How to Carry 3 Bikes with a 2018 Subaru Forester That Has the OEM Trailer Hitch  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The reason that you are having trouble finding a 3-bike rack that is compatible with a Class I trailer hitch on your 2018 Subaru Forester is because all Class I trailer hitches are restricted to carrying 2 bikes only.

With this being the case we do have some options for you still. The simplest solution would be to use a trunk mount bike rack like the recommended Yakima FullBack # Y02633 which can carry up to 3 bikes with a combined weight capacity of 90 lbs. It features locks for security and a 4 strap design for easy installation/removal. The only downsides to a trunk mount option is that you can't use your rear wiper or open up your rear hatch with it installed.

The best option would be to replace your OEM trailer hitch with one that has a higher rating. I recommend the Draw-Tite # 76182 because it features a hidden crosstube which gives you a really clean look (see attached photo). If you choose to go this route then I highly recommend using a swing-away bike rack like the Thule Apex Swing # TH9027XT because it gives you unrestricted access to your rear hatch area. If you don't care for the swing away option then the Thule Apex XT is also available without that as part # TH9025XT.

Aside from the 2 options mentioned above the only other thing to do would be to purchase a 2-bike rack for your current hitch and then add a roof rack for your 3rd bike but that isn't nearly as cost-effective as replacing your trailer hitch and using a hitch mount option.

Please note that with any of the hanging style bike racks, if any of your bikes doesn't have the horizontal top tube then you may need to use an adapter like part # UB01 to ensure proper ground clearance for your bike.

I have attached some review and installation videos for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G

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