Hitch Receiver And Hitch Bike Rack Recommendation For A 2016 Subaru Outback

Question:

I am looking to purchase a Hitch and bike rack for Subaru Outback 2016. The Drawtite #76227 has a nice price and 2 inch receiver. For the bike rack, I was looking at either the Kuat BA22B or Thule TH83JV. 1. With either of those combinations, and using the rack in a tilted position, will the tail gate hit the handle bars of a XL mountain bike with 28 inch bars? 2. Are there any other compatibility issues I need to be aware of? I would like to simply put the rack on and off the hitch without any extenders or other adaptors, and to have easy access to the inside of the trunk so I could also purchase a different hitch if it made sense for my needs. Thanks!

asked by: Amar F

Expert Reply:

The Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2", part # 76227, has a center of the hitch pin to the edge of your bumper measurement of 2 1/2". So any rack that measures from the center of the hitch pin to the closest part of the hitch bike rack greater than 2 1/2", will work with your 2016 Subaru Outback Wagon.

I recommend the Kuat NV 2.0 Base Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount - Matte Black, part # BA22B, because it will be positioned further from your vehicle than the Thule offering. It has a center of hitch pin to the closest part of the rack, when in the folded up position, of 6 5/8". In addition, this rack has a distance from the center of the hitch pin to the closest part of the rack when folded down of 11 3/4". Your 2016 Subaru Outback Wagon will not have any issues with clearance when transporting bikes or when it's tilted up and not in use. You should not have any clearance issues with your bike in the tilt down position and you can use this rack with out any adapters.

This Kuat NV 2.0 comes with an anti-rattle hitch pin to eliminate movement between the rack and the hitch receiver. This hitch pin also locks the rack to your vehicle. This rack secures the bike via the wheels, so it never touches the frame of your bike. Your bikes also stay secure because you can lock your bikes to the rack.

I have included product description links and video review links below.

expert reply by: Mark Smith