Best Hitch for Transporting Bikes and Light Duty Towing for 2021 Subaru Outback

Published 09/23/2021

Products Featured in This Question

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

(194)

$206.22

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(2967)

$49.15

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2620)

$12.45

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(1358)

$12.85

Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-3/16" Span

(2932)

$4.01

Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 8-1/4" Long - 7,500 lbs

(3838)

$30.92

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(729)

$196.15

Question:

so many hitch choices for 2021 Subaru Outback. Which one is recommended? I'll be carrying a rack with 4 bikes and will be doing some light towing with a 4 x 8 light duty trailer I use for taking trash to the dump once or twice a month.

asked by: Charles W

Expert Reply:

From a cost, versatility and appearance standpoint, I'd recommend the Draw-Tite Class III hitch, part # DT73RR. The hitch has a 3500 lb towing/525 lb tongue weight capacity, which would be perfect for carrying your bikes and for the occasional trash run. Once installed, the hitch will be mostly concealed behind the vehicle bumper, with only the receiver tube and the safety chain loops being visible from the rear of the vehicle.

Since you'll be towing with the vehicle, you'll also need a trailer wiring harness like part # 118467, a ball mount like # C45010, with a pin and clip like # C21500. and a hitch ball like # 19260 for a 1-7/8 or # 63845 for a 2 inch ball.