Max Tongue weight?

I want to haul around a dirtbike with my patriot. I was going to buy a small trailer, but I came across this, http://ultimatemxhauler.com/ which would be much more convenient as I don't really have space to store a trailer.

The bike weighs approx 200lb. The curt class 3 hitch has a 400lb TW, so all I am wondering is if the Patriots suspension will have any problems with it?

Thanks in advance.

I carry 4 downhill bikes off the back (40-45 lbs each) at a similar distance as that rack. A full load makes the rear end swat pretty good. I was happy when I lifted the Jeep.

with 4 people and 4 bikes, I can still drive paved roads no problem, but rough logging roads become a bit of a challenge. The bikes shown below are lighter than what I usually carry.





Let us know how it goes - I'm considering an MX in my future.

The maximum tougue weight is 225 lbs. Part of that is based on the structure of the hitch, however more important in your case is the handling of your patriot should you exceed that amount.

Bicycles may be fine, but not a motorcycle. I can guarantee you it will dramatically effect handling, especially corners or bumps. You will also see aggravated swaying when you turn.


VEHICLE LOADING (Vehicle Loading Capacities)
Front Seat Occupants = 2
Rear Seat Occupants = 3
Luggage = 80 kg (175 lbs)
Vehicle Rated Capacity = 420 kg (925 lbs)

Frontal Trailer Area Maximum
2.04 Sq. m (22 Sq. Ft.)
3.0 Sq. m (32 Sq. Ft.) - Tow Group

GTW (Gross Trailer Wt.)
453 kg (1000 lbs)
907 kg (2000 lbs) - Tow Group

Max. Tongue Wt.
68 kg (150 lbs)
102 kg (225 lbs) - Tow Group

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The GVWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle. This includes driver, passengers, cargo and tongue weight. The total load must be limited so that you do not exceed the GVWR.

Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
The gross trailer weight (GTW) is the weight of the trailer plus the weight of all cargo, consumables and equipment (permanent or temporary) loaded in or on the trailer in its 9loaded and ready for operation9 condition. The recommended way to measure GTW is to put your fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale. The entire weight of the trailer must be supported by the scale.

Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)
The gross combination weight rating (GCWR) is the total permissible weight of your vehicle and trailer when weighed in combination. (Note that GCWR ratings include a 68 kg (150 lbs) allowance for the presence of a driver).

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the front and rear axles. Distribute the load over the front and rear axles evenly. Make sure that you do not exceed either front or rear GAWR.

Tongue Weight (TW)
The downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer. In most cases it should not be less than 10% or more than 15% of the trailer load. You must consider this as part of the load on your vehicle.

Trailer and Tongue Weight
Always load a trailer with 60% to 65% of the weight in the front of the trailer. This places 10% to 15% of the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) on the tow hitch of your vehicle. Loads balanced over the wheels or heavier in the rear can cause the trailer to sway severely side to side which will cause loss of control of the vehicle and trailer. Failure to load trailers heavier in front is the cause of many trailer accidents. Never exceed the maximum tongue weight stamped on your bumper or trailer hitch.

Well, the FDII won't win any drag races with a bike on the back, but it manages pretty good. You definitely know it's back there though! Leave lots of stopping space.

ya I carry 4 bikes and 4 dudes in the jeep when we ride too. the back end squats like crazy but nothing it can't handle. The 2.4L does struggle on acceleration with all of it packed.