Could Curt Front Hitch of 2004 GMC Yukon XL Carry Motorcycle

Published 03/09/2018

Question:

Hi, I have a 2004 GMC Denali XL 1500 with self-leveling air shocks in the rear only. Im interested in the Curt Front Mount Receiver 31302 to carry a motorcycle while Im also towing a ~2000 lbs trailer that has a ~300 lbs hitch weight. There will also be 100-200 lbs in the rear cargo area so the total additional load on the rear axle will be ~400-500 lbs. The weight of the MC and carrier will be just under 500 lbs. I will only use the front mount set up when towing the trailer. Will this set up work well as far as weight distribution/leveling? I realize headlight blockage may be an issue but worst case - no driving at night...

asked by: Mike S

Expert Reply:

500 lbs of carrier and motorcycle is quite a bit of weight to hang off the front of a vehicle like your 2004 GMC Yukon XL. You'd have a couple things to think about. You are going to basically be blocking the air flow to the grille of the vehicle and your steering characteristics might change with that much weight out front.

The Curt hitch # 31302 has a vertical weight capacity of 500 lbs so you'd be right at that capacity of the hitch. You'd need to verify with GMC that your front axle has the capacity for that as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C