Will 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon OEM 1-1/4 Hitch Work with Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack

Question:

I have a 2018 Subaru Outback with a dealer installed 1 1/4 inch hitch receiver. Will this hitch accept the Thule Easy Fold bike rack? If not, why not? Thanks

asked by: Rand B

Helpful Expert Reply:

As long as the distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the face of the hitch is at least 1-1/2" (see attached photo) you'll be good to use the Thule EasyFold XT # TH903202 with the OEM hitch on your 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon.

If the distance is less than that we need to look at a different bike rack or trailer hitch because there won't be enough of the shank from the EasyFold XT in the hitch receiver for proper support. I recommend swapping out the hitch receiver since you'll likely run into the same type of issues with other products. The Curt Class III Trailer Hitch # C13410 is an excellent replacement option because it has a hidden crosstube and the larger 2" receiver so you'll have a wider range of options (plus it will work with the EasyFold XT).

Attached is a review video of the bike rack and an installation video of the Curt hitch for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G