Is 325 Pounds Tongue Weight Too Much for a 350 Pound Capacity Trailer Hitch

Question:

Hi, On my C class 26ft motorhome the tongue max is like most other hitch rated @ 350lbs , The bike I want a Carrie is a TW200 @ only 275 lbs wet ! would it still be fine with my 350lbs hitch ? and why most of your hitch carriers is rated @ 500lbs when as far as i know most hitch are rated @ 350lbs ? Thank you

asked by: Mike

Helpful Expert Reply:

You have to take the weight of the bike and the weight of the carrier together and then determine if it is under the tongue weight capacity of the hitch. If the carrier, # UF48-979033, weighs 50 pounds and the bike 275, that adds up to 325 pounds. That 25 pound buffer is enough to use the 350 pound capacity hitch.

However there is more movement at the back of of at RV or trailer, like being at the back of a school bus, so you will need to take every precaution to limit the movement of the carrier. You can use straps and I also recommend a robust anti-rattle device, # BX88224.

Many hitches are rated for 350 pounds, especially those for trailers and RVs. However, many vehicle hitches for larger SUVs and full size trucks can be rated much higher so a carrier rated for 500 pounds can be used for heavier bikes as long as the hitch and vehicle can handle the weight.

expert reply by: Michael H