Bike Carrying Options for 2002 Subaru Impreza WRX

Question:

What is the best bike rack for a 2002 Subaru WRX 5 door? Do you recommend a roof rack, hatch or hitch mounted rack? It is for my husbands road bike only, for now, but we may need something bigger for my bike and our sons, as well. Thanks!!

asked by: Adi C

Expert Reply:

If your Impreza WRX does not have a spoiler, a trunk mounted rack would be the most convenient option. Although we offer many different racks that are a confirmed fit, I would recommend the Thule OutWay 3 Bike Carrier # TH56BV. Typically, a trunk mounted rack would use straps and buckles that need to be adjusted each time the rack is installed or removed, which can be an awkward and time consuming process. The Raceway uses 2 retractable cables that allow the rack to be installed or removed in seconds. The rack can be locked to the vehicle, and the bikes can be locked to the rack using the integrated cable lock.

If the vehicle does have a spoiler, Thule does not recommend using a trunk mount rack. If this is the case, you can install a Class I hitch like the Curt # C11497. Due to the low tongue weight capacity of the Class I hitch, you will be limited to carrying two bikes. Any additional bikes can be carried on the vehicle roof. The Swagman Titan, part # S63400 is a good economical choice. The rack features anti-sway cradles and an integrated cable lock, but the # S64029 hitch lock is sold separately.

To carry women's bikes or bikes with sharply angled top tubes or step-through frames, using a frame adapter like part # TH982XT is recommended. The adapter spans the distance between the seat post and the handle bar gooseneck, and provides a level attachment point to the bike rack so the bike has greater ground clearance and is not carried at an angle.

The only roof mounted bike racks are the SeaSucker Komodo Racks that hold 1 bike each and are very pricey. Take a look at the # 298-BK1910-SV