Compatibility of Swagman XTC4 4-Bike Rack # S64665 With Draw-Tite # 75673 and OEM Hitch

Question:

Hello, Will this hitch work with a Swagman XTC4 Platform Hitch Bike Rack for the 2015 Subaru Outback? I was checking the rack out on your site and it seems to be a good alternative to the really high priced ones. My dealer wants me to use the factory installed hitch saying that it has a 2 inch adapter and 300 lb. tongue weight? Thank you.

asked by: John D

Expert Reply:

The Swagman XTC4 4-Bike Rack # S64665 is designed to fit 2-inch hitch receivers like Draw-Tite # 75673. This hitch is a confirmed fit on the 2015 model year Outback wagon.

If your dealer is suggesting a smaller 1-1/4-inch Class II hitch along with the use of an adapter I strongly caution against this. ANY hitch adapter or extender will have the unavoidable side-effect of reducing your hitch's rated tongue weight (TW) capacity by a full 50-percent. This reduction applies no matter whether the hitch is an OEM option or an aftermarket product and regardless of the brand of the hitch or adapter. Among the advantages of a higher capacity Class III hitch like the Draw-Tite # 75673 is the safety margin gained by using it well below its rated maximum.

The Swagman XTC4 weighs a substantial 59-lbs BEFORE you load your 4 bikes and with an average bike weighing 30-35-lbs you see where the caution arises. A 1-1/4-inch Class II hitch for your car could be rated as low as 300-lbs total tongue weight; once halved by using an adapter that becomes an inadequate 150-lbs.

expert reply by: Adam R