2006 Subaru Outback Wagon Class II or III Trailer Hitch to Carry Thule Hitching Post Pro Bike Rack

Question:

I have a standard Subaru Outback Wagon 2006 and want a trailer hitch for a Thule 934PRO bike rack 4-bike capacity. The rental place states that they only carry a class 1 trailer hitch 1 1/4 inch for my vehicle and any higher class of hitch would go over the load limit for my car and potentially damage the cars structure. First, is this load limit for my car true? If true, then is a class 1 trailer hitch adequate for the Thule 934PRO bike rack? If my car can appropriately handle a class 2 trailer hitch, then where can I go to buy it and get it installed?

asked by: Peter

Expert Reply:

There are Class II and III trailer hitches available for the 2006 Subaru Outback Wagon. Either Class can handle a 4-Bike rack but I recommend going with a Class III like # 75560 because the 2 inch receiver will afford you more options for accessories. With this hitch installed you can use the Thule Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR bike rack.

For a Class II hitch go with # 36334. Installation of either hitch is not very complicated and you could do it at home to save money. Otherwise any trusted mechanic or shop that deals in trailer hitches could install it.

Regarding the capacity of the vehicle you will need to consult the owners manual for the tongue weight capacity. The hitch is more than capable of handling 4 bikes but if the vehicle tongue weight capacity is not high enough to handle the combined weight of the rack and bikes then you will need to reduce the weight by taking off a bike or two.

I have included a link to a video showing a typical installation of the hitch and a link to a video review of the bike rack.

If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical mens bike would) then I recommend using bike adapter bar # TH982XT. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance. I have to use these adapters and without them my wifes bike would be at a severe angle and I would not be able to load my sons bike at all. I have linked a video showing how the adapter works.