Can 2017 Subaru Forester XT Be Used to Carry 290 lb Dirt Bike

Published 11/20/2023

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(952)

$181.06

Mounting Bracket 4-Pole Flat

(6225)

$9.94

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

(3779)

$40.26

Curt No-Drill Bracket for 4-, 5-, or 6-Way Trailer Connector Mounting Brackets - Short

(20)

$24.78

Question:

My 2017 subaru forester XT dual exhaust says the max tongue weight using their hitch is 176 lbs. Your hitch says 575 lbs. Could I mount a motorcycle rack and carry a 290 lb dirt bike with your hitch, or is the tongue weight restriction based on the cars frame structure rather than hitch quality? Also, Does the dual exhaust make the install easier or harder? Thanks

asked by: Andy

Helpful Expert Reply:

For max tongue weight you will need to stay under the least rated component so even though the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98839 has a 525 lb tongue weight rating, I looked in the online owner's manual for your 2017 Subaru Forester XT and it looks like the max tongue weight they list for a trailer is 200 lbs so I can't recommend using anything where the carrier and cargo exceed that limit.

For your application it would be better to install wiring as well and then transport your dirt bike using a trailer. To add wring I recommend the following:

- Curt T-Connector # C56040
- Mounting Brackets # 18144 and # C83DR

You'll also need a ball mount with the right rise or drop, and I'm linking a helpful article for you to check out if you decide to use a trailer.