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Motorcycle carrier weight
I have an 2003 MB with a 350lb max tongue weight. I want to put a 325lb motorcycle and 75lb electric bike on a 50lb-100lb carrier on the back hitch. A local welder said he can custom make me a a carrier and reinforce the hitch to support the added weight. Anybody else carrying a motorcycle on their LD? Any thoughts on handling, welding to the frame, etc…? Thanks.
2003 Mid Bath

Re: Motorcycle carrier weight
Reply #1
On my 96, I carry around a 250cc dual sport motorcycle. It weighs 280 lbs.
I had a custom rack made that used three 2 inch receivers. The original and two others added.
I've had a bike back there for about 15 years now and it has been rock solid the whole time.
I have noticed some stress cracks in the rear bumper top on both sides, nothing bad but I do keep an eye on it to make sure they don't worsen.

You are pushing the limits wanting to put as much weight on it as you are thinking of doing.
I'd consider ditching the E bike and getting a lighter motorcycle.
Jota
96 23.5 FL

Re: Motorcycle carrier weight
Reply #2
We carried a 344 lb Vespa250 on our TK for ten years. We had a custom tray carrier (with ramp) fabricated at Eckharts Trailer (3 locations here in SoCal). They welded two box tube extensions to the LD frame to carry the load. The LD hitch receiver was not used, although while they were at it I had them replace it with a stronger one which also attached to their extensions instead of to the bumper. We had no problems with this setup. — Jon
(Former) ‘06 TK “Albatross.” And (former) Vespa 250.   Alas, no more; both are gone.😕 Great memories remain! 😄

 
Re: Motorcycle carrier weight
Reply #3
I had the same exact work done a couple years ago, only they started with an off-the-shelf moto carrier which I provided.

Six states and 3000 miles this summer alone, no issues.  Mike's Precision Welding in Temecula, CA.

Steve
2015 TK