Bike Rack Recommendation for Heavy Cruiser and Vintage Bikes on a 2014 Subaru Outback Wagon

Question:

I have a 2014 Subaru Outback and just purchased a 2inch Drawtite hitch from you guys, great job on quick shipping and communication! Now I am ready for my bike rack. I like the Kuat NV 2.0, but in addition to standard Mountain bikes, have a couple of cruiser bikes and vintage bikes. With cruisers and some vintage bikes the fenders can stretch nearly the full top portion of the wheel. Would the clamping mechanism secure these type of bikes? The vintage bikes are fairly heavy weighing approx 50 lbs. Thank you!

asked by: Darryl R

Expert Reply:

I am happy to hear about the hitch for your 2014 Subaru Outback! Now we need to get you set up with a bike rack. The Kuat NV 2.0 base, # BA22B, is a great bike rack. However, the hook cannot clamp down on bikes with fenders. It needs direct contact with the tire.

But not to worry because there are other options. The Saris Freedom # SA4412B is my choice. It is rated for 60 pounds per bike and the frame clamps can move and rotate to accommodate just about any bike style. I have linked a video review of this rack for you.

And another option is the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider # HLY84FR which is rated for 80 pounds per bike. This rack has hooks that clamp down on the bike frames rather than the wheels.

expert reply by: Michael H