Using Curt Multi-Purpose Ball Mount Part D210 for Motorcycle Carrier on 2012 Subaru Outback

Updated 12/13/2011 | Published 12/12/2011

Question:

I am looking to install a class III hitch on a 2011 Suburu Outback to carry my offroad motorcycle via a hitch carrier. The combined weight of the carrier and bike is 375 lbs. I would want to use the dual mount D210 to provide more ground clearance 4inch according to the diagram for the carrier. I have no plans on towing. With the outbacks tongue weight of 600lbs and the mounts tongue weight of 500lbs, can I use this part to raise the bike carrier higher off the ground? I dont want to scrape/bottom out the carrier on the ground/road. If there is a better adapter solution, please let me know. Thanks!

asked by: Aaron K

Expert Reply:

Although the ball mount you referenced, part # D210 has a high enough rating as a complete unit, the receiver portion of the ball mount is only rated at 350 lbs of tongue weight. This means that the receiver opening can only handle 350 lbs of downward force. Therefore, I cannot recommend using the Curt Multi-Purpose Ball Mount for your motorcycle carrier.

In my research, the only reference I could find mentions the towing capacity of the 2012 Outback at 3000 lbs towing/ 300 lbs tongue weight, so I would recommend verifying that 600 lb tongue weight capacity you mentioned. You should also confirm that the tongue weight capacity of the hitch on the vehicle is sufficient to handle the weight of the bike and the carrier.

expert reply by: Mike L