Will Kuat Trio Roof Mount Bike Rack Interfere with Rear Hatch on 2008 Subaru Outback Wagon

Question:

If i mount a Kuat Trio on a 2008 Subaru Outback wagon forward facing can i still open the rear hatch. You mounted the Trio on a 2006 but you never show if the hatch can open and you didnt have the crossbar at the furthest forward mounting point. You can move the crossbar into the opening closer to the windshield and gain a few more inches for the rear hatch clearance. I have a Thule Echelon and have enough clearance but Id really like to get the Kuat Trio. But Id love to know for sure I can open the rear hatch.

asked by: Nate O

Expert Reply:

To determine if the Kuat Trio # RU01 will interfere with the rear hatch when open on your 2008 Subaru Outback you will need to take one important measurement. Measure from the center of the front crossbar straight back 52-1/2 inches. This is how far the Trio goes from the center of its mounting point to the back end of the rack. If you open the hatch and it does not reach that point 52-1/2 inches back then the rack will fit without hatch interference.

expert reply by: Michael H