What is Needed to Carry 200 lb Dirt Bike With 2016 Subaru Forester That has OEM Hitch?

Question:

I have a 2016 Subaru Forester with the OEM 1 1/4 inch hitch. I want to carry a 200 lb. dirt bike. Most hitch motorcycle carriers I see are for 2 inch hitches and warn against using a 1 1/4 inch-2 inch converter. What do I need to do to be able to carry the dirt bike?

asked by: Stephen

Expert Reply:

In order to carry a 200 lb dirt bike with your 2016 Subaru Forester you will need to replace your OEM hitch with an aftermarket 2" hitch that allows you to use a dirt bike carrier. Carriers such as the Ultra-Fab # UF48-979033 are designed to be used with Class III and up trailer hitches due to the amount of weight they will be carrying, which is why they are not compatible with 1-1/4" hitches which are either Class I or Class II.

I recommend going with the Draw-Tite # 75876 to replace your OEM hitch. It is a confirmed fit for your 2016 Forester and has a tongue weight capacity of 525 lbs, which is going to be more than enough for you to carry a 200 lb dirt bike. I've added a link to a video showing this hitch being installed on a '16 Forester for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Kyle S