What Hitch Weight Capacity do I Need for Hauling My 230 Pound Motorcycle on My 2020 Kia Sportage?
Updated 11/10/2021 | Published 11/09/2021 >
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Question:
I have a 230 pound motorcycle I would like to hitch carry on my 2020 Kia Sportage. I see that the Maximum Tongue Weight, dead weight hitch, is 165 pounds. Could you confirm that I can not haul my bike in this manner?
asked by: Kay J
Expert Reply:
As far as the tongue weight capacity on hitches, every hitch has a specific rating. The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C13281, for example, has a maximum tongue weight of 525 pounds while the etrailer Hitch Receiver # e72TR has a maximum tongue weight of 675 pounds.
In addition, we need to consider the weight capacity of the motorcycle carrier itself. If you were looking at the Ultra-Fab Dirt Bike Carrier for 2" Hitches - With Ramp # UF48-979033, that has a max weight capacity of 500 pounds. Since this has the least weight capacity in comparison with the Curt and etrailer hitches, this is the weight capacity that you would abide by.
The complication rises when we look up the maximum tongue weight capacity rating of the 2020 Kia Sportage itself. From my research, the 2020 Kia Sportage can only accommodate only 220 pounds of maximum tongue weight. With this limitation, you will not be able to transport your 230 pound motorcycle with an accessory that uses tongue weight like the Ultra-Fab.
However, from my research, your vehicle has a maximum gross towing weight capacity of 1,653 pounds. To use this weight method with your motorcycle, I recommend the Detail K2 Mighty Multi Utility Trailer # K2MMT4X6 (6 feet with ramp) or # K2MMT5X7 (7-1/2 feet without ramp capability). In addition to these, you will need a motorcycle chock (depending on the size of your tires). I went ahead and linked a page with our available wheel chocks.
Also, in addition to the chocks, you will need a wiring harness # 118698 if you do not already have one (in order to use the tail lights on the trailer). If you need a ball mount, I recommend the Curt Class III Ball Mount with 1-7/8" Ball - 2" Drop - 3,500 lbs # C45034. This kit comes with a hitch pin as well. For straps, I recommend the CargoBuckle Ratchet Tie-Down Straps w/ S-Hooks - 1" x 15' - 500 lbs - Qty 4 # IMF12636.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Ultra-Fab Dirt Bike Carrier for 2" Hitches - With Ramp - 77" Long - 500 lbs
- Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Flat Carrier
- Ramp-Assist Carrier
- Fixed Carrier
- Hitch Mount
- 500 lbs
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Dirt Bikes
- Steel
- Ultra-Fab Products
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