Can Hollywood Racks Over-the-Top be Safely Used on a 2018 Subaru Forester

Question:

Hi, Im looking at this product to put on a 2018 Subaru Forester XT Touring which has a spoiler. Most of the time I will be used to transport one womens bike, a Electra cruiser. I assume it will need an adapter bar. The bike weighs 34lbs and has a aluminum rear rack which might push it a half pound over 35lbs. Would this rack be okay to use on the Subaru? If not, what would you suggest?

asked by: John B

Expert Reply:

The Hollywood Racks Over-the-Top 2 Bike Carrier # HRF2 is a great option for carrying your Electra Cruiser with your 2018 Subaru Forester XT, and if your bike has more of a step-thru frame then an adapter like part # HRBA-PRO will be needed so it will fit on the rack. I wouldn't worry about an extra 1/2 lb for a hanging style rack simply because all hanging style racks have a 35 lb per bike weight rating.

The Over-the-Top isn't as easy to install as some of the other trunk mount racks that fit your Forester but once you get the hang of it, it really isn't too bad. In my opinion it's worth the little bit of extra hassle to make sure the spoiler on your vehicle isn't being damaged, especially if you plan on using the bike rack often.

We don't currently have a video of this on a Forester (as on November 2021) but I had the opportunity to install it on a 2019 Toyota RAV4 which I am linking for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G