Trailer Hitch for 2015 Subaru Forester for Use with a Hitch Bike Rack

Question:

HI I AM LOOKING FOR A LIGHT DUTY HITCH TO FIT MY 2015 SUBARU FORRESTER AWD . ITS ONLY GOING TO BE USED TO CARRY BICYCLES I AM A LITTLE CONFUSED WHICH PRODUCT THANKS FOR YOUR HELP

asked by: BRUCE H

Expert Reply:

Your 2015 Subaru Forester can be equipped with your choice of two sizes of hitch, either a 1-1/4-inch Class II type such as Curt # C12100 or a 2-inch Class III type such as Curt # C13144. Both will install in the same manner using their included hardware and the time and effort required is essentially the same for both. Given this, I suggest you opt for the 2-inch Class III hitch.

A 2-inch Class III hitch is stronger and will have the flexibility to allow broader use than a 1-1/4-inch unit. There are more hitch-mount accessories to fit 2-inch hitches than there are that fit the 1-1/4-inch
size. For the modest incremental cost I suggest you get the higher capacity hitch so you will have a greater safety margin no matter what your activities. Also, the Class III hitch # C13144 does not require a stabilizing strap when used with a bike rack; but this is required for the Class II hitch; you would need part # 18050. With this 2-inch hitch installed you can choose a compatible 2-inch hitch-mount bike rack.

The link provided will show you all 2-inch Class III bike carriers that come complete with locks. You can choose from either hanging-style or platform-style carriers with up to 5-bike capacity. The linked articles on hitch racks will give you help in determining which type will best suit your needs and your particular bikes.

expert reply by: Adam R