Can Yakima HoldUp Bike Rack be Used on a 2017 Subaru Impreza with a Class I Trailer Hitch Receiver

Updated 06/21/2017 | Published 06/20/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver

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$90.69

Saris Freedom Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

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$379.99

Yakima HoldUp Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

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$566.06

Question:

I owned an Acura MDX and last year bought a 2 inch Yakima Holdup. I now have a Subaru 2017 Impreza 5 door hatchback. While it is leased, I dont mind attaching a hitch as I have a lot of money invested in the rack. Can this rack work on the Impreza with an adaptor for a 1 1/4 inch hitch? Can you put a 2 inch hitch on this Impreza? Or is it too heavy my husbands concern. Thank you

asked by: Joan H

Helpful Expert Reply:

I'm afraid your husband is correct to be concerned.

The trailer hitch receivers we carry for your Impreza, like the Draw-Tite # DT24959, are all Class I hitches and will need an expander to fit the Yakima HoldUp for 2 Inch Hitch Receivers # Y02443.

Using an expander, like the Brophy # HTAD, will give you a 2 inch receiver opening but it will also reduce your hitch's tongue weight capacity by 50 percent. That puts your maximum tongue weight at no more than 100 pounds using the Draw-Tite hitch and the HoldUp itself weighs about 50 pounds itself. So you're going to have a hard time staying under the tongue weight capacity with 2 bikes loaded. Although if your bikes are light enough you'll be okay.

Unfortunately, the best way to carry your bikes may be to do what it sounds like you're trying to avoid and replace your HoldUp. If you decide to go this route I recommend the Saris Freedom, part # SA4412B. The Freedom fits into the Class I hitch and won't need an expander so you'll have the full tongue weight capacity of the hitch. It's also extremely light at about 22-1/2 pounds.

expert reply by: Charles S