Recommended Hitch and Platform Bike Rack Combination for 2016 Subaru Forester

Question:

Hi. I have a 2016 Subaru Forester. I was planning on purchasing the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Class III - 2inch - 75876 and the Swagman Semi 2.0 2-Bike Platform Rack - S64686. From the looks of it it may be a tight fit on the Subaru, but on the following youtube clip is stated that there is 5 1/2inch distance between the hitch pin and the rack when folded up. according to the specs the Drawtite hitch pin is 4 3/4inch in from the outer edge of the Subaru bumper. It seems it would fit, but it looks like the hitch leans back towards the car a bit when upright and only offers 3inch of clearance from the hitch pin up higher. I really like the rack and that hitch. I just want to make sure it actually fits and couldnt see if that was a combination you tested on a 2016 Subaru Forester before. Let me know if you have any guidance. Thanks!

asked by: Ren

Expert Reply:

Don't worry, I can help clear up this issue for you.

You are correct the Draw-Tite # 75876 Trailer Hitches will have a bumper clearance of 4-3/4 inches on the 2016 Subaru Forester. It is a confirmed fit for your Subaru.

Swagman actually redesigned the Semi 2.0 # S64686 bike rack, so you are correct that the center of the pin hole distance to the closest part of the rack is 8 inches per the etrailer.com YouTube video you watched. With your 4-3/4 inch bumper clearance and the 8 inches distance of the arms and cradles you will have plenty of distance between the rack and the bumper. Plus the bike rack comes with a threaded anti-rattle hitch pin that allows this rack to snug up to the inside of your hitch and have less play than other bike racks without it.

I have linked all the above mentioned products to this page for your convenience.

expert reply by: Jackie C