Recommended Bike Carrier on 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon with Factory Roof Rack

Question:

I’m looking to purchase 2 roof rack bike holders for my 2017 Subaru Outback with the integrated rack and crossbars. Which products do you find work best with the unique shape of the integrated crossbars on the Outback? I typically like fork mounted racks, but would be open to the possibility to mount upright with the front wheel left on. My main concern is that I want to ensure that it mounts securely and is very safe and stable at highway speeds for long distances. I also want to ensure that the bike tray will clear the rear hatch when it is fully open. Do you have any suggestions?

asked by: Justin B

Expert Reply:

For a fork mount bike carrier on the factory roof rack of your 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon the Yakima ForkLift # Y02098 is a confirmed fit. This has a sliding rear wheel tray with a ratcheting strap to secure the bike. It doesn't require any tools to install. Locks are not included but can be added using Yakima's Same Key System (SKS) lock cores # Y07202 to lock the bike to the carrier and the carrier to the roof rack. To verify whether it will clear your hatch or not you can measure, the carrier is 53-1/2 inches long.

If you decide you'd like to try a wheel mount so you don't have to remove the front wheel of your bike, the Yakima FrontLoader is also a fit on your Subaru's roof rack. The FrontLoader fits wheel sizes from 20 to 29 inches that are no more than 2-1/2 inches wide. It also does not use any tools for installation however it also does not include locks but can be added with the same SKS cores, # Y07202. It measures approximately 56 inches to check for clearance with your hatch.

expert reply by: Charles S