Can a 513 Pound Motorcycle Be Carried on a Trailer Hitch Mount Carrier on a 2001 Subaru Forester

Updated 10/13/2015 | Published 10/12/2015

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Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

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T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

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1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Stainless Steel - 2,000 lbs

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2" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Stainless Steel - 3,500 lbs

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Curt Class II Drawbar - 3/8" Rise, 1" Drop - 7-13/16" Long - 3,500 lbs

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Curt Hitch Pin and Clip for 1-1/4" Hitches - 1/2" Diameter x 2" Span

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Question:

I need to transport a 513 lb motorcycle across the States... Im trying to figure out the hitches capacity for my 01 Forrester. I see that the tongue capacity is 350lbs, just to confirm does this mean that I cannot put the dead weight of my motorcycle onto it using a motorcycle carrier that is completely off the ground? Thus limiting me to a motorcycle carrier/trailer with wheels to distribute the weight?

asked by: Josh

Expert Reply:

You are correct. The highest tongue weight capacity of a trailer hitch for the 2001 Subaru Forester is 350 pounds for hitch # C12038. The combined weight of the carrier and the bike would have to be under 350 pounds.

The best option and the safest is to use a small trailer or one specifically designed for a motorcycle. You will also need a ball, ball mount, and wiring. The recommended ball mount is # C45503. You also need pin and clip # F-4.

For a 1-7/8 inch diameter ball use # A-80 and for a 2 inch use # A-82. And for trailer wiring you can use Tow Ready harness # 118461. I have linked videos showing installation of the hitch and wiring for you.