You need a reliable way to move your motorcycle without renting a trailer or giving up valuable truck-bed space. Choosing the right motorcycle hitch carrier depends on more than the advertised capacity: your bike’s wet weight, the carrier weight, hitch rating, vehicle tongue-weight limit, wheel size, ramp design, and number of bikes all matter.
This guide compares three relevant hitch-mounted carriers for 2-inch receivers, focusing on practical differences such as steel versus aluminum construction, 500- versus 600-lb carrier ratings, single versus dual-bike layouts, ramp design, and storage considerations.
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Quick Verdict
- Black Widow MX-600X: Best fit here for a heavier single motorcycle when you want a 600-lb-rated steel carrier.
- Black Widow MCC-500: Best everyday steel option for a single motorcycle up to the carrier’s 500-lb rating. The linked MCC-500 is the nonfolding model.
- Black Widow AMC-600-2 Dual: Best choice when you need two tracks for dirt bikes, e-bikes, or similar machines, with a 600-lb combined rating and a 400-lb maximum per bike.
Before You Buy: Compatibility & Safety Check
- Use your motorcycle’s wet weight, not its dry weight, when checking capacity.
- Make sure the combined motorcycle-and-carrier load stays within the applicable vehicle and hitch tongue-weight limits.
- Confirm that your receiver is the correct 2-inch Class III or IV setup required by these Black Widow carriers.
- Check motorcycle tire width and carrier track compatibility before ordering.
- Do not assume a hitch adapter or extension can safely increase compatibility; follow the carrier manufacturer’s restrictions.
- Follow the manufacturer’s loading procedure and use appropriate motorcycle tie-downs at suitable anchor points.
- If the loaded bike blocks your taillights, turn signals, or license plate, check local requirements for supplemental lighting or plate visibility.
Top Picks
|
Category |
Product |
Carrier Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
🏆 Best Heavy-Duty Single |
600 lb |
|
|
💰 Best Everyday Steel |
500 lb |
|
|
🎯 Best Dual Hauler |
600 lb combined |
How We Picked These Carriers
You want a carrier that matches both your motorcycle and your vehicle, so capacity and compatibility come first. We prioritized carrier load rating, construction material, receiver requirements, track and wheel compatibility, ramp design, and whether the carrier is intended for one or two bikes.
We also considered practical ownership factors such as carrier bulk, corrosion resistance, loading effort, anti-wobble or anti-tilt provisions, storage, and how clearly each model fits a specific use case. A carrier’s published capacity is only one part of the decision because the vehicle and hitch may impose a lower usable limit.
Black Widow MX-600X
The MX-600X is the strongest single-bike option in this comparison by published carrier rating. Its steel construction and 600-lb maximum make it better suited to riders whose motorcycles exceed the MCC-500’s 500-lb rating but still fit the MX-600X track and their vehicle’s allowable hitch load.
It is a nonfolding carrier, so storage and handling deserve attention before you buy. The carrier is also only one part of the load: confirm that your motorcycle, carrier, hitch, and vehicle ratings work together before relying on the 600-lb carrier number.
Why You’ll Like It
- 600-lb carrier rating for a heavier single motorcycle
- Steel construction for a sturdy, work-focused design
- Self-storing loading ramp reduces the need to carry a separate ramp
- Designed around a standard 2-inch Class III or IV receiver
Best For: Riders who need a higher-capacity single-motorcycle hitch carrier and have a properly rated 2-inch Class III or IV receiver.
Who Should Avoid It: Buyers who need a folding carrier, whose motorcycle exceeds the track’s wheel compatibility, or whose vehicle/hitch cannot safely support the complete tongue load.
What People Say
Buyer feedback summarized in the source article generally emphasizes the carrier’s solid feel once the motorcycle is properly secured. Some owners also mention cosmetic finish concerns such as surface rust or shipping blemishes, which makes inspection and routine maintenance important.
Review Sentiment Snapshot: Mixed to neutral; individual experiences can vary.
Ease Of Use
|
Feature |
Practical Consideration |
|---|---|
|
Assembly |
Moderate |
|
Loading With Ramp |
Use manufacturer-recommended assistance |
|
Mounting To Hitch |
Carrier weight may require help |
|
Storage |
Nonfolding design needs more space |
Durability
The steel construction suits demanding hauling use, but steel carriers benefit from regular inspection for chipped coating, corrosion, loose fasteners, and damaged components. Check the carrier before each trip and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions rather than relying only on its advertised maximum capacity.
Key Benefits
- 600-lb maximum carrier rating
- Steel single-bike design
- Loading ramp stores with the carrier
- Designed for a 2-inch Class III or IV hitch setup
Check Current Amazon Availability
Black Widow MCC-500
The MCC-500 is a practical middle-ground option for riders who do not need a 600-lb carrier. It uses powder-coated steel, carries one motorcycle up to its 500-lb carrier rating, works with compatible wheels up to about 5 inches wide, and is designed for a 2-inch Class III or IV hitch.
Important Model Note: Black Widow identifies the MCC-500 as the nonfolding model. MCC-500-F is the separate folding version. Do not buy this linked MCC-500 expecting the folding feature unless the current Amazon listing specifically confirms a different configuration.
The self-storing ramp and straightforward single-track layout make it appealing for regular motorcycle, dirt-bike, or scooter transport when the machine falls inside the carrier’s size and weight limits. Tie-downs are a separate part of the securement system, so plan your complete setup rather than treating the rack alone as sufficient.
Why You’ll Like It
- 500-lb rating fits many midsize motorcycles, dirt bikes, and scooters
- Powder-coated steel construction
- Self-storing ramp can be positioned for convenient loading
- Designed for 2-inch Class III and IV hitch receivers
Best For: Buyers who want a straightforward 500-lb-rated steel carrier for one compatible motorcycle without paying for capacity or a second track they do not need.
Who Should Avoid It: Riders who specifically require a folding rack, have a motorcycle above the carrier’s 500-lb limit, use tires wider than the supported track, or do not have an appropriately rated hitch and vehicle.
What People Say
The buyer feedback summarized in the source article generally describes the MCC-500 as sturdy and relatively straightforward to assemble and load. Some owners report alignment, clearance, or shipping-condition issues, so inspecting the carrier and confirming vehicle clearance before a long trip is sensible.
Review Sentiment Snapshot: Generally positive; individual experiences can vary.
Ease
|
Feature |
Practical Consideration |
|---|---|
|
Assembly |
Moderate |
|
Loading With Ramp |
Follow instructions and use assistance |
|
Mounting To Hitch |
Straightforward with an appropriate 2-inch receiver |
|
Storage |
Nonfolding |
Durability
The powder-coated steel frame is designed for regular transport use. Inspect the finish, welds, ramp attachment, fasteners, and hitch connection before use, especially after shipping or extended travel. Address damage or abnormal movement before carrying a motorcycle.
Benefits
- 500-lb maximum carrier rating
- Steel construction with a self-storing loading ramp
- Suitable for compatible motorcycle, dirt-bike, and scooter wheels up to about 5 inches wide
- Designed around 2-inch Class III or IV hitch receivers
Black Widow AMC-600-2 Dual
The AMC-600-2 solves a different problem from the two single-bike carriers: it provides two tracks so you can transport two compatible dirt bikes, e-bikes, or fat-tire bikes without towing a trailer. Its aluminum tracks and steel frame help keep the design lighter than an all-steel dual carrier while providing a 600-lb combined carrier rating.
Capacity Note: The 600-lb figure is the combined carrier capacity. Each individual bike is limited to a maximum of 400 lb, and the complete carrier-plus-bike load must still stay within your vehicle and hitch limits.
The approximately 5.5-inch track width also makes tire compatibility an important pre-purchase check. If you only transport one conventional street motorcycle, a single-track carrier will usually be simpler; the AMC-600-2 makes the most sense when the second track solves a real hauling need.
Why You’ll Like It
- Two tracks for carrying two compatible bikes
- 600-lb combined rating with a 400-lb maximum per bike
- Aluminum track construction with a steel frame
- Self-storing loading ramp and anti-tilt hardware
Best For: Riders who regularly transport two compatible dirt bikes, e-bikes, or fat-tire bikes and have sufficient vehicle and hitch capacity for the complete load.
Who Should Avoid It: Buyers whose combined bikes exceed 600 lb, whose individual bike exceeds 400 lb, whose tires exceed the supported track width, or who do not need the extra bulk of a dual carrier.
What People Say
The buyer feedback summarized in the source article focuses on the convenience of transporting two machines without towing a trailer. Owners also note that installing and securing a dual carrier takes more planning than using a smaller single-bike rack, making careful tie-down setup and hitch fit especially important.
Review Sentiment Snapshot: Generally positive; individual experiences can vary.
Ease
|
Feature |
Practical Consideration |
|---|---|
|
Assembly |
Moderate |
|
Loading With Ramp |
Plan for two-bike positioning |
|
Mounting To Hitch |
More cumbersome than a single carrier |
|
Two-Bike Securing |
Requires careful tie-down setup |
Durability
The carrier combines aluminum tracks with a steel frame, reducing the amount of exposed steel compared with an all-steel track while retaining a rigid mounting structure. Inspect the frame, track connections, ramp, tie-down points, fasteners, and hitch connection regularly, particularly when carrying two bikes.
Benefits
- Two-bike carrier with a 600-lb combined capacity
- 400-lb maximum for each individual bike
- Aluminum tracks with a steel frame
- Supports compatible tires up to about 5.5 inches wide
- Designed for a Class III or IV 2-inch receiver
Check Product Details on Amazon
Quick Comparison
| Product Name | Image | Carrier Capacity | Hitch | Material | Best For | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Widow MX-600X Steel Motorcycle Carrier – 600-Pound Capacity |
|
600 lb | 2-inch Class III/IV | Steel | Heavier single motorcycle | Check Price |
| Black Widow Steel Motorcycle Carrier with Ramp for 2-Inch Receiver – 500 lb Capacity |
|
500 lb | 2-inch Class III/IV | Steel | Everyday single-bike hauling | Check Price |
| Black Widow Aluminum Dual Dirt Bike Hitch Carrier with Ramp – 600-Pound Capacity |
|
600 lb combined; 400 lb max per bike | 2-inch Class III/IV | Aluminum tracks / steel frame | Two compatible bikes | Check Price |
FAQ
How Do I Choose The Right Motorcycle Hitch Carrier?
Start with your motorcycle’s wet weight and wheel dimensions, then compare them with the carrier’s published load and track limits. Next, verify that your vehicle and hitch can support the combined weight of the carrier and motorcycle as a hitch-mounted load. Choose a single or dual carrier based on the number of machines you actually transport, and consider ramp length, carrier material, storage space, and loading assistance before buying.
Will These Carriers Fit My Vehicle?
These three Black Widow models are intended for compatible 2-inch Class III or IV hitch receivers, but having a 2-inch receiver alone does not guarantee safe compatibility. Check the vehicle manufacturer’s limits, the hitch manufacturer’s tongue-weight rating, suspension and rear-axle considerations, and any clearance issues around bumpers, spare tires, exhaust outlets, or other rear-mounted equipment. Use the lowest applicable load limit.
Can I Use A Hitch Adapter Or Extension?
Do not assume an adapter or extension is acceptable simply because the parts fit together. Hitch extensions can change leverage and usable tongue capacity, and Black Widow’s standard carrier guidance warns against using these motorcycle carriers with hitch adapters or extensions. Follow the instructions for your exact carrier, hitch, and vehicle.
Can I Use These Motorcycle Carriers On An RV Or Tow-Behind Trailer?
These standard Black Widow carrier models should not be assumed suitable for motorhomes, RVs, fifth wheels, or tow-behind trailers. Rear-of-RV dynamics differ from normal passenger-vehicle hitch use. If you need an RV application, use equipment specifically designed and rated by its manufacturer for that use.
How Do I Load And Secure A Motorcycle Safely?
Assemble and mount the carrier according to its manual, place the vehicle and carrier on appropriate level ground, attach the ramp securely, and follow the manufacturer’s recommended loading method. Do not ride the motorcycle up the carrier unless the manufacturer specifically permits it. Use suitable motorcycle tie-downs at appropriate anchor points, secure the loading ramp for transport, and inspect the entire setup before driving.
How Often Should I Check The Carrier During A Trip?
Inspect the carrier, hitch connection, fasteners, ramp, and tie-downs before departure. Recheck the load shortly after you begin driving and periodically on longer trips, particularly after rough roads or hard stops. Stop and correct unusual movement, noise, loosened straps, visible damage, or other problems before continuing.
Customer Preferences
Choose by the job you need the carrier to do. The MX-600X makes the most sense when you want the highest single-bike carrier rating of these three. The MCC-500 is the simpler 500-lb steel option for a compatible single motorcycle. The AMC-600-2 is the specialized choice when you need two tracks and your bikes stay within both the 600-lb combined and 400-lb-per-bike limits. Across all three, your vehicle’s real hitch capacity and your motorcycle’s wet weight matter more than a marketing badge.
Wrapping Up
You should base your final choice on your motorcycle’s wet weight, wheel size, number of bikes, receiver class, and the vehicle’s allowable hitch load. Do not choose a carrier simply because its published maximum is higher; the complete setup is only as capable as its lowest-rated component.
Final Recommendation
Choose the Black Widow MX-600X when you need a 600-lb-rated carrier for one compatible motorcycle. Choose the Black Widow MCC-500 when a straightforward 500-lb nonfolding steel carrier is enough. Choose the Black Widow AMC-600-2 when carrying two compatible bikes is the priority.
Whichever carrier you choose, verify the current Amazon listing, read the manufacturer’s instructions, confirm your hitch and vehicle limits, and use a complete securement setup before transporting a motorcycle.
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