Recommendation For Hitch and Hanging 3 Bike Rack To Fit a 2002 Subaru Outback Wagon

Updated 06/07/2012 | Published 06/05/2012

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Bike Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes

(352)

$55.77

Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(65)

$286.82

Question:

I need to equip my 2002 subaru outback wagon with a hanging bike rack that can carry 3 bikes and i need a hitch assy. that will be compatible with the rack. thank you.

asked by: Bill

Expert Reply:

The hitch I recommend for your 2002 Subaru Outback Wagon is the Draw-Tite Class II 1-1/4 Inch Hitch, part # 36284. This is a Class II hitch with a tongue weight capacity of 300 lbs. I am including links to the installation instructions and to a video of the hitch being installed on a 2001 Subaru Outback Wagon.

For a 3 bike hanging bike rack to fit the Class II 1-1/4 inch hitch I recommend the Swagman Trailhead, part # S63365. This bike rack will fit both 1-1/4 inch and 2 inch hitches. It has a weight capacity for 3 bikes of 105 lbs. This is one of our most popular 3 bike hanging racks.

If you are going to be carrying womens or childrens bikes that do not have the horizontal bar at the top of the frame, you will want to use the Thule Bike Adapter Bar, part # TH982XT. It attaches to the center seat post and to the handlebar post and provides a horizontal bar, so the bike can ride level on the bike rack.

I am including a video link to a review on the Swagman bike rack and the Thule adapter.

expert reply by: Jeff D