Trunk-Mount 3-Bike Carrier Recommendation for 2006 Subaru Legacy Wagon

Question:

Hello, I am looking for a bike rack for my 2006 Subaru Legacy Wagon. There is no hitch on my vehicle and I am interested in a rack that would accommodate 2 kids bikes and possibly a third adult bike on the rear hatch door.

asked by: Matti

Expert Reply:

For your 2006 Subaru Legacy Wagon I can suggest 3-bike racks from Thule that will easily handle two kid's bikes plus an adult bike.

If you'd like a rack that offers the convenience of built-in locks for the rack itself and also for your loaded bikes then I suggest the Thule OutWay 3, part # TH56BV. If you prefer a more cost-effective non-locking carrier then I suggest the Gateway 3, part # TH78VR. With either option you will want to load the heaviest bike first (so it is nearest the vehicle) to minimize stress of the car's sheet metal. Its also a good idea to keep the carrier and vehicle clean to avoid road dirt from affecting the finish. Please note your rear wiper cannot be used with either rack in place.

Some bikes that do not have the horizontal top frame tube typical of a standard man's bike, such as some kids', women's or alternative-frame bikes, will benefit from use of a bike adapter bar like the Thule # TH982XT. This simple device connects between the seat and handlebar posts of such bikes to help keep them level on the carrier for better ground clearance.

expert reply by: Adam R