Newer Model Tailgates
I am looking at purchasing a new 2011 pickup. Local dealerships claim the rear tailgates on Chevys/Fords are rated to carry up to 600 lbs. From time to time, I will need to load my 900+ lb Harley bagger on the 6' bed. For years, I always used my 2000 Silverado (8' bed) with no problem. Unfortunately with a 6' bed, the length of the bagger makes it necessary to load the bike with the rear wheel sitting on the lowered tailgate.

A friend loaded his bike onto a Toyota (6' bed) only to find the tailgate was too fragile to support the weight. After reaching his destination he found the tailgate was bowed from the weight of the rear tire sitting on the tailgate.

Does anyone have any experience with carrying large bikes on the newer Chevys/Fords/Hondas with 6' beds?

Does the tailgate come off easily like on the older trucks? If so, find a welder who can make a stronger platform with stock fitting hinges.

In my area we also have 'mesh' style bike trailors that are quite light. Maybe that's the solution. Is tongue weight capacity a problem?

I had not considered that. As a variation to your idea, I guess I could purchase another tailgate from a junkyard to use whenever I am hauling the bike. Thanks for the input...

No prob. It is my nature (due to my previous "adult job") to find solutions to problems, not problems in solutions.

Now that you mention it, finding a "dinger" tailgate might solve the problem--if that suits your needs. I was also thinking about the security of your bike. Would a bow in the tailgate effect the security of your tie-down straps? If not, your idea would certainly be cheaper.

Just an idea, but you could also purchase a 3/4 inch 4 x 8 plywood sheet and load your bike on it. It would disperse the weight better. Be cheaper than a used tailgate.

You guys have some great ideas!

Ah the good ol' days...
8 foot truck beds, cheap gas...
Too bad you can't Ride the sucker... thats what its made for.
my buddy used to truck his bike to places, he used a cut piece of pressure treated 2x12x48"? the width of the tailgate, screwed into the sheet metal it spread the weight across the tailgate, he up'd the cables and connections for the added weight.... hope it helps.