Question:
Hello! I hope you are well. I want to install a hitch primarily for a hitch bike rack. I was wondering which hitch would best fit my Outback and have the least impact on departure angle/ground clearance? Thank you!
asked by: J
Expert Reply:
For your 2021 Subaru Outback Wagon I recommend the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # DT94YR as it has the most ground clearance out of all of the hitches available for your vehicle at 16" as you can see in the included diagram, and has a tongue weight rating of 525lbs making it plenty strong for carrying a bike rack.
Now if you have not already decided on a bike rack I'll give both a cost effective and a premium option for you to take a look at.
For a cost effective option it is hard to beat the Thule Hitching Post Pro 4-Bike Rack # TH934XTR due to its Hold Fast anti-sway cradles that keep your bikes from moving around and hitting each other while on the road, and the tilting feature is nice to allow you to access the rear cargo area of your vehicle. This rack can accommodate 4 bikes weighing up to 35lbs each.
For a premium option I recommend taking a look at the Kuat NV 2.0 2-Bike Platform Rack - 2" Hitches - Tilting - Gunmetal Gray # NV22G due to it securing your bikes by the tires to avoid any scuffs or damage to the frame of your bikes, the tilting feature that is engaged with a foot pedal allowing you to tilt the rack by yourself with bikes on the rack without a problem, and the built in repair stand if you need to do a little maintenance before hitting the trails. This rack can accommodate two bikes weighing up to 60lbs each with tires up to 4.8" wide, or adding the # NA22G will allow you to carry two additional bikes weighing up to 40lbs each.
I included videos for each of the products mentioned being installed on a 2021 Subaru Outback for you to take a look at.
2-Bike Add-On for Kuat NV 2.0 Bike Rack for 2" Hitches - Aluminum - Gunmetal Gray
Kuat NV 2.0 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount - Gunmetal Gray
Thule Hitching Post Pro Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"