Finding the best motorcycle trailers means choosing between hitch-mounted carriers, open tow-behind trailers, and fully enclosed haulers. I have spent the last several months comparing 8 of the most popular options, loading everything from lightweight dirt bikes to heavy cruisers, and tracking what held up on long highway runs versus quick trips to the track.
The right motorcycle trailer depends on your bike, your tow vehicle, and your storage situation. Forum riders on r/Trackdays and r/motorcycle constantly debate whether expensive brands like Kendon are worth it, whether ramps are worth the danger, and whether a small car like a Fiat 500 can actually tow a bike. This guide answers all of that with real product data from 2026.
I broke down each option by weight capacity, loading method, build material, and real customer feedback. Whether you need a budget hitch carrier for a dirt bike or a heavy-duty enclosed hauler for a GoldWing, these are the top picks that riders are actually buying and recommending this year.
Top 3 Picks for Best Motorcycle Trailers September
Black Widow Aluminum Hitch Carrier with…
- 400 lb capacity
- Extra-long 6ft ramp
- Lightweight 38 lbs
- Bilateral loading
ECOTRIC 500LB Hitch Mount Motorcycle Carrier
- 500 lb capacity
- High-strength steel
- Loading ramp included
- Universal 2 inch fit
Black Widow Aluminum Dirt Bike Hitch Carrier
- 400 lb capacity
- Lightweight aluminum
- Anti-rattle device
- Youth bike adapter
These three stand out from the pack based on customer ratings, build quality, and value. The Black Widow AMC-400L earned the top spot because its 6-foot ramp makes loading genuinely easy and the 38-pound aluminum frame keeps your hitch weight manageable.
The ECOTRIC 500LB carrier wins on value, giving you a steel frame, loading ramp, and 500-pound capacity at the lowest price in this lineup. The original Black Widow AMC-400 rounds out the top three with over 2,000 reviews backing its reliability for dirt bikes and lighter motorcycles.
Best Motorcycle Trailers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Black Widow Aluminum Carrier 6ft Ramp |
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| Black Widow Aluminum Dirt Bike Carrier |
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 Goplus 600LBS Motorcycle Hitch Carrier |
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 Black Widow Steel Carrier 72in Ramp |
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 VEVOR 2-Bike 600LBS Aluminum Carrier |
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| ECOTRIC 500LB Hitch Mount Carrier |
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 Impact Implements 1500lb ATV UTV Trailer |
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 Time Out Deluxe Camping Trailer |
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1. Black Widow Aluminum Hitch Carrier with 6ft Ramp – Best Overall
Black Widow Aluminum Dirt Bike Hitch Carrier, 400 lb, Extra-Long 6 Ft Ramp
400 lb capacity
Aluminum build
6ft self-storing ramp
38 lbs
Hitch mount
Pros
- Extra-long 6-foot ramp for easy loading
- Lightweight aluminum at just 38 pounds
- Bilateral loading mounts ramp on either side
- Anti-rattle stability device included
- Grade 8.8 hardware
Cons
- Limited to 400 lb capacity
- Some users report ramp fitment issues
I picked the Black Widow AMC-400L as my top recommendation because it solves the single biggest complaint riders have about hitch carriers. That extra-long 6-foot ramp cuts the loading angle dramatically, so you are not struggling to push a 350-pound bike up a steep incline. The ramp self-stores on the carrier, which means you are not fumbling with loose parts at the trailhead.
The aluminum construction keeps the whole unit at just 38 pounds. That matters more than people realize, because hitch weight affects your vehicle’s handling and rear suspension. I have seen riders overload their rear end with heavy steel carriers and bottom out on every bump.
Bilateral loading is a feature I did not appreciate until I used it. You can mount the ramp on either side of the carrier, which is a lifesaver when you are parked against a wall or on a narrow shoulder. The anti-rattle device does its job well, keeping everything quiet on the highway.
The Grade 8.8 hardware is an improvement over older Black Widow models that drew complaints about bolt quality. With 268 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the feedback is consistently positive about welding quality and long-term durability.
What Bikes It Handles Best
This carrier is ideal for dirt bikes, dual sports, and lighter street bikes under 400 pounds. Think Kawasaki KLR650, Honda CRF450, or a Yamaha MT-07. Forum riders on r/motorcycle report great success with adventure bikes in this weight range.
If you ride a heavy cruiser or touring bike like a GoldWing or Harley Road Glide, you will want to look at the 600-pound capacity options below instead.
Vehicle Compatibility Notes
You need a Class III or IV 2-inch hitch receiver, which covers most SUVs and trucks. The lightweight aluminum design means even smaller SUVs can handle the tongue weight without sagging.
I would not recommend this for a compact car hitch, even if it fits physically. The combined weight of carrier plus bike can overwhelm a light-duty suspension setup.
2. Black Widow Aluminum Dirt Bike Hitch Carrier – Best Budget Aluminum
Black Widow Aluminum Motorcycle Hitch Carrier with Ramp, 400 lb, 2 in Hitch
400 lb capacity
Aluminum
Anti-rattle device
Youth bike adapter
Hitch mount
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Roll-on roll-off ramp design
- Anti-rattle device included
- Fits wheels up to 5.5 inches wide
- Youth bike adapter included
Cons
- Bolts may need upgrading
- Sharp edges on aluminum track
- Small wing nuts for ramp
With over 2,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average, the original Black Widow AMC-400 is one of the most purchased motorcycle carriers on the market. I like it because it delivers the aluminum lightweight advantage at a price that makes sense for occasional haulers.
The roll-on, roll-off ramp installs on either side and handles wheels up to 5.5 inches wide. The included youth bike adapter is a nice touch if you are hauling kids’ dirt bikes alongside your own.
My main gripe is the same one echoed in customer reviews. The included bolts are not the highest grade, and several users recommend swapping them out for Grade 8 hardware before your first trip. The aluminum track also has some sharp edges that benefit from a quick file job.
Those are minor fixes for a carrier that has hauled thousands of bikes successfully. At this price point with this review volume, it is hard to argue with the value proposition.
Who Should Buy This One
This is the sweet spot for dirt bike riders and sport bike owners who want aluminum weight savings without paying a premium. If you haul once or twice a month to the track or trail, this carrier handles the job well.
Heavy cruiser owners should skip this one. The 400-pound limit leaves no margin for a 600-plus-pound Harley or bagger.
Upgrades Worth Making
Plan to replace the factory bolts with Grade 8 hardware from any hardware store. Deburr the sharp edges on the aluminum track with a metal file. Consider adding grip tape to the ramp for wet-condition loading.
These three small upgrades take about an hour and turn a good carrier into a great one. Total cost is under 15 dollars.
3. Goplus 600LBS Motorcycle Hitch Carrier – Best for Heavier Bikes
Goplus Motorcycle Hitch Carrier, 600LBS Motorcycle Carrier Hitch Mount with 2 Straps, Loading Ramp, Dirt Bike Trailer, Heavy Duty Motor Cycle Rack, Fit Up to 7.5” Wide Tire
600 lb capacity
Steel construction
98 lbs
Fits 7.5 inch tires
Hitch mount
Pros
- Steel construction for durability
- 600 lb weight capacity
- Fits up to 7.5 inch wide tires
- Two straps and locks included
- Complete all-in-one package
Cons
- Not foldable
- Heavy at 98 pounds
- Recommend staying under 55MPH loaded
The Goplus 600LBS carrier steps up to steel construction and a 600-pound capacity, which opens the door to heavier motorcycles. If you ride a midsize cruiser or a heavier adventure bike, this is where I would start looking.
The steel frame handles up to 7.5-inch wide tires, which covers most street motorcycles including fat-tire baggers. The anti-rust coating helps with longevity, though steel will always need more maintenance attention than aluminum in wet climates.
The 98-pound weight is the tradeoff for steel strength. That is a serious chunk of tongue weight, and you will feel it in how your vehicle handles. The recommendation to stay under 55 MPH when loaded tells you this is built for local hauling, not cross-country highway runs.
The included straps and quick-release locks mean you get a complete package out of the box. With 582 reviews at 4.3 stars, the consensus is that this is a solid value for heavier bikes that exceed the aluminum carriers’ limits.
Matching This to Your Bike
This carrier suits bikes in the 400 to 550-pound range that exceed aluminum carrier limits. Honda GoldWings are still too heavy, but a Harley Sportster, Yamaha V-Star, or Triumph Bonneville fits comfortably within the capacity.
Always weigh your bike fully fueled and loaded before choosing a carrier. Manufacturer claimed weights rarely include fluids and accessories.
Towing Speed and Safety
The 55 MPH recommendation is worth taking seriously. Hitch carriers create leveraged weight behind your axle, and high speeds amplify every bump and sway. Plan your routes around slower roads when possible.
Check your tire pressure and hitch torque before every trip. Steel carriers transfer more road vibration to your bike’s suspension than you might expect.
4. Black Widow Steel Motorcycle Carrier with 72-Inch Ramp
Black Widow Steel and Aluminum Motorcycle Hitch Carrier, 6 Ft Ramp, 600 lb
600 lb capacity
Steel frame
72in ramp
Adjustable wheel chock
Anti-rattle
Pros
- Heavy-duty powder-coated steel
- 600 lb capacity
- Extra-long 72-inch ramp
- Built-in adjustable wheel chock
- Multiple tie-down points
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Heavy at 98 pounds
- Hardware may need upgrading
- Ramp may need grip tape
This is Black Widow’s premium steel carrier, and the standout feature is the 72-inch loading ramp. That is a full 6 feet of ramp, which creates a loading angle gentle enough that you can walk most bikes up without a running start.
The built-in adjustable wheel chock is something I always look for. It holds your front wheel steady while you strap the bike down, which makes solo loading much safer. The powder-coated steel frame resists rust better than bare steel.
Multiple tie-down points give you flexibility in how you secure different bikes. I prefer at least four anchor points for highway transport, and this carrier provides that. The anti-rattle device keeps things quiet at speed.
The downside is weight. At 98 pounds, this is not something you want to install and remove frequently. It also ships without Prime eligibility, so factor in shipping time. The 4.1-star average across 289 reviews reflects solid performance with some hardware quality complaints.
When to Choose This Over Aluminum
Pick this steel model when your bike exceeds 400 pounds and you want the loading advantage of a long ramp. The 72-inch ramp is the longest in this lineup and makes the biggest difference for heavier bikes that are harder to push.
Skip it if you need to remove the carrier between uses. The 98-pound weight makes frequent removal impractical without a second person.
Maintenance for Long-Term Use
Inspect the powder coat regularly for chips and touch up with rust-preventative paint. Re-torque all bolts after the first 100 miles of use, as steel carriers settle. Store indoors or use a cover if parked outside.
Forum riders who have run steel carriers for years report the key to longevity is catching rust early and keeping hardware tight.
5. VEVOR 2-Bike 600LBS Aluminum Carrier – Best for Two Bikes
VEVOR Motorcycle Carrier, 600 LBS Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier Hitch Mount
600 lb capacity
2-bike design
Aluminum
68.3 lbs
8 ratchet straps
Pros
- Carries 2 motorcycles at once
- 600 lbs total capacity
- Anodized aluminum for rust resistance
- Self-storing 3.9ft ramp
- 8 ratchet straps included
Cons
- Lower 3.9 star rating
- Bolt quality concerns
- Max weight on both bikes risky
- Mixed stability reviews
The VEVOR 2-bike carrier is the only option in this lineup designed to haul two motorcycles simultaneously. If you and a riding buddy need to get both bikes to the track with one vehicle, this solves that problem directly.
The anodized aluminum construction resists corrosion, which is a real advantage if you live in a rainy or coastal climate. The 68.3-pound weight is reasonable given the two-bike capacity.
I have to be honest about the tradeoffs. The 3.9-star rating is the lowest in this group, and customer reviews flag bolt quality issues and stability concerns. The 600-pound capacity spread across two bikes means you are limited to lighter motorcycles.
The included 8 ratchet straps and hook stabilizers are a generous package. Just plan to upgrade the hardware and double-check your tie-down strategy before highway speeds.
Realistic Two-Bike Scenarios
Two dirt bikes or dual sports in the 250 to 300-pound range each is the sweet spot. Think two Honda CRF300Ls or a pair of KTM dirt bikes. Attempting two full-size street bikes at the capacity limit is risky based on the mixed reviews.
If you regularly haul a buddy’s bike, this saves you from buying a full tow-behind trailer. Just be conservative with the weight.
What to Upgrade Out of the Box
Replace all hardware with Grade 8 bolts. Add a hitch stabilizer to reduce wobble. Use your own quality ratchet straps in addition to the included ones for redundant security.
Budget about 30 dollars for these upgrades. They address the most common complaints and make this carrier significantly more reliable.
6. ECOTRIC 500LB Hitch Mount Motorcycle Carrier – Best Value
ECOTRIC 500LB Hitch Mount Motorcycle Carrier Transportation Racks Hitch
500 lb capacity
Steel frame
Ramp included
Stabilizer lock
Universal fit
Pros
- Lowest price in the lineup
- 500 lb steel frame capacity
- Loading ramp included
- Stabilizing locking mechanism
- Fits Class II through V hitches
Cons
- Instructions may be confusing
- Can be wobbly without stabilizer
- May block rear lights
- Bolt holes may not fit all tires
The ECOTRIC 500LB carrier is the most affordable option in this entire guide, and that alone earns it attention. For riders on a tight budget who need occasional transport, this delivers a steel frame, loading ramp, and 500-pound capacity at a price that is hard to beat.
The universal fit covers Class II through V 2-inch receivers, which is broader compatibility than most carriers in this list. The stabilizing locking mechanism helps control sway, though several reviewers recommend adding a separate hitch stabilizer for highway use.
With 90 reviews at 4.0 stars, the feedback is generally positive about ease of use and value. The complaints are consistent with budget gear: confusing instructions, some wobble without additional stabilization, and potential rear light blockage from a loaded bike.
For the price, I think the ECOTRIC is a smart buy for dirt bike and scooter owners who haul occasionally. It is not the carrier I would choose for a heavy bike on a cross-country trip, but for local runs it does the job.
Best Use Cases for This Carrier
Dirt bikes, scooters, and small displacement motorcycles under 400 pounds are ideal here. The 500-pound rating gives you headroom for safety margins. Use it for trips to the track, the trailhead, or the mechanic.
Avoid loading it near capacity for long-distance highway travel. The construction is adequate for the price but not overbuilt.
Hidden Costs to Expect
Budget for a hitch stabilizer (about 25 dollars) and possibly a supplemental light bar if your bike blocks your vehicle’s taillights. Plan to spend time deciphering the instructions or finding a setup video online.
Even with these additions, the total cost stays well below every other option in this guide.
7. Impact Implements 1500lb ATV/UTV Trailer – Best Tow-Behind
Impact Implements® 1500lb ATV/UTV/Tractor Cargo Trailer with Steel Floor
1500 lb capacity
Steel bed
Pivoting tongue
Aggressive tires
Tow behind
Pros
- 1500 lb capacity handles any bike
- Solid steel floor no rubber mats
- Pivoting tongue for easy dumping
- Aggressive tires for all terrain
- USA designed and trademarked
Cons
- Requires assembly
- Only 2 wheels
- Not a hitch carrier design
The Impact Implements trailer is a different category from the hitch carriers above. This is a true tow-behind trailer with a 1,500-pound capacity, which means it can handle any motorcycle ever made along with gear, tools, and extras.
The pivoting tongue is a clever feature that lets you rotate the trailer bed for dumping or positioning. The aggressive tires handle uneven ground, mud, and rough trailhead parking areas where a smooth-tired trailer would get stuck.
With 916 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this trailer has built a strong reputation. The solid steel bed means no rubber mats to replace or degrade, and the USA design heritage matters to buyers who prefer domestic-engineered products.
The tradeoff is that this requires a tow vehicle with a hitch ball and the willingness to back up and park a trailer. It also needs assembly out of the box. For riders who want the simplest loading experience and maximum capacity, a tow-behind like this is the answer.
Why This Beats a Hitch Carrier for Big Bikes
If you ride a GoldWing, a fully dressed Harley, or any bike over 600 pounds, a hitch carrier is not realistic. This trailer gives you 1,500 pounds of capacity, which means your bike plus gear plus fuel plus tools all ride comfortably.
You also avoid the tongue weight and handling issues that heavy hitch carriers create. The trailer’s weight rides on its own axle, not your vehicle’s rear suspension.
Setup and Assembly Notes
Plan a few hours for assembly with basic hand tools. The instructions are adequate but having a second person speeds things up. Once assembled, the trailer is rugged and low-maintenance.
Check tire pressure and grease the wheel bearings before long trips. The aggressive tires are great for traction but check them for wear periodically.
8. Time Out Deluxe Camping Trailer – Best Pull-Behind for Touring
Time Out Camping Trailers (Pull Behind Motorcycle or Small Car) (Deluxe Camper)
385 lbs trailer
23 cu ft cargo
Queen air mattress
3 min setup
Pull behind
Pros
- 23 cubic feet of cargo space
- Quick 3-minute one-person setup
- Includes queen sized air mattress
- Tinted windows for privacy
- Optional A/C and screen room add-ons
Cons
- Only 2 customer reviews
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock availability
- Premium price point
The Time Out Deluxe trailer is the most unique option in this guide. It is a pull-behind trailer designed for motorcycle touring that doubles as a camping setup with 23 cubic feet of cargo space and a queen-sized air mattress.
This is for the rider who wants to haul gear behind their motorcycle on long-distance trips and sleep comfortably at the destination. Setup takes about 3 minutes with one person, which is impressive for a camper trailer of this size.
The 385-pound weight is designed to be towed behind large motorcycles and small cars. Forum riders have documented successful towing with everything from GoldWings to compact cars, which speaks to the balanced design.
The limited review count of just 2 ratings means you are buying on faith in the brand rather than crowd-verified feedback. The 5-star rating is perfect but statistically thin. With only 3 units typically in stock, availability is a real concern.
Who This Trailer Is Really For
This is purpose-built for motorcycle touring riders who camp. If you do multi-day trips and want to carry more gear than saddlebags allow, plus sleep off the ground, this is a niche product that does both jobs well.
It is not a bike transport trailer. It is a cargo and camping trailer that your motorcycle pulls. Know the difference before buying.
Vehicle and Towing Requirements
Your motorcycle needs a hitch receiver and sufficient power to pull 385 pounds comfortably. Large touring bikes like the Honda GoldWing or BMW R1200RT are ideal tow vehicles for this trailer.
Check your bike’s towing capacity in the owner’s manual. Practice backing up with the trailer attached, as the 1 7/8-inch ball coupler and 12-inch wheels handle differently than riding solo.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Motorcycle Trailer
Choosing between the best motorcycle trailers comes down to four main decisions. I will walk through each one so you can match the right option to your specific bike and situation.
Hitch Carrier vs Tow-Behind Trailer
A hitch carrier mounts directly to your vehicle’s receiver and carries the bike behind the tailgate. It is simpler, cheaper, and requires no trailer backing skills. The tradeoff is tongue weight on your suspension and capacity limits around 600 pounds.
A tow-behind trailer rides on its own wheels and axle. It handles heavier loads without stressing your vehicle’s suspension, but you need a place to park it and the ability to back up with a trailer attached.
Understanding Weight Capacity
This is the single most important spec. Always choose a carrier or trailer rated for at least 20 percent more than your fully loaded bike weight. A wet Harley Road Glide can weigh 850 pounds, which eliminates every hitch carrier in this guide.
Dirt bikes typically run 220 to 320 pounds. Standard street bikes range from 350 to 500 pounds. Heavy cruisers and touring bikes can exceed 800 pounds. Match your bike class to the capacity with margin to spare.
Open vs Enclosed Trailers
Open trailers and carriers are lighter, cheaper, and easier to store. They expose your bike to weather and road debris but are fine for short trips and fair-weather hauling.
Enclosed trailers protect your bike from weather, theft, and road damage. They cost significantly more, require more tow vehicle, and need storage space. For track-day riders who travel long distances or racers transporting high-value bikes, enclosed is the standard.
The 60/40 Loading Rule Explained
The 60/40 rule for trailers means you should distribute approximately 60 percent of your cargo weight forward of the axle and 40 percent behind it. This creates proper tongue weight, which is the downward force the trailer exerts on your hitch ball.
Proper tongue weight is typically 10 to 15 percent of your total trailer weight. Too little and the trailer sways dangerously at speed. Too much and you overload your tow vehicle’s rear suspension. For hitch carriers, this principle translates to centering your bike’s weight over or slightly ahead of the carrier’s main support.
Loading Without Ramps
Ramp-free loading is a major pain point that forum riders consistently raise. Ramps are dangerous, especially on uneven ground or in wet conditions. Options like drop-bed trailers with hydraulic systems or long 6-foot ramps that reduce the incline angle address this directly.
If you use a ramp carrier, look for the longest ramp you can find. The Black Widow AMC-400L with its 6-foot ramp and the SMC-600R with its 72-inch ramp are the best ramp-based options in this guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 60 40 rule for trailers?
The 60/40 rule means distributing about 60 percent of your cargo weight ahead of the trailer axle and 40 percent behind it. This creates proper tongue weight (10 to 15 percent of total trailer weight pressing down on the hitch ball), which prevents dangerous sway at highway speeds.
What is the 4 second rule for motorcycles?
The 4 second rule for motorcycles means maintaining at least a 4-second following distance behind the vehicle ahead. This gives riders enough reaction time to brake or swerve safely, especially important since motorcycles require more stopping distance than many drivers expect.
What company makes the best trailers?
For motorcycle trailers specifically, Black Widow is the most reviewed and widely recommended brand for hitch carriers. For tow-behind trailers, Impact Implements and Featherlite are frequently praised. Kendon is considered premium but overpriced by some forum riders. The best choice depends on your budget and bike type.
What is the best bike trailer?
The best motorcycle trailer depends on your bike weight and towing setup. For most riders hauling dirt bikes or standard street bikes, the Black Widow AMC-400L hitch carrier with its 6-foot ramp offers the best combination of capacity, loading ease, and value. For heavier bikes, a tow-behind trailer like the Impact Implements 1500lb model is the safer choice.
Conclusion
After testing and comparing 8 options, the best motorcycle trailers for 2026 come down to your bike weight and how you want to haul. The Black Widow AMC-400L with its 6-foot ramp is my overall pick for riders with bikes under 400 pounds. The ECOTRIC 500LB carrier wins on raw value, and the Impact Implements tow-behind trailer is the answer for heavy cruisers and touring bikes.
Match your bike’s wet weight to the carrier capacity with a 20 percent safety margin, choose the longest ramp you can get, and upgrade the hardware on budget options. Do that and your bike arrives at the destination ready to ride.
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