Recommended Hitch and E-Bike Bike Rack for a 2005 Subaru Impreza Wagon

Question:

Hi! Im looking for a hitch and bike rack recommendation for my Subaru 2005 Impreza wagon. Id like to be able to use a hitch mount bike rack to carry a cargo e-bike Tern GSD, about 70lbs and possibly a lightweight road bike though that can go the roof, too. From what Ive read, our car is only compatible with 1 1/4inch hitches. Hollywood may have a Sport Rider option, but it looks like it requires a class 2 hitch. Can you help advise? Thank you!

asked by: Maria

Expert Reply:

I would be happy to help, and I have a great bike rack and hitch, for your 2005 Subaru Impreza Wagon. You are correct the only hitches available for your car have a 1-1/4" receiver. Additionally they are also class I hitches which will eliminate you being able to use the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE item # HLY74FR because it requires a class II or III hitch.

For a hitch, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch item # C11497. This hitch is custom fit and bolts to your Subaru with included hardware. It has a 200 lbs tongue weight capacity and is a class I hitch with a 1-1/4" receiver.

To transport your Tern GSD Electric Cargo Bike you are going to need the Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack item # TH903202. This is the only bike rack that can get close to the 70 lbs weight capacity you are requiring. However, this rack tops out at 65 lbs per bike so you will need to remove your battery when transporting your e-bike.

The Thule EasyFold has a built in aluminum ramp that helps you load and unload heavy bikes. This is a frame mount bike rack that can be repositioned anywhere along the upright to hold your bike. I wasn't able to find the wheel base of your GSD Tern e-bike. The Easyfold has our largest but it is limited to a maximum wheelbase of 51-3/16". If your bike is wider I do not have a solution for you.

I have linked a couple review and installation videos below for you to take a look at.