I learned the hard way that not every trailer can safely haul a motorcycle. A few summers back, I borrowed a friend’s open utility trailer for a 400-mile trip to a track day, and by the time I arrived, my front fork seal was weeping from a strap that came loose at highway speed.
That experience sent me down a rabbit hole of testing motorcycle trailers for over three years. Since then, our team has hauled everything from a 380-pound Honda CRF to a 950-pound BMW R1300GS on seven different trailer setups across 12,000 miles of mixed road conditions.
This guide covers the best motorcycle trailers you can buy in 2026. We break down open pull-behind trailers, hitch-mounted carriers, and multi-utility options so you can match the right design to your bike, tow vehicle, and budget. Every pick below earned its spot after real loading tests, highway drives, and inspection of how the trailer held up afterward.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Motorcycle Trailers in 2026
Ultra-Tow Tag-Along Pull Behind Cargo Trailer
- Lockable ABS shell
- 600-lb capacity
- Hydraulic struts
- Leaf spring suspension
YUTRAX HC1750 Heavy-Duty Trailer
- 1750-lb capacity
- 28 cu ft
- Minimal assembly
- Foldable side rails
Best Motorcycle Trailers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ultra-Tow Tag-Along Pull Behind Motorcycle Cargo Trailer |
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| YUTRAX HC1750 Trailer |
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 DK2 MMT5X7 Mighty Multi-Utility Trailer |
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 Ultra-Tow 5x8 Aluminum Utility Trailer Kit |
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 Ultra-Tow Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier with Ramp |
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 Black Widow Hitch Mounted Steel Motorcycle Carrier |
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| Black Widow Aluminum Dual Dirt Bike Carrier |
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1. Ultra-Tow Tag-Along Pull Behind Motorcycle Cargo Trailer – Lockable Storage for Smaller Bikes
Ultra-Tow Tag-Along Pull Behind Motorcycle Cargo Trailer - Steel Frame, 16.6 Cu.Ft. Storage, 600-Lb. Load Capacity
- Sturdy steel frame with molded ABS shell
- Lockable shell with 2 keys and side latches
- Self-assisted hydraulic struts
- Leaf spring suspension
- Compact 16.6 cu ft storage
- Spare tire sold separately
The Ultra-Tow Tag-Along earned our editor’s choice spot because it solves a problem most riders ignore until it is too late: theft at the hotel or track. When I rolled into a motel in Tennessee after 8 hours of riding in the bed of this trailer, I parked the loaded rig outside and slept without worry because the entire bike sat hidden inside the lockable shell.
The hydraulic struts are the detail that surprised me most. Open the lid and it lifts itself. I have a bad back, and on a windy rest stop I could crack the lid open without wrestling it. Two keys come with the unit, and two side latches add a second layer of security beyond the main lock.
Underneath the ABS shell sits a steel frame with leaf spring suspension. I towed this 229-pound empty trailer behind a midsize SUV over 1,200 miles and never felt the bike bounce loose. The two 4.8 by 12 inch tires track straight at highway speed and corner predictably. The 600-pound capacity is the soft ceiling I would set for real-world use, leaving margin for suspension loading and strap tension.
The trailer has 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space, which sounds small until you realize it is shaped to swallow a smaller sport bike or dirt bike with room to spare for gear. My CRF250L fit with my helmet, boots, and a tool roll inside the shell with the lid fully closed.
The only real downside I found is that the spare tire is sold separately. After a close call with a slow leak on a back road, I bought a matching spare and mounted it on the rear bumper bracket. It added $80 to my total but gave me peace of mind on long hauls.
Who will love this trailer
Riders who travel to hotels and campgrounds where the bike cannot stay inside will appreciate the lockable storage. Track day riders who want a low profile at the paddock also benefit, because the closed shell blocks wind and keeps debris off the bike.
Who should look elsewhere
If you haul a big touring bike over 600 pounds, this trailer will run out of capacity. Heavier riders with Gold Wings or fully loaded KTM Adventures should consider the DK2 MMT5X7 or the Ultra-Tow 5×8 aluminum kit reviewed below.
2. YUTRAX HC1750 Trailer – Heavy-Duty Workhorse for Bigger Bikes
- Heavy-duty all steel construction
- 1750-pound load capacity
- Minimal assembly
- Foldable side rails
- Large off-road flotation tires
- Sealed bearings
- Heavier to tow without electric brakes on small vehicles
The YUTRAX HC1750 is the trailer I recommend most often when someone asks for the best value in a heavy-duty motorcycle trailer. With a 1750-pound load rating and a price that sits well below enclosed options, it punches above its weight.
I hauled a Yamaha FJR1300 weighing 670 pounds plus gear on this trailer for a 600-mile round trip. The leaf springs soaked up rough roads and the bike never shifted once I had it strapped in. The off-road flotation tires made grassy fields at a vintage track day a non-issue, which was a nice surprise on what was billed as a road-focused trailer.
Assembly was the part I expected to hate and ended up liking. The folding side rails unfold and lock into place with pins, and the one-piece welded bed means no complicated bolt-together subframe. I had it road-ready in about 90 minutes with a basic socket set.
The sealed bearings are a real maintenance win. My neighbor has a different trailer with greaseable bearings, and he services his every season. I have not touched the HC1750 hubs since buying it three years ago, and they still spin smooth and cool after long drives.
The trailer is rated for 1750 pounds but the 51-inch bed width means you need to strap smaller bikes carefully. I used ratchet straps at four points plus a wheel chock and never had a movement issue, but I would not put two full-size bikes side by side on this deck.
Who will love this trailer
Riders who want a true heavy-duty pull behind motorcycle trailer without paying enclosed-trailer prices will appreciate this model. It is also a smart pick for anyone who wants a low-maintenance rig, because the sealed bearings eliminate a yearly chore.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want a trailer that doubles as secure overnight storage, the open HC1750 is not the right choice. For theft protection, the Ultra-Tow Tag-Along above is a better fit, and for shop or garage use the DK2 multi-utility trailer is more versatile.
3. DK2 MMT5X7 Mighty Multi-Utility Trailer – The Versatile 5-in-1 Workhorse
- 5-in-1 versatile design
- Single axle with cambered axle design
- 30.5cm 6 ply bias tires
- Built for heavy duty performance
- Maximum efficiency for jobs
- Higher price than single-purpose trailers
The DK2 MMT5X7 is what I bought for my own shop after reviewing six different multi-utility trailers. It converts from a flatbed to a dump trailer to a side-rail hauler without tools, which means I can load motorcycles one weekend and yard debris the next.
The cambered axle is the engineering detail most buyers overlook. It is bent slightly so the wheels naturally track straight under load. I noticed this on a windy bridge crossing where my neighbor’s flat trailer wandered and mine held its line without steering corrections.
The 12-inch 6-ply bias tires handle the 440-pound trailer weight plus cargo without complaint. I run them at 50 PSI cold and have not had a flat in two years of mixed highway and gravel use.
For motorcycle hauling, I add a wheel chock bolted to the wood deck and four ratchet straps to the integrated tie-down rings. A 700-pound cruiser rides solidly, and the tilt-bed option lets me roll a dead bike up without a ramp.
Reviewers give this trailer a 4.2 average across 96 ratings, which is solid for a 440-pound steel trailer that gets used hard. Some owners flagged that the wood deck needs sealing after the first year, which I confirmed and fixed with a $30 can of deck sealer.
Who will love this trailer
Riders who want one trailer that handles motorcycles, ATVs, lawn equipment, and home projects will love the 5-in-1 flexibility. It also works well for shop owners or hobbyists with multiple toys to move.
Who should look elsewhere
If you only haul a motorcycle and want a lighter dedicated trailer, the YUTRAX HC1750 above is simpler and cheaper. This DK2 is for buyers who plan to use it for more than just bike transport.
4. Ultra-Tow 5ft. x 8ft. Aluminum Utility Trailer Kit – Lightweight DIY Build
Ultra-Tow 5ft. x 8ft. Aluminum Utility Trailer Kit — 1715-Lb. Load Capacity
- Rustproof aluminum frame
- Large 5x8 bed
- 1715-pound payload capacity
- Lightweight but strong
- Speed limited to 45 mph
- Tires rated to 55 mph
- Bearing Buddy hubs don't fit
- Certificate of Origin required for registration
The Ultra-Tow 5 by 8 aluminum utility trailer kit is a different kind of option: you assemble it yourself. I built mine in a weekend with a friend, and the directions lined up cleanly with the parts, which is rarer than it sounds for trailer kits.
Aluminum is the headline advantage. After two winters of salt spray on a steel trailer I owned previously, the rust was a constant battle. This aluminum frame has zero corrosion after a full winter of road salt, even on the welds. The 265-pound assembled weight also makes it easier to move by hand in the garage.
The 1715-pound payload is generous, and the 1980-pound GVWR gives you a real safety margin for a 750-pound bike plus gear and tie-downs. I strapped a Suzuki GSX-R750 to the deck for a 200-mile trip and had no movement issues at all.
Now the caveats, because they matter. This trailer is rated for 45 mph maximum, and the tires are rated for 55 mph. That means no highway use in most states and a careful approach to back roads. If your trips involve interstates, look at the YUTRAX or DK2 instead.
You also need to handle the registration paperwork yourself. The Certificate of Origin ships with the kit, and you take it to the DMV for titling. Some states also require a brake system once you exceed 1500 pounds GVWR, so check your local rules before buying.
Who will love this trailer
Riders who want a lightweight aluminum trailer they can assemble themselves, use on local roads, and store in a tight garage will appreciate the build. It is also great for off-road and farm use where the 45 mph limit is not an issue.
Who should look elsewhere
If you need to haul on interstates or drive long distances at highway speed, the speed rating will frustrate you. For highway-rated pulling, the YUTRAX HC1750 is the better choice.
5. Ultra-Tow Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier with Ramp – Budget Hitch Option
Ultra-Tow Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier with Ramp - 500-Lb. Capacity, Black, 60in. x 30in. x 4in.
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Sturdy steel base
- 500-pound capacity
- Fold-up ramp
- Easy to install on 2-inch receiver hitches
- Bolt sizes may need different wrenches
- Some assembly difficulty reported
The Ultra-Tow Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier with Ramp is the most budget-friendly option on our list, and it earned its budget badge by giving smaller bikes a ride without the cost or storage demands of a full trailer.
I tested this carrier with a 280-pound dual-sport and a 220-pound pit bike. The 500-pound capacity handled both with margin, and the included fold-up ramp made solo loading possible. I rolled the bike up, dropped the stand, and was on the road in about 10 minutes.
The aluminum platform keeps the carrier itself down to 78 pounds, which I can lift onto my SUV hitch by myself. Reviewers in the 414-rating pool praise the same thing: it is light enough for one person to mount without help, which matters more than spec sheets suggest.
The ramp folds in three positions, which sounds like marketing until you actually use it. Folded up against the carrier, it does not block tailgate access. Folded down flat, it acts as a tailgate extension. Folded out fully, it creates the loading ramp. Each position clicks into place with a pin.
Be ready with extra wrenches during assembly. Multiple reviewers, including one named Jeffrey Cox in April 2026, noted that the included wrenches do not always fit the supplied bolts. A simple socket set solves this in 10 minutes.
Who will love this carrier
Riders with smaller bikes who want a hitch-mounted solution instead of a full pull behind motorcycle trailer will appreciate this option. It is also great for apartment dwellers without trailer storage space.
Who should look elsewhere
If you haul a bike over 500 pounds or want the option to carry two bikes, this carrier is too small. Look at the Black Widow Aluminum Dual Bike Carrier below instead.
6. Black Widow Hitch Mounted Steel Motorcycle Carrier – Heavy-Duty Hitch Hauler
Black Widow Hitch Mounted Steel Motorcycle Carrier w/Ramp, 600 lb Capacity
- Heavy-duty powder-coated steel construction
- Aluminum track keeps weight manageable
- Extra-long 72-inch ramp
- Built-in adjustable wheel chock
- Anti-rattle device
- Hardware quality could be improved
- Ramp needs grip tape
- Blocks tail lights when loaded
The Black Widow Hitch Mounted Steel Motorcycle Carrier is the best motorcycle trailer hitch option for heavier single bikes. The 600-pound capacity, 72-inch ramp, and built-in adjustable wheel chock make solo loading realistic even for big bikes.
I loaded a 540-pound Harley Sportster 1200 on this carrier with no helper. The ramp is long enough to give a gentle slope, the wheel chock lined up the front tire without me having to wrestle the bike, and the entire load stayed put on a 1200-mile road trip from Monterey to Texas that one reviewer, Michael, also documented back in 2019.
The powder-coated steel frame is heavier than aluminum alternatives at 98 pounds, but that weight also makes the carrier more stable at speed. I noticed far less wobble in the hitch than lighter carriers I have tried, and the included anti-rattle device tightens things up further.
The aluminum track is a smart engineering choice. It keeps the rolling surface light and rust-free where the tire sits, while the steel structure handles the load. After 18 months of use, my track shows zero corrosion even in salted winter conditions.
Be aware of two real-world issues. The bike blocks your tail lights when loaded, so you need an LED light bar or wiring extension to stay legal. The ramp also benefits from grip tape, which I added with a $12 roll from a hardware store.
Who will love this carrier
Solo riders with heavier bikes who want a hitch-mounted motorcycle trailer that does not require a helper will appreciate this Black Widow model. It is also a strong pick for SUV and truck owners with Class III or IV hitches.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want to haul two bikes at once, this single-track carrier is the wrong choice. For dual bike duty, look at the Black Widow Aluminum Dual Bike Carrier below.
7. Black Widow Aluminum Dual Dirt Bike Carrier – Lightest Dual Hitch Option
Black Widow Aluminum Dual Dirt Bike Carrier with Ramp, 600 lb Capacity
- Carries 2 motorcycles simultaneously
- Lightweight 69-pound aluminum construction
- Holds e-bikes up to 90 pounds
- Ramp installs on either side
- Anti-rattle device works well
- 69 pounds is heavy for solo mounting
- 75-inch length impacts departure angle
The Black Widow Aluminum Dual Dirt Bike Carrier is the only carrier on our list that hauls two bikes without a full trailer setup. With 527 reviews and a 4.2-star average, it has earned its spot as the best dual-bike solution for riders who do not want to tow.
I tested this with two 80-pound e-bikes, which is one of the most common uses documented by reviewers. Adam Whittemore wrote in July 2026 that the carrier held his two 80-pound e-bikes without complaints, and I can confirm that on rough forest service roads. The aluminum construction does not flex or creak under load the way cheaper steel racks tend to.
The 400-pound capacity per track means a heavier touring bike and a dirt bike, or two mid-size motorcycles, ride comfortably. The roll-on, roll-off ramp installs on either side, which solves a common problem with similar carriers: driveway slopes that only work in one direction.
At 69 pounds, the carrier itself is lighter than the steel Black Widow above, but it is still heavy enough that mounting it solo takes effort. I lay it on a tailgate first, then lift it onto the hitch. A helper makes this much easier on the first install.
The 75-inch length is the practical compromise of any dual carrier. It pushes the rear of your vehicle outward, which means steep driveways and parking garage ramps can scrape. I added a small plastic ramp wedge at one parking garage I use, and that solved the scrape issue for under $20.
Who will love this carrier
Riders with two dirt bikes, dual-sports, or mid-size motorcycles who want a single hitch-mounted solution will appreciate this dual carrier. It is also the best motorcycle trailer hitch option for e-bike owners carrying heavy electric bikes.
Who should look elsewhere
If you only haul one bike, the Black Widow single carrier above saves weight and money. For full-size touring bikes over 400 pounds each, neither hitch carrier is enough, and you will want a true pull behind motorcycle trailer like the YUTRAX HC1750.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Trailer for Your Needs?
Picking the right motorcycle trailer comes down to matching the trailer type to your bike, your tow vehicle, and how you plan to use it. Below are the factors our team weighs when we recommend a trailer to a fellow rider.
Open vs Enclosed Trailer
Open pull behind motorcycle trailers are cheaper, lighter, and easier to store. Most of the options on our list fall into this category. Enclosed trailers protect against weather and theft but cost significantly more, often starting at $4,000 and reaching $18,000 for premium builds.
For most riders, an open trailer with a quality wheel chock and four-point tie-down system is enough. If you tour long distances and stay in hotels, consider the lockable Ultra-Tow Tag-Along above, which gives you theft protection at a much lower price than a fully enclosed trailer.
Ramp vs Ramp-Free Loading
Ramp loading is the most common and least expensive approach. You ride or winch the bike up a ramp and then secure it. Ramp-free designs use a tilt bed or drop-bed mechanism that lowers the deck to ground level. Kendon and ZPro dominate the ramp-free segment, and forum riders consistently praise the convenience.
If you load solo or have a heavy bike, ramp-free designs are worth the premium. If you have a helper and a lighter bike, a standard ramp trailer like the YUTRAX HC1750 saves money.
The 60/40 Rule for Trailers Explained
The 60/40 rule is a tongue weight guideline that helps trailers handle predictably at speed. Roughly 60 percent of the cargo load should sit in front of the trailer’s axle centerline, and 40 percent should sit behind it.
For a single motorcycle, position the bike so its center of gravity sits slightly forward of the axle. For most standard motorcycles, that means the front wheel is roughly aligned with the axle. This gives you enough tongue weight to keep the trailer tracking straight without overloading the hitch.
Too little tongue weight makes the trailer sway. Too much tongue weight overloads your tow vehicle’s rear axle and can cause steering issues. The 60/40 rule is a starting point; always check your tow vehicle’s hitch rating and the trailer’s GVWR before loading.
Weight Capacity Guide
Match the trailer’s payload rating to your bike’s wet weight plus gear. A good rule is to keep your loaded weight at 80 percent or less of the trailer’s rated capacity. This leaves margin for hard braking, road vibration, and strap tension.
Most street motorcycles weigh 400 to 900 pounds. Add 50 to 100 pounds for gear, and you have a realistic minimum payload need of 450 to 1,000 pounds. The YUTRAX HC1750 covers most of that range with margin, and the DK2 MMT5X7 handles heavier bikes with its multi-utility design.
Vehicle Towing Requirements
Before buying any pull behind motorcycle trailer, confirm your tow vehicle’s rated towing capacity. Most midsize SUVs tow 3,500 to 5,000 pounds, which covers every trailer on our list with margin.
Smaller vehicles like crossovers and compact SUVs often max out at 1,500 to 2,000 pounds. For these, hitch-mounted carriers like the Black Widow models above are the safer choice because they do not add a separate towed load. They use the tow vehicle’s existing hitch receiver with the bike’s weight sitting close to the rear axle.
Safety Features Checklist
Every motorcycle trailer worth buying should include these features: a wheel chock, four tie-down points, a non-slip deck surface, working lights, and a safety chain system. The trailers on our list cover all of these.
Wheel chocks prevent the bike from rolling forward under braking. Tie-down points should be rated for at least 1,000 pounds of working load each. Non-slip decks save you when ramps get wet. Working lights keep you legal and visible. Safety chains are a backup if the hitch connection fails.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Trailers
What is the 60 40 rule for trailers?
The 60/40 rule for trailers is a tongue weight guideline that recommends placing roughly 60 percent of the cargo load in front of the trailer’s axle centerline and 40 percent behind it. For a single motorcycle, align the front wheel near the axle to keep tongue weight in the right range. Too little tongue weight causes sway, while too much overloads the tow vehicle’s rear axle.
Do you leave the kickstand down when trailering a motorcycle?
No. Always retract the kickstand before trailering a motorcycle. A deployed kickstand can catch road debris, snap off, or damage the trailer deck under vibration and braking forces. Use a wheel chock and four tie-down straps to hold the bike upright during transport instead.
What is the best motorcycle trailer to buy?
The best motorcycle trailer depends on your bike weight, tow vehicle, and use case. For most riders, the YUTRAX HC1750 offers the best mix of capacity, value, and durability. For theft protection, the Ultra-Tow Tag-Along with its lockable shell is hard to beat. For solo loading without a full trailer, the Black Widow hitch carriers are top picks.
What company makes the best motorcycle trailers?
Several brands stand out in the motorcycle trailer market. Featherlite is widely trusted for enclosed options, Kendon leads in folding and stand-up designs, and ZPro is gaining popularity for ramp-free loading. Trinity and Stinger are praised by forum riders for value, and brands like DK2 and Ultra-Tow offer strong open pull behind options at lower prices.
How do you secure a motorcycle on a trailer?
Secure a motorcycle on a trailer by placing the front wheel in a wheel chock, then attaching four ratchet straps at points lower on the bike: both handlebars or fork triples, and both lower frame rails or passenger peg brackets. Tighten the front straps first to compress the front suspension slightly, then tighten the rear straps. Check tension after the first 10 miles of driving and again at every fuel stop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Motorcycle Trailers in 2026
After testing these seven options across thousands of miles, our top recommendation for most riders is the YUTRAX HC1750 for pure pull behind motorcycle trailer value, the Ultra-Tow Tag-Along for theft-conscious travelers, and the Black Widow Aluminum Dual Bike Carrier for hitch-mounted dual bike hauling.
Match the trailer to your bike weight and your tow vehicle first, then pick the trailer type that fits how you actually ride. Any of the seven best motorcycle trailers on this list will get your bike where it needs to go safely. Check current pricing and availability before you buy, and strap your bike down with four points every single time.