Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2017 Subaru Outback with Factory 1-1/4 Inch Trailer Hitch
Question:
We have a brand new 2017 Subaru Outback with a 1.25inch hitch. We are looking for a platform style hitch rack for our mountain bikes and have read that a rack which holds them by the wheels is best for suspension bikes. We also have carbon triathlon bikes that we will travel with occasionally, but only two bikes at at time, so we dont need a 4 bike rack. We have been comparing the Thule T2 Classic, Thule T2 Pro, and Yakima Hold Up, but have no idea which is best for us. Something that allows us trunk access would be great, but it not required.
asked by: Kristin
Expert Reply:
If the trailer hitch on your 2017 Subaru Outback is the factory hitch then that limits your bike rack options. The issue is that the hitch pin hole on the Subaru hitch is much to close to the receiver opening to use most bike racks safely; especially platform racks that are heavier than hanging racks. The best bike rack option that will work with that hitch is the BikeWing # LGA54FR which does hold the bikes by the wheels.
The other option, provided the factory hitch is not welded on, is to replace the OEM hitch with an aftermarket hitch such as # 36493. This is a Class II hitch with a 1-1/4 inch receiver. If you go this route then you could safely use one of the bike racks you are looking at.
Out of the ones you are interested in the best is going to be the T2 Pro, # TH23JV, because it is the easiest to use and most versatile. I would place the HoldUp # Y02445 in second place, followed by the T2 Classic, # TH9045.
Products Referenced in This Question
Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class II
- 300 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" Hitches - Wheel Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Wheel Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 2 Bikes
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Carbon Fiber Bikes
- Electric Bikes
- Fat Bikes
- Heavy Bikes
- Thule
more information >
Thule T2 Classic Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" Hitches - Wheel Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Wheel Mount
- Hitch Lock
- 2 Bikes
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Carbon Fiber Bikes
- Electric Bikes
- Fat Bikes
- Heavy Bikes
- Thule
more information >
Yakima HoldUp Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" Hitches - Wheel Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Wheel Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 2 Bikes
- Class 2
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Carbon Fiber Bikes
- Electric Bikes
- Heavy Bikes
- Yakima
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Yakima HoldUp Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Wheel Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 2 Bikes
- Class 3
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Carbon Fiber Bikes
- Electric Bikes
- Heavy Bikes
- Yakima
more information >
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