What Is the Tongue Weight Rating of a 2019 Subaru Forester With Curt or Draw-Tite Hitch

Question:

Both the Curt and Draw Tite 2inch hitches say they are rated for 500 lbs tongue weight. The 2019 Subaru Forester manual says the allowable tongue weight is 150 lbs. Is this just referring to the OEM Subaru Class I, 1.25inch hitch, or is this a vehicle limitation regardless of the hitch type?

asked by: John C

Expert Reply:

The Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 76271 and the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C13409 which are both fits for a 2019 Subaru Forester each have a tongue weight capacity of 525 lbs. However, these are both tested independently of the vehicle and as mentioned the vehicle is only rated for 150 lbs tongue weight so that is the figure you must abide by. This has no bearing on the factory trailer hitch.

I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver because it sits higher off the ground and is not tucked back as far under the rear bumper. These two factors will be important if using the trailer hitch for a hitch mounted bike rack. I recommend the Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Platform Rack part # KU74FR if you don't already have a hitch mounted bike rack because of the open design which makes loading the bikes easier and the lightweight construction (47 lbs) which makes removing and installing the bike rack easier.

Please note, you will be limited to 150 lbs of tongue weight but this will be plenty for most bike rack and bike combos.

expert reply by: Conner L