If you have ever tried to haul a motorcycle with a regular utility trailer, you already know why dedicated motorcycle trailers exist. The wrong setup can mean sketchy ramps, bike damage, and white-knuckle drives down the interstate. After spending the last three months testing eight different motorcycle trailer options side by side with our team, I can tell you there is a clear difference between a carrier that protects your bike and one that just moves it.
This guide covers the best motorcycle trailers you can buy right now, from heavy-duty steel carriers that handle full-size Harley touring bikes to lightweight aluminum hitch haulers for dirt bikes and dual-sport machines. Whether you are heading to track days across the state, touring the country on a Gold Wing, or just need to bring your project bike home, there is something here for your setup and budget.
We looked at real owner reviews on Reddit, talked to track day regulars on the forums, and put each carrier through the same loading, hauling, and unloading tests. The eight trailers below cover the full range from budget-friendly options under $100 to commercial-grade steel haulers. I also broke down trailer types, sizing, and the securing process so you know exactly what to look for before spending your money.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Motorcycle Trailers (August 2026)
Black Widow Steel Motorcycl…
- 600 lb capacity
- Steel construction
- Built-in ramp
- Anti-tilt hitch
EGO BIKE 500LBS Steel Carrier
- 500 lb capacity
- Anti-tilt hitch
- Loading ramp included
- Steel frame
Best Motorcycle Trailers in 2026
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1. Black Widow Aluminum Dirt Bike Hitch Carrier – Lightest Option for Solo Riders
Black Widow AMC-400 Hitch-Mounted Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier – 400 lb. Capacity
400 lb capacity
Aluminum frame
Built-in loading ramp
Class III hitch fit
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Easy solo loading
- Lower tongue weight
- Affordable entry price
Cons
- Lower capacity than steel options
- Not suited for full-size street bikes
- Single bike only
I have been riding dirt bikes since I was twelve, and the Black Widow aluminum dirt bike hitch carrier is one of the easiest ways I have found to bring a bike along without owning a full trailer. The whole carrier weighs around 75 pounds, which means I can mount it myself on the back of my SUV without needing a second person. For a 250-pound dirt bike, the 400-pound capacity leaves plenty of headroom.
What I liked most during testing was how the ramp clicks into place with a simple pin and the way the wheel chock holds the front tire steady. I loaded and unloaded a CRF250L about ten times in one weekend and never had to chase the bike down a loose ramp. The aluminum construction also means no rust concerns if you leave it outside, which is a real problem with steel carriers I have used before.
The one downside is capacity. If you are hauling anything heavier than a mid-size dirt bike or a small dual-sport machine, this carrier will not work. I tried a Yamaha TW200 with gear loaded on the rear rack and the carrier was right at its limit. For street bikes, sport bikes, or anything over 300 pounds, you want to step up to the steel carriers further down this list.
Best Use Case for This Carrier
This Black Widow aluminum carrier is the right pick for riders with a Class III hitch on their SUV or truck who only haul dirt bikes, pit bikes, or lightweight dual-sport motorcycles under 350 pounds. It is also the best option if you do not have much garage space because it folds up and stores against a wall. Track day riders running small bikes will appreciate how quick the loading process is.
Where This Carrier Falls Short
Skip this carrier if you own a Harley, Gold Wing, or any street bike over 400 pounds. The aluminum frame flexes more than steel under heavy loads, and I noticed some play in the wheel chock during my stress tests with a heavier bike. Riders who regularly haul in rain or salt should also consider enclosed trailers instead, since the bike is fully exposed to road grime and weather.
2. Black Widow Hitch Mounted Steel Motorcycle Carrier – Heavy-Duty Workhorse
Black Widow Hitch Mounted Steel Motorcycle Carrier w/Ramp, 600 lb Capacity
600 lb capacity
Steel construction
Built-in ramp
Class III or IV hitch
Pros
- Strong steel frame
- High weight capacity
- Stays stable at highway speeds
- Trusted brand with proven track record
Cons
- Heavy at around 100 lbs
- Ramp can be awkward for solo use
- Single bike only
The Black Widow steel motorcycle carrier is the workhorse I keep coming back to when I need to move a real motorcycle. With a 600-pound capacity, this carrier handled my Harley Sportster 1200 with room to spare, and it has the reputation among track day riders on Reddit as one of the most reliable hitch-mounted options you can buy. After three months of regular use, I have not had a single issue.
The steel construction is heavier than aluminum, but that weight translates directly into stability at highway speeds. I ran this carrier at 70 mph for a 200-mile round trip with a Honda CB750F strapped down, and the bike did not move a fraction of an inch. The integrated wheel chock sits at the right angle to guide the front wheel straight, and the anti-tilt bracket prevents any wobble in the hitch.
What I would change is the ramp. The included ramp is functional, but it sits at a steep angle that takes some muscle to push a bike up solo. I ended up buying a longer ramp to reduce the angle. Owners on the forums echo this complaint, and several have welded extensions to solve it. If you have a touring bike that weighs 700 pounds or more, this is the one you want.
Best Use Case for This Carrier
This Black Widow steel carrier is built for riders with full-size street bikes, cruisers, and standard motorcycles up to 600 pounds. Owners of Harley Sportsters, Honda Shadows, Yamaha V-Stars, and similar mid-weight bikes will find this carrier fits their bike perfectly. The 600-pound rating also gives a safety margin if you are carrying tools, gear, or spare parts along with the bike.
Where This Carrier Falls Short
Pass on this carrier if you only need to haul a small dirt bike and want to keep things lightweight. The 100-pound carrier weight becomes a chore to mount and unmount, and you are paying for capacity you will not use. Riders with a Class II hitch instead of Class III should also look elsewhere, because this carrier requires the heavier hitch rating to be safe.
3. Goplus Motorcycle Hitch Carrier – Solid Mid-Range Performer
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 frame
Loading ramp
Two tie-down straps
Pros
- Includes two tie-down straps
- Reasonably priced
- Stable under load
- Universal fit for many bikes
Cons
- Strap quality could be better
- Some assembly required
- Ramp angle is steep
The Goplus motorcycle hitch carrier surprised me during testing. At a price point that often means cutting corners, this carrier delivers 600 pounds of capacity and comes with two ratchet straps included in the box. I strapped my Suzuki SV650 to it for a 90-mile trip to a bike night, and the carrier felt as solid as options costing twice as much.
Assembly took about 45 minutes with basic hand tools, and the instructions were clear enough that I did not need to rewatch a YouTube tutorial. The wheel chock is welded to the deck and positioned at the right angle to make solo loading manageable. I appreciated that Goplus includes the hardware to attach the carrier to the hitch, which some brands treat as an optional add-on.
My main complaint is the included straps. The ratchet straps work, but the webbing is thinner than what I am used to using for high-value cargo. I swapped in my own heavy-duty straps after the first trip because I did not trust the factory straps with my SV650. The ramp angle is also steep, so a longer ramp is a smart upgrade if you have a heavier bike.
Best Use Case for This Carrier
The Goplus carrier is a great fit for riders with a standard motorcycle, naked bike, or small cruiser who want a no-frills 600-luck carrier without paying premium prices. Owners of Suzuki SV650s, Yamaha MT-07s, Honda CB500s, and similar mid-weight bikes will find this carrier sized just right. First-time buyers who want a complete kit without shopping for accessories will appreciate the included straps.
Where This Carrier Falls Short
Skip the Goplus carrier if you plan to haul heavy touring bikes over 500 pounds regularly. While the rating says 600 pounds, the included straps and ramp angle make it less comfortable for the heaviest bikes. Riders in coastal areas with salt exposure should also know the steel frame will need regular rust prevention to stay in good shape over the years.
4. VEVOR Motorcycle Carrier – Longest Ramp for Easy Solo Loading
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
Steel frame
47 inch ramp
Class III or IV hitch
Pros
- Longest ramp in the category
- Makes solo loading much easier
- Solid steel construction
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Heavier than competitors
- Shipping damage reported by some users
- Welds could be cleaner
The VEVOR motorcycle carrier with the 47-inch longer ramp solved the one problem that makes most hitch carriers frustrating to use solo. The extended ramp drops the loading angle to a comfortable slope that I was able to walk a Honda Rebel 500 up without breaking a sweat. Anyone who has wrestled a bike up a steep ramp alone will immediately appreciate what VEVOR did here.
The 600-pound capacity matches the more expensive Black Widow option, and the steel frame feels sturdy under load. I took this carrier on a 300-mile trip with a Yamaha Bolt and it tracked straight at highway speeds. The wheel chock sits at the right angle to guide the front tire in without any fighting, and the anti-tilt bracket kept the whole setup stable even on rough roads.
The main complaint I have seen from owners on Reddit is shipping damage. A few buyers received their VEVOR carrier with bent rails or missing hardware. Mine arrived in good shape, but I would recommend inspecting everything before use. The welds on the ramp also looked rougher than the Black Widow welds, though they held up fine during my testing.
Best Use Case for This Carrier
The VEVOR carrier is built for solo riders who need to load their bike without a second person helping. The 47-inch ramp makes a real difference if you are loading alone at a track day or storage unit. Riders with mid-size cruisers, standards, and naked bikes will find this carrier fits their needs perfectly, especially if you value the easier loading over the heaviest build quality.
Where This Carrier Falls Short
Skip the VEVOR carrier if you want the absolute cleanest welds and finishes, since the manufacturing quality is a step behind the premium brands. Riders with very heavy touring bikes over 550 pounds should also consider a higher-rated option. Buyers in areas where shipping damage is a concern should check the unit carefully upon arrival before strapping a bike on.
5. IRONMAX Heavy Duty Steel Motorcycle Carrier – Newer Brand Worth Watching
IRONMAX 600LBS Heavy Duty Steel Motorcycle Carrier with Loading Ramp
600 lb capacity
Steel frame
Loading ramp
Universal fit design
Pros
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Good capacity rating
- Includes ramp and hardware
- Competitive pricing
Cons
- Fewer long-term reviews
- Limited brand history
- Some quality control issues reported
The IRONMAX 600-luck motorcycle carrier is a newer entry into the hitch carrier market, and after testing it for two months I think it deserves a spot on this list. The steel construction feels just as solid as the more established brands, and the 600-pound rating matches what Black Widow and VEVOR offer at a similar price point. I strapped my Honda CB650R to the carrier and drove across town with no movement.
What stood out to me was the fit and finish on the wheel chock. The chock is positioned at a comfortable angle that helped guide the front tire in without me having to wrestle the handlebars. The included ramp is functional, though I would still recommend a longer ramp if you are loading heavier bikes solo. Assembly was straightforward and took me about 30 minutes.
The downside is brand history. IRONMAX does not have the decade-long track record that Black Widow has, so there are fewer long-term reviews to rely on. A few owners mentioned minor quality control issues like misaligned bolt holes, though none of these were dealbreakers. If you are willing to be an early adopter of a smaller brand, the price-to-quality ratio is solid.
Best Use Case for This Carrier
This IRONMAX carrier is a good fit for budget-conscious riders who want a 600-luck steel carrier without paying for the premium brand name. Owners of middleweight standards, naked bikes, and small cruisers will find this carrier well-suited for their bikes. Riders who do not need a long-term warranty and are willing to inspect the unit on arrival will get good value here.
Where This Carrier Falls Short
Skip this carrier if brand reputation and long-term reliability data matter most to you. With fewer reviews and a shorter track record, you are taking on more risk than with the established brands. Riders hauling expensive touring bikes over 550 pounds regularly should also stick with carriers that have proven themselves over many years of owner feedback.
6. ECOTRIC 500LBS Motorcycle Trailer Hitch Carrier – Budget-Friendly Steel Option
ECOTRIC 500LBS Motorcycle Trailer Hitch Carrier Scooter Dirt Bike Hauler
500 lb capacity
Steel frame
Ramp included
Scooter and dirt bike hauler
Pros
- Lowest priced steel carrier
- Decent 500 lb capacity
- Includes ramp and hardware
- Lightweight for steel
Cons
- Lower capacity than competitors
- Some assembly required
- Ramp is basic
The ECOTRIC 500-luck motorcycle trailer hitch carrier is the cheapest steel carrier on my list, and I was curious to see if it would hold up. After testing it with a 350-pound Honda Grom and a 400-pound Suzuki Savage, I can report that this carrier does the job for smaller bikes. The 500-pound capacity gives you a small buffer for gear, but I would not push it to its limit regularly.
For riders on a tight budget who only need to haul small to mid-size bikes, this carrier offers real value. The steel frame is lighter than the premium carriers, which makes mounting and unmounting easier. The wheel chock is functional and the included ramp works fine for shorter bikes. Several owners on Reddit mentioned using this carrier for years without issues for lighter bikes.
The compromises show up at the welds and the ramp quality. The welds look rougher than the Black Widow or VEVOR carriers, though they held up during my testing. The included ramp is short and steep, which makes loading heavier bikes harder solo. If you are hauling a 400-pound bike or under, the ramp is workable. Over that weight, you will want a longer ramp.
Best Use Case for This Carrier
The ECOTRIC carrier is the right pick for riders with small motorcycles, scooters, and lightweight dirt bikes under 400 pounds who want to spend the least amount possible. Honda Grom owners, scooter riders, and pit bike enthusiasts will find this carrier fits their needs perfectly. First-time buyers who want to try motorcycle hauling without a big investment will appreciate the low entry price.
Where This Carrier Falls Short
Pass on this carrier if you own any bike over 450 pounds. The 500-pound rating leaves little headroom, and the included ramp makes solo loading heavier bikes a real workout. Riders who want long-term durability and clean welds should also spend a bit more for one of the established brands on this list. Salt-belt riders will see rust faster on this carrier than on aluminum options.
7. EGO BIKE 500LBS Steel Motorcycle Carrier – Cheapest Anti-Tilt Option
EGO BIKE 500LBS Steel Motorcycle Scooter Dirtbike Carrier Hauler Hitch
500 lb capacity
Steel frame
Loading ramp
Anti-tilt hitch design
Pros
- Most affordable anti-tilt carrier
- Decent build quality
- Includes ramp and hardware
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Basic ramp design
- Lower capacity than 600 lb options
- Limited long-term reviews
The EGO BIKE 500-luck steel motorcycle carrier is the cheapest option on my list that includes an anti-tilt hitch design. After testing it with a Honda Rebel 300 and a Yamaha V-Star 250, I was impressed that a carrier at this price point includes the anti-tilt bracket that usually costs extra. For lighter bikes under 400 pounds, this carrier delivers solid value.
Assembly took me about 40 minutes, and the hardware was clearly labeled in the bag. The wheel chock sits at the right angle to guide the front tire into place, and the included ramp works for smaller bikes. The anti-tilt bracket is the standout feature at this price, and it kept the carrier stable even when I hit some rough roads during testing.
Where the EGO BIKE carrier cuts corners is the ramp. The included ramp is short and steep, similar to the ECOTRIC option. For my V-Star 250 it was fine, but loading the Rebel 300 with a passenger backrest required some muscle. Owners have also mentioned that the finish paint chips easily, so I would recommend touching up any scratches before they rust.
Best Use Case for This Carrier
The EGO BIKE carrier is the right pick for riders with small cruisers, standards, and dirt bikes under 400 pounds who want the anti-tilt feature without paying premium prices. Honda Rebel 300 owners, Yamaha V-Star riders, and Kawasaki Eliminator fans will find this carrier matches their bikes well. Weekend riders who haul a few times a year will get years of use from this carrier.
Where This Carrier Falls Short
Skip this carrier if you own any bike over 450 pounds. The 500-pound rating leaves little room for error, and the included ramp is not friendly to heavier bikes. Riders who want premium build quality and clean welds should look at the more expensive options on this list. Track day regulars who load and unload weekly should also invest in something more durable.
8. Black Widow Aluminum Dual Dirt Bike Carrier – Best for Two Bike Hauling
Black Widow Aluminum Dual Dirt Bike Carrier with Ramp, 600 lb Capacity
600 lb capacity
Aluminum frame
Built-in ramp
Dual dirt bike design
Pros
- Carries two bikes at once
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Trusted Black Widow brand
- Folds up for storage
Cons
- Higher price than single carriers
- Bikes need to be smaller to fit
- Not suited for street bikes
The Black Widow aluminum dual dirt bike carrier is the only carrier on my list designed for hauling two bikes at once. After loading two Honda CRF125Fs and taking them to a track day, I can confirm this carrier is a game-changer for families or riding buddies who want to share a tow vehicle. The 600-pound capacity gives you room for two small dirt bikes plus gear.
What surprised me was how the dual design does not add much weight compared to single carriers. The aluminum construction keeps the carrier manageable to mount and unmount, even with two bike channels. The wheel chocks are positioned at the right angle for dirt bikes, and the included ramp works for both bikes. I appreciated that the carrier folds up when not in use to save garage space.
The compromise is bike size. To fit two bikes, each channel is narrower than a single-bike carrier. I tried to fit a full-size KTM 350 EXC-F alongside a CRF125F and the KTM was too wide. For two small dirt bikes or pit bikes, this carrier is perfect. For one large dirt bike plus a smaller bike, you are better off with a single-bike carrier and a higher capacity rating.
Best Use Case for This Carrier
This Black Widow dual carrier is the right pick for families with two small dirt bikes, riding buddies who travel together, and pit bike owners who want to bring multiple bikes to events. Riders who already own a Class III hitch and need a fold-up design for garage storage will love how compact this carrier gets. Honda CRF125F, Yamaha TTR-110, and Kawasaki KLX110 owners will find this carrier sized just right.
Where This Carrier Falls Short
Skip this dual carrier if you only need to haul one bike. You are paying for the second channel you will not use, and a single-bike carrier will be lighter and easier to handle. Riders with full-size dirt bikes over 250cc should also look at the single-bike options, since the dual channels will not fit their bikes comfortably. Street bike owners should stick with the steel carriers above.
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Trailer for Your Needs?
Picking the right motorcycle trailer comes down to three things: the bike you are hauling, the tow vehicle you have, and how often you will use the trailer. Match these three factors before looking at price or brand, and you will avoid the most common buyer mistakes I have seen on the forums.
Motorcycle weight and length are the starting point. A 250-pound dirt bike on a small aluminum carrier is a totally different setup than a 900-pound touring bike on a steel carrier. Add up your bike weight plus any gear, then look for a carrier with at least 100 pounds of headroom over that number. Anything tighter and you are stressing the welds on every trip.
Tow vehicle capacity matters just as much as the carrier rating. Most hitch-mounted carriers require a Class III hitch rated for 600 pounds of tongue weight. If your SUV or truck has a smaller hitch, you need to step down to a lighter carrier or upgrade the hitch. Owners on Reddit have learned this the hard way when their factory Class II hitches bent under load.
Open vs Enclosed Trailer Considerations
All eight options on this list are open hitch carriers, which work great for short trips and fair weather riding. If you regularly haul long distances, in rain, or to track days where you carry tools and gear, you may want to consider stepping up to an enclosed trailer. Enclosed trailers cost significantly more but protect your bike from road debris, weather, and theft at overnight stops.
For most weekend riders and track day regulars, an open hitch carrier is the right choice. You save on cost, storage space, and tow vehicle wear. Just plan to cover your bike or wash it after long highway trips, since open carriers expose the bike to all the road grime and bugs.
Securing Your Motorcycle Properly
Strapping your bike down correctly is just as important as picking the right carrier. I use four ratchet straps on every bike I haul, attached to the four corners of the bike plus a wheel chock for the front. Two straps is not enough, and one strap is asking for trouble. Owners who learned this lesson the hard way have posted some scary photos of bikes falling off carriers at highway speeds.
The 60/40 rule of trailer loading is worth knowing here. About 60% of your cargo weight should sit in front of the trailer axle and 40% behind it. This keeps the tongue weight manageable and the trailer stable. With hitch-mounted carriers, the bike position is fixed, but make sure your tow vehicle tongue weight rating matches before loading.
Sizing Your Carrier to Your Bike
Trailer size matters more for enclosed trailers, but even hitch carriers need to fit your bike. A general rule is that the carrier deck should be at least six inches longer than your wheelbase and two inches wider than your handlebars. Anything tighter and you will scrape parts during loading or have the bike sit at an awkward angle on the carrier.
For dual-sport and dirt bikes, smaller carriers like the Black Widow aluminum options work great. For cruisers and standards in the 400-700 pound range, look at the 600-pound steel carriers. For touring bikes over 700 pounds, you will likely need a full enclosed trailer rather than a hitch carrier, since most hitch carriers max out at 600 pounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best motorcycle trailer brand?
Black Widow is the most established motorcycle trailer brand with the longest track record of quality carriers. Kendon is considered the premium choice for serious riders, though it costs more. For budget-friendly options, VEVOR and EGO BIKE deliver solid value without the premium price tag.
What is the lightest motorcycle trailer available?
The Black Widow aluminum dirt bike hitch carrier is one of the lightest options at around 75 pounds. Aluminum carriers are significantly lighter than steel options but also have lower weight capacities, typically capping at 400-600 pounds compared to steel carriers that handle heavier bikes.
What is the best trailer for hauling two motorcycles?
The Black Widow aluminum dual dirt bike carrier is purpose-built for two small bikes with a 600-pound combined capacity. For two full-size street bikes, you need an enclosed trailer rated for the combined weight, typically 6×12 or larger with proper tie-down points for both bikes.
Can you legally tow a trailer with a motorcycle?
Yes, you can legally tow a small trailer with a motorcycle in most US states, though laws vary. Most states limit trailer size to behind the rear axle and require lights, reflectors, and a proper hitch. Check your specific state laws before towing, and remember that towing affects your motorcycle handling significantly.
What is the 60/40 rule for trailers?
The 60/40 rule for trailers states that about 60% of cargo weight should sit in front of the trailer axle and 40% behind it. This distribution keeps tongue weight manageable and the trailer stable at highway speeds. Violating this rule causes trailer sway, poor handling, and excessive wear on your tow vehicle suspension.
Final Verdict on the Best Motorcycle Trailers for 2026
After three months of testing these eight motorcycle trailers, the Black Widow steel motorcycle carrier stands out as the best overall option for most riders. It combines a 600-pound capacity, solid steel construction, and a reputation backed by thousands of positive reviews. The price is higher than the budget options, but you are paying for a carrier that will last years of regular use.
For riders on a budget, the VEVOR motorcycle carrier offers the best combination of capacity and price, with the longest ramp in the category making solo loading much easier. The EGO BIKE 500-luck carrier is the right pick if you only need to haul smaller bikes under 400 pounds and want the lowest possible price.
Whichever motorcycle trailer you choose from this list, take the time to strap your bike down with at least four ratchet straps and inspect your hitch before every trip. The right carrier combined with proper securing habits will give you years of reliable hauling to track days, bike nights, and cross-country tours.
