How to Carry 3 Bikes with a 2018 Subaru Forester That Has the OEM Trailer Hitch
Question:
I have a 2018 Subaru Forester with a Class I 1.25inch hitch - part number L1010SG611. Im having trouble finding a 3-bike rack that will work due to the pin hole depth being less than 1.5. Any suggestions?
asked by: Julie M
Expert Reply:
The reason that you are having trouble finding a 3-bike rack that is compatible with a Class I trailer hitch on your 2018 Subaru Forester is because all Class I trailer hitches are restricted to carrying 2 bikes only.
With this being the case we do have some options for you still. The simplest solution would be to use a trunk mount bike rack like the recommended Yakima FullBack # Y02633 which can carry up to 3 bikes with a combined weight capacity of 90 lbs. It features locks for security and a 4 strap design for easy installation/removal. The only downsides to a trunk mount option is that you can't use your rear wiper or open up your rear hatch with it installed.
The best option would be to replace your OEM trailer hitch with one that has a higher rating. I recommend the Draw-Tite # 76182 because it features a hidden crosstube which gives you a really clean look (see attached photo). If you choose to go this route then I highly recommend using a swing-away bike rack like the Thule Apex Swing # TH9027XT because it gives you unrestricted access to your rear hatch area. If you don't care for the swing away option then the Thule Apex XT is also available without that as part # TH9025XT.
Aside from the 2 options mentioned above the only other thing to do would be to purchase a 2-bike rack for your current hitch and then add a roof rack for your 3rd bike but that isn't nearly as cost-effective as replacing your trailer hitch and using a hitch mount option.
Please note that with any of the hanging style bike racks, if any of your bikes doesn't have the horizontal top tube then you may need to use an adapter like part # UB01 to ensure proper ground clearance for your bike.
I have attached some review and installation videos for you to check out.
Products Referenced in This Question
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 525 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 4 Bikes
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Thule
more information >
Thule Apex Swing XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Swing Away
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Swing-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 4 Bikes
- Class 3
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Thule
more information >
Kuat Ubar Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Spare Tire Bike Racks
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Adapter Bar
- Frame
- Kuat
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Yakima FullBack 3 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Frame Mount - Anti-Sway
- 3 Bikes
- Non-Retractable
- Bike and Rack Lock
- Fits Most Factory Spoilers
- 4 Straps
- Adjustable Arms
- Hanging Rack
- Yakima
more information >
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