Adding a Cargo Carrier and Bike Rack to a Hitch
Updated 03/02/2021 | Published 02/25/2021
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Question:
Im looking for a solution for my Subaru Crosstrek combining a cargo platform and a bike rack. The primary use is to haul stuff to and from the beach so ideally Id leave a cargo platform attached to my hitch most of the time one that folds up against the tailgate would be nice. Thats the easy part. Then Id like a lightweight bike rack doesnt have to be a formal rack... all I need is hardware that allows me to securely attach a couple of bikes that mounts on top of the cargo rack for when I want to take my bike with me. If there isnt such a product is there anyway to have a splitter hitch, in other words, the cargo carrier would be the primary/permanent attachment to the hitch but a second receiver on the cargo carrier would allow easy mounting of a removable bike rack. Thanks for any ideas you have.
asked by: Thomas K
Expert Reply:
I have a solution for your, but we do not have an option that can be folded up, and a splitter hitch would not provide enough clearance between the two.
I recommend the Lets Go Aero GearCage FP4 Slide-Out Cargo Carrier for 2" Hitches, part # H01380. It is a sturdy cargo cage for Class III and IV hitches with a 300-pound capacity (be sure to check that your hitch can handle that tongue weight). It is a slide-out, which makes it much easier to gain access to the back of your Subaru Crosstrek. I've linked to a video review of this cargo carrier for you to look at.
Compatible with the GearCage is the Lets Go Aero Rack-IT, part # H01199. This 2-bike rack attaches to the GearCage and holds bikes by their wheels. It can be easily detached when not needed and does not hinder the slide-out function of the GearCage. I've linked to a video review of this as well.
