Best Motorcycle Hitch Carriers That Actually Work
Evan Rally
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Dragging a trailer around or borrowing a buddy’s truck just to haul a bike kills the mood before the ride even starts. Motorcycle carriers, the hitch-mounted kind, are the fix when you want to load up and go without the hassle.
Messing with trailers, sketchy ramps, or fighting your gear should not be part of the plan. A solid hitch carrier keeps things simple with no plates, no parking nightmares, and no wasted time.
This guide cuts through the junk to show you the hitch carriers that actually hold up when the road gets rough. The ones built to keep your bike secure without turning your trip into a gamble.
A Few Hard Truths Before You Buy:
- Weight ratings do not tell the whole story. Cheap carriers might claim a 500-pound limit, but weak welds, soft steel, or a bad anti-wobble setup can ruin your day. Build quality matters more than a sticker number.
- Strapping your bike right matters just as much as the carrier. Compress the suspension, use real straps, and lock it down at multiple points. A good carrier cannot save you from a bad tie-down job.
- Your hitch’s tongue weight rating is the real limit. Forget what the carrier says it can hold. If your vehicle’s hitch cannot take the load, you are asking for handling problems and a bad day.
- Loading ease makes or breaks the experience. Shoving a heavy bike up a short ramp with no tilt or support is a good way to wreck your back or your bike. Longer ramps, tilting beds, and solid chocks matter.
Top Picks: Best Motorcycle Hitch Carriers
After putting the options through the wringer and talking to riders who use them, two carriers stand out:
Best Overall / Heavy Duty 
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Best Premium / Feature-Rich 
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Solid steel build, real 600-pound capacity, and a built-in wheel chock that does the job. Heavy, but it hauls serious bikes without drama. | Strong materials, smart storable ramp, adjustable chock, and tight stability. It costs more, but it loads easier and holds firm even after a long haul. |
Solid steel build, real 600-pound capacity, and a built-in wheel chock that does the job. Heavy, but it hauls serious bikes without drama.
Strong materials, smart storable ramp, adjustable chock, and tight stability. It costs more, but it loads easier and holds firm even after a long haul.
Types of Motorcycle Hitch Carriers
Most hitch carriers fall into a few clear categories depending on how they are built and what they can handle. Knowing the difference saves you from bolting the wrong setup to your rig.
Heavy Duty Steel Carriers (up to around 600 lbs)
Built from solid steel and made to take a beating. Good for hauling heavier dirt bikes, adventure bikes, and a lot of street bikes. They are heavier to move around, but they bring serious strength for the money. Always check your bike’s weight before trusting the numbers.
Aluminum Carriers (around 400–500 lbs capacity)
Lighter to lift, easier to install, and less of a pain when you need to pull it off the truck. Perfect for dirt bikes and lighter dual-sports. You give up some load capacity compared to steel, but the weight savings can make a big difference if you are solo loading.
Feature-Rich and Premium Carriers
The high-end stuff. Smarter designs, better materials, longer ramps, tilting beds, integrated wheel chocks, and anti-wobble systems that actually work. These carriers cost more, but they make loading safer and easier, especially if you haul bikes a lot.
Next up, breaking down the carriers that are actually worth a look if you’re hauling bikes here in the States.
Black Widow MCC-600 Steel Motorcycle Carrier (Top Pick – Overall/Heavy Duty)
For regular racers hauling around purpose-built track machines (dirt and asphalt) the Black Widow MCC-600 Steel Motorcycle Carrier is the trusted hitch hauler. Built from thick, powder-coated steel, it is rated for 600 pounds and can take a beating. That weight limit covers dirt bikes, most ADV bikes, and a lot of street machines without blinking.
The thing is heavy, no way around it. It weighs close to 100 pounds on its own, so mounting it up takes some muscle. But once it is bolted on, it feels rock solid. No flexing, no sketchy welds. The anti-rattle device actually does its job too, keeping the whole setup from shifting even when the pavement gets ugly.
The ramp is a real win here. It is extra long, about 71 inches, and coated for better grip. That saves a lot of trouble when loading up solo, especially with heavier bikes. It also stores right on the carrier when it is not being used, so there is no separate piece flopping around in the truck bed.
The MCC-600 is not fancy and it does not try to be. It is just a tough, no-nonsense carrier that hauls many bikes without making it a gamble. If the priority is strength and stability over saving a few pounds, this one earns its spot.
The Catch? Being heavy-duty steel, the carrier itself is quite heavy (around 96 lbs), making it potentially difficult for one person to install/remove from the hitch. The included ramp is functional but might feel a bit short/steep for very heavy, long-wheelbase bikes.
Silver Lining: Offers a very high 600 lb weight capacity and robust steel construction at an excellent price point. Includes essential features like the integrated chock, ramp storage, and anti-wobble device, making it a reliable workhorse.
Alternative Option: The VersaHaul VH-SPORT RO offers similar capacity with a slightly different ramp/chock design and is another highly-regarded heavy-duty steel option.
A rugged, hitch-mounted carrier built to handle up to 600 lbs with stability and ease.
- Solid steel construction with powder coating for long-term durability
- Extra-long ramp with grit-coat surface makes loading smoother and safer
- Built-in adjustable wheel chock and anti-rattle device improve transport stability
- Ramp installs on right side only, limiting flexibility
Our Review: We have not run a full long-haul test on the Black Widow MCC-600 yet. Still, the build looks legit, and for riders needing a strong, no-nonsense carrier without breaking the bank, it is hard to ignore. Check for updates soon on It’s Better On The Road.
MotoTote MTX Sport Rev 2 Carrier (Top Pick – Premium/Feature Rich)
Out of all the carriers out there, the MotoTote MTX Sport Rev 2 provides great stability for transporting a heavy motorcycle.. Everything about it feels purpose-built. The frame is strong, the ramp is longer than most, and the whole setup is designed to stay tight without needing constant adjustments.
The Zero-Wobble hitch mount locks the carrier down solid, and the adjustable front chock does a good job holding the tire steady. The loading ramp gives a nice shallow angle, which makes life easier when dealing with bigger bikes. Having the ramp store right on the carrier is smart too. No extra junk rolling around the truck bed.
At around 63 pounds, it is manageable to handle solo without feeling like you are wrestling the thing. The powder-coated steel feels durable enough to shrug off weather and road grime after real use. A lot of cheaper carriers start rusting or loosening up fast. This one looks ready to last the long haul.
It does not come with tie-downs, so it is worth using quality straps and securing it properly at all points. As always, checking the tongue weight rating on the vehicle is part of the game.
The MotoTote costs more than the basic setups, but for the kind of bikes worth hauling, it is a solid investment.
The Catch? It comes with a premium price tag, significantly higher than basic steel carriers. Assembly can sometimes be more involved than simpler designs due to the adjustable components.
Silver Lining: Offers exceptional stability (ZeroWobble+), premium build quality, and intelligently designed features (ramp storage, excellent adjustable chock, good tie-down points) that genuinely make loading and hauling easier and more secure. It’s an investment in convenience and peace of mind for frequent users.
Alternative Option: High-end VersaHaul models offer competing features and robust build quality. Some riders also favor custom or semi-custom carriers for specific needs.
Premium, zero-wobble carrier built for secure transport of motorcycles up to 600 lbs.
- Patented geometry and tie-down arm ensure superior bike stability
- Fits wide tires and long wheelbases with universal 2" hitch compatibility
- Integrated steel ramp securely hooks into the carrier and stores neatly
- Higher price point compared to similar carriers in its class
Our Review: A deep dive on the MotoTote MTX Sport Rev 2 is in the works. Given MotoTote’s track record and the build quality packed into the MTX lineup, this carrier already stands out for serious street and ADV hauling. Full thoughts coming soon on It’s Better On The Road.
Black Widow AMC-400 Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier (For Dirt Bikes)
The Black Widow AMC-400 Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier hits the sweet spot for riders who need a lightweight setup without a lot of hassle. It weighs about 36 pounds, so moving it around and slapping it onto the hitch is way easier than dealing with heavy steel rigs.
Rated for 400 pounds, it is a good match for dirt bikes, dual-sports, and smaller street bikes. Anything heavier feels like pushing it. The included ramp is a real plus. It is 47 inches long with a slight lip at the top to help guide the wheels onto the track. It is made from aluminum too, so it is easy to lift and it stores right on the carrier with a built-in clip system. No loose parts bouncing around or getting left behind at the trailhead.
Assembly is about as straightforward as it gets. Basic bolts, simple design, nothing complicated. The anti-tilt bracket cuts down the wobble, but I would still check everything after the first few miles, especially if the roads get rough. Some riders have pointed out the ramp can flex if pushing the weight limits, so it is better to stick well below the 400-pound max for regular hauls.
The AMC-400 is not built for big ADV bikes or big cruisers. It is a lightweight, no-nonsense setup that makes quick bike transport easy without dragging a trailer behind.
The Catch? Strictly limited to 400 lbs maximum capacity, ruling out heavier street bikes, ADVs, or cruisers. Aluminum construction, while strong, might not feel quite as bombproof as heavy steel carriers to some users. Usually lacks an integrated wheel chock (though one can often be added).
Silver Lining: Significantly lighter and easier to handle/install/store than steel carriers. Provides safe, stable transport for dirt bikes and lighter motorcycles up to 400 lbs at a reasonable price. Includes ramp and anti-wobble device.
Alternative Option: Various other brands offer aluminum carriers in the 400-500 lb range, sometimes with different ramp designs or features. Ensure they use quality aluminum and include an anti-wobble device.
Lightweight and rust-resistant aluminum carrier designed for easy transport of bikes up to 400 lbs.
- Easy bilateral loading with roll-on, roll-off self-storing ramp
- Lightweight aluminum frame with steel hitch tube for durability
- Includes anti-rattle device, hitch pin, and youth bike adapter
- Not suitable for motorcycles over 400 lbs
Our Review: We have not finished putting the AMC-400 through its paces yet. That said, its lightweight setup and simple loading design make it a solid pick for dirt bikes and smaller dual-sports. Stay tuned for the full breakdown on It’s Better On The Road.
VersaHaul VH-SPORT RO Motorcycle Carrier
VersaHaul has built a strong reputation in the motorcycle carrier market, and the VH-SPORT RO reflects that legacy with premium materials, thoughtful engineering, and a design trusted by serious riders. Built from solid steel and rated for 600 pounds, this carrier is clearly made to haul heavier bikes — sport bikes, cruisers, anything with some real weight to it. It’s not light, and it’s definitely not something I’d want to mount or store casually, but when strength matters, it’s got the muscle.
The loading ramp is 71 inches long, which gives a decent slope, especially for bigger bikes. That extra length helps when loading solo and cuts down the chance of slipping a wheel or stalling halfway up. The ramp locks in for travel, so no juggling loose parts or hoping it stays in place.
There’s a wheel stop at the front, which works with the wide carrier rail and tie-down bars to keep the bike secure. The tie-down bars retract, and there are four of them — plenty of anchor points to cinch everything tight. I like that the rail is wide enough for tires just under 8 inches. That gives some wiggle room for different bikes without feeling like you’re cramming things in.
At around 111 pounds, it’s a beast to move. But that weight is part of the reason it stays planted and doesn’t bounce around. As long as the vehicle has a solid Class III or IV hitch and proper tongue weight, it’s a strong option for riders who aren’t messing around.
The Catch? Heavy steel construction means the carrier itself is heavy to handle. The included tire stops offer basic support but aren’t as secure as a dedicated integrated chock like the Black Widow or MotoTote during loading. Ramp length/style varies by exact model/revision.
Silver Lining: Offers heavy-duty 600 lb capacity with robust steel construction from a reputable brand. The adjustable tire stops and multiple tie-down points provide secure transport. Anti-tilt device included.
Alternative Option: The Black Widow MCC-600 offers similar capacity with an integrated chock. MotoTote offers premium features at a higher price. Joe Hauler carriers are another option known for simple, strong designs.
Heavy-duty hitch-mounted carrier built for hauling sport bikes up to 600 lbs without a loading ramp.
- Strong carbon steel build for reliable heavy-duty transport
- Four tie-down points ensure secure bike stability
- Fits standard 2" Class III/IV hitch receivers
- Loading ramp not included
Our Review: We are still lining up a full test of the VersaHaul VH-SPORT RO. But with its heavy-duty steel build and high capacity, it is already a strong choice for hauling heavier street bikes. Full review coming to It’s Better On The Road soon.
BILT FACTORY Motorcycle Carrier
The BILT Factory Motorcycle Carrier covers the basics pretty well for a budget setup. Built from steel with a powder-coated finish, it feels solid enough for light to midweight bikes, and it is rated for 500 pounds. Works with Class III or IV trailer hitches, so fitting it to most trucks or SUVs should not be a problem.
The included ramp is a nice touch. It lets you load from either side, which comes in handy depending on how you are parked. It stores right on the carrier too, so there is no loose gear rolling around the bed. Assembly is straightforward with basic tools, and the anti-tilt bracket helps keep it from rattling on the drive.
That said, the catch is pretty clear once you spend some time around it. The steel is thinner compared to heavy-duty carriers like the MotoTote or VersaHaul. It is fine for dirt bikes and lighter machines, but if I were hauling a bigger street bike or stacking long miles, I would want something a little beefier. For occasional hauls and lighter bikes, it gets the job done without killing the wallet.
The Catch: Build quality, materials, and especially the effectiveness of the anti-wobble mechanism can be significantly less robust than higher-priced carriers. Weld quality might be inconsistent. The roll-on chock offers some support but might not be as secure as other designs. Ramp might be short and steep.
Silver Lining: Provides the basic functionality of a hitch carrier with a ramp and integrated chock at the lowest possible price point. Can be a viable option for lighter dirt bikes if used carefully with good tie-downs and within vehicle limits. Available conveniently through retailers like Revzilla.
Alternative Option: Spending a bit more on an aluminum carrier like the Black Widow AMC-400 yields much lighter weight and better build quality. Used carriers from reputable brands can also be a good value.
Sturdy all-steel hitch carrier with dual-side ramp loading and 500 lb capacity for convenient motorcycle transport.
- All-steel, powder-coated frame for long-lasting durability
- Ramp attaches for easy storage and can load from either side
- Anti-tilt device minimizes hitch wobble during transit
- Limited to motorcycles with tires up to 4.75" wide
Our Review: A full hands-on review of the BILT Factory Motorcycle Carrier is still pending. Given BILT is Revzilla’s in-house brand, it’s likely a solid budget-friendly option for lighter bikes, and we will break it down properly soon on It’s Better On The Road.
Motorcycle Hitch Carrier Comparison
| Feature | Black Widow MCC-600 | MotoTote MTX Sport Rev 2 | Black Widow AMC-400 | VersaHaul VH-SPORT RO | BILT FACTORY Motorcycle Carrier |
| Type | Steel Carrier | Steel Carrier (Premium) | Aluminum Carrier | Steel Carrier | Steel Carrier (Budget) |
| Max Capacity | 600 lbs | ~550 lbs | 400 lbs | 600 lbs | ~400-500 lbs (Verify) |
| Ramp Style | Storable Steel Ramp | Storable Ramp | Storable Alum. Ramp | 71 inch Storable ramp | Storable |
| Chock | Integrated Adj. | Integrated Adj. Chock | Usually None (Add-on) | 4x Tire Stops | Integrated Roll-On Chock |
| Anti-Wobble | Yes (Device Incl.) | Yes (ZeroWobble+) | Yes (Device Incl.) | Yes (Bracket Incl.) | Yes (Anti-Tilt) |
| Bike Focus | Heavy Duty / Street | Street / ADV / Dirt | Dirt / Light Dual Sport | Heavy Duty / Street | Dirt / Light Street |
| Carrier Weight | Heavy (~96 lbs) | Medium-Heavy (~65 lbs) | Light (~37 lbs) | Heavy (~98 lbs) | Medium-Heavy (~70+ lbs) |
| Price Range Get One | $$ Check Price | $$$$ Check Price | $ Check Price | $$$$ Check Price | $ Check Price |
Note: Capacities, weights, and features can vary slightly by model year/revision. Check manufacturer specs. Price ranges are relative.
Choosing a Motorcycle Hitch Carrier the Right Way
Buying a carrier is not just clicking “Add to Cart” and hoping for the best. Hauling a bike the right way means checking a few critical things first.
Vehicle Compatibility (This Matters Most)
The first thing I check is the hitch. Most good carriers need a Class III or IV 2-inch receiver. Class I and II hitches are a no-go.
Then there’s tongue weight. This is the real limit. Add the carrier weight plus the bike’s full wet weight (fuel, oil, all of it). That total must stay under the vehicle’s tongue weight rating. Go over, and you’re asking for wrecked handling or a broken hitch.
A heavy bike hanging off the back will also sag the rear suspension. If the load is pushing things down too much, helper springs or airbags are worth looking into.
Carrier Capacity and Construction
I want the carrier’s weight limit to be well above my bike’s wet weight. Steel carriers usually run up to 600 pounds. Aluminum ones are lighter and easier to deal with but top out around 400 to 500 pounds. Steel is strong and cheap but heavy as hell. Aluminum saves your back, resists rust, but costs more.
Ramp Setup
Longer ramps are better. A long ramp means a shallower angle, so you’re not wrestling the bike up a wall. Bonus points if the ramp stores cleanly on the carrier. Some carriers tilt instead of needing a ramp, but they bring extra complexity and cost.
Anti-Wobble Devices
A good carrier needs a real anti-wobble setup. Not some junk clamp that barely holds. This keeps the whole rig from swaying or rattling around behind the truck.
Wheel Chocks
An integrated front wheel chock is a big help, especially when loading solo. The Black Widow MCC-600 and MotoTote setups do this right. Some others, like the Trackside, give partial support. Basic tire stops are better than nothing, but not by much.
Tie-Down Points and Loading Strategy
More tie-down points is better. I use four good ratchet or cam buckle straps. Cheap friction straps belong in the trash. The trick is to compress the front forks a little using soft loops at the handlebars, and tie the rear down pulling slightly back. No bouncing, no shifting. Never hook to anything fragile. Always double-check the straps.
Lighting and Legal Stuff
If the carrier or bike blocks taillights or the license plate, it’s not just sketchy, it might be illegal. Some states require auxiliary lights. Some carriers have mounts for that. Always good to check before the first trip.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to some common questions about motorcycle hitch carriers:
Are motorcycle hitch carriers safe?
Good ones are. Match the carrier and vehicle ratings, load and strap properly, and use an anti-wobble device. Safety problems come from cutting corners or using junk.
How much weight can a carrier hold?
Aluminum carriers usually take 400–500 pounds. Heavy-duty steel ones handle around 600 pounds. Always check both the carrier and your vehicle’s tongue weight limit.
How much does it cost to ship a bike 2000 miles?
Shipping runs anywhere from $600 to $1500 depending on who you use, the route, and if it’s enclosed transport. Companies like HaulBikes and Federal Motorcycle Transport are solid.
A good hitch carrier will almost always be cheaper if you can haul it yourself.
Can you mount a motorcycle to a tow hitch?
Yeah, but you need a dedicated motorcycle hitch carrier in a 2-inch Class III or IV hitch. Strapping a bike directly to a tow ball is asking for a disaster.
How to transport a motorcycle without a truck?
Options:
- Hitch carrier on an SUV or van
- Small trailer
- Toy hauler RV
- Renting a truck or van
- Hiring a pro shipping company
Is it legal to tow a motorcycle?
Towing a bike with a trailer or hauling it on a carrier is legal. Just follow traffic laws, use proper lights, and secure the bike right.
How heavy is a motorcycle?
It depends:
- Dirt bikes: 200–270 pounds
- Dual-sports: 280–350 pounds
- Sport bikes: 370–450 pounds
- ADV bikes: 450–600+ pounds
- Big cruisers and baggers: 450–900+ pounds
Always check the bike’s wet weight (with all fluids) before picking a carrier.
Choosing a good hitch carrier is about matching the carrier, the bike, and the vehicle. Quality first, weight limits second, and loading it right every single time. Better to spend a few extra bucks upfront than risk the bike hitting the pavement.
Ride smart, haul safe.