How to Use Yakima SkyRise Rooftop Tent on 2019 Subaru Outback Touring with Factory Roof Rack

Question:

Hello, Wanted to find out if the stock thule crossbars on my Outback Touring would fit the Yakima Skyrise RTT? Thanks!

asked by: Alan

Expert Reply:

There is a way you can use the Yakima SkyRise Tent # Y07436 with your 2019 Subaru Outback Touring but I checked with Yakima and this tent will not fit on the factory roof rack on your '19 Outback Touring.

Instead what you can do is put the tent on the Yakima EasyRider Utility Trailer # Y08129; you will simply need the SkyRise Tent Platform for Yakima EasyRider Utility Trailer # Y08127. This way you can have a trailer that not only allows you to use the tent but also carry cargo because it has two levels, as you can see in the accompanying photo.

To haul the EasyRider you will need a trailer hitch if your '19 Outback Touring does not have one and I highly recommend the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch # 76227 because it has a concealed crosstube and is a bolt-on installation that will not require drilling into your vehicle's frame to install. This Class III, 2" trailer hitch is almost entirely hidden behind your bumper, as you can see by the accompanying photo, and has a 4,000 lb towing capacity and 600 lb tongue weight capacity. I have added a link to a video install of this hitch on a 2019 Outback for you to check out as well.

The other thing you are going to need is a 4-flat to power the lights of the EasyRider trailer and for that the best option is the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118467 because of how reliable these harnesses are and how easy it is to install, plugging into connection points in your Subaru's rear cargo area. I have attached a link which shows this harness being installed in a '19 Subaru Outback for you.

Finally, I also recommend checking out Ball Mount Kit # 989900, which is for 2” hitches and may fulfill your towing needs in one tidy package; two ball mounts - one with a 3/4” rise or 2” drop and the other with a 2-3/4” rise or 4” drop - a 1-7/8” hitch ball, a 2” hitch ball, and a pin and clip. You can take a look at the help article I attached to see if this will give you the proper amount of rise or drop.