Is Weight Distribution Needed For Pulling A Motorcycle Trailer With A 2017 GMC Terrain?

Updated 12/29/2021 | Published 12/28/2021

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

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$158.75

2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000

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Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control for 2" Hitch - 3.5K GTW, 350 lbs TW

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$830.11

Question:

I have a 2017 GMC Terrain and 6x10 hallmark trailer with 700 pound bike in it do I need a weight distribution?

asked by: Timothy H

Expert Reply:

From what I could find, a 6' x 10' Haulmark trailer will weigh 1,195 pounds, so with a 700 pound bike on it you will be looking at 1,895 pounds of loaded trailer. Tongue weight is typically 10 to 15% of your loaded weight so this means your tongue weight will be anywhere from 190 pounds to 285 pounds (both rounded up a little). This is pretty light either way, so odds are you will not need a weight distribution. However, even with heavy trailers, I tend to tell people to try without it first to see how your vehicle will handle the weight. If your 2017 GMC Terrain handles it fine, you are good to go.

On the other handle, if the back end is squatting and you are getting sway issues, the Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control # BXW0350 will be a good option. This is rated for 100 pounds to 350 pounds of tongue weight so it will be good for the weight of your trailer. This does include a 2-5/16" ball though and will typically be larger than what a trailer of this size uses. If this is the case, odds are you will need a 2" ball, like the Curt # A-90, but I suggest double checking this.

expert reply by: Lazer S