hitch Carrier Review
If you have read all the products reviewed above, then I am sure you have noticed that all four hitch carriers were constructed from heavy-duty steel. It is because this material is highly durable and you can rely on this when it comes to strength. Plus, it won’t rust during the rainy season. But, it is not as if that’s the only material used to design the hitch mount carriers for motorcycles. There is another common material, which is aluminum. It is lightweight, durable, and can be easily assembled without any damage.
Plus, if you have a lightweight dirt bike or scooter, then you won’t require a heavy-duty steel constructed hitch carrier and you can choose an aluminum option. This is why we have put an aluminum hitch carrier on our list that is not equal to but comes quite close to the hitch carriers reviewed above.
It supports the 2” receiver with class 3 and 4 hitches. You will get a 75”L x 6.75”W carrier track at a clearance of 18” from hitch pin to the carrier. The Black Widow AMC-400 has a hauling capacity of 400 lbs. Now, you probably understand why I mentioned lightweight dirt bikes and scooters. Despite this, you can really count on it when push comes to shove in meeting your transportation needs.
Plus, you will also get a loading ramp of 45.5 inches, which is relatively short but will do just fine for anything less than 400 lbs.
Overall, I can say that the Black Widow AMC-400 hitch carrier is easy to install and as long as you are going to use it for anything with tires up to 5.5” wide and under 400 lbs., you are good to go.
Black Widow AMC-400 Hitch Carrier
Pros: Easy to Install, 45.5 inch loading ramp, Aluminium platform with heavy-duty steel frame, Anti-tilt bracket system
Cons: Not for hauling heavy sport bikes, Rather expensive
Raider TOW-104 Hitch Carrier Review
The Raider TOW-104 is also quite a good hitch-mount carrier that comes with a ramp that allows for the motorcycle to be easily rolled up the ramp into the carrier. After rolling up, you can secure your bike’s tires with the bolt-in clips. Once you have secured the bike and clipped the tires, you can unhook the ramp and secure it on the frame for convenient transporting.
The weight capacity of the Raider TOW-104 hitch carrier is 500 pounds.
The Raider TOW-104 hitch-mount hauler is one product that shouldn’t go unchecked. It comes at a very reasonable price and can haul your dirt bike, scooter, or any other motorcycle less than 500 lbs. without any problem.
However, you may see some instability in carrying a heavy sports bike, so I would recommend using the Raider TOW-104 hitch carrier for dirt bikes, other middleweight bikes, and scooters only.
Raider TOW-104 Hitch Carrier
Pros: Carrying Capacity of 500 lbs., Comes with a ramp, Bolt-in clips to secure tires
Cons: Not suitable for heavy bikes
How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Hitch Carrier?
There is a reason why people find it a little difficult when shopping for motorcycle hitch carriers and that reason is because of so much similarity between the motorcycle carriers, even though they are completely different from each other. So, break this down and check for the main aspects that will fit your needs.
Types of Hitch Mount
It is our job to guide you in choosing a reliable motorcycle hitch carrier that can efficiently carry the load of your motorcycle or bike while transporting from one place to another. In doing so, you will need to go through the manual of your vehicle to determine which type of receiver you have in the rear of your vehicle.
Note: Every vehicle has a receiver in the rear to carry a certain weight range load. But, it is only possible if you mount the proper carrier that appropriately distributes that load.
So, read the manual and learn about the hitch carrier types. This is your step and you can only move on after deciding what hitch-mount carrier to look for.
Body Material & Construction
This is no biggie! Because the next thing you need to decide is the type of material you need in your hitch carrier. Generally, there are only two common types of materials highly used in hitch carriers, one is high strength steel and the second is aluminum.
Both have their upsides and downsides. Just to be clear, both are amazingly good and it is just your individual choice that makes a hitch carrier even more useful to carry your bike.
For instance, aluminum bodies are lightweight and can be installed easily. Steel carriers are quite durable and you can rely on them when it comes to transporting even heavy bikes.
Size & Weight Limit
Body material is not the only thing you need to decide. In fact, the weight limit and body material are somehow connected to each other. Because all those carriers which are available on the market have weight ratings to carry a certain range of weight. So, if you own a heavy motorcycle then you must check the weight rating of that particular carrier to ensure that it lifts your motorcycle easily and won’t harm the hitch while transporting to long distances. So, make sure you pick the hitch carrier which completely pairs well with the weight of your motorcycle.
Multiple Carrying Capacity
If you think that you have been in a situation where you need to carry multiple bikes or motorcycles at the same time, then you can look for options of a hitch carrier with multiple carrying capacity.
It may cost you a few extra bucks but it will save you from the embarrassment of not being able to help your friend haul his or her bike. Nevertheless, the decision is yours and I am sure after reading this step-by-step guide, you can confidently make the right decision and get yourself a high-quality hitch-mount carrier with all necessary features for your motorcycle.
What is Your Budget?
This is one thing that sometimes forces people to buy a product that is not as good quality despite their enthusiasm in the specifications. Honestly, we just want you to get the most for what you pay for. So, like any other motorcycle part or accessory such as dirt bike helmets, a hitch-mount carrier is very important to safely carry a motorcycle for your transportation needs.
So, make sure to get a carrier that has high quality and comes with decent features so that it won’t break while carrying the load. Otherwise, your motorcycle will dangle out when you hit the road; which is why it is better to pay for the quality hitch carrier in the first place, rather than paying for the damage repairs later.
Final Thoughts:
I hope this guide helped you in choosing the right motorcycle hitch carrier for your motorcycle. And if you are planning to buy a new one, then you can consider these reviewed products. We spent a lot of time and effort in reviewing these products, so we could bring our thoughts to you. So, choosing any one of these will be a good choice.
Nevertheless, if you have something else you would like to know or have any suggestions, then please feel free to mention it in the comment section below.
Hey guys, great stuff. Looking to put my bike, same as pic, crf250 on a 2-16 land rover lr4. whats my best bet on a carrier, price not an issue, quality is,
Thank you for reading our reviews and leaving a positive comment Michael, we really appreciate it!