Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver for a 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon with Maximum Bumper Clearance  

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Expert Reply:

If you have the Thule T2 Classic 2 Bike Platform Rack TH9044 with the 2" receiver then you will want to use the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C13206. If you have the Thule T2 Classic 2 Bike Platform Rack TH9045 with the 1-1/4" receiver then you will want to use the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C12136. None of the Draw-Tite trailer hitch receivers we have for your Outback Wagon will provide enough clearance for the Thule T2 to clear the rear bumper in their upright position.

Both of the above bike rack and trailer hitch combinations will clear the rear bumper while the bike rack is stored in the upright position (see attached video). They will also both clear the rear hatch while tilted outward. The 2" bike rack and trailer hitch will have about 2-1/2" from the closest part of the bike rack (wheel cradle) to the rear bumper. The 1-1/4" bike rack and trailer hitch will have about 2" from the closest part of the bike rack (wheel cradle) to the rear bumper. The Thule Snug Tite Hitch Lock and Anti-Rattle Device part # THSTL2 included with either bike rack will also ensure the bikes do not contact the bumper while travelling down the road.

I would absolutely recommend the use of a Curt trailer hitch receiver for use with a bike rack. The only difference between using a Draw-Tite trailer hitch with a bike rack and a Curt trailer hitch with a bike rack is that Curt recommends the use of their Curt Trailer Hitch Support Strap part # 18050 whereas Draw-Tte does not.

I have included an installation video of both trailer hitch receivers installed on a similar 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L

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