Will Thule Epos 3-Bike Rack Work With Hitch On 2019 Subaru Ascent?

Updated 02/27/2025 | Published 02/22/2025

Question:

I have a 2019 Subaru Ascent and presently have a Thule hanging bike rack specifically made for the ascent. I recently purchased e bikes and the hanging bike rack cannot handle the load. The Thule Epsos looked ideal until I saw the requirement that the center pin hole of the receiver must be 1.5” or greater for the mount - the Ascent is 1.25”. Will this platform bike rack work on my Ascent? If not, can you recommend a rack that will work for carrying 3 e bikes?

asked by: Mark S

Expert Reply:

Hey Mark, thanks for reaching out. Sadly, no, the Thule Epos # TH69XE would not work with the hitch on your Ascent. The 1.5" from the hitch pin hole to the edge of the receiver is a strict requirement. With your hitch only having 1.25" this would create and unstable and unsafe setup.

What kind of e-bikes do you have? How much do they weigh? There are some other 3 bike or 4 bike options that may work for you, such as the Benton 4-Bike Rack # B82FR. This can hole bikes weighing up to 55 lbs apiece and will work with the hitch on your Subaru.

If your bikes weigh more than 55 lbs just let me know and I am happy to look into it and see what we can do.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Mark S.

2/27/2025

Thanks Jesse. My bikes weigh 50 pounds without batteries. I have already opted to purchase a 3 e-bike platform rack from Young Electric built by FUSA. It can carry 250 pounds which provides a 100 pound buffer for me. I’ve assembled it and transported one bike without issue. I’m pleased with the build and performance.