How to Carry a Dirt Bike on a 2017 Subaru WRX

Question:

Hello, I want to haul a 2005 Honda CRF100F dirt bike dry weight is 165lbs in my 2017 Subaru WRX. Can I get the curt hitch class 1 designed for my car and attach this luggage carrier to it? Will it be safe? 2017 Subaru wrx weight carrying capacity is 2000 lbs and tongue weight is 200lbs.

asked by: Trish

Expert Reply:

The owner's manual for your 2017 Subaru WRX does not recommend towing a trailer therefore, a tongue weight capacity is not explicitly listed. There is a tongue weight capacity for the trailer hitch but if the vehicle is lower then that will need to be the figure you abide by. However, there is a vehicle weight capacity which will include the weight of all passengers, the weight of all cargo, and in your case the weight of the trailer hitch and anything on it. The vehicle weight capacity will be on the vehicle placard with the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed x lbs.".

Now in regards to a compatible trailer hitch and motorcycle/cargo carrier carrier, the issue with using a class I trailer hitch is finding a motorcycle/cargo carrier carrier that will work with it. Almost all all motorcycle/cargo carriers are going to require a 2" receiver tube which is usually only found on class III and above trailer hitches. Therefore, I recommend using the EcoHitch Invisi Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 306-X7257 which will require that you have the center knock-out panel (see photo). This trailer hitch actually has a 525 lb tongue weight capacity but you will still be limited by the vehicle if lower. The trailer hitch weighs around 35 lbs.

If you are also looking for a motorcycle carrier to use with your 2005 Honda CRF100F I recommend the Ultra-Fab Dirt Bike Carrier part # UF48-979033 which only weighs around 50 lbs.

expert reply by: Conner L