2009 Honda Ridgeline Base Towing Capacity: 600 lbs (Verified Specs)
The 2009 Honda Ridgeline Base has a maximum towing capacity of 600 lbs, a payload rating of 1,475 lbs, a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 10,085 lbs, and a maximum tongue weight of 330 lbs. It uses a Class I receiver hitch when properly equipped.
All 2009 trims compared
| Trim | Max Tow | Payload | GCWR | Tongue | Hitch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | 600 lbs | 1,475 lbs | 10,085 lbs | 330 lbs | I |
Required equipment
For maximum capacity towing on the 2009 Honda Ridgeline Base you need: a Class I receiver hitch, a proportional brake controller (legally required on trailers over 3,000 lbs in most US states), trailer wiring harness, and, for trailers above 5,000 lbs, a weight-distribution hitch.
5 common towing mistakes with the Honda Ridgeline
- Loading the trailer past the manufacturer's max tow rating without verifying GCWR margin
- Ignoring tongue weight: keep it 10-15% of total trailer weight or the trailer will sway
- Skipping a brake controller on trailers over 3,000 lbs, most US states require trailer brakes above this weight
- Forgetting to redistribute payload from cargo when carrying passengers; payload includes occupants
- Running stock tires beyond their D/E load rating when towing near the max, upgrade if towing weekly
Compare with similar vehicles
Frequently asked questions
What is the towing capacity of a 2009 Honda Ridgeline Base? ▾
The 2009 Honda Ridgeline Base has a maximum towing capacity of 600 lbs when properly equipped with the manufacturer's tow package.
Can a 2009 Honda Ridgeline tow a 30-foot travel trailer? ▾
Marginal. A 30-foot travel trailer typically weighs 7,500-9,000 lbs loaded, which exceeds this trim's 600 lbs rating. Choose a higher-capacity trim or a shorter trailer.
Can a 2009 Honda Ridgeline tow a fifth-wheel? ▾
Not recommended. Most fifth-wheels start at 8,000 lbs and exceed this trim's 600 lbs capacity. Step up to a heavy-duty model.
What hitch class does the 2009 Honda Ridgeline use? ▾
The 2009 Honda Ridgeline Base is rated for a Class I receiver hitch.
What is the payload of the 2009 Honda Ridgeline Base? ▾
Payload is rated at 1,475 lbs. Remember payload includes passengers, cargo, hitch tongue weight, and any aftermarket equipment.
What is GCWR and why does it matter? ▾
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) is the max combined weight of the loaded vehicle and trailer. The 2009 Honda Ridgeline Base is rated at 10,085 lbs. Exceeding GCWR is a leading cause of brake and transmission failure.
Related
Specs sourced from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Ridgeline_(first_generation) and verified against manufacturer documentation.