Hitch-Mount Bike Rack Compatibility with OEM Hitch on 2015 Subaru Outback

Question:

Hi there. I have a 2015 Outback on order. I included the tow package option just to save myself some hassle, but now Im reading that it doesnt play well with bike carriers. I saw an answer somewhere on your site cant find it now saying that you didnt recommend any carriers other than the Yakima for the OEM hitch due to the limited stinger ion. Im wondering if thats still the case or if youve got any information on people using the NV successfully. I called Kuat but they didnt have a definitive answer and said you were the best source for advice : Thanks for any information you have.

asked by: Bill W

Expert Reply:

You are correct that the Subaru OEM hitches pose a challenge to using many hitch-mount bike carriers. And you are correct that the best option is a Yakima rack. Yakima has adapted their hitch racks for this fit issue by adding a second hitch pin hole on their current production racks.

The Yakima RidgeBack series is your best bet for a hitch rack - unless you can cancel you OEM hitch and go for a less-costly and better aftermarket unit like the # 36493. We offer the 4-bike # Y02458 model. Please refer to the linked video for more on the features of the RidgeBack.

expert reply by: Adam R