Hitch and Bike Rack for 2017 Subaru Impreza Hatchback Carrying E-Bike
Updated 04/10/2026 | Published 04/01/2026
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Question:
I have a 2017 Subaru Impreza hatchback. I am intending to purchase an approximately 45 pound E bike with a step through design, that is no straight high top tube. What would you suggest as a suitable 1 1/4 inch hitch and a reasonably sturdy platform rack for a single bike? I realize hitch installation is sometimes difficult on this model Impreza. Thanks.
asked by: George R
Expert Reply:
Hey George! For a hitch I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C11465. This is a Class I hitch with a 1-1/4" receiver and a bolt on installation. It has a max tongue weight of 200 lbs to handle your e-bike and rack, and comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Since this is a Class I you need a bike rack that is Class I compatible. I recommend the Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Rack for 1 Bike # KU64FR. This can hold bikes up to 60 lbs and uses a wheel mount. The rack itself weighs 26 lbs and includes a cable lock. You can add the # HL1 if you want a locking hitch pin to go with it.
Does your bike have fenders? If it does, they will likely have to be removed for the arm to be able to clamp down properly. If that isn't possible, the only other option would be to add the EcoHitch # 306-X7350 with a 2" receiver which will give you more options for bike racks.
What kind of e-bike are you getting?
(click to enlarge)
George R.
4/6/2026
https://www.seacoastebikes.com/product/specialized-vado-sl-5.0-step-through-eq-2-superlight-1201919-1.htm?variations=160074,160075,160076&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22228786220&gbraid=0AAAAAoZNZnbrWx9r-LVhcsZTqJminKANz&gclid=Cj0KCQjws83OBhD4ARIsACblj1_I-efFMKWU6kcLc433l333rJBGl_zmj4xE4Q81-Pc1SwekqgmXk5MaApSMEALw_wcB This is the bike I’m leaning toward. Is the one hook/arm on a Kuat transfer V2 adjustable enough to fit over the front tire, rather than the fender? It looks like the front fender doesn’t cover the frontmost 180 degrees of the front tire……Thanks, George
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Rack for 1 Bike - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Wheel Mount
- Bike Lock
- 1 Bike
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Carbon Fiber Bikes
- Electric Bikes
- Heavy Bikes
- Kuat
more information >
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George R.
4/6/2026
I’m considering two bikes, both step through, both of which have fenders. Sounds like I should go with two-inch hitch, if that would permit me to mount a rack that doesn’t require removing fenders? The two bikes are: a Trek Fx+ 7s or a Specialized Turbo Vado SL 2 5.0 eq. Which ever bike I end up with, and whichever hitch, I intend to have it professionally installed. Thanks.