How Strong is the Tailgate?

One thing I get accused by my wife is that over-engineer everything I do... So I would make it where that wouldn't happen...but thanks for the thought!

 

It's why tacoma's last so long. Many are afraid to use them for anything.

 

This!
You can buy small utility trailers new for under a grand, used for much less, or rent.
My buddy bought one right, used it, and sold it for a small profit.

 

UHaul has a motorcycle trailer you can rent. I have heard it is pretty cheap.

 

I drive with a 400lb bike in my bed at least 3 days out of the week, never ever have had an issue. Tailgate is still in great shape with no added plywood/support.

 

I'm looking at about 600 lbs bike and didn't want to "taco" the tailgate, and I do own a trailer, I was just hoping to avoid the trailer route....

 

If I were you I would leave your trailer home, and rent one when you get there. A wrecked bike is gonna leak, and make a mess and that can be some other guys mess that gets paid for it .

 

That bike was wrecked years ago, I doubt if there's anything leaking out of it now!

 

I've rolled a 500lb+ barrel of maple syrup, plus me, off the end of my tail gate. Didn't hurt anything. But I didn't drive with it like that. I'd say if you have half the weight of the bike on the tail gate you should be fine. Would be like having a fat guy ride on the back.

 

I've had about 800lbs on the tailgate alone before. Not for long, but it was fine. Lots of people load ATVs and stuff, and all the weight is on the tailgate momentarily at least.

The weak point is not the cables, as they can each easily handle over a ton. It's the mounting points, or the frame of the tailgate itself that would give out first. At 600lbs you're fine.

Edit: Just realized this thread is month old. My bad. Didn't mean to bump.