Difference Between Towing Capacity and Flat Towing Capacity for the Roadmaster Spare Tire Carrier

Question:

In the answer I got, I was told that I could not pull a trailer with the tire carrier.... or was it only with the swing out? The tire carrier says: Maximum flat towing capacity: 6,000 lbs Maximum tongue weight: 200 lbs But it also says: 2inch Receiver hitch allows you to simultaneously connect a tow bar, bike rack, or other hitch-mounted accessory So I am wondering why it has a towing capacity if you arent supposed to attach a trailer????

asked by: Christina S

Expert Reply:

Allow me to clear up the confusion. The Roadmaster Spare Tire Carrier item # RM-195125 can be used to flat-tow a vehicle behind a motorhome that weighs up to 6,000 lbs. It can also be used to mount an accessory like a cargo carrier or a bike rack that has a combined weight of 200 lbs. You are not able to tow a trailer with this spare tire carrier. It has a flat towing capacity not a towing capacity. Also using this spare tire carrier reduces your hitch capacity by 33%. You will want to verify what your Honda Odyssey's tongue weight capacity is and your hitch receivers capacity is before using this carrier with additional accessories.

expert reply by: Jerred H