Trunk Mount Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2014 Subaru Forester XT with Spoiler

Question:

Sorry if this question has already been asked/answered, but I did not see it in the long list of questions to the right. Will this rack TH910XT fit a 2014 Subaru Forester XT, with top rear spoiler? And is the TH982XT adaptor necessary for carrying a womens bike with no top bar?

asked by: Scott B

Expert Reply:

The Thule Passage trunk mount bike rack # TH910XT, is listed as a fit for the 2014 Subaru Forester if it does not have the electronic tailgate option. But with the spoiler, I do not recommend this rack because the spoiler is not meant to support weight.

What I recommend, if you have the electronic tailgate or not, and because you have the spoiler, is the Yakima FullBack 2 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms # Y02634. This rack has an adjustable base to fit over the spoiler and minimuze the weight is put on it. I have linked a video showing how the rack works.

If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical men's bike would) then I recommend using bike adapter bar # 64005 though it is not required unless the bike has a step-through frame.

The adapter will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance. I have to use these adapters and without them my wife's bike would be at a severe angle and I would not be able to load my son's bike at all. I have linked a video showing how the adapter works.

expert reply by: Michael H