2018 Subaru Outback Wagon Trunk Mount Bike Rack Fitment with Canoe on Roof

Question:

Hi, Im interested in getting a bike rack for 2 adult sized mountain bikes, that will work with a 2018 Subaru Outback. What I am unsure of, is whether or not a canoe can be placed on top of the car with bicycles on the rack. Can you help me figure out which ones might work? Or for this scenario of having bikes + canoe, will I need to install a hitch and go that way? Lmk and thanks!

asked by: Edward D

Expert Reply:

I think the most difficulty you're going to have is just the location of the rear tie-down for the canoe - I don't think you'll have any issues with the canoe getting in the way of the Yakima FullBack # Y02634 and bikes on your 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon. If you want to add a little bit of height to where your canoe will be sitting then you can replace the OEM crossbars with the Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack # MPG216 so the crossbars will be above the raised rails but I honestly don't think it will be an issue.

For your canoe I recommend using the Yakima KeelOver # Y04069 which clamps to the crossbars and comes with everything you need to secure your boat. To help make loading your canoe easier I recommend checking out the Inno Kayak Lifter Load Assist # INA453.

Attached is a video of the FullBack on a 2016 Outback Wagon for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G