Recommendations for Towing a Motorcycle With a 2003 Nissan Xterra

Question:

To Whom It May Concern, My vehicle is a 2003 Nissan Xterra. I also have a year 2000 yamaha R6 motorcycle that weighs 375 lbs, and a hitch carrier for the motorcycle that weighs 70 lbs. Combined, the payload will require a 445 lbs tongue weight capacity on the hitch, which means I will need to install some type of weight distribution device. Are there any recommended weight distribution devices for this?

asked by: Eric W

Expert Reply:

Weight distribution systems can only be used for towing a trailer, not for hitch mounted accessories like a motorcycle carrier, bike rack, cargo carrier and so on.

You would need a carrier and bike combined weight that is under the 400 pound tongue weight capacity of the trailer hitch. You will also need to consult the vehicle owners manual to determine the tongue weight capacity of the vehicle and if it is lower, you must go by the lower rating.

What you could use is the Trailer Hitch Mounted Motorcycle Carrier, # RHMC1SV. The tongue weight will be much less. The front tire on your bike should be a 120/70-17 which will fit in the carrier. If traveling long distances, you will need to remove the chain so that it does not damage the bike.

The other option is to tow a small motorcycle trailer. In addition to the trailer hitch, you will also need trailer wiring for the Nissan Xterra if you decide to go this route. If the Xterra did not come with a factory tow package use # 119175KIT. If it did come with a tow package use # 118244. I have included links to the installation details for each.

expert reply by: Michael H