Can the Thule OutWay Platform Bike Rack be Used on a 2011 Subaru Outback

Question:

I am concerned about the ratings saying the bike rack is too heavy and will dent the bumper. We want to use it on a 2011 Subaru Outback but do not want to damage our car!

asked by: Meg

Expert Reply:

There is a way to determine if this or any rack will potentially damage a vehicle.

What I recommend doing is checking to see what the weight capacity is of the rear bumper on your 2011 Subaru Outback. This information may not be in the owners manual, so you will have to speak with the dealer or, better yet, a tech at Subaru. If the combined weight of the bikes plus the 45 pounds of the bike rack exceeds what that rear fascia is designed for, you know the OutWay Platform Rack, # TH65JV, probably is not the rack for you.

If there is any doubt, I recommend going with the much lighter, but equally as cool, OutWay 2, # TH45JV. The only difference is that it is a hanging rack rather than a platform. And of course there is the weight difference. The OutWay 2 weighs in at 13 pounds.

If you will be carrying women's, children's, or alternative frame bikes, I recommend using the adapter bar, # TH982XT, to carry the bikes level. I have included a link to a video review showing how the adapter works for you.

expert reply by: Michael H