Really trying to make a decision here, need some input.
Generally, i know towing is not recommended for a car but maybe you guys can help me think rationally...

i have a 2012 with the 4cyl, auto. I am contemplating towing a small trailer with a 650 lb ATV. The trailer is probably 100lbs tops. I plan on making it. Picture the atv basically with a frame and axle on it. Not a whole trailer, just enough to drive the atv on and pull the atv.

Maybe tow 70 miles each way to the trails, maybe twice a month? Until i get a new truck maybe 8 months from now.
Basicaly i sold my silverado truck. i have the money for a truck right now but contemplating paying off debt and wait for the 2014 Silverado. But i need to ride my bike,

towing a bad idea still???

 

although its seems ok to tow.. id be more concerned about how the trailer is built to DOT standards..

 

i appreciate the concern, lets try to focus on the towing part.
Lets assume the trailer is a current registered trailer that was just modified/ simplified/ but designed correctly.

im really 50/50 on this. Also i did some homework, the 2012 CRV has same exact gear ratios as our TSX, but less hp and rated at 1500 lbs. Understandably its an suv...

 

towing is no problem.. think about 4 people that weighs about 180-200 pounds sitting in your car.. its no problem.. it might lag a little but it is fine.

just make sure you dont have to add anymore weight to your car such as luggage or more passengers.

 

It would probably be fine, why not get a cheap truck or car to do that or rent a truck that day.

 

I saw someone towing a uhaul trailer with a TSX last month. It didn't look very safe. They were swaying all over the road.

 

What did the TSX have on it for a hitch? The problem with Uhaul trailers are a few. First, they're very heavy, even empty. Second, they're designed to the lowest common denominator, which means that nothing tows them particularly well. Third, it may have been a case of driving too fast. I often see people pulling trailers at speeds of over 70 mph. The tow vehicle may well be capable of doing this, and it probably even feels safe, but.... Trailer technology is still for the most part mired in the 50's and 60's. Trust me, the wheel bearings inside those wheels cruising at 70 plus are an accident waiting to happen. 60 mph is better, 65 max, if you don't want to worry about burning up a wheel bearing. Oh, and to the OP, go for it assuming your trailer is safe. Our 07 tows like a champ.

 

My recommendation, don't do it. Acura/Honda automatics are not known for their reliability. Based on my experience, the additional stress you'll put on the tranny isn't worth it.

 

I've never towed anything in my life, so I couldn't say. I do know the trailer was almost as long as the car and it didn't look safe at all.

 

The weight of the ATV may not seem like much, but if you bought a real trailer to haul it you are probably looking at 700-800 pounds minimum. I don't think I'd build my own. It sounds like you are thinking to build the lightest and cheapest trailer possible. The problem is that you are towing this on public roads on an unapproved trailer. If the trailer breaks apart or comes loose you are sending 500 pounds down the highway at another vehicle. Very dangerous. I hope you have a lot of insurance.

If you don't balance the load properly it could lift up on your rear end and cause instability. I think stability is probably more of a problem then the added mass to move.

If you are going to do this I'd recommend buy a commercaily made trailer rather than risk the safety of those around you on a home made, lightweight trailer. There are many ATV trailers available.

 

I would strap it up top

 

So i bought a hitch kit on ebay last friday. then i decided, i dont want my baby towing.. so luckily, the ebay store cancelled the order monday. Im going to buy a under $2k pickup truck instead. Hopefully an old but reliable beater.
thanks for all the input