3-Bike Rack Recommendation for 2007 Subaru Forester

Updated 06/27/2014 | Published 06/25/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Passage 3 Bike Carrier - Trunk Mount

(967)

$199.95

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(666)

$16.37

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(194)

$215.05

Thule OutWay Trunk Bike Rack for 3 Bikes - Adjustable Arms

(15)

$499.95

Question:

There are many trunk mount bike carriers available. I am trying to choose the best option to carry 3 adult bikes on a 2007 Subaru Forester no spoiler. Security of bikes and product durability and ease to store when not in use are important. Specifically I cant find much difference between Yakima King Joe3, Super Joe Pro 3 Thule Passage3, Raceway3, Archway3 or Gaitway3. A little help in narrowing down options would be great. Thanks!

asked by: Rachel

Expert Reply:

Most of the racks you referenced do indeed share similar design traits, features and pricing. However, not all of these carriers include locks and there are a few other key distinctions that separate the Thule Raceway 3 from the rest.

The OutWay 3, part # TH56BV, includes locks for the rack itself and for your 3 loaded bikes. It also has the feature of using 2 high-strength steel cables, rather than 6 straps; this offers a measure of additional security against would-be thieves. This carrier's construction is quite substantial and for the transport of three adult bikes this is my recommendation. Thule backs this carrier with a limited lifetime warranty.

One other option to consider is a hitch-mount carrier, which of course requires that your Forester have a trailer hitch installed. There are a few benefits with this route: 1) you have the ability to use other hitch-mount accessories like a cargo basket; 2) you can tow a trailer; 3) the weight of your 3 bikes is not carried by the vehicle's sheet metal but instead by its frame (its strongest part); 4) you do not lose the functionality of your rear wiper as you do with any trunk-mount carrier; 5) hitch-mount carriers can be locked to your hitch for better security than a trunk-mount rack offers.

The most popular hitch for Forester owners is the Curt # C12038 (to be used along with stabilizing strap # 18050). With this you can use any of the fully-lockable carriers shown on the link provided. All have 3-bike capacity and include locks for both the rack and your loaded bikes. Two linked article may help you consider your preferences.

expert reply by: Adam R