The Best trailer hitch for a motorcycle depends on your bike type, payload needs, and hitch compatibility. This guide highlights five reliable hitch carriers and towing hitches ideal for motorcycles, dirt bikes, and Harley touring bikes. Best for riders who want easy loading, strong construction, and versatile mounting. The top picks below include a Harley-specific hitch, rugged all-around carriers, and budget-friendly options. Summary table follows to compare key details at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Capacity | Mount Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trike Trailer Hitch for 2011-25 Harley Tri-Glide, Freewheeler & RoadGlide 3 | Harley-Davidson Touring Riders | Noted for Tri-Glide/Freewheeler/Road Glide 3 compatibility | Bolt-on hitch |
| maXpeedingrods Receiver Hitch for Harley Touring | Road Glide / Street Glide owners | Heavy-duty steel hitch | Bolt-on (No Drilling) |
| Bravema Black Trailer Hitch with Ball | Harley Touring (1980-2008) | High-strength towing ready | Bolted hitch with ball |
| Black Widow Aluminum Dirt Bike Hitch Carrier | Dirt bikes, e-bikes, and smaller riders | Up to 400 lb | 2-inch Class III/IV receiver |
| ECOTRIC 500LB Hitch Mount Carrier | General motorcycle transport | Up to 500 lb | 2-inch receiver |
Trike Trailer Hitch for Harley Tri-Glide and Road Glide 3
Best for Harley-Davidson Touring riders who own Tri-Glide, Freewheeler, or Road Glide 3, this bolt-on hitch is designed to fit model years from 2011 through 2026. The mounting is vehicle-specific, providing solid towing compatibility and a tidy appearance. Choose this if you ride a Harley Touring model and want a purpose-built solution that minimizes modification. Caution: verify your exact year and model before ordering to ensure a correct fit.
maXpeedingrods Receiver Hitch for Harley Touring
This bolt-on hitch is tailored for multiple Harley models, including Road Glide Ultra and Street Glide. It uses a heavy-duty carbon steel construction with black powder coating for rust resistance. Best for riders who want a single, strong hitch that fits several touring variants without drilling. Limitation: data notes a specific set of compatible model years; check fitment before purchase.
Bravema Black Trailer Hitch with Ball
Best for Harley touring models from 1980 to 2008, this hitch emphasizes precise fitment for older Electra Glide, Road King, and related bikes. It features a heavy-duty build, glossy black powder-coat, and reliable towing capacity. Choose this if you own an older Harley Touring model and want a traditional hitch appearance with solid towing capability. Caution: confirm exact model year as fitment is model-and-year specific.
Wire Harness & Trailer Hitch w/Ball for 2014-25 Tri-Glide
Best for Tri-Glide owners seeking an integrated wiring harness with a 1 7/8″ chrome ball, this offering is explicit for 2014-2026 Tri-Glide models. It excludes Freewheeler and Road Glide 3 in some references. Benefit: streamlined electrical integration along with hitch mounting. Limitation: not compatible with some non-Tri-Glide variants; verify model compatibility before ordering.
VEVOR Motorcycle Carrier with Ramp
Best for riders needing a larger 600 lb capacity carrier with a long ramp, the VEVOR unit is designed for 2-inch hitch receivers and broad compatibility. It suits cars and trucks needing extra space for bikes, e-bikes, or scooters. Better for frequent haulage or heavier bikes. Caution: ensure your vehicle’s hitch and wiring can accommodate the carrier’s length and load.
Black Widow Steel Carrier with Ramp
Best for riders needing a rugged 600 lb capacity steel hitch carrier with grit-coated track and anti-rattle features. This unit is ship-ready for SUVs and trucks with a 2-inch receiver. Choose this if you prioritize durability, traction on ramps, and anti-sway performance. Caution: heavier weight means more effort during loading and mounting.
ECOTRIC 500LB Hitch Mount Carrier
Best for general motorcycle transport with a 2-inch receiver, the ECOTRIC unit emphasizes universal fit and a loading ramp for versatile use. It supports up to 500 pounds and uses powder-coated steel for durability. Choose this if you want a broad, budget-friendly carrier that works across different bikes. Caution: verify ramp width and platform clearance for your bike’s tires and kickstand.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Vehicle Compatibility: Confirm hitch class, receiver size (2-inch most common), and mounting style (bolt-on vs. weld-on).
- Weight Capacity: Match the carrier or hitch rating to your bike’s weight and planned load, including possible accessories.
- Bike Type and Fit: Harley touring bikes, dirt bikes, and e-bikes may need specific mounting brackets or wiring harnesses.
- Ramp and Loading: A wide ramp and secure tie-down options reduce loading effort and bike movement during transit.
- Durability: Look for powder coating and rust resistance, especially if you ride in winter or humid climates.
- Wiring and Accessories: If you need trailer wiring, verify compatibility with Tri-Glide or Road Glide models to avoid electrical issues.
- Installation Considerations: Bolt-on installs generally require basic tools; some models may require drilling or a professional installation.
FAQ
- Q: Do these hitch carriers fit all Harley models? A: Fit depends on model year and specific bike family; check the product’s compatibility list before purchasing.
- Q: Is a ramp included with most bike carriers? A: Many carriers include a ramp, but some models require an additional ramp option or accessory.
- Q: Can I tow with a trailer hitch on a motorcycle? A: Motorcycle hitch carriers are designed to transport bikes, not to tow trailers in most configurations; always follow manufacturer guidelines.
- Q: Do I need extra electrical wiring for trailer compatibility? A: Some setups require wiring harnesses for lights or braking signals; verify with the seller and your bike’s wiring standards.
- Q: Which carrier is best for a budget purchase? A: Several options offer solid value with strong loads; compare weight capacity, ramp quality, and mounting style to choose.
- Q: How do I ensure secure loading? A: Use the included ramps, align the bike tires in well-placed wheel chocks, and use ratchet straps or tie-downs on all contact points.