What Do I Need to Fit My Thule Big Mouth Bike Rack on My Factory Crossbars on a 2022 Subaru Outback?

Question:

Hi, I have an old Thule Big Mouth bike rack that fits on the rectangular Thule load bars. I also have a new 2022 Subaru Outback and would love to use the factory crossbars that come standard on the car for the Thule Big Mouth racks that I already own. The Subaru crossbars are aerodynamically shaped, but do NOT include the grooves that come on the Thule areo bars so I dont think the Xadapt parts will work. Any help you could offer would be appreciated. I was thinking item # 853-5551 might work, but Im not certain. Thoughts?

asked by: Snapper P

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you. Unfortunately, both the Thule XADAPT2 # Xadapt2 and the Replacement L-Clamp for Thule Big Mouth Roof Mounted Bike Carrier # 853-5551 will not enable you to use your older Thule Big Mouth bike rack on your aero-style factory crossbars. In addition, I confirmed with Thule that the Big Mouth was only designed for square crossbars and load bars. Due to that customization, Thule does not have any kind of adapter that will work in your channel-less aero crossbars on your 2022 Subaru Outback Wagon.

However, we do have other great Thule racks that will fit your crossbars. For this route, I recommend the Thule ProRide XT Roof Bike Rack - Frame Mount - Clamp On or Channel Mount # TH598004. As far as weight capacity, the ProRide XT has a weight capacity of 44 pounds. As far as fitment, you will be able to clamp onto your factory crossbars on your vehicle.

expert reply by: Bob C