Are Swagman XC and Swagman Chinook Bike Rack Good Choices for 2019 Subaru Outback with Factory Hitch

Published 05/18/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Swagman Chinook Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(449)

$379.99

Anti-Rattle Hitch Lock and Cable for Swagman Bike Racks w/ 1-1/4" & Combo Shanks - 7'

(391)

$55.08

Swagman XC2 Bike Rack for 2 bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(1961)

$156.39

Question:

I was going to order the swagman platform bike rack either the xc or chinook but when I read through thr recommendations for the 2019 Outback my vehicle I didnt see any swagman listed. Also I have the factory installed I-1/4 inch hitch.

asked by: Marc H

Expert Reply:

Both the Swagman XC 2-Bike Rack # S64650 and Swagman Chinook 2 Bike Platform Rack # S64683 are great options for your 2019 Subaru Outback, and in fact the Chinook is one of the most popular bike racks for the '19 Outback. I have added a link for you with the most popular 2019 Subaru Outback Wagon Bike Racks which shows this.

The Chinook will fit the 1-1/4" hitch on your Outback and is overall one of the best bike racks for the money from any manufacturer. While the XC is a very solid, durable and functional rack, the Chinook is all of those things and more. It is easier to use than the XC because it has levers that allow you to either tilt or fold the rack, and it uses wheel cradles that slide so you can adjust them to meet the dimensions of your bikes. This is different than the XC, which simply has wheel hoops that are stationary.

The Swagman Chinook 2-Bike Rack # S64683 also has integrated safety features to help protect your investment - ratcheting hooks which lock to secure your bikes to the rack and an anti-rattle hitch pin to secure the rack to your Subaru. The XC would require you to get the Anti-Rattle Hitch Lock and Cable # S64031, and the cable lock is not going to be quite as secure as the ratcheting hook lock on the Chinook.

The Chinook also has a 45 lb per bike weight capacity, which is 10 lbs more per bike than the XC if you were needing something for a bike that is a bit heavier.

I have added links to video reviews for you to check out as well.