Hitch Mounted Bike Rack and Motorcycle Rack for a 2014 Subaru Forester

Question

Question:

I want to purchase a hitch for my 2014 Subaru Forester. I will use it for two racks - one to haul mountain bikes, and one to haul a 240 lb motorcycle. I will not be towing any trailers. Does the hitch require any additional hardware to prevent sway from a dirt bike hitch?

asked by: Teri A

0

Expert Reply:

You'll need a couple things for this.

For a hitch, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class III, part # 76182. This hitch installs with no drilling or trimming required. If you look around on the internet, you'll see a lot of people are really happy with the Ecohitch, however its position further back and open end means you will be limited on some accessories because their stinger will be too long. The DrawTite sits further forward, giving you the room you need to correctly attach accessories.

For the bike rack, it'll depend on the number of bikes that you're looking to carry. Personally, I strongly prefer platform style racks because of their ease of loading and all around better performance in terms of protecting the bikes. They also generally are the most feature loaded as well. Additionally, I'm highlighting two racks that convert to 2 bike racks so you can have the option of switching between a 2 and 4 bike rack on demand.

One of my favorite racks is the Saris SuperClamp EX, part # SA4026F. This wheel mount hitch has a great 60 pound carrying capacity on its closer two slots, and 35 on its outer slots. This rack includes a hitch and bike lock integrated into the rack. Its adjustable wheel cradles let you make the best fit to your bike while avoiding contact with the frame, protecting your paint job and your braking system. Saris offers a lifetime warranty on their racks, adding a lot of value over the life of the rack.

Another great rack that is also a wheel mount is the Yakima HoldUp, part # Y02443-2. A great advantage of this rack is that it converts easily to a 2 bike rack when you need it to. It includes integrated locks and a similar adjustable rack system to the SuperClamp. An advantage it does have is that its four wheel clamps are adjustable individually, letting you fit bikes a little easier. This rack also carries up to 200 pounds and an individual bike capacity of 60 pounds each.

For a motorcycle rack, I recommend the etrailer Motorcycle Carrier, part # e99873. My research shows that your tongue weight capacity on your Subaru is 525 pounds. Before using this rack, you want to check your Owner's Manual of your 2014 Subaru Forester to confirm this and ensure that you don't exceed its capacity. The 58 pounds of the rack plus the 240 pounds of your motorcycle must be under your tongue weight capacity so you should be well under that limit!

The etrailer Motorcycle Carrier w/ Ramp for 2" Hitch - 76" Long - Steel - 500 lbs # e98873 is a great choice. The detachable ramp makes loading and unloading your bike easy, and a stop collar lets you quickly install the carrier without having to align hitch pin holes.

I've included video reviews of all of these racks so you can get an idea of what they do and how they performed on our test track to help you make the best decision for your vehicle and bikes.