Does the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider Bike Rack Allow Rear Hatch to Open on 2017 Subaru Outback

Updated 07/12/2017 | Published 07/11/2017

Products Featured in This Question

RockyMounts BackStage Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(153)

$899.99

Question:

Hello, I have a 2017 Outback and am in need of 2inch hitch mounted, 4 bike rack which folds up or down, allows for easy loading and the rear door to open completely. Does the Hollywood Racks SE-4 meet these requirements? And, if not, are there any racks which do meet these and are less than about $600? Thanks!

asked by: Eric

Expert Reply:

The tilting ability on the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE 4-Bike Platform Rack - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount Item # HR1400Z could allow you to fully open the rear hatch on your 2017 Subaru Outback. A lot depends on the width of the nearest bike. Another factor is the length of the rack. The longer the rack the sooner it will make contact with the ground so it is possible that the rack will not even tilt all the way down. The other issue is the weight of the loaded rack. It will not be easy to gently lower and raise the rack with bikes loaded. With that being said when we tested the Sport Rider on a 2019 Outback we had no problem opening the hatch. I linked the video for you.

What I recommend is a swinging rack such as the RockyMounts BackStage # RKY10002. This rack will swing off to the side of the vehicle with or without bikes loaded and allow complete access to the rear of the vehicle. I have linked a video showing the rack on a similar vehicle.

expert reply by: Michael H