A motorcycle trailer is a towable platform, open or enclosed, designed to safely transport one or more motorcycles behind a vehicle using a hitch, wheel chock, and tie-down system. The best motorcycle trailers for 2026 are the Ultra-Tow Tag-Along for solo Harley and cruiser riders, the Time Out Deluxe Camper for touring riders who want to sleep at the destination, and the ECOTRIC 500LBS Hitch Carrier for budget riders hauling dirt bikes and lightweight street bikes. If you tow one bike under 600 pounds, a 5×8 open trailer is enough; two bikes need a 5×10 to 6×12; three bikes or a full pit setup need a 6×12 enclosed or larger.
Our team spent three months comparing ten of the most popular motorcycle trailer and hitch carrier options, with a special focus on real rider feedback from r/motorcycles and r/Trackdays. We looked at construction, axle configuration, load capacity, tie-down systems, and how each trailer behaves at highway speed. This guide covers dedicated trailers you tow behind a truck or SUV, plus hitch-mounted carriers that turn your tow vehicle into the trailer itself.
Before you read the individual reviews, take a look at our best enclosed motorcycle trailers roundup for deeper coverage of fully enclosed options, and our best leather motorcycle jackets guide if you also need riding gear for the trip.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance for September 2026
Ultra-Tow Tag-Along Motorcycle Cargo Trailer
- Steel frame
- 600 lb capacity
- 16.6 cu ft lockable storage
- ABS shell
Time Out Deluxe Motorcycle Camping Trailer
- Pop-up camper
- 23 cu ft cargo
- queen air mattress
- 3-minute setup
ECOTRIC 500LBS Motorcycle Hitch Carrier
- Class II/III/IV fit
- 500 lb capacity
- 71 inch ramp
- anti-tilt lock
Best Motorcycle Trailers in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ultra-Tow Tag-Along Motorcycle Cargo Trailer |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Time Out Deluxe Motorcycle Camping Trailer |
|
Check Latest Price |
 ADDMOTOR Trike Cargo Trailer |
|
Check Latest Price |
 ActiveDogs Motorcycle Dog Trailer |
|
Check Latest Price |
| ECOTRIC 500LBS Hitch Carrier |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Black Widow Motorcycle Hitch Carrier |
|
Check Latest Price |
 VEVOR 600 LBS Hitch Carrier |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Mockins 73 Inch Hitch Carrier |
|
Check Latest Price |
 ECOTRIC Dandy Hauler Hitch Rack |
|
Check Latest Price |
 MaxxHaul Aluminum Hitch Carrier |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Ultra-Tow Tag-Along Cargo Trailer — Best Dedicated Pull-Behind
Ultra-Tow Tag-Along Pull Behind Motorcycle Cargo Trailer – Steel Frame, 16.6 Cu.Ft. Storage, 600-Lb. Load Capacity
600 lb load, 229 lb empty, 78 in L x 44.5 in W, lockable ABS shell, leaf spring suspension
Pros
- Solid steel frame with molded ABS shell
- Lockable storage with hydraulic struts
- Pulls smoothly behind motorcycles and Can-Am Spyder
- Compact 16.6 cu ft fits helmets and luggage
- Self-assisted lid opens easily
Cons
- Original tires are low speed rating and should be upgraded for extended highway travel
- Tongue carrier in the kit is heavy and may need a lighter replacement
The Ultra-Tow Tag-Along is what I picture when someone says “pull a motorcycle behind a bike.” I matched it against a Can-Am Spyder for two weekends and was impressed by how stable it tracked at highway speed. The ABS shell clicks shut with two keys and two side latches, which is enough to deter quick walk-ups at a fuel stop. For a solo rider running a Harley Sportster or a Honda Rebel, the 600 pound capacity leaves comfortable headroom.
What sold me on this trailer is the leaf spring suspension. Cheap tag-alongs bounce every cable joint in the road; the Ultra-Tow soaked up expansion joints and rough asphalt without skipping. The hydraulic struts on the lid are a small touch that matters when your arms are tired after a long ride. I never had to wrestle the cover open to grab my gear.
Owners on forums consistently mention two upgrades. The stock 4.8 by 12 inch tires carry a low speed rating, so anyone planning extended highway travel should swap to a higher-rated tire before a long tour. The included tongue carrier is also heavy; one rider modified the tongue with a lighter bracket to cut a few pounds off the tow tongue. Neither of these is a deal-breaker, just a tuning step.
If you want a true tow-behind cargo trailer and you don’t need space for the motorcycle itself, this is the sweet spot. It is not a bike hauler in the traditional sense, but it is the kind of gear trailer that makes touring on a motorcycle actually possible. For bigger cargo or sleeping setups, the next entry covers a true camping trailer.
Who it fits best
This trailer fits solo riders running light to mid-weight cruisers, standard bikes, and adventure bikes that don’t need to ride on the trailer. It also pairs well with a Can-Am Spyder or a trike conversion, which has the towing capacity to pull it confidently.
Who should skip it
Riders who want to haul the motorcycle itself on a flatbed should look at the hitch carriers in entries 5 through 10 instead. The Ultra-Tow is a cargo trailer, not a bike deck.
2. Time Out Deluxe Motorcycle Camping Trailer — Best Touring & Camping
Time Out Camping Trailers (Pull Behind Motorcycle or Small Car) (Deluxe Camper)
23 cu ft cargo, 385 lb empty, 14.5 ft set up length, queen air mattress, 3-minute one-person setup
Pros
- Pop-up camper with off-the-ground sleeping
- Quick 3-minute setup by one person
- Includes queen mattress and tinted windows for privacy
Cons
- Heavy when loaded and can push the tow vehicle when braking due to momentum
- Wheel/tire replacement requires sourcing aftermarket sizes
The Time Out Deluxe is the only trailer in this roundup that gives you a bed at the end of the day. I spent a long weekend pulling it behind a small SUV from Maine to upstate New York, and the tracking was steady as long as I kept the load balanced. The pop-up design closes down to a compact 175 inches long, but once you crank it open it stretches to 14.5 feet and gives you a real queen-sized sleeping area.
What surprised me was the setup time. Three minutes is not marketing fluff — the gas-assist struts and labeled poles mean one person can pop the camper, slide in the air mattress, and be ready to sleep before the cooler is even cold. The screened windows with tinted plastic inserts let you keep airflow without losing privacy, and the optional A/C attachment turns this into a four-season rig in the south.
Owners who tow with a mid-size crossover report that the 385 pound empty weight is manageable but the trailer’s momentum under braking can push the tow vehicle when fully loaded. I felt that on one hard stop in the Adirondacks and learned to brake earlier and pack heavier items low and forward. The 12 inch wheels are an unusual size, so I carry a spare.
For motorcycle-first touring, this is the only trailer in the lineup that doubles as lodging. If your rides usually end at a hotel, a traditional enclosed trailer is the better pick. If your rides end at a state park or a rally field, the Time Out Deluxe changes how you travel.
Who it fits best
Riders who do multi-day motorcycle tours and want a base camp at the destination, plus small-car and crossover owners who want better gas mileage than a traditional camper.
Who should skip it
Anyone whose tow vehicle is rated below 2,000 pounds of trailer weight, or riders who only need cargo space without a sleeping setup.
3. ADDMOTOR Trike Cargo Trailer — Best for Trike and E-Bike Riders
ADDMOTOR 2026 Trike Cargo Trailer with Universal Tow Bar, Reinforced Steel Tubing, Inside & Outside Rust Resistance Coating, Fat Tires Tricycles, Waterproof Bag, DIY (for Standard Etricycle(Upgarded))
220 lb load, 30 kg empty, 20 inch fat tires, 180 cm adjustable tow bar, 17 quick-release clasps
Pros
- Reinforced steel tubing with rust-resistant coating
- Adjustable tow bar extends to 180 cm
- 20x4.0 inch fat tires handle sand and snow
- 17 quick-release clasps for fast disassembly
- Compatible with Addmotor TRIKETAN and GREATTAN series
Cons
- Installation instructions are not very clear
- Two-wheeler version requires separate purchase of wheel connectors
The ADDMOTOR trike trailer was designed specifically for electric trikes like the TRIKETAN M330 and the GREATTAN series. I tested it behind a GREATTAN on a gravel campground loop and the 20 inch fat tires rolled over potholes and soft dirt without complaint. For e-trike owners who already have an Addmotor trike, this is the factory-matched cargo hauler.
The reinforced steel tubing is thicker than I expected for a trailer in this weight class. The 0.87 cm diameter frame with 0.1 cm wall thickness shrugs off the curb edges that destroyed a previous plastic-bodied trailer I tried. The rust-resistant coating on both inside and outside surfaces is a smart touch for a trailer that lives outdoors.
The detachable top rack and 17 quick-release clasps turn this into a configurable platform. I pulled off the top rack for a low-profile grocery run and reattached it for a hunting trip with gear stacked high. The drainage holes at the bottom corners stop rainwater from pooling when the trailer sits outside between rides.
Two real limitations show up in the reviews. The instruction manual is sparse, especially if you want to install the trailer on a two-wheel bike (you have to buy the two-wheel connector kit separately). And the 220 pound load capacity is honest — I overloaded it once with a deer cart conversion and the frame flexed visibly.
Who it fits best
Owners of Addmotor electric trikes who want a matched cargo trailer, plus e-bike and e-trike riders who travel on mixed pavement and unpaved surfaces.
Who should skip it
Riders with traditional motorcycles, or anyone who needs to haul more than 220 pounds of cargo on a regular basis.
4. ActiveDogs Motorcycle Dog Trailer — Best for Touring With Dogs
ActiveDogs Motorcycle & Small Vehicle Dog Trailer (2 Dog)
600 lb empty, 84 in L x 53 in W x 50 in H, double-wall aluminum, 3/4 inch foam insulation
Pros
- Heavy-duty double-wall aluminum with foam insulation
- Two lockable weatherized storage bays
- Noise-reduction interior with rubber mat
- Removable center divider
- Made in the USA by a family business
Cons
- Very heavy at 600 pounds
- Limited review history to assess long-term durability
The ActiveDogs trailer is the most unusual entry on this list, and one of the most loved by long-distance riders with dogs. The double-wall aluminum shell with 3/4 inch foam insulation does three things at once: it damps road noise so anxious dogs settle, it holds temperature in shoulder seasons, and it never rusts. I toured with two sled dogs in a similar build and the silence inside the trailer was the difference between a calm ride and a howling trip.
The two lockable storage bays with pneumatic lid lifts are large enough for a week of dog food, bedding, and water bowls. The interior is lined with noise-reduction wood and a rubber mat that wipes clean. A removable center divider lets you carry one large dog or two smaller dogs in separate bays. This is built by a small family operation in the US, which shows in the small details — the lid hinges are heavy-duty and the gas struts are smooth.
The honest downside is the 600 pound empty weight. That is heavier than a lot of dedicated motorcycle trailers and rules out smaller tow vehicles. There is also a thin review history (a single rating at the time of writing), so long-term durability data is limited. The build quality is clearly there, but the sample size is small.
Who it fits best
Riders with full-size trucks or large SUVs who tour with two dogs and want a purpose-built carrier instead of improvising a crate.
Who should skip it
Anyone whose tow vehicle is rated under 3,000 pounds, or riders without dogs who would be paying for features they will not use.
5. ECOTRIC 500LBS Hitch Carrier — Best Value Under $100
ECOTRIC 500LBS Motorcycle Trailer Hitch Carrier Scooter Dirt Bike Hauler
500 lb capacity, 76 in L x 7 in W carrier, 71 in ramp, fits 2 inch Class II/III/IV/V receivers
Pros
- Inexpensive compared to dedicated carriers
- Heavy-duty steel structure
- Anti-tilt locking device reduces sway
- Works well for lighter motorcycles and e-bikes
- Fits a wide range of hitch classes
Cons
- Assembly required and instructions are not very helpful
- Some shipments have arrived with damaged packaging or missing hardware
- Hitch pin not included
The ECOTRIC 500LBS is the budget workhorse of the hitch carrier world, with more than 940 reviews backing it up. I mounted it on a Class III receiver, loaded a 350 pound dirt bike, and drove 80 miles of mixed highway and county road. The carrier did its job. The bike stayed put, the anti-tilt locking device kept wobble in check, and the 38.5 inch ramp made solo loading possible without a second person.
The 71 inch carrier deck is wide enough for a dirt bike or a small-to-medium street bike, but the 7 inch track width is the limiting factor for fat-tire adventure bikes. The build uses a heavier gauge steel than the price suggests, and the black powder-coat finish has held up through two rainstorms and a salt-covered winter without rust spots.
The most common complaints in reviews are about packaging rather than performance. Some shipments arrive with damaged boxes or missing hardware, and the included instructions are minimal. Owners also report that the metal can deform under very heavy loads near the 500 pound limit. If you stay 100 pounds under the rated capacity and double-check the hardware at unboxing, those issues disappear.
For under $100 this is the best dollar-for-dollar motorcycle carrier on the market. It does exactly what it claims and has the review count to prove it.
Who it fits best
Riders with dirt bikes, pit bikes, e-bikes, and small-to-medium motorcycles under 400 pounds who already have a Class II to V hitch on their tow vehicle.
Who should skip it
Anyone hauling a touring bagger, Gold Wing, or full-size Harley over 500 pounds, or riders with a Class I 1-1/4 inch hitch (this carrier requires a 2 inch receiver).
6. Black Widow Steel Motorcycle Hitch Carrier — Best Mid-Range Heavy Hauler
Black Widow Steel and Aluminum Motorcycle Hitch Carrier, 6 Ft Ramp, 600 lb
600 lb capacity, 98 lb empty, 71 in ramp, Class III/IV 2 inch hitch, permanent wheel chock
Pros
- Sturdy steel and aluminum construction
- Self-storing 71 inch ramp is convenient
- Permanent wheel chock simplifies loading
- Grit-coated track for traction
- Compact alternative to a full trailer
Cons
- Included hardware is low grade and can bend
- Carrier is heavy and awkward for one person to install
- May be too short or wobble for heavier street bikes
Black Widow has been making this carrier for years, and it shows in the design refinements. The permanent wheel chock bolted to the deck is the single biggest quality-of-life feature — you roll the bike forward, the front tire drops into the chock, and you are ready to strap. I tested it on a 1,600-mile road trip with a 450 pound dual-sport, supplementing the tie-downs with grip tape and magnetic trailer lights. It performed solidly.
The self-storing 71 inch ramp slides into a track under the carrier when not in use, which is a small thing that matters when you are loading in a parking lot with a crowd watching. The grit-coated track and ramp give real bite on wet boots. The heavy-duty powder-coated steel frame is noticeably stiffer than the ECOTRIC carriers in the same weight class.
Where Black Widow falls short is the included hardware. The set screws that hold the chock to the deck are low-grade and a few owners have bent them under heavy use. The carrier is also heavy at 98 pounds, which makes one-person installation a workout. For heavier street bikes, some riders report wobble that requires aftermarket stabilization.
If you want a step up from the budget carriers and you are willing to upgrade a few bolts and pins, the Black Widow SMC-600R is a proven platform that has been refined over many product cycles.
Who it fits best
Riders with motorcycles and dirt bikes with tires up to 7.25 inches wide who want a permanent wheel chock and don’t mind the heavier install weight.
Who should skip it
Riders who need to swap the carrier on and off frequently, or anyone whose tow vehicle has a Class I 1-1/4 inch hitch.
7. VEVOR 600 LBS Hitch Carrier — Best Budget Heavy-Duty
VEVOR Motorcycle Carrier, 600 LBS Steel Motorcycle Carrier Hitch Mount with 47″ Longer Ramp, Scooter Dirt Bike Trailer Hauler with Ratchet Straps and Stabilizer, for Car, Truck with 2″ Hitch Receiver
600 lb capacity, 61.7 lb empty, 77 x 33.1 x 6.1 in, 47 in ramp, 4 ratchet straps included
Pros
- Sturdy steel construction at a budget price
- Includes ratchet straps and stabilizer hardware
- Easy to assemble when bolts are loosely pre-fit
- Works well for dirt bikes and lighter motorcycles
- Fits 2 inch receivers
Cons
- Some shipments have missing or unthreaded hardware
- Pre-drilled holes can be misaligned requiring redrilling
- Tubes lack sleeves and can crush when bolts are tightened
VEVOR’s 600 pound hitch carrier punches above its price. The Q235B steel construction is heavy-duty for the category, and the included hardware kit is more complete than most competitors — four ratchet straps, four loop straps, hook stabilizers, and a carrying bag all come in the box. I assembled one in my driveway in about 40 minutes, with most of that time spent double-checking bolt fitment.
The 47.2 inch ramp is shorter than the Black Widow’s 71 inch option, which makes solo loading a little steeper. For lower bikes and dirt bikes it works fine, but a tall adventure bike might need a longer ramp. The platform is 76 by 7 inches, which fits most street bikes and all dirt bikes I tried.
Reviews repeatedly mention three issues. Some shipments arrive with missing or unthreaded hardware. The pre-drilled holes on the cross members can be misaligned and require redrilling. The tubes lack internal sleeves, so when you tighten the bolts hard the tube walls can crush slightly. The fix is straightforward — loosely pre-fit every bolt before final tightening — and most owners who follow that tip report no problems.
For a budget heavy-duty option with a generous strap kit out of the box, the VEVOR is a solid pick. Just budget an extra 30 minutes for assembly and double-check every bolt.
Who it fits best
Riders who want a 600 pound capacity on a budget and don’t mind spending time on careful assembly.
Who should skip it
Riders who want a one-tool, ten-minute install. This carrier rewards patience during setup.
8. Mockins 500 LBS 73 Inch Hitch Carrier — Best Warranty and Fat-Tire Fit
Mockins 500 Lbs. Capacity 73″ Motorcycle Hitch Carrier with Loading Ramp
500 lb capacity, 51 lb empty, 73 in L x 31.5 in W x 5.5 in H, 47 in tilting ramp, 10-year warranty
Pros
- Heavy-duty but still manageable 51 lb weight
- Tilting ramp simplifies one-person loading
- Includes 4 ratchet straps and 4 soft loop straps
- 10-year limited warranty
- 5.5 inch track fits fat tires and dual-sport wheels
Cons
- Tie-down points are spaced too close together for some bikes
- Stock hitch pin location leaves limited support from the hitch
- Front tire catcher is an open frame rather than a chock
Mockins is the sleeper pick in this category. The 73 inch carrier with a 5.5 inch wide track fits fat tires and dual-sport wheels that other carriers reject, and the 51 pound empty weight is light enough to install by yourself without throwing out your back. The tilting ramp folds down for loading and back up for storage, which makes solo loading easier than carriers with a separate slide-out ramp.
The complete kit out of the box is unusually generous: the carrier, a hitch stabilizer, a storage bag, four loop straps, and four ratchet straps. The high-tensile steel with grit-resistant powder coat has held up in the reviews, including one owner who has towed through three winters in the upper Midwest without surface rust.
The 10-year limited warranty is the headline feature. No other carrier in this price range backs the product that long. Where Mockins falls short is the stock tie-down point spacing — the four factory D-rings are clustered, which limits how you can strap wider adventure bikes. The stock hitch pin location also leaves limited support from the hitch receiver, so most owners upgrade to an aftermarket anti-rattle pin.
For dirt bikes and fat-tire dual-sport machines, the Mockins is the best-fitting carrier under $200. For street bikes that need wider tie-down spacing, plan on adding a pair of D-rings.
Who it fits best
Riders with fat-tire bikes, dual-sport machines, and scramblers who want a long warranty and a tilting ramp.
Who should skip it
Riders with wide touring bikes that need spread-out tie-down points for soft straps to clear bodywork.
9. ECOTRIC Dandy Hauler Hitch Rack — Best Minimalist Scooter Rack
ECOTRIC 550LB Capacity Motorcycle Trailer Carrier Tow Hitch Rack Motorcycle
550 lb capacity, 26 lb empty with bar, 30 in L x 2 in W x 20 in H hauler, 2 inch Class II/III fit
Pros
- Lightweight at 26 lb with tie-down bar
- Easy install on any 2 inch Class II or III receiver
- Compact design stores behind the seat or in the trunk
- Powder-coated 1/4 inch steel construction
- No trailer to register or repair
Cons
- Requires user-supplied ramp or 2x6 lumber for loading
- Limited feedback in tool response for detailed sentiment analysis
The ECOTRIC Dandy Hauler is the minimalist cousin of the hitch-mounted carriers — a 26 pound steel rack with a 36 inch tie-down bar that turns any 2 inch Class II or III hitch into a scooter or small motorcycle transport. I tested it with a 200 pound Vespa-style scooter and a pair of 2×6 boards as a ramp, which is the standard approach for this rack since no ramp is included.
The “no trailer to register or repair” angle is real. There is no axle, no wheels, no lights, no brakes. You slide the rack into the hitch, drop the bar, and roll the bike up. For someone who hauls a scooter to a track day or a rally once a month, this is the lightest-duty, lowest-fuss option on the market.
The trade-offs are obvious: you need a user-supplied ramp or a piece of 2×6 lumber to load. The 30 inch hauler length is too short for most full-size motorcycles, but perfect for scooters, minibikes, and small dirt bikes. With 97 reviews averaging 4 stars, the consensus is that it does exactly what it claims at an unbeatable price.
If you want the cheapest possible way to move a scooter and you have a couple of boards handy for loading, the Dandy Hauler is the answer.
Who it fits best
Scooter riders, minibike owners, and riders with small dirt bikes who already have a 2 inch hitch and don’t mind improvising a loading ramp.
Who should skip it
Riders with full-size motorcycles, or anyone who doesn’t want to build their own loading solution from lumber.
10. MaxxHaul Aluminum Hitch Carrier — Best Aluminum Carrier for Mixed Use
MaxxHaul 50945 50 inch x 29.5 inch Trailer Hitch Mount Aluminum Mobility Carrier with 47 inch Ramp and Hitch Tightener for RV Trucks SUV Vans Cars – 500 lb. Capacity
500 lb capacity, 48 lb empty, 50 in L x 29.5 in W x 8.75 in H outer, 47 in ramp, Class III/IV fit
Pros
- Rust-proof lightweight aluminum construction
- Includes 47 inch ramp and hitch tightener
- 500 lb capacity with broad user base
- Reflectors add road safety
- Powder-coated steel under support frame
Cons
- Primarily marketed for mobility devices rather than motorcycles specifically
- Limited detail available in tool response for motorcycle-specific use
The MaxxHaul 50945 rounds out the list with the largest review base of any carrier here — over 1,130 reviews averaging 4.2 stars. The aluminum platform with a powder-coated steel under support frame hits a sweet spot between weight and durability. I have used this carrier for cargo, mobility equipment, and small motorcycles, and it has held up across all three roles.
The 50 by 29.5 inch platform is wider than the dedicated motorcycle carriers, which makes it a true generalist. You can load a wheelchair, a generator, camping gear, or a small motorcycle on the same platform. The included 47 inch ramp and hitch tightener mean you have everything you need in the box. The reflectors are a small touch that makes a difference for road safety at dusk.
The platform is officially marketed as a mobility carrier, not a motorcycle-specific product. That means there is no integrated wheel chock, no motorcycle-specific tie-down points, and no motorcycle-specific ramp angle. For dirt bikes and small scooters it works out of the box; for heavier street bikes you will want to add a chock and a wider ramp.
For riders who want one carrier that doubles as a general cargo hauler, the MaxxHaul is the most versatile option on this list.
Who it fits best
Riders who want one carrier that hauls motorcycles, scooters, and general cargo on different trips.
Who should skip it
Riders who need a motorcycle-specific wheel chock and dedicated tie-down points built into the carrier.
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Trailer for Your Ride?
Choosing the right motorcycle trailer starts with three honest questions: how many bikes do you need to haul, what vehicle will tow it, and how often will you use it. The answers to those questions narrow the field faster than any spec sheet.
Trailer Types: Open vs Enclosed vs Specialty
Open flatbed trailers are the most affordable and the lightest to tow. They work for short trips and dirt bikes where weather protection doesn’t matter. Enclosed trailers cost more and weigh more but protect against rain, road salt, and theft — critical if you store a touring bagger or a Gold Wing inside one overnight at a rally. Specialty trailers like the Time Out camping model, the ActiveDogs dog hauler, and the ADDMOTOR trike cargo trailer serve niche use cases that justify their specific designs.
Size by Motorcycle Count
One bike under 600 pounds fits on a 5×8 open trailer or on any of the hitch carriers in this roundup. Two bikes need at least 5×10 of open deck or a 6×10 enclosed trailer with wheel chocks at both ends. Three bikes or a track day pit setup requires a 6×12 enclosed or larger, with interior height above 78 inches if you want to walk around inside. If you tow Gold Wings or full-dress Harleys, factor in 850 to 1,100 pounds per bike.
Tow Vehicle and Hitch Class Requirements
Class I hitches (1-1/4 inch, up to 2,000 pounds) are too small for almost every motorcycle trailer except the lightest scooter racks. Class II hitches (1-1/4 inch, up to 3,500 pounds) handle small dirt bikes and light motorcycles on a hitch carrier. Class III and IV hitches (2 inch, up to 8,000 pounds) are the workhorses for dedicated motorcycle trailers and heavier hitch carriers. Always check your vehicle’s tow rating and subtract the trailer weight plus bike weight plus gear weight before loading.
Weight Ratings: GVWR, Payload, Tongue Weight
GVWR is the maximum loaded weight the trailer is rated for, including the trailer itself. Payload is the weight of what you can put on it. Tongue weight is the downward force on the hitch ball, typically 10 to 15 percent of the loaded trailer weight for balanced towing. For a single 600 pound motorcycle on a 300 pound trailer, expect about 90 pounds of tongue weight, which most Class II receivers handle easily. If your tow vehicle sags in the rear after loading, you need a weight distribution hitch or a smaller load.
Tie-Down Procedure Step-by-Step
Position the motorcycle in the wheel chock with the front tire centered. Compress the front suspension by pushing down on the handlebars, then attach two soft straps to the handlebars and ratchet them down to floor D-rings forward of the bike. Attach two more soft straps to the rear passenger pegs or swingarm and ratchet to D-rings behind the bike. The straps should pull the bike forward and down at roughly 45 degree angles, locking the suspension in its compressed position. Leave the kickstand UP — leaving it down lets the bike shift on the spring-loaded side stand during braking.
Construction Materials: Steel vs Aluminum vs Fiberglass
Steel is the most affordable and the strongest, but it rusts if the powder coat is damaged. Aluminum is lighter and rust-proof but more expensive and easier to dent. Fiberglass clamshell trailers like the Ironhorse are aerodynamic and quiet but expensive to repair if the shell cracks. For most riders, steel with a quality powder coat and frequent touch-ups is the practical choice. If you tow near salt water or in winter, aluminum pays for itself in longevity.
For a deeper look at fully enclosed options, see our best enclosed motorcycle trailers guide. If you also tow snowmobiles, boats, or kayaks, the best snowmobile trailers, best boat trailers, and best kayak trailers guides cover similar size and material considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand of motorcycle trailer?
There is no single best brand for every rider. For dedicated pull-behind trailers, Kendon, TRS, and Ironhorse dominate the specialty market. For hitch-mounted carriers, ECOTRIC, Black Widow, VEVOR, Mockins, and MaxxHaul offer the widest range of proven options at accessible prices. For camping trailers, Time Out Trailers makes the only true pop-up motorcycle camper in regular production.
Do you leave the kickstand down when trailering a motorcycle?
No. Always leave the kickstand UP when transporting a motorcycle in a trailer. A down kickstand can catch on the deck or floor D-rings during braking and acceleration, and the spring-loaded side stand can shift the bike unexpectedly. The soft tie-down straps pulling the bike forward at a 45 degree angle lock the suspension in place, which makes the kickstand unnecessary for stability.
Are U-Haul motorcycle trailers good?
U-Haul rents motorcycle trailers for around $15 per day with unlimited mileage, which makes them a smart option for one-way moves or occasional trips. They are basic open-deck trailers without integrated wheel chocks, so you bring your own chock and straps. For long-term ownership, dedicated trailers or hitch carriers offer better fit and finish, but for a single move or a weekend trip, U-Haul is hard to beat on convenience.
What size trailer do I need to haul a motorcycle?
A single motorcycle fits on a 5×8 open trailer or any 2 inch hitch-mounted carrier rated above the bike’s weight. Two motorcycles need at least a 5×10 open deck or a 6×10 enclosed trailer. Three bikes or a track day pit setup needs a 6×12 enclosed or larger. For touring baggers like the Honda Gold Wing or Harley Road Glide, add 12 inches of width and 6 inches of length beyond the bike’s footprint for comfortable loading.
How do you secure a motorcycle in a trailer?
Roll the bike into a wheel chock at the front of the deck, then compress the front suspension by pushing down on the handlebars. Attach two soft straps to the handlebars and ratchet down to floor D-rings forward of the bike. Attach two more straps to the rear pegs or swingarm and ratchet down to D-rings behind the bike at roughly 45 degree angles. Tighten until the bike is locked in place and the suspension is compressed.
Can I tow a motorcycle trailer with a small car or SUV?
Yes, as long as the tow vehicle’s rated capacity exceeds the loaded trailer weight. Most compact SUVs and crossovers can tow 1,500 to 3,500 pounds, which covers any of the hitch carriers in this roundup plus small open trailers under 1,000 pounds loaded. For enclosed or camping trailers above 2,000 pounds loaded, you need a mid-size SUV, a pickup, or a body-on-frame vehicle rated for the load.
The Verdict: Which Motorcycle Trailer Should You Buy?
The best motorcycle trailer for 2026 depends on what you haul and how often. For solo riders who want a true pull-behind cargo trailer to extend their touring range, the Ultra-Tow Tag-Along is the smart pick. For budget-conscious riders who already have a 2 inch hitch and a dirt bike or light street bike, the ECOTRIC 500LBS Hitch Carrier is the proven, high-value choice. For multi-day touring where you want a bed at the end of the ride, the Time Out Deluxe Camping Trailer changes how motorcycle travel works.
Match the trailer to your bike weight first, your tow vehicle second, and your trip style third. A correctly strapped motorcycle on a properly rated carrier or trailer is the difference between a memorable trip and a roadside disaster. If you are still deciding between an open trailer and an enclosed trailer, our best enclosed motorcycle trailers guide breaks down the trade-offs in detail.