Adapter to Use 2 Inch Bike Rack in Factory 1-1/4 Inch Trailer Hitch on 2015 Subaru Outback

Question:

Just got the car with the factory trailer hitch which is 1.25 inches. My Thule bike rack holds up to 4 bikes uses the 2 inch hitch. What is the best strongest adapter to allow me to use my older bike rack?

asked by: Rich S

Expert Reply:

You would have to use adapter # HTAD. But please note that the use of an adapter reduces the tongue weight capacity of the trailer hitch by 50 percent. The combined weight of the rack and the bikes cannot exceed the reduced tongue weight.

The other issue is that if the factory 1-1/4 inch hitch on your 2015 Subaru Outback is a Class I, you are limited to just 2 bikes because a Class I hitch cannot take the stress of additional bikes. It puts too much torque on the hitch, like using a cheater bar to loosen a lug nut. You will know if you have a Class I trailer hitch if the tongue weight capacity maxes out at 200 pounds or there may be a sticker on the hitch that says the Class.

Because of the reduced capacity and the issues with tongue weight I recommend a bike rack that is designed for a Class I hitch if it turns out your hitch is a Class I. I recommend the Swagman Trailhead, # S63360. It is Class I compatible, tilts down, and has a rise in the shank for added ground clearance.

expert reply by: Michael H