[Water Warrior 2]

I would be a bit leary using a hitch carrier on the SUV. The GZ weight isn't a great deal but you have to wonder about that 300+ lbs hanging off the rear. That puts a lot of strain on the hitch and it's mounting points. You certainly don't want a major oops on the road and do untold damage to the Explorer and bike.
I once had a full size Bronco with an over built custom hitch and a bike carrier for a dirt bike that travelled very well. The carrier itself also had tail and brake lights for added safety if the Bronco lights were blocked by the bike.
Find a buddy with a pick-up or just rent one. Yeah, costly but safer in the grand scheme of things. Tie the bike down(upright and straight in) on all 4 corners with the side stand up. I transported my Silverwing that way in the Ranger and it thanked me.