Recommended Hitch Mounted Bike Rack for 2018 Subaru Crosstrek with 2 Inch Trailer Hitch Receiver

Question:

I am looking to get a 2 to 3 bike hitch rack for my crosstrek with a 2inch curt reciever. The bikes I have are road/ hybrid bikes- non carbon frame but $600+. The features I am most intrested in are the safety/ reliability of the rack, safety for the bikes and my car, and ease of removing the rack from the car/ storage off the car. I plan to only put the rack on when I am planning on traveling with bikes around 2-4 times a month- on both short 5-10 mile trips and 4-8+ hour trips and taking it off most other times unless I have trips only a few days apart.The tilt away feature with bikes loaded is a plus but not a necessity. I am currently comparing Swagman XC 2 # S64650, Swagman G-10 # S64682, Kuat Transfer 2, and Kuat Beta #B202-2. I like the idea of a platform rack over a hanging style but am unsure if the extra cost, weight, and bulk are worth it. And when looking at the different platform racks, is the Kuat transfer worth the extra cost over the G-10 or XC? The kuat transfer is at my maximum budget and I would like to save some money but I want to make sure Im getting the best rack/ options in that price range. I am open to any other suggestions you might have. Thank you!

asked by: Danny D

Expert Reply:

The Kuat Transfer 3 Bike Platform Rack # KU24FR is a customer favorite for a few reasons. The rack is very well made, durable, and easy to store. It has the unique feature of being able to step in the middle of the frame to load and unload the bikes so you can support the weight with your legs versus your back. This is the rack I recommend for you not only based on design, but also the ability to carry 3 bikes.

The Swagman XC 2-Bike Rack Platform Style for 1-1/4" and 2" Trailer Hitches # S64650 is a very basic rack that doesn't have the storage options, tilt options, or locks. It will accept tires up to 3.5 inches wide. With this rack, I recommend locks # S64031.

expert reply by: Jason S