Can Trailer Hitch Handle Weight Of Carrier And Motorcycle On 2001 Jeep Cherokee

Updated 04/24/2014 | Published 04/22/2014

Question:

I would like to confirm the 500LB tongue weight of the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2inch - Jeep Cherokee, 2001 Code: 13084. I want to use it for a motorcycle hitch carrier, which total weight would be almost 499LBS, directly pushing downward. Are you sure this will support it? I tried reading reviews, etc. couldnt find anything. The race bike is worth more than my olfoot Jeep! Lol. Thanks so much! have a great day

asked by: Ryan K

Expert Reply:

The Curt Trailer Hitch, part # 13084, for your 2001 Jeep Cherokee is a Class lll hitch and rated for 500 lbs tongue weight and 5000 lbs towing capacity. That is the weight rating for the hitch but you will want to find out what the tongue weight capacity for your Cherokee is by checking your owner's manual or with a dealership. My research shows that the 2001 Jeep Cherokee only has a tongue weight capacity of 200 pounds. When the tongue weight is calculated, you would have to consider the weight of any carrier you attach to the hitch as well as the weight of the cargo, or in your case, your motorcycle.

Tongue weight is the tongue weight of the fully loaded ready to go carrier or trailer combined with the weight of any cargo that is placed behind the rear axle of the towing vehicle.

If you are considering a hitch mounted carrier like the etrailer Motorcycle Carrier w/ Ramp for 2" Hitch - 76" Long - Steel - 500 lbs, please keep in mind the carrier itself weighs about 58 lbs. So 200 - 58 would give you only 142 pounds for a bike. If the 200 pound tongue weight is correct, this will not work.

I have attached an installation video you can watch of the trailer hitch being installed on a 2001 Cherokee.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L