Hitch and 4-Bike Rack Recommendation for 2018 Subaru Outback

Question:

I have a 2018 Outback with a factory hitch. I want to get a 4 bike rack to use with it. I was looking at the Yakima Ridgeback and the Thule Hitching Post Pro 4 bike rack. What are the pros/cons of each on the Subaru factory hitch. Are any hitch racks for 4 bikes setup for the shallow pin location on Subaru hitches?

asked by: Rick

Expert Reply:

The factory 1-1/4 inch trailer hitch on your 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon can only carry up to 2 bikes at a time due to it's lower weight capacity so you'll have to replace it with an aftermarket 2 inch hitch if you want to be able to carry up to 4 bikes. For that the Draw Tite hitch part # 76227 is the winner. This is a 2 inch hitch with plenty of capacity that will work great. It also has a concealed crosstube too which means it won't be quite as visible either. Unlike the Curt hitch that fits your vehicle as well it does not require a stabilizer strap when carrying a non-supported load like a bike rack too.

The Yakima Ridgeback 4 bike rack part # Y02458 would also be a great bike rack to use. It has cushioned cradles, can tilt, has a hitch lock (bike lock/cable lock # Y02466 separately), and is really easy to use. The Thule rack you mentioned is getting phased out but this rack is basically the Yakima version of it. I attached a review video for the Ridgeback for more info.

If you plan on carrying any womens or alternative framed bikes without horizontal top tubes you may also be interested in purchasing a Kuat Bike Frame Adapter Bar # UB01 to provide a horizontal top tube on your bikes to provide an attachment point. I attached a review video for this product also. This will allow the bikes to be carried more level and will provide more ground clearance.