Dirtbike in a short bed

Hey,

Looking to buy a TRD OR DC SB soon for the purpose of hauling a dirtbike. I've seen photos of bikes loaded into the back and the rear wheel sits on the tailgate while the gate is open of course. Is this safe? Will it dent the tailgate? I saw the load capacity for the gate was 350 pounds per Tacoma so I assume it's safe but any personal opinions? Worth opting for the 6ft? I'd rather have a shorter truck for parking at work and overall driving.

Image is for demonstration purposes:

 

I've had no issues hauling one or two dirtbikes like that. I'll run a moto-gate style net to keep gas cans and gear bags from falling out.

 

I have put a Sportster on the back without any problems Also a gixxer 600....i rather put it on the bed than one of those hitch carrier..it really depends how often u gonna be using it...i would go for the longer bed but just for more convenience.

 

In that pic above, if the bike was angled in and front tire turned, it would fit much better.

 

Welcome to TW. I saw this thread the other day and it might have some useful info. I'm sure there are many others really this...

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...off-road-5-ft-bed.527441/page-2#post-16840100

 

There is a tailgate reinforcement mod for 2nd gens. I havent hauled my dirtbikes in my 2017 yet but did all the time in my 2010 short bed, usually 2 bikes (450s) never had a problem.

 

I have a tailgate reinforcement full wrap around skin on my 2nd gen and never had any issues obviously in my DCSB. Buddy never had a skin on his 2nd gen and never had an issue as well. Just dont be dumb about jumping in the middle of the tailgate with the bikes weight and you and you will be fine.

 

Thanks for all of the replies. Sounds like it should be safe, just don't drive like a dumbass over bumps.