Why Does the etrailer Trailer Hitch part # e72AR Have a Higher Towing Capacity than the Vehicle?  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hi Chris,

For your 2023 Acura RDX the etrailer Custom Trailer Hitch Class III part # e72AR is the correct fit for your needs. The reason why its rated for higher than what your vehicle can tow is because trailer hitches are first designed to fit the frame of the vehicle and then tested for weight capacity independent of the vehicle they're designed for. So, while the e72AR is rated for more than what your vehicle can tow it will perfectly fit the frame.

Since the tongue weight of your vehicle is 150lbs and the weight of the bike carrier and motorbike combined are 230lbs I would advise against using the hitch for carrying the motorbike. If the tongue weight is exceeded it will cause damage to the vehicle's frame as well as strain on the transmission and reduced handling caused by excessive weight on the rear axle. Exceeding the tongue weight would also void the warranty on the vehicle if something were to happen. Instead, it would be better if the motorbike was towed using a small trailer. Tongue weight is 10-15% of a trailer's weight at the hitch, so you can tow up to 1,500lbs on a trailer but at the hitch receiver itself its only rated for 150lbs which would make that trailer a better option for carrying heavier loads. Of course, if you have access to a vehicle that has a higher tongue weight that can handle the 230lbs of the carrier and motorbike that would also be an option for you.

For ground clearance of the hitch, it is about 13 1/2 inches from the top of the hitch receiver to the ground. If there is excessive weight in the hitch receiver, I would expect the ground clearance to be less due to potential sag. I've included a link to an installation video of this hitch on a 2023 Acura RDX where he goes through all the measurements as well.

If you do decide to tow with a trailer, you'll need a wiring harness to make sure the trailer's lights coincide with your vehicle's. The Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector part # C63VV will plug straight in the vehicle's wiring without needing to splice wires and has a built-in converter to sync the vehicle and trailer lights. It will plug in behind the taillights and be tucked out of sight behind the trim panels once installed.

What option would be the best for you?

expert reply by: Claire H

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Ground Clearance Measure 13.5" from Top of Hitch to Ground
(click to enlarge)

Chris B.

4/10/2026

Thank you for the detailed answer. It doesn’t make much sense though to produce a receiver hitch with over twice the capability that the vehicle itself has (other than factor of safety for the receiver hitch by itself). I already have a small trailer but that’s a whole other story in itself. Lesson learned: Make darn sure the vehicle you buy is rated for what you need. I’m still kicking myself 3 years later for not buying quite enough vehicle towing and tongue weight capability!!!

Claire H.

4/14/2026

@ChrisB I understand your frustration, a lot of hitches are actually rated quite a bit higher than the vehicle they're designed to fit. Are you already set up to use your small trailer to tow your motorbike? If not, you can easily add some 2-slot etracks part # EM19145 to create a tie down point. If you already have ratchet straps you can use the Erickson E Track Tie-Off w/D-ring part # E59143 to attach to the E-track. Or we have some CargoBuckle Mini G3 Retractable Rachet Straps part # IMF103745-87 that will fit directly in the E-track if you'd like.

Ltcajh

4/11/2026

Nothing wrong with overbuilding something. I'll add my experience with the hitch on my 2023 RDX. I removed it because I want a spare tire. The hitch covers the underside, where the tire is drawn up to. The spare tire and hardware has to be purchased separately.

Claire H.

4/14/2026

@Ltcajh You are totally correct that the hitch doesn't allow space for a spare tire. If the spare is under 18 inches it will fit, but anything 18 inches or larger will have to be removed for the hitch to fit.