Which Class III Trailer Hitch for a 2017 Subaru Forester has the Best Ground Clearance

Published 01/27/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima FullSwing Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Swing Away

(52)

$698.95

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(666)

$16.05

Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar - Small - 22-1/2" - 30" - 35 lbs

(827)

$42.00

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(798)

$170.71

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(566)

$180.42

Question:

I own a 2017 Subaru Forester Premium 2.5i non-turbo. I would like to get a trailer hitch for carrying a hitch-mounted bike rack such as the Yakima FullSwing, Ridgeback, or Fulltilt. When I am not carrying my bikes or bike rack, I would like to minimize the hitchs impact on the vehicles departure angle. Im guessing that the Hidden 87654 has the best departure angle, but isnt listed as being compatible with the 2017 model year. Question: which class-III 2inch hitch that will fit the 2017 Forester and accommodate a two-arm bike rack has the least impact on departure angle?

asked by: Javen

Expert Reply:

Hidden Hitch as a brand is being phased out but the same company makes Draw-Tite hitches. So for your 2017 Subaru Forester the Draw-Tite Class III hitch is # 75876. When we installed this hitch on a 2017 Subaru Forester, see video link, it measured 13-3/4 inches from the ground to the top of the receiver opening. So to the bottom of the receiver that distance would be approximately 11-1/2 inches.

The other Class III option is Curt hitch # C13144. When we installed it the distance from the ground to the top of the receiver opening was 14-1/4 inches. So to the bottom of the receiver it would be approximately 12 inches. However, with this hitch Curt requires the use of stabilization strap # 18050 when using the hitch for any non-trailer load, such as a bike rack, to be in compliance with their warranty requirements. I have linked a video showing how the strap works.

Out of the bike racks you are looking at I recommend the FullSwing # Y02465 because it will allow the most and best access to the rear of the vehicle, including opening the rear hatch, with or without the bikes loaded.

If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical men's bike would) then I recommend using bike adapter bar # 64005. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance. I have linked a video showing how the adapter works.