I just installed a Bushec trailer hitch on my friends 2006 HD Ultra.

Bushtec Ball Hitch for 1985-2008 Harley-Davidson FLH Models
Product Code: 944216B

My friend purchased a Bushtec hitch based on their popularity. I'm a little concerned about the strength of this hitch. The hitch doesn't seem to be fastened into any of the frame members and only seems to be attached to the fender and saddlebag supports.
Should I be concerned? If anyone is using this hitch can you please comment as to the strength and any concerns. The hitch wil be used to tow a Kompact Kamp Mini-Mate that has a trailer weight of 265 lbs and a tongue weight of 25 lbs.

 

i have pulled a Bushtec Roadstar for thousands of miles. it has the pin hitch not ball. empty weight is 125 lbs, full weight maybe 200 lbs. My hitch also connects to fender struts.
I have never had any problems with the way the hitch attaches to the bike, nor have i had any problems with the bikes towing / pulling ability.
is 265 lbs all there will be or will you load it up and add more weight?

 

i have pulled a Bushtec Roadstar for thousands of miles. it has the pin hitch not ball. empty weight is 125 lbs, full weight maybe 200 lbs. My hitch also connects to fender struts.
I have never had any problems with the way the hitch attaches to the bike, nor have i had any problems with the bikes towing / pulling ability.
is 265 lbs all there will be or will you load it up and add more weight?

 

I put a Bushtec hitch on my '00 Roadglide to pull an Aspen Classic camp trailer. About 1500 miles into our first trip, the hitch cracked and broke at the weld between the center part of the hitch and the part the bolts to the left side of the fender support/strut. Inspection revealed a poor weld with no penetration into the base metal, just a bead on the surface. Poor quality weld and poor quality control by Bushtec.

I replaced it with a hitch from MCHitch. Better design, stronger in every way. Where the Bushtec hitch broke, the MC hitch is a solid piece of heavy steel with no welds.

As far as the attachment points, they both attach to the same points on the bike, there's really no other way to do it.

 

265 lbs is the trailer weight. It will also be loaded up with cargo/gear and clothes. I figure another 30 lbs or so.