Recommended Trailer Hitch and Hitch Bike Rack for 2012 Subaru Outback Wagon
Updated 08/18/2015 | Published 08/17/2015
Question:
Hi, youve probably answered this a million times, but Im looking to install a rear bike rack on our 2012 Subaru outback. Currently we dont have a hitch, and so I need to start with that. Im wondering which is the least obtrusive hitch in terms of ground clearance and how much it sticks out past the bumper. It seems that some hitches stick way out and others dont at all. From what Ive gathered from your website, it sounds like going with a 2 inch hitch is a better option no matter what so that I have more flexibility in terms of what I can tow. Thanks.
asked by: Andrew
Expert Reply:
As our teachers used to tell us "there are no bad questions". It's still true!
A 2-inch Class III hitch is definitely the way to go, both for capacity and compatibility. You'll simply be able to get more uses from a 2-inch hitch than a 1-1/4-inch since more products are available for the 2-inch size. For example, a cargo carrier designed for a 2-inch hitch will have much more weight capacity than one made for a smaller 1-1/4-inch Class II hitch. All hitches use the same mounting points on the frame but the hitch with the most ground clearance - 16-inches - is # 75673.
The hitch I recommend is the Draw-Tite # 75673 because it costs less than some and does not require you to use a support strap for the bike rack. The hitch bolts on with included hardware. The written instructions, a video and a helpful article are linked to get you going.
With this hitch's substantial 600-lb tongue weight (TW) rating you can use virtually any size of hitch rack that fits well on your Outback. When we installed this hitch on your car we found that there was 5-3/4-inches between the hitch pin hole and the rear of the car, so you'll want to choose a hitch rack that gives you at least 6-inches of clearance. We show this dimension on all of our hitch racks.
I included a link to our main page for 2-inch hitch racks. Simply click on the bike capacity you need and type of rack you prefer - hanging or platform. You can also filter the results by selecting feature you do want, such as included locks. The linked article on hitch racks will help you match up your particular bikes to the carrier best suited to them and to your preferences.
Let's say you need a 4-bike platform style rack that includes locks; take a look at the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE 4-Bike Platform Rack # HR1400Z. This carrier is highly rated by our customers that own it. The article will help you determine the best option.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: 76227
- Shop: Yakima HoldUp Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Does Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch 76227 Come with Hardware to Install on a 2017 Subaru Outback
- Q&A: Do the Draw-Tite and Curt Trailer Hitches Require Drilling to Install on a 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon
- Q&A: Do I Still Need to Use the Stabilizer Straps on my Curt Hitch When Carrying a Bike Rack
- Q&A: Deciding Between The Curt And Draw-Tite Hitches For My 2021 Subaru Forester
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Benton Shifts&Grins Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel or Frame Mount
- Shop: Hidden Hitch by Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Hollywood Racks Destination Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Shop: Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Video: Installing the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver on a 2025 Toyota RAV4
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: Does etrailer Carry Furrion Chill Cube w/ Heat Pump to Replace Dometic Duo-Therm
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Review C56040
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Search Results: trailer hitch ball mount
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
on Trailer Hitch
