Can Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE Bike Rack be Used on Subaru Crosstrek and Fifth Wheel Trailer

Question:

If I have a 2 inch hitch attached to my Subaru, is the total weight with 2 e-bikes possible. We have the Crosstrek as well as a F-250 with a hitch already, and a 5th wheel and want to use the rack with all 3 depending on where we are going and which vehicle. If we use straps on our Cougar 30 foot 5th wheel should this diminish the metal fatigue that Hollywood racks talks about?

asked by: Raylene L

Expert Reply:

There are a couple different questions in here, so I'll take them one at a time. To answer your first question, if you install a 2-inch trailer hitch on your 2018 Subaru Crosstrek you will absolutely be able to use the full capacity of the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE 2 Electric Bike Rack # HLY84FR.

The trailer hitch I recommend, the Curt # C13382, has a tongue weight capacity of 525 lbs, which is more than enough to handle the 51 lbs of the Hollywood Rack and two 80 lb bikes, which is what the rack's capacity is. The Curt hitch is the best option not only because it is a no-drill installation, but because it has a concealed crosstube so your Crosstrek will maintain its clean look. I have added a link to a video of this hitch being installed on an '18 Crosstrek for you to take a look at.

In regard to your second question about using the Sport Rider SE on your fifth wheel, even if you use straps that is not something the rack was designed to do, and it could be damaged due to the excessive movement. It would also void the warranty of the rack, so I do not recommend using it for this.

The only option for a bike rack that has the ability to carry heavy bikes and will work on your Crosstrek and F-250 and is also rated for use on the back of a fifth wheel is the Lets Go Aero V-Lectric FAT PRO Bike Rack # LGA77FR. The V-Lectric has a 75 lb per bike weight capacity, one of the highest among racks rated for use on a fifth wheel trailer.

I have added links to a couple video reviews of the Swagman Escapee for you to check out as well.