Finding a reliable motorcycle carrier for a pickup truck can enhance utility without adding a trailer. This guide highlights five versatile options designed to fit 2-inch hitch receivers, support multiple bike types, and simplify loading and unloading. Each model offers distinct advantages—from lightweight aluminum builds to rugged steel frames and tilting ramps. Read through practical specs, loading features, and durability notes to choose the best carrier for your truck and riding needs.
Chosen Products At A Glance
| Product | Brand | Capacity | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Widow Motorcycle Bike Hitch Carrier with Loading Ramp | Black Widow | 400 lbs | Aluminum |
| Black Widow Steel Motorcycle Carrier with Ramp | Black Widow | 600 lbs | Steel |
| Mockins 83″ Tilting Motorcycle Hitch Carrier | Mockins | 500 lbs | Carbon steel / weatherproof steel |
| Black Widow Double Motorcycle Bike Hitch Carrier with Ramp | Black Widow | 600 lbs (per carrier; 2 motorcycles total) | Aluminum |
| VEVOR Motorcycle Carrier, 2-Bike 600 LBS Aluminum Carrier | VEVOR | 600 lbs (2 bikes) | Aluminum |
Note: These options emphasize hitch compatibility, load capacity, and ease of use for truck owners. The table above helps you compare core specs at a glance before diving into detailed product sections.
Black Widow Aluminum Carrier With Ramp — 400 Lbs
This versatile carrier enables rolling-on and rolling-off with a ramp that can mount on either side. It uses lightweight aluminum construction designed to support up to 400 pounds, making it suitable for a range of motorcycles, e-bikes, and fat-tire bikes. A key feature is secure, flat placement on the carrier when not in use, reducing sway during transport and improving stability on bumpy truck beds. Installation requires a standard 2-inch Class III or IV hitch.
Its loading ramp is designed for simple handling and quick setup, benefiting riders who frequently swap bikes or need a compact storage footprint. Users seeking a lighter-weight option with adequate capacity for common motorcycles will find this model appealing. The aluminum build helps resist corrosion while remaining easier to maneuver than heavier steel options.
Pros include: lightweight handling, solid capacity for mid-sized bikes, and side-mount ramp versatility. Cons to consider: 400 pounds may limit use with heavy cruisers or large adventure bikes in certain configurations, and some riders may want dual-bike capability beyond the stated rating.
Black Widow Steel Carrier With Ramp — 600 Lbs
This steel carrier is built for rugged use, with a 600-pound capacity and a grit-coated track for improved traction during loading and unloading. It includes a ramp that attaches on the right side, keeping loading paths clear from traffic. The sturdy construction offers durability for frequent use on trucks and SUVs. A notable benefit is the anti-rattle device and overall stability that helps minimize movement while towing.
Suitable for riders who haul heavier bikes or multiple riders in a single trip. It’s compatible with 2-inch receivers and emphasizes safety features to reduce bike shift and sway. Considerations include ensuring the vehicle’s hitch and receiver are rated for the total load, especially when carrying heavier or dual bikes.
Mockins 83″ Tilting Carrier — 500 Lbs
The Mockins hitch carrier features a tilting ramp, a 83″ long by 6″ wide platform, and supports up to 500 pounds. It accommodates fat tires up to 5.5 inches wide and bikes up to 500 pounds, with a 2-inch hitch receiver. The design emphasizes easy loading via tilt-and-roll action and includes a license plate holder, stabilizer, and straps for secure transport. The weatherproof steel build is designed to withstand outdoor use across seasons.
Key advantages include: generous ramp length for easier incline, stable positioning with stabilizer accessories, and a comprehensive set of straps for securing bikes. Trade-offs to consider are that tilting mechanisms add a bit more complexity than fixed ramps and weight limits may constrain larger adventure bikes or heavy cruisers in certain configurations.
Black Widow Double Carrier — 600 Lbs
This dual-motorcycle carrier is designed to haul two bikes using a single 2-inch hitch, a practical solution for riders who transport a duo or need to carry a spare bike on a trip. The aluminum construction provides a balance of lightness and strength, with a total capacity of 600 pounds (400 pounds per track). It includes a roll-on, roll-off ramp and a welded storage hook for securing the ramp or leaving it attached when not in use.
Advantages include doubled transport capacity, side ramp mounting, and a compact profile when not in use. Potential limitations involve ensuring both bikes fit within the per-track weight distribution and that the truck’s hitch is rated to handle the combined load with proper tongue weight considerations.
VEVOR Aluminum Carrier — 2-Bike, 600 Lbs
This aluminum carrier is built to haul two bikes, offering a robust 600-pound weight capacity with a 3.9-foot self-storing ramp. The ramp folds away for compact storage and can be attached to the carrier when not in use, improving convenience and reducing set-up time. The aluminum construction is anodized for corrosion resistance, making it well-suited to varied climates and weather exposure.
Strengths include easy self-storing ramp, dual-bike support, and corrosion-resistant aluminum. Considerations include verifying that the hitch weight distribution is appropriate for your truck and ensuring that both bikes remain balanced during loading and travel to avoid overloading a single track.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Selecting A Truck Motorcycle Carrier
- Weight capacity: Match the carrier’s total capacity to the heaviest bike you’ll transport, plus a margin for safety and tie-down accessories. If you frequently haul two bikes, prioritize dual-track or double-carrier options with balanced weight distribution.
- Ride height and ramp design: Longer ramps ease loading, especially for low-clearance or tall motorcycles. Tilting ramps reduce effort but may add complexity; fixed ramps offer straightforward operation.
- Material and durability: Aluminum is lighter and corrosion-resistant; steel generally offers higher raw strength and may be more economical. Consider climate, road conditions, and frequency of use when choosing.
- Compatibility: Confirm a secure fit for 2-inch hitch receivers (Class III/IV) and verify tongue weight limitations of your truck to avoid overload or sway at highway speeds.
- Security features: Look for anti-rattle devices, integrated locking points, and ramp storage options to minimize movement and theft risk while driving or parked.
- Ease of use and maintenance: Consider how easy it is to load, unload, and store the carrier. Self-storing ramps, modular ramps, and corrosion-resistant finishes reduce maintenance needs over time.
- Storage footprint and vehicle modifications: Some models add noticeable length to the vehicle. Check for clearance with rear doors, tailgates, and parking in garages or driveways.
- Safety and load distribution: Use proper straps, stabilizers, and tie-down points to secure bikes. Even weight distribution across tracks helps reduce sway and wear on tires and suspension.