What is the maximum hitch weight for a Honda Ridgeline?
The maximum hitch weight (aka tongue weight) for a Honda Ridgeline is 500 pounds (about 225 kg). This figure accompanies a 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity, and the actual safe tongue weight depends on payload, hitch setup, and how weight is distributed on the trailer.
Official specs and towing limits
The Ridgeline’s core numbers, as published by Honda, are summarized here for quick reference. Exact values can vary by model year, drivetrain, and equipment, so always consult the specific sheet for your vehicle.
- Maximum towing capacity: up to 5,000 pounds.
- Maximum hitch weight (tongue weight): 500 pounds (225 kg).
- Payload capacity: approximately 1,481 to 1,580 pounds depending on trim and configuration.
Understanding these figures helps owners plan trailer loads and weight distribution, ensuring the Ridgeline operates within its design limits.
Understanding tongue weight and how it affects towing
To help drivers stay within limits, here's a quick guide on how tongue weight is determined and how to manage it effectively.
- Tongue weight is typically 10-15% of the gross trailer weight. For a 5,000-pound trailer, that translates to roughly 500-750 pounds.
- Weight distribution hitch setups can shift how much weight sits on the hitch; follow both the hitch manufacturer and Ridgeline manual guidance.
- Distribute trailer cargo smartly: place heavier items low and toward the front of the trailer to maintain balance and control.
- Always verify both the trailer and hitch ratings and avoid exceeding the Ridgeline’s 500-pound tongue weight limit, even if the trailer weighs less overall.
Practically, aiming for about 500 pounds of tongue weight helps preserve steering, braking, and overall stability on the road.
Model-year considerations
Current generation (2017–present)
The modern Ridgeline continues to list a 500-pound maximum tongue weight and a 5,000-pound towing limit in official materials. Drivers should check their exact owner’s manual or Honda’s specification sheets for any trim-specific notes or market variations.
Older generations
Past Ridgeline models from earlier generations similarly advertised a 5,000-pound towing capacity with a 500-pound tongue weight in many markets, but exact figures can vary by year and configuration. When in doubt, verify the rating plate on the door jamb or consult the official spec sheet for your vehicle’s year.
Summary
In short, the Honda Ridgeline’s maximum hitch weight is 500 pounds, paired with a 5,000-pound towing capacity. That tongue-weight limit remains a key constraint for trailer selection and weight distribution, so owners should plan loads accordingly and consult the vehicle’s manual and official specs for their exact year and configuration.
How do I know my hitch weight limit?
To determine hitch weight capacity, check the labels on all components (hitch receiver, ball mount, hitch ball) and use the lowest number found as your system's rating. For a rough estimate, you can also multiply your vehicle's Gross Towing Weight Rating (GTWR) by 0.100.100.10 to find the estimated tongue weight capacity.
Method 1: Check individual components
This video explains how to find the ratings on a trailer: 1mOntarioCampingYouTube · Mar 6, 2022
- Hitch Receiver/Body: Look for a sticker or stamp on the hitch itself, typically on the body under the vehicle, for the gross trailer weight rating and tongue weight capacity.
- Ball Mount: Check the shaft that inserts into the receiver or the mounting plate for a weight rating.
- Hitch Ball: The rating is usually stamped on the top of the ball or at the base of the shank.
- Determine the system rating: Take the lowest capacity number among all the components you've checked. This is your maximum hitch system rating and the highest weight you should tow.
Method 2: Calculate using vehicle's Gross Towing Weight Rating (GTWR)
- Find your GTWR: This is the maximum combined weight of your vehicle and trailer. Look for this in your owner's manual or on the vehicle's sticker inside the driver's door.
- Calculate the estimated tongue weight capacity: Multiply your vehicle's GTWR by 0.100.100.10. This is a common estimate for tongue weight (hitch weight).
- Example: For a vehicle with a 5,0005 comma 0005,000 lb GTWR, the estimated tongue weight capacity is 500500500 lbs (5,000×0.105 comma 000 cross 0.105,000×0.10).
- Note: This is an estimate. The specific component ratings will provide the precise, legal limits.
Important considerations
- Payload is often the limiting factor: Even if your hitch and vehicle can tow a certain weight, ensure your vehicle's payload capacity can handle the tongue weight of the trailer plus all passengers and cargo.
- Altitude affects capacity: For every 1,000 feet of elevation, your vehicle can lose up to 2% of its towing capacity. If you'll be driving at high altitudes, account for this loss.
- Consult your owner's manual: The manual contains the most accurate information specific to your vehicle. It will provide the manufacturer's official weight ratings.
Can a Honda Ridgeline really tow 5000 lbs?
Understanding the 2025 Honda Ridgeline Towing Capacity
The 2025 Honda Ridgeline is designed to handle a variety of towing tasks with ease. With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs, it is perfect for hauling trailers, boats, and more.
How much tongue weight can a Honda Ridgeline handle?
The Honda Ridgeline's tongue weight capacity is 600 pounds, which is a standard part of its 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity. This means the maximum downward force your trailer's hitch can put on the Ridgeline's receiver is 600 pounds. To maintain stability and safety, the tongue weight should typically be between 10% and 15% of the total trailer weight.
- Tongue Weight Capacity: 600 pounds
- Maximum Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds
- Optimal Tongue Weight Ratio: To avoid trailer sway or unsafe handling, aim for the tongue weight to be 10% to 15% of the total trailer weight.
- Weight Considerations: Be mindful that exceeding the payload capacity of the vehicle with passengers and cargo, along with the tongue weight, can lead to instability.
What is the hitch rating of the Honda Ridgeline?
Every 2025 Ridgeline trim comes standard with a Class III trailer hitch, a seven-pin connector, and a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
