Recommended Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack Combination for a 2009 Subaru Impreza

Question:

I need to, purchase a hitch & a bike rack for a 2009 Subaru Impreza 5 door. I am considering the Draw-Tite Class I Sport Frame Receiver Hitch & like the SportRack Escape 3 folding bike rack. I especially like the added frame mount cradles. Will these 2 products work together on my car?

asked by: Cheryl A

Expert Reply:

A better bike rack for your needs would be the Kuat Alpha 3 bike rack # A102-BLACK-114. Typically, you are only able to carry 2 bikes on a class I hitch, but the Kuat Alpha bike rack is made of lightweight aluminum, and would allow you to carry 3 bikes as long as their combined weight is less than 100 pounds. This bike rack also includes the anti-sway cradles you liked in the # A30403 model.

The Kuat bike rack also includes a hitch lock and a built in cable lock, so you would not need to purchase these accessories separately.

Bike rack # A30403 is actually only a fit for class II hitches. All the hitches available for your A30403 Subaru Impreza hatchback are class I, so the bike rack would not be compatible with your application.

Class II accessories are unable to be used on class I trailer hitches, because the hitch has a stop inside that prevents the shank of the accessory from sliding all the way in.

If you would prefer a bike rack closer to the same price range, another option for you would be a Swagman Trailhead bike rack, part # S63365. You would only be able to carry 2 bikes on this rack.

The Swagman bike rack can be locked to your hitch using part # S64029.

I have included some links to additional information on the two bike racks I recommended, in case you would like a closer look at how the installation would go.

expert reply by: Sarah L