Recommended Platform Bike Rack for 2016 Subaru Outback 3.6r with Draw-Tite Class II Trailer Hitch

Question:

How much does this weign? I have back problems and cannot lift much - either while attaching/detaching to the hitch or lifting the bikes on/off the rack. I have both Mt. Bikes and carbon road bikes. I am concerned about downward forces on the top bar on my carbon bikes while driving. Does this tilt back enough to allow my trunk to open? I have limited storage space and will need a rack that stores compactly. I guess this would be a fold away rack. Minimum needs: a reasonably light, carbon bike compatible, platform style cannot lift heavy Mt. Bikes high, compactly storable 2inch hitch-fitting bike which wont scratch my 2016 Outback 3.6r which I can lock securely to the rack and/or hitch. and which fits my just-ordered etrailer hitch (Drawtite class III hitch #75673 ) Maximally, Id like a tilting rack and integrated lock mechanism, but may have to forgo them.

asked by: Mike M

Expert Reply:

Good news, I can help you select a great bike rack for your and your vehicle's needs. I checked your previous order and found that you purchased the Draw-Tite # 75673 Class III trailer hitch.

The Hollywood Racks SportRider2 # HR1450Z weighs 48lbs. We have installed the SportRider2 on a 2016 Subaru Outback Wagon, which I've linked for you to check out, and yes the rack will tilt down out of the way enough for your rear hatch to open even with the bikes loaded. It will also store nicely on the back of the vehicle when there are no bikes loaded.

Since you are concerned with damaging your carbon fiber frame, I instead suggest a wheel mounted platform bike rack. The lightest platform wheel mounted bike rack for your 2 inch hitch is the 38 lb Rocky Mounts # RKY10007-05, this rack may be your top choice to avoid any extra strain on your back while lifting into the hitch. This bike rack has an integrated cable and hitch pin lock to secure the bike to the rack and the rack to the vehicle. This rack like the other offers a switch for the tilt in the front of the carrier for better access and leverage. I have linked a video of this rack being installed on your vehicle for you to check out.

It's important to note that with the Draw-Tite hitch we know that your pin hole to bumper clearance is 5-1/2 inches, this means that when selecting a bike rack you will want to make sure it can accommodate this to clear your bumper properly. I have checked and all the above mentioned bike racks will work for your 2016 Subaru Outback Wagon.

I have linked all the above mentioned videos and products to this page for your viewing and purchasing convenience.