New VF1000R Owner in California

Yes, that's the model. "RAGE" and it was about $269 USD. I knew I was right at the 600lb limit, but the seller said the gas tank was very not full... that's almost 30 lbs of gas, so I was probably around 575 lbs-ish. I actually used 4 nylon ties from the main channel up over the tailgate, and hooked on the cargo hooks. Cinched them up to carry some of the load and transfer it to the truck bed, not the receiver. Made me feel better to carry some of the load (like bumps) with the straps. Each strap is rated at 500 lbs.

It worked perfectly, and I drove 5.5 hrs at 65-75 depending on the road conditions. The bike just sat there and didn't move around much at all. Best of all, I was able to load and unload all by myself. I did manage to bend the loading ramp! It's not as sturdy as the aluminum channel that the bike sits on. It's some rolled edge sheet metal, and just couldn't hang with almost 600lbs of Honda on it. I managed to straighten it out afterwards by jumping up & down on it. I'll either reinforce it, or replace it with a piece of aluminum channel like the main rail.

Also, I think I'll invest in a better receiver. The Ford F-150 unit is OK, but only rated for so much tongue weight. That rating is at the ball too, not with 24" of leverage on it and 600 lbs to boot. The ramp/rack itself weighs almost 100 lbs. I've seen some that are rated for 1500 lbs tongue weight and are made of heavier steel than the OEM Ford one. Also, lights are a good idea. Mine aren't blocked as badly as it looks. If you stand behind the bike about 15 ft you can see both of the lights, but your auxiliary lights are a great idea!

I don't normally transport large motorcycles on the back of my truck. It's used mainly for an-off road bike about 250lbs (Yamaha TTR-250) that I use in my work for GPS mapping on ranches. Tough job, but somebody has to do it, eh?

See ya'
BLIGHT

 

All great insight, thanks, man.