What is the payload of the Honda Ridgeline bed?

The Ridgeline’s bed is designed to carry about 1,500–1,580 pounds of payload, depending on configuration. Exact figures depend on drivetrain, trim, and optional equipment, so checking your specific vehicle is always best.

What payload means for the Ridgeline

Payload is the total weight you can safely load into the vehicle, including cargo in the bed and passengers. It is determined by the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) minus its curb weight. In practical terms, payload tells you how much combined weight you can carry before you risk overload or affecting handling and safety.

Typical payload ranges by configuration

Because the Ridgeline comes in different drivetrains and trims, the exact payload can vary slightly. The following ranges reflect common configurations and Honda’s published figures.

• Two-wheel-drive (2WD) models generally sit near the upper end of the range, around 1,550–1,580 pounds of payload.


• All-wheel-drive (AWD) models are typically slightly lower, with payload commonly reported in the low to mid 1,500s pounds.


• Higher trims or models with additional equipment can reduce payload a bit due to extra weight, but the difference is usually modest.

In all cases, the payload figures are maximum ratings; the actual safe load depends on your specific vehicle’s curb weight, configuration, and how you plan to use the bed and cabin.

How to verify payload for your Ridgeline

To determine the exact payload for your Ridgeline, use the vehicle’s official weight figures and a simple calculation. The steps below guide you through a reliable check.

1. Locate the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) on the door jamb placard or in the owner’s manual for your exact model year.


2. Find the curb weight (often listed on the same placard or in the manual) for your specific configuration (drivetrain, trim, and options).


3. Subtract the curb weight from the GVWR to obtain the payload capacity.


4. When carrying passengers and cargo, add the approximate weight of occupants to the bed’s cargo weight and ensure the total does not exceed the payload capacity.

Following these steps will help you stay within safe limits and maintain optimal performance and braking characteristics.

Why payload matters for daily use

Knowing the payload helps you plan for towing, carrying heavy tools or equipment, and accommodating passengers. The Ridgeline’s unibody construction and independent-suspension design can feel different when approaching or exceeding payload limits, so staying within the published range helps preserve ride quality and stability.

Summary

In brief, Honda rates the Ridgeline’s bed payload at roughly 1,500–1,580 pounds depending on configuration. To confirm your exact figure, check the GVWR and curb weight for your model year and subtract one from the other. Use the payload capacity as a guide to safely load cargo and passengers, ensuring you stay within limits for optimal safety and performance.

How much weight can I put in the back of my Honda Ridgeline?

The weight you can put in the back of a Honda Ridgeline is determined by its payload capacity, which varies by trim level but is generally between 1,509 and 1,583 pounds. This capacity includes all passengers and cargo in the bed and cabin, so the maximum weight in the bed alone will be less once you factor in the weight of the occupants. 
Payload capacity by trim (2025 models) 

• Sport: 1,583 lbs
• RTL: 1,544 lbs
• TrailSport: 1,521 lbs
• Black Edition: 1,509 lbs 

Important considerations

• Payload vs. bed capacity: The payload capacity is the total weight limit for both the truck's bed and the cabin. You must subtract the weight of any passengers from the payload capacity to find out how much is left for cargo. 
• Maximum tailgate load: The maximum allowable weight on the tailgate while driving is 300 pounds. 
• Check your owner's manual: Always consult your owner's manual for the most accurate payload capacity for your specific model year and trim.

Why are Ridgelines not selling?

Honda Ridgelines are not selling well due to a combination of factors, including a high price for its capability, a lack of off-road and towing prowess compared to competitors, and a perceived lack of innovation in its design and technology. The vehicle's unibody construction, while providing a comfortable ride, limits its towing capacity to 5,000 lbs and does not appeal to traditional truck buyers who prioritize body-on-frame capability. Additionally, its price point puts it in a difficult position between less-expensive, more capable rivals and more capable full-size trucks, making its value proposition unclear for many buyers.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the reasons why Honda Ridgeline is not selling well: 54sNextRideHQYouTube · Oct 25, 2025
Key reasons for low sales

• Limited capability for the price: The Ridgeline's 5,000-lb towing capacity is lower than many competitors, and its unibody design limits its appeal to those who need more rugged capability. This is a major drawback for a truck, and when combined with its price, it leaves it stuck in a market segment where buyers expect more capability for their money. 
• High price and poor value proposition: The vehicle is perceived as expensive, especially when factoring in the cost of higher trims and packages. Buyers are forced to pay for features they may not want, which can drive up the price to the point where it competes with more capable full-size trucks. 
• Stagnant design and technology: While competitors have been updating their designs with more aggressive looks and advanced technology, the Ridgeline has remained relatively stagnant. Its interior and tech features, such as its infotainment system, backup camera, and adaptive cruise control, are considered outdated or poor-performing by some reviewers compared to competitors. 
• Market perception: The Ridgeline's unibody design makes it more of a utility vehicle with SUV-like characteristics, which does not align with the expectations of many traditional truck buyers who prefer the ruggedness of body-on-frame construction. 
• Potential production issues and availability: Some dealerships have reported low inventory and a lack of available models to test drive, which can make it difficult for customers to purchase the vehicle even if they are interested. 

This video explains how the design of Honda Ridgeline affects its sales: 1mFuel ForceYouTube · Jul 20, 2024

Can you fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood in a Honda Ridgeline?

It's interesting that a lot of full sized trucks can't lay a 4x8 sheet flat between the wheel wells but my midsized Honda Ridgeline can. The Ridgeline is 50 inches between the wheel wells and has 1 inch on each side to spare.

How much can a Honda Ridgeline carry in the bed?

Payload Capacity Available
The 2023 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E and Black Edition have a maximum payload capacity of 1,509 pounds; 1,544 pounds on the RTL; and 1,583 pounds on the Sport.