How to Transport a 425 Pound Motorcycle with a 2015 Ford Escape Titanium 2.0L

Updated 02/22/2016 | Published 02/21/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Ultra-Fab Dirt Bike Carrier for 2" Hitches - With Ramp - 77" Long - 500 lbs

(101)

$229.03

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

(313)

$80.29

Draw-Tite Max-E-Loader Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(729)

$230.77

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1375)

$86.63

Question:

Daughter has a 2013 Honda CBR500R. Weight 425 lbs, Length 82 Appears Ultra-Fab Motorcycle Carrier for 2inch Hitches - With Ramp - 80inch Long - 500 lbs. specifications is most ideal for exterior transport. Please verify if it is possible for a Ford dealership to install the safest and most appropriate Trailer Hitch to attach that specific size Motorcycle Carrier. The SUV was not bought with a factory installed Trailer Towing Package, and would prefer not to drag a small ATV trailer for one motorcycle. Much appreciation for your expert advice.

asked by: Elaine M

Helpful Expert Reply:

It looks like at most the 2015 Ford Escape itself is rated for 350 pounds of tongue weight. It will not be able to support the weight of the motorcycle on a carrier. The best option and the safest is going to be a small trailer. There are companies that make trailers specifically for motorcycles so you would not have to use a larger ATV trailer.

If this is an option you want to explore then you will need a trailer hitch. A popular option is # 75758. This hitch will work with models that have the hands-free liftgate. A Ford dealer is not required for this installation. Any trusted mechanic can perform the installation.

I also recommend etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level. And for a trailer wiring harness I recommend # 118566 to add a 4-Way flat connector to the rear of the vehicle. I have linked a video showing how the wiring installs.

expert reply by: Michael H