Recommendation For Hitch and Hanging 3 Bike Rack To Fit a 2002 Subaru Outback Wagon

Question:

I need to equip my 2002 subaru outback wagon with a hanging bike rack that can carry 3 bikes and i need a hitch assy. that will be compatible with the rack. thank you.

asked by: Bill

Expert Reply:

The hitch I would recommend for your 2002 Subaru Outback Wagon is the Draw-Tite Class II 1-1/4 Inch Hitch, part # 36284. This is a Class II hitch with a tongue weight capacity of 300 lbs. I am including links to the installation instructions and to a video of the hitch being installed on a 2001 Subaru Outback Wagon.

For a 3 bike hanging bike rack to fit the Class II 1-1/4 inch hitch I would recommend the SportRack Evader 3 Bike Rack, part # A30403XT. This bike rack will fit both 1-1/4 inch and 2 inch hitches. It has a weight capacity for 3 bikes of 132 lbs. This is one of our most popular 3 bike hanging racks. It has many features that are found in much more expensive bike racks, like integrated cable lock to lock the bikes to the rack, and a locking, anti-rattle, threaded hitch pin.

If you are going to be carrying womens or childrens bikes that do not have the horizontal bar at the top of the frame, you will want to use the Thule Bike Adapter Bar, part # TH982XT. It attaches to the center seat post and to the handlebar post and provides a horizontal bar, so the bike can ride level on the bike rack.

I am including a video link to a review on the SportRack bike rack and the Thule adapter.

expert reply by: Jeff D