Most Popular Bike and Hitch Lock for 2017 Subaru Forester

Things I wanted in a platform bike rack: -Rack that could accommodate at least a 49" wheel base -At least 35 lbs per bike capacity, but preferably 45 lbs -A Rack that could fold up and out of the way without hitting the bumper or interfering with the rear hatch opening. -A rack that would have enough clearance to still open the hatch with the bikes mounted and tilted away. -My bike (that I was concerned about fitting): 2017 Trek Fuel EX 7 29er, size XXL. This rack hit all of those requirements! I was a bit hesitant because there was no confirmed fitment for the 2014+ Forester (beyond some measurements), but I ordered it anyway. I'm happy to report that the rack fits perfectly. I attached pictures that show that there is plenty of clearance when the bike is mounted, bike is mounted and tilted away (to open the hatch), and when the rack is folded up (to clear bumper and open the rear hatch). Rack itself: -Assembly and installation was fairly easy. The directions could be somewhat confusing, but read carefully and pay attention and it will be easy. -The cam locks that are used to tilt/fold the rack and to release the vertical arm are much more convenient than having to remove and re-insert a pin. --there is some up and down play from the tilt/fold cam lock, but it actually does not cause excess movement when the bikes are mounted and the car is moving, hitting bumps, turning, etc. -Very minimal movement from the rack while in motion. -The padding on the hooks is fairly hard, so I did buy some pipe insulation to protect the top tube on my bikes. -The rack hooks lock and there is a lock for the hitch pin. No cables necessary! -The wheel trays are very sturdy and easy to adjust. -The price was very reasonable, especially considering that locks are included. Regarding etrailer.com -awesome database of information AND the best prices that I could find. -the support team is also very responsive and helpful. I'm very happy with my hitch rack so far, and I'm very happy to have ditched my roof bike carriers!

It fits nicely on our 2017 Forester. Easy to install and feels sturdy. I had a 4 bike Saris but it was just so big and awkward to deal with. The Swagman doesn't stick out so far & it folds easily out of the way so we can get into the rear hatch.

Rack arrived today. I will not lie, it is heavy and therefore cumbersome to assemble. Despite that, I was able to assemble and install it in just under one hour. I did this on my own, another person would have cut this time in half. The rack checks all the boxes of wants and needs. That same weight noted before makes it rock solid. The anti-rattle feature to tighten the hitch is wonderful. Handle/pedal to change from upright position to bike holding rack to tilt away from my Subaru 2010 Forester was incredibly simple and smooth. I was all set to buy the Thule T2 Pro XT 2 and a friend told me about this Kuat NV 2.0. I am so happy. I knew it was more expensive, but free shipping and price was discounted at checkout when I purchased it from etrailer.com. Great surprise. This rack is well thought out, has superb quality features, and I am convinced that I made the best choice. All things aside, it also really looks nice.

Fantastic bike rack. Switch it between a Honda Ridgeline and a Subaru Outback Wilderness and it works perfectly. Accidentally lost the locking pin that secures the rack to the trailer hitch and when I inquired with Kurt about ordering a replacement lock keyed to match the locking cables on the rack and the Kuat rep sent one to me for free. (I removed the rack and left the lock sitting on my car bumper. Later that day I drove off and lost the lock on the highway).

Put this together in about 30 min and looooooooove how easy it is to load 4 bikes!! Two adult bikes(one road) two kids! Incredibly sturdy while driving along the winding mountain roads! If the $1000 racks are easier/better I'd like to know just how much to justify the price!! Super happy with this purchase and the staff at etrailer!

Good rack. Although, it was much heavier then I thought. I was looking for something to put on my wife's car 2-3 times a week, so I can ride home. It's a bit much for daily use, but is very sturdy and great for the long haul.