Best Way To Carry Bikes Cross Country on a 2018 Subaru Forester

Question:

What is the best way to carry bikes on my 2018 Subaru Forester? I will be travel across country.

asked by: Kyle

Expert Reply:

The hands down best way to carry bikes on your 2018 Subaru Forester is with a hitch mounted bike rack. This of course will also require that you have a trailer hitch installed but it will allow for the most amount of bikes to be carried as well as the largest selection of bikes to be choose from. Basically, you don't have to worry about the bike being too heavy, having fenders, or an alternative frame like you would for a roof bike rack or trunk bike rack. It will also be the easiest option for loading and unloading the bikes.

For a trailer hitch, I have two different options for you. One that will look the best once installed in the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 76182 and one that will be the easier to install or won't cost as much if you decide to have someone do it for you in the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 75876. I prefer the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 76182 because of the clean look. I have attached a photo of each to show this and install videos.

For a bike rack, I recommend the Thule Pro T2 XTR 2 Bike Platform Rack part # TH83JV for two bikes. This bike rack is very sturdy and durable. It will also allow you to open the hatch with the bike rack attached. It can also expand to a 4-bike rack with the 2-bike add-on # TH9036XT.