Bike Rack Recommendation for 4 Bikes on a 2016 Subaru Outback Wagon

Updated 06/11/2020 | Published 06/09/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(588)

$223.79

Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting

(221)

$499.95

Thule Apex Swing XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Swing Away

(221)

$699.95

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

(352)

$48.63

Question:

Hi! Im looking for a bike rack that can hold 4 bikes. We have a 2016 Subaru Outback with no hitch so I think it would need to be trunk mounted? TIA!

asked by: Alisha B

Expert Reply:

The best way to carry 4 bikes with any vehicle is with a trailer hitch. Trunk mount bike racks only go up to 3 bike positions and then aside from that you'll be loading 4 bikes on your roof which isn't as cost-effective or easy as the hitch mount.

For your 2016 Subaru Outback Wagon I recommend installing the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13410 because it is a cost-effective solution that has a hidden crosstube so you get the best look (see attached).

Once this installed then I recommend using the Thule Apex XT bike rack which comes with a standard shank as part # TH9025XT or with a swinging arm as part # TH9027XT. The Apex XT is a great choice because it is simple yet effective. All of the features are easy to use with handles and knobs so you don't have to use tools for normal operations, it comes with both bike and rack locks, plus the cradles are spaced 7" apart on center. The cradle spacing might not seem like a big deal, but most of the bikes racks out there have about 5" or so spacing so the extra 2" makes loading and unloading bikes a LOT easier.

If any of your bikes is a kids bike or lacks a horizontal top tube then you'll also need the Adapter Bar # TH982XT so that it sits level and has enough ground clearance.

I have attached videos on the hitch and bike racks for you to check out.