Recommendation for a 4 Bike Rack on a 2008 Subaru Outback Wagon and Allow Access to Rear Hatch

Question:

Hi, I am looking at the thule 934xtr or the Softride dura 4. I will be transporting 2 adult mountain bikes and 2 toddler bikes. I also use a Chariot trailer and will need to easily get it in and out of my trunk. I drive an 08 Subaru Outback. Which of the two bike trailers is the better option? Thanks

asked by: Mary

Expert Reply:

You will first need to check to make sure the hitch you have on your 2008 Subaru Outback Wagon is rated as a Class II or higher. A Class I 1-1/4 inch hitch can only carry a maximum of 2 bikes.

I would recommend the Softride Dura Parallelogram Tilting 4 Bike Rack, part # SR26247 for your vehicle. The nice feature on this bike rack is that when it is released to be tilted away from the vehicle it will maintain a straight angle when it moves away from the vehicle, always carrying bikes in an upright position.

It includes a locking hitch pin with a built-in anti-rattle device. On the back side of the rack is an integrated cable that you can use to lock the bikes to the rack. You can use any standard pad lock to lock the loose end of the cable to the lock hoops on the end of the rack arms.

I am including a link to the installation instructions on the Softride bike rack and a video link of a review on the Softride bike rack.

expert reply by: John H