Rack for motorcycle - Montana Owners Club

fossflock · 03-17-2019, 03:09 PM

We have a Montana Keystone 5th wheel. We would like to carry a VStar 950 Yamaha motorcycle. Where should we buy a rack for the back of the 5th wheel and what kind should we get?

**DQDick** · 03-17-2019, 03:43 PM

If I remember correctly that's a fairly heavy bike. I'd be hesitant to put it on the back unless I had some serious work done to the frame by someone who knew what they were doing. No matter what you do, it will probably void any frame warranty you have.

Creeker · 03-17-2019, 04:56 PM

You need something like this for that kind of weight.
http://www.cruiserlift.com/swivelwheel

TennTom · 03-17-2019, 07:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Creeker

You need something like this for that kind of weight.
http://www.cruiserlift.com/swivelwheel

Wow, that's pretty sweet. Better idea than what I would have said, like trade in for a 380/381TH.

mtlakejim · 03-17-2019, 07:40 PM

Better stick with the 381TH idea. That swivel wheel is illegal in a lot of states and still puts a LOT of stress on the frame.....

PNW Fireguy · 03-17-2019, 07:56 PM

If it's like the Idaho Tote it is considered as an extension to your RV and not considered double towing. The Montana frames are so marginally designed for additional tail end weight that no matter what direction you go they will balk at any type of warranty claim.

"A frequent question asked is if the Swivelwheel system is legal to tow in all states. There are basically 22 states that do not allow double trailer towing, which some call "Triple Towing". These states are the entire east coast from Maine to Florida, Oregon and Washington. We consider the system an extension of the fifth wheel chassis frame. We do not consider it a trailer. The system cannot jackknife or fishtail. It is not like another ball mounted trailer swinging from side to side. Some states may not have that same view. Always check with the states that you are traveling through for details. There are numerous web sites that will give you state by state information in regards to towing laws. "

Mike117 · 03-17-2019, 07:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mtlakejim

Better stick with the 381TH idea. That swivel wheel is illegal in a lot of states and still puts a LOT of stress on the frame.....

I would do research if you are looking at this. I don’t believe this would be illegal based on the design. It does not appear to be a separate trailer but attached the back of the tow trailer. I know some states don’t allow tandem trailers. Example in WA state you can’t have a boat or other tow vehicle attached to the back. Looking at the design of this I am not sure this would qualify as another trailer. It appears to be attached to the vehicle and the wheel is used more for support. But I also know from following these threads everyone knows more than others so contact your local Highway or State Patrol.

prndl · 03-17-2019, 09:30 PM

The manufacturer of the swivel wheel extension probably knows if it is illegal and where, ask them.
In California (where I am) the restrictive laws only apply to residents, (lucky me) and not to those only passing through. Triple towing, license addendums, etc only for residents.

Dmcgrew · 03-17-2019, 09:56 PM

I talked to idaho totes at their shop in Lewiston idaho two years ago. I was told the are legal in all 50 states and all Canada except British Columbia. I would confirm this prior to purchase but appeared to be correct. Idaho totes is not a swivel wheel trailer but an extension of the existing frame. After my experience with the frame of a 2014 3402rl I would not carry a bike rack on the rear of the frame. The frame is not strong enough to carry anything without damage. Mine was not strong enough to support the trailer itself.

PNW Fireguy · 03-18-2019, 10:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dmcgrew

I talked to idaho totes at their shop in Lewiston idaho two years ago. I was told the are legal in all 50 states and all Canada except British Columbia. I would confirm this prior to purchase but appeared to be correct. Idaho totes is not a swivel wheel trailer but an extension of the existing frame. After my experience with the frame of a 2014 3402rl I would not carry a bike rack on the rear of the frame. The frame is not strong enough to carry anything without damage. Mine was not strong enough to support the trailer itself.

Agree 100%!!!

JABURKHOLDER · 03-18-2019, 04:19 PM

I know this does not answer your question about where to get a rack, but
something I would ask myself is "what will the added weight behind the RV axles do to my pin weight and overall weight" ?

Creeker · 03-18-2019, 05:02 PM

I had a heavy duty rear bumper fabricated and welded directly to the frame of our Wildcat 5er. We reinforced with gussets and steal beam where needed. I carried either my dirt bike 225lbs or my Dual sport bike 300lbs for thousands of miles without a single issue. Across country twice. I couldn't tell either was back there as it had zero effect on handling.

However, I wouldn't even think of carrying a full blown street bike on the back of any trailer/5er camper. I think that's pushing the limits too far and would highly recommend one of the swivel trailers to carry the weight of the bike. The one I referenced above is a very solid and well made unit. I have saw it in action with two dual sport bikes loaded.

LindaV · 03-21-2019, 01:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TennTom

Wow, that's pretty sweet. Better idea than what I would have said, like trade in for a 380/381TH.

We looked at those..but we couldn't fit both our bikes in it!!

JazB · 03-26-2019, 05:58 PM

A friend of mine has that swivel wheel "extender" on his older Montana. He loves it. Has had it for many years now. The only issue he had was with a State Police officer. The officer only found one issue to give him a ticket over. The ramps slid out of the rear. One was sticking out just enough to be more the the max overall length allowed.

It was considered to be part of the 5th whl rather than a trailer being towed.

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