Bike Rack Blocks License Plate and Taillights of 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV

Question:

I have a Yakima Hold UP 2 on my Subaru Crosstrek.. My hitch is the Curt bolt on 13135 I believe is the #. I have concern that i will be pulled over at some point for my license plate being nearly completely blocked when transporting bikes or when the rack is on and up. Can you recommend anything to remedy this issue? Im guessing I need some sort of license plate bracket to fit the rack and perhaps a wiring harness and light set up so i can be seen braking and turning more easily. thanks

asked by: Danny

Expert Reply:

To be perfectly honest with you, I have never once heard of this occurring, but I can certainly understand your concern.

There is nothing available that's specifically designed to relocate your license plate, but you could probably fabricate something using a license plate bracket/light like part # LPL55CB and a cargo carrier light kit like # 20174. Light brackets like part # BK70BB would be needed to mount the lamps to the bike rack. You'd also need to install a trailer wiring harness like # 118467 on the vehicle.

Since this set-up is designed for a cargo carrier and not a bike rack, you'd need to devise a way of fastening the plate and lamp mounting brackets to the bike rack. I'd probably use zip ties because I wouldn't want to drill holes in the bike rack.

Before attempting all this, I'd call your local police or highway patrol and get their input.