Benefits of a Hitch-Mount Bike Carrier Over a Trunk-Mount Carrier for 2017 Subaru Forester  

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Expert Reply:

On a new vehicle like your 2017 Forester I do suggest installing a hitch to enable use of a hitch-type bike rack rather than a trunk-mount rack.

The benefits are many: no pressure on vehicle features such as a rear spoiler, no rack contact with your painted finish, you do not lose use of a rear wiper if the car has one, you can carry far more bike weight on a hitch type rack than on a trunk mount, you retain access to your rear hatch (it cannot be opened with a trunk-mount rack in place) AND you then also have the ability to use other hitch-mounted accessory items, such as a cargo carrier like # C18145 in the future if ever needed. The linked articles on bike racks will be of interest.

The linked page displays the hitches offered for your Forester. Both 1-1/4-inch Class II and 2-inch Class III hitches are available. Many customers handle the hitch install on their own since it is often not especially difficult. You can decide on that matter by reviewing the linked videos on the hitch page. I recommend Draw-Tite 2-inch hitch # 75876 for its substantial weight rating and fairly simple installation. An install video for this hitch is linked for you.

I note that you were reviewing 2-bike racks. We do offer many cost-effective hitch type racks for 2 bikes, such as the Curt # C18085. This rack fits both 1-1/4-inch and 2-inch hitches, offers a 45-lb-per-bike weight rating (more than most). It also has good clearance since it sits 12-1/2" away from the hitch pin hole. This would be a great choice for you.

expert reply by: Adam R

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