Platform Bike Rack Recommendation for 2016 Subaru Forester Carrying Carbon Frame Bike

Question:

Hi, Im considering getting a 3 bike rack for our 2016 Subaru Forester, or one that can accommodate an extension, but prefer something lighter. We have one Carbon Fiber Cervelo road bike, one aluminum road bike, and one aluminum/steel 20inch kids bike to put on there. Which one is best that wont overload our vehicle? I was looking at the newest Sherpa, the Transfer, or the NV though it seems heavy. Would any of these work and not overload our vehicle? Thanks,

asked by: Genevieve C

Expert Reply:

To carry a 3-4 bike rack on your 2016 Subaru Forester will require you to have a Class III hitch like the Draw Tite part # 75876 installed.

Since you have a carbon fiber bike you basically have to go with a platform bike rack that only touches the tires so that the rack does not touch the frame. Now platform bike racks in general are just heavy but the Freedom SuperClamp part # SA4026F isn't quite as heavy as some of the others. It weighs in at 63 lbs which isn't lightweight by any means, but relatively speaking it is pretty light. It also only touches the bikes at the tire which is a must for you. I attached a review video that shows the rack being demoed on a 2015 Forester like yours.

The Kuat Transfer part # KU24FR does seem likely a strong candidate as well, but since you have a kids bike it may not fit well. Reason being the wheel cradles aren't adjustable like the Freedom. I attached a review video for this rack on a 2015 Forester as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C