Platform Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2016 Subaru Outback with Class II 1-1/4 inch Hitch

Question:

I have 2016 Subaru Outback with a factory installed hitch. As you probably know, this hitch is a 1-1/4 class II hitch. However the center of the hitch pin hole and the end of the hitch is 1-1/2. You stated that it is probably too close to the end which would compromise the ability to handle much load on the trailer hitch-mounted bike rack. Since the Transfer 2-bike rack is steel construction verses aluminum for most others, would this hitch work for my need without having to use a support strap mounted to my vehicle. My current choice is Kuat Sherpa but Id rather not use the strap as it would rub again the vehicle and I would have to attach it to one of the bike which would provide upward motion to the bike and the ratchet hook. Ill be carrying road bikes which will weigh 20 pounds at the most. Could you give me an opinion on both options? I hindsight, I should not have ordered the factory installed hitch.

asked by: Richard A

Expert Reply:

With the Class II 1-1/4 inch on the new Subaru vehicles the only brand bike rack we can recommend is Yakima since they are specifically designed to work with the shallow hitches on the Subaru. Yakima actually makes the Subaru bike racks so that is why they work so well.

For a bike rack similar to the Kuat Transfer # KU74FR that you referenced you would want the Yakima HoldUp 2 Bike Rack for 1-1/4" Hitches # Y02445. This is a wheel mount platform bike rack that would work very well for you.

I attached a review video for this bike rack for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C