Will Thule OutWay and Yakima 2 Bike Carrier Fit a 2011 Subaru Outback

Question:

Is the Thule TH45JV a good fit for a 2011 Subaru Outback? Is the Yakima Y02634 similar in quality and fit for my vehicle?

asked by: Ralph Z

Expert Reply:

The Thule OutWay 2 Bike Trunk Mount Carrier, part # TH45JV is a good fit for your 2011 Subaru Outback. This bike carrier can carry 2 bikes and has a total weight capacity of 66 lbs. The rear wiper can not be used when this bike carrier is mounted to the vehicle. This is quite possibly the best trunk mount carrier on the market. It installs easier than any other rack I have used because of the 2 retractable cables it uses. It can also be locked to the vehicle and the bikes locked to it.

The Yakima FullBack 2 Bike trunk mounted rack, part # Y02634 is not really a comparable trunk mounted bike rack. The difference is the Yakima will have a total weight capacity of 2 bikes and 60 lbs and attaches to the vehicle using 6 straps. It doesn't have locks or a built-in bike lock.

If you are planning on using the bike carrier for childrens or womens bikes, I would recommend a frame adapter like the Yakima Tube Top bike adapter, part # Y02531. This frame adapter spans the distance between the seat post and the handle bar post and provides a level attachment point so that the bike will not be carried at an angle on the rack. I am including a link for the installation instructions and a video review on the adapter.

expert reply by: Jeff D