Overlanding with Harbor Freight 600 lb capacity Motorcycle hitch carrier review

[@ginoasci]

I like that camper wow

[@kinglucci5352]

Got the smaller model from Harbor freight have had it for 2 yrs put over 8k miles with it hauling my 450.

[@bikingviking6688]

Hook up your front strap closest to your Jeep first. That way you can lean the bike away from it while you're hooking up the rest

[@michaeldavison430]

I've carried a bike on a hitch carrier a fair bit on the back of my rv. If you want to avoid wobble just add two straps from the bike to the rear bumper and it will remain solid through long trips even on horrible northeast roads. Like most I was nervous about this type of carrier at first too but it has worked out very well over many miles of use.

[@adventuremikesgarage]

Thanks for the input! Great idea

[@workinwithmrwilson]

I used this carrier for a Harley Pan America for a 4,000 mile cross country trip. I added extra straps to the vehicle wherever I could for more stabilization. Maybe you could run a couple from your camper roof rack down to your tie down points.

[@greenrush4313]

it was good i also have the Pan. also as you might know they are coming out with the cvo pan america. I have the GI edition@@workinwithmrwilson

[@frankviramontes139]

Great demonstration, u covered all my questions . Thanks now, enjoy every moment

[@WillK1349.]

I have my Boulevard s83 (570lbs) on mine and I’m driving from NY to Utah and Montana! I’m in the middle of Kansas now and it’s held up great but man I’m scared shitless of it breaking lol

[@Doozer18]

Any sign of bending? I'm looking at a 500lb one now. My bike is 498. Surely they have additional rating for bounciness on the hwy, right?

[@WillK1349.]

@@Doozer18 yes it definitely dose bend! But mine hangs low because it’s on a GMC Terrain and it’s been bottoming out pulling into hi rise parking lots! But the good news is I’ve made it from NY to Utah and she is holding up outside of it scrapping pavement I’ve had no issues

[@BBQasaurus]

I'm picking up a new Africa Twin next weekend using this. I'm terrified. lol

[@WillK1349.]

@@BBQasaurus well the good news is I made it all the way and she didn’t fail me! My bike was on it over a week going through some tough areas and weather and didn’t have any issue beside bottoming out lol

[@guloguloguy]

THANK YOU, FOR SHARING THIS REVIEW/DEMO VIDEO!!! I HAVE JUST GOTTEN A NEARLY IDENTICAL CARRIER,... I'LL HAVE TO "BEEF IT UP" IN A FEW ASPECTS, BY ADDING SOME STEEL, OR, MODIFYING THAT FRONT WHEEL CHOCK (MAKING IT "REMOVEABLE", SO THAT I DON'T HAVE TO "FIGHT" IT!!... GOOD TO KNOW!!

[@texling93]

Nice demonstration. Me being 5'8'' I usually back up to a high ground area (mound). That way I'm not in a bind being short. Works for me.

[@chrisunderhill8853]

Great vod, thanks for the review. I have a klr 650 it's about the same weight as the norden. I have been toying with this idea as well. The more I see these types of carriers, it makes me want to custom build one that uses more of the hitch, not just the center connection.

[@dnlmachine4287]

Exactly. These need to be made to piggyback or add-on to hitch receiver mounting rails so they have two attachment points. Physics dictate that a 3-400lb object sticking out 1-2 feet from that single square tube = that square tube will break. Or the carrier will wobble a lot. If you have ever seen the slop in a ball mount tube when inserted into the hitch receiver, you know what the situation is. Stay gold.

[@bladez942]

Sweet overland rig.

[@Geordo1960]

I have this rack and found it much easier to load my motorcycle than any other rack I’ve tried. I’ve noticed that wobble and worry a lot about those welds on the tie down loops and yes this rack scrapes easily. I have to use air springs. But despite my worries, the rack has held up and has had no breakages. I had to loosen that swivel flip over part some to load easier. Gotta add in that you have great taste in your toys and setup. Overlanding must be great fun. I camp and cycle but have an suv so overlanding is not possible for me but your setup would be my dream play toys!

[@latey]

Your garage looks awesome. Really cool.

[@adventuremikesgarage]

Thanks! I love my wall mounted NewAge Bold cabinets. They really make the area clean and organized.

[@kenfm2000]

I bought the same Harbor Freight Carrier today. I plan on using it on the front of my Class C RV. I have 3 different bikes (Honda CRF 300L, Honda ADV150 and Honda Trail 125). Depending on where I am going one of them will be on the front carrier. I might try mine without the rear portion of the Chock as @Kyoti mentioned. Thanks for posting the video!

[@ThreeWheeler54]

I also thinking of getting a AVD150 to put on my CRV .

[@terrywarner8657]

Another thought. I've watched countless hitch carriers on the road. They all bounce. I wonder how much point stress that is putting on the receiver? To counteract the weight of the bike on the 2" hitch, why not triangulate attachments to the box or back gate? Visualize an old fashioned pickup truck's tailgate with flat plates to which a hook on a chain fitted. Install a plate stock hasp in the groove between the body and the gate, then run a strap over top of the load to secure it against twisting on the axis of the vehicle.

[@shawnedward]

I use a ratchet strap across the inner eye holes for the carrier and through the anchor points for chains. strap it down 90%. Mine don't bounce at all. I was super worried about that, so u just tried to lock things up as best I could. Had 1 emergency stop I had tod everything was GREAT. no movement on the road. Minimal movement on the emergency stop. Crf250l rally. I think 342 lbs.

[@skwashua]

I’m planning on getting a motorcycle this spring and this review was very helpful! I’ll probably get this to start, but get a mototote when I get a more expensive bike. (Also in Utah!)

[@dmsentra]

I'm glad they changed the crappy design since mine broke. Mine has a cast aluminum extrusion holding the channel to the steel tube. 2 years in it snapped when unloading 140 miles from home. Luckily that Sunday I got ahold of a shop owner and with some angle, plate and U bolts I could put it together.

[@terrywarner8657]

(I'm just full of suggestions!) There is a lot of ramp floor between the two sides, and the tires are only using a little strip in the middle. If you plan on carrying only one bike with one size tire, make some hardwood spacers to keep the tire centred between the side rails. Think of it like orthotics for feet to fit boots, as spacers for tires to fit the carrier.

[@Harsh602AZ]

Smart stuff

[@dalusa81]

super helpful! thank you so much for the information and video!

[@pdevonport7266]

I would suggest to get rid of that wheel chock it is no purpose as the momentum of the bike is forward not sideways. I would also replace those ratchet tiedowns with cam lock motorcycle tiedowns as you only need one hand to pull them tight. I certainly would not be carrying round a 220 kg bike, over rough ground there's way too much flexing, and relying on a piece of Chinese square tube because metal fatigue will eventually happen, unlike tow-bars, which have to be certified and use the correct steel .Also you must make sure your tow bar is rated to carry a over 220 kg downforce, which equates to 2.2 tons towing capacity. When I load my bike, I use a eye hook turnbuckle that hooks over the foot pegs, attaching the outside foot peak first, and leaning the bike towards the vehicle.

[@deangardiner151]

If you’re looking for American made go with Versa-haul. Also can opt for taillights if you’re concerned about being rear ended. They also make a double so you can haul 2 bikes at once it’s called the VH-55 DM.

[@kaytme5915]

Nice video with your van & 300+ pound motor cycle

[@buddhistpriest1357]

Nice stuff!

[@ericbauer4897]

Just got a dirt bike, running to HF this weekend for the carrier you just demo'd. If you have any connection points on the roof, why not run a strap or two from the carrier up, may help with some of that movement. I'm sure you can come up with something to protect your camper. I plan on running staps to my spare tire on the back of a TJ Rubicon, or up to the roof rack on the Grand Cherokee. Couldn't hurt to try. Thanks for the video, been very apprehensive about getting one of these, and transporting a bike on it. This video laid some of that worry to rest.

[@claydroids]

Good demo, thanks. Can't imagine doing that on a daily with a my Triumph for Vanlife travel. Scary af.

[@joshwatts6287]

Awesome camper setup to by the way!

[@itsTy21215]

I bought this carrier today. I have a 2023 Honda xr150 and this carrier (for me) is SKEYCHY. Suuuper wobbly. I haven’t actually drove with it yet but when the bike is up there, it is really really wobbly. I don’t know if maybe I put the “hitch stabilizer” on incorrectly but DANG she wiggles.

[@Tacoexplorer]

Thanks for sharing. I'm thinking about getting a Switch Hauler instead for my Yz250fx. Those seem more stable and easier to load.

[@METALWERX]

Good review, I just bought one of these the other day for my move to another state hauling my YZ 250 with my SUV, I think it will do well, decided on the 600lb carrier, I figure if it's made for a heavier bike then it will suffice for a lighter bike. Nice Jeep and EDC camper, I just might have to look into that setup, I'm diggin the orange.

[@mauricioaranda68]

Great video! I got all the answers 👍

[@kennycheng5455]

Thx for sharing your experience with the hitch. I am also in the market looking for a hauling solution with my KTM890 (460lbs) . I currently using the motojack with my KTM500 (260lbs). Althought the motojack is rated for 600lbs.. It wobbles too much with the heavier bike just like you observed. Pls let us know if you have any other feedback after use. Thx you!

[@avnmech]

I’d probably go with some brake lights on the back of the carrier has all three of your brake lights are blocked by the motorcycle. At night, you run the risk of being rear ended.

[@sporty05]

Thanks for the video, I am considering buying one to use on my truck which has a fiberglass shell so I can't haul a bike in the back/bed. BTW, Nice camper too!

[@Ryan-rn8gk]

I have a similar carrier and I’m always super nervous when I have a bike on there.

[@davidhoward8951]

I drive a 1996 Toyota and I got a black widow put on the back of it the problem I have is it sits fairly low so I ordered a different hitch to bring it up 4 in how about 35 dollars also put LED lights on the back of the hauler and plugged it into my trailer lights that way somebody won't run in the back of me cuz I can't see your brake lights

[@Mark1JT]

I'm 5'7" tall, I would not be doing that by myself unless I get really good walking on stilts.

[@rockyesterline7942]

Can't have a heavy steel one i need a aluminum one!

[@malikknows3510]

Nice video, thank you. May I ask why you wanted to load from the other side? Thanks in advance.

[@adventuremikesgarage]

I think that’s just the way the directions say to configure it. Also loading from the passenger side. Doesn’t have anything sticking out into traffic if you’re on the side of the road.

[@kingbetong8741]

How it held up now? Im thingking of buyin this to load my 450 lbs bike. Thanks

[@adventuremikesgarage]

I've used it very little. One trip to Moab with a Kove 450 on it. It worked fine for what it is. I don't think I would haul all the time with a heavy bike. I'll turn to a trailer then

[@MrDehicka]

This puts huge stress on the frame. Gladiator's frame are prone to crack and break due to frequent heavy towing. To be safe you need to reinforce it around rear bumpsops.

[@MrRickrm]

Ive been thinking of this. But scares the heck out of me for dropping the bike. Think i would have to have something to walk up along with the bike.

[@adventuremikesgarage]

It was scary with the big bike! Two people would make it easier

[@TrueHelpTV]

I would modify that chuck system with a pull out pin so I can remove it when unloading..

[@joseperez-cl8jk]

Hi nice bikes I was watching the this video my only modification to make sure everything works for long term Change the profile so it sits higher than the bumper with a off angle so nothing is hanging below it The second is to beef- up your the support so it is much stronger And add a secure mount for the kickstand that you can rest the bike on when taking it off and on There may be a way to add a tab to secure it in front and back like a under truck tire mount from the bottom up a tab on bike and one hole in the bike brace In the old days we only used de this to secure the bikes no strap I wish you happy time on your adventures and just maybe see you OFF ROAD I am making plans now and you have everything I hope to get for my vintage Toyota 4Runner two doors with the top replaced with the style of camper and a roof top solid side wall tent because I can extend the bed and go up on the top my new KTM 500exc f will be going inside a custom space enclosure or a rear enclosure the weight full is only 250 lbs I hope to be on the road mid summer 2024 if Jesus Christ is permitting. JoP

[@terrywarner8657]

Instead of loose, flopping (and low strength) straps, how about solid stabilizing stays between the frame and bike?

[@adventuremikesgarage]

Probably would help. My gladiator has a tow hook at the rear bumper that I was also thinking one solid connection to it would stabilize the whole bike.

[@terrywarner8657]

@@adventuremikesgarage Yes. Some bicycle carriers have an arm that clenches the bike. Those people have learned about attaching "stuff" to carriers.

[@carl2591]

nice video on the bike rack. what or where did you get the straps and what is the soft strap you talked about. ??? thanks

[@adventuremikesgarage]

These are the straps I got with soft loops. The ratchets have been a little sticky though when you go to try and release them. Otherwise I like them. amzn.to/3U8MkW9

[@tuomasholo]

My concern is if you have to brake in an emergency the heavy bike is going into the tail gate.

[@ismaelcastillo9779]

Will it be used to charge a Suzuki Boulevard C50 motorcycle?

[@joshwatts6287]

Awesome video man! Thank you for sharing and very good test results! I have a gladiator as well and just bought a Yamaha Tenere 700 and was wondering about this carrier

[@highwayman1218]

Id guess the Norden is close to 500 lbs ready to roll. Not including the weight of the rack, have you checked your max tongue weight rating on that hitch?. As a standard Class 3, Id guess its the usual 500 lbs max.

[@adventuremikesgarage]

My Jeep Gladiator has the max tow package with up to a 765 lb tongue weigh capacity.

[@kriskowalski5510]

I just got one,, my bike weights about 400lbs. It does sag about 2", do you have any suggestions?

[@adventuremikesgarage]

@@kriskowalski5510 just make sure the anti rattle hitch clamp is nice and tight and your receiver hitch is rated for that much weight. My truck also has helper airbags in the rear springs.

[@kriskowalski5510]

@@adventuremikesgarage The clamp should make a difference, thanks for the tip!

[@Burnin_TAR]

Would this carry my 22 gsxr 1000?

[@burymeinbrooklyn5329]

I just lifted my jeep and I’m trying to find someone that sells a longer ramp

[@BrandonPrentice]

How fast are you supposed to drive with this carrier? I'm considering a cross-country road trip averaging 80mph on the interstates. (2,500 miles each way)

[@adventuremikesgarage]

It should handle highway speeds fine

[@martinneps9387]

Would this handle a 650 birdman scooter? Please comment back and let me know. Thank you so very much for this video.

[@adventuremikesgarage]

Sorry I have no idea. You would have to check the weight of that bike and also make sure your 2" receiver is rated for the total weight of the bike and the carrier. Then you want to make sure the hitch height is not too high so the scooter will not high center as you roll it up the ramp. I just can't say for sure if it will work for your situation.

[@martinneps9387]

​@@adventuremikesgarageOkay thank you

[@Kiyoti]

...curious here....I have the same rack, a Black Widow brand, I have not used it yet, the wheel chock on there, the back protion that flips, since you have used and it appears that chock is not a "hold snug in place" chock....what about that back flip portion be removed...??? It would eliminate that "effort" to get over the flipper both directions in and out, maybe strap around tire at the ramp/front chock portion. Plan to use beginning tomorrow with a 310GS....what do you think about that flipper portion...??? A necessity...???

[@adventuremikesgarage]

No I don't think the flipper portion would be needed. Yes that would make it easier to get on and off.

[@Camera1931-p5v]

Does it block your directionals and brake and tail lights!

[@adventuremikesgarage]

Yes probably some

[@deadcarz4926]

I am not sure about obscuring the lights. If someone rear-ended you, I think you'd get the repair bills.

[@Ride2Live420]

Nice Jeep! The speed bump on the ramp is worthless, isn’t it?

[@adventuremikesgarage]

Yes. I should probably just remove that to make life easier

[@southerndeth]

Do you know your hitch's togue weight compacity? Cool rig. Thanks for the vid.

[@adventuremikesgarage]

Yes the 2020 Jeep Gladiator with the Max Tow Package has a 765 lb tongue weight rating. This is the max of any of the Gladiators and can tow 7650 lbs. I got this model specifically to tow my ASV RT-25 Compact Tracked loaded and implements

[@southerndeth]

Thanks

[@tonysilva5558]

Great video but I have one question, are you not worried about the tongue weight? I'm not sure about the Gladiator but I know my Rubicon JKU max tongue weight is 350 lbs. I'd like to get a good carrier so I can haul my Tenere T7 with the jeep but the tongue weight being what it is has me concerned. Thanks!

[@adventuremikesgarage]

My Gladiator is equipped with the Max Tow package. It has a 760 lb tongue weight capacity.

[@tonysilva5558]

@@adventuremikesgarage Hmm, not saying you're wrong but my Rubicon has the Max Tow package as well but everything I can find says max tongue weight is 350 lbs. Guess I need to look more for the information.

[@adventuremikesgarage]

@@tonysilva5558 mine is the Jeep JT Truck. It has a greater tow capacity and tongue weight capacity. It’ll tow 7650 lbs. the Rubicon JT will tow 7000 lbs.

[@markadams5823]

With the bike. Does it cover your tail light?

[@adventuremikesgarage]

at 13:17 in the video you can see it definitely covers a lot of the tail lights depending on the bike you are hauling

[@markadams5823]

@@adventuremikesgarage well I'm definitely going to it. . I'll just buy some towing lights and mount them on the carrier. Thanks for the video And information.

[@curlyeagle]

So long as you don’t go over the 500# hitch rating. Yes the rack can handle it but the hitch can’t for long.

[@WillK1349.]

dose it matter if it loads on the right or left side??

[@adventuremikesgarage]

No, You will just have to assemble it for the side you want it to ramp to.

[@WillK1349.]

@@adventuremikesgarage thank you! I did the same exact thing you did so I just reassembled it lol

[@johnmartin7144]

You may want to consider replacing all the Chinese bolts with Grade 8 from a reputable hardware store. Just saying!

[@vincentmamotos9937]

is your jeep lifted at all?

[@adventuremikesgarage]

Yes. 2” spacer lift and 35” tires. Also airlift bags in the rear springs. Truck has Max Tow package with heavier springs that come with that too b

[@vincentmamotos9937]

​@adventuremikesgarage cool. My jt is also 2.5" 35 tires. Need a reliable way to transport my super sport to the track. While i can get awau renting with home depot trailers, its not always convenient.

[@volksman3]

600lbs for the rack but what is the limit for the receiver? Allot let i would think? “The weight on the hitch is called the tongue weight and it needs to be included in your overall payload number. Jeep Wranglers have a 350-pound tongue weight capacity and towing capacities of between 2,000 and 3,500 pounds.”

[@adventuremikesgarage]

Mine is a Jeep Gladiator with the Max Tow package. It can to 7650 lbs and a 765 lb tongue weight. No problem here.

[@liu3kang]

Does it come with the straps?

[@adventuremikesgarage]

No it’s just the rack and hitch pin

[@liu3kang]

@@adventuremikesgarage thanks for the info!

[@Queeeeeesh]

I’m glad my xr600 only weights 300 lbs an has more power than this new crf

[@random-videos]

It won’t hit the vehicle if you break?

[@adventuremikesgarage]

Only if those bars bend that it is strapped to. Anything is possible... I think those bars are the weakest part of the setup

[@michaelfinley9988]

Big question, where is this hitch carrier made? Most Harbor Freight products are made in 🇨🇳 which for me is a no go.

[@theinnerdreamer7043]

I give it 6 months.

[@adventuremikesgarage]

lol.. I give it years! I'll only use it a few times a year when I want my motorcycle and jeep on a trip. Sometimes trips are motorcycle only or jeep only. I'll probably also use it when buying and selling bikes. I do like to change them out occasionally.

[@CraigG21]

1) I’ve got a 600 lb rated carrier - it clearly states that weight includes the weight of the carrier. 2) The carrier with the heavy bike on it probably exceeds the hitch weight for the Jeep. 3) The added weight of the bike/accessories and hitch carrier probably exceeds the GCWR of the vehicle. Jeeps are not known for their payload capacity, especially Rubicon models. Let’s not forget all the other vehicle mods including the Harker EDC and everything that is stored within. Super sketchy - a hard pass for me.

[@adventuremikesgarage]

1. Norden 466 lbs 20 lbs fluids= 486 2.Carrier 92 lbs. Bike 486 lbs Total 578 lbs OK 3.Gladiator Max Tow 760 lb tongue weight capacity. 500 lbs of Harker EDC and accessories, plus 486 for carrier and bike. Payload capacity 1710 lbs. I also have added airbags in the back springs of my Gladiator. Not so super Sketchy. But thanks for your comment.

[@maxi5784]

I wouldn’t trust the hitch carrier with 600 lbs bike on it…

[@wee535]

Same but for a smaller bike like a dirt bike it should be good and it’s only $250

[@lisacolbert5987]

Right ? There are a handful of failure videos and the two I looked at were bikes smaller than his lighter bike . His Norton ?! Maybe he should tow his Jeep with that one ..? Kidding . But seriously , I’d be super wary , as in , nope .

[@gzahnd]

470lb bike on a 600lb rated carrier. The bike is not anywhere close to 600lb.

[@Captndarty]

@@gzahnd add 40 pounds of fuel and the inertia of the bike going up and down over a bump and you well exceed 600 pounds

[@VagaBumAdventures]

I took a 660lbs Harley Dyna 800 miles with this Hitch. Zero problems. No one has had one fail. It’s made by Black Widow (model MCC-600). Rated at 600lbs but people have maxed them out. 😂

[@simonhantler8062]

I wouldn't trust that

[@markwilliams7091]

Powering your bike up the ramp is a disaster in the making.

[@guloguloguy]

....I REALLY DON'T LIKE MOST "RATCHET STRAPS"!!! THEY'RE A PAIN TO RELEASE, "ONE HANDED"...[IF EVEN DOABLE...]

[@richardwhitehead4684]

F**k that for a 500+ # bike. But thanks for sharing.

[@adventuremikesgarage]

Are you saying it can’t carry it? I think I just showed that it will for paved roads or even a gravel road to a campsite. I didn’t design the product I just bought it and shared an actual test drive with it.

[@InTheDirtAgain]

@@adventuremikesgarage Carrier design is alright, but I'd question the integrity of the steel used (Chinesium?). Considering the same carrier for my Bandit 1200, but would invest in a thicker center draw bar first. Since it carries the entire load, every pot hole or emergency maneuver will definitely fatigue the thinner metal over time. How close to max payload are you with the bike and camper shell?

[@adventuremikesgarage]

@@InTheDirtAgain I think it's 1710 lbs max payload. The raw camper is 300 lbs. Probably closer to 500 loaded out. Leaving 1210 lbs for the bike / carrier and people.

[@gladegoodrich2297]

Can you imagine a 600 pound bike falling off on a busy L A freeway. Dont trust that Harbor Freight Chinese stuff that much.

[@yamagrow420]

I’d trust this on the 101 with a 230 lb dirt bike. 600 lb bike sounds like it needs a trailer.

[@CoolioDaMan]

“Overlander” ?…. That’s funny..you mean Glorified Mall Crawler…

[@adventuremikesgarage]

If I’m at the mall I’ll probably just spend the night in the Holiday inn. But if I want to stay away from it all 70 miles out on the white rim in Moab then I’ll be in my Gladiator with the Harker EDC. I sure enjoy both types of accommodations. Thanks for commenting.

[@MichaelJLong]

Huge help! Thank you! I have the Norden Exp and I'm thinking of carrying it with me for a few trips. I also have an "Adventure Mike" channel! 😆 @advmike Love that jeep 🙌

[@adventuremikesgarage]

Thanks for watching. I have subscribed to your channel!