Best Hitch For Carrying A Bike Rack Only On A 2024 Subaru Outback
Updated 07/21/2026 | Published 07/12/2026
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Question:
Hello Etrailer staff, I have a 2024 subaru outback and im trying to figure out which trailer receiver would be appropriate for what Im looking for: in the past, with my previous subaru, I was able to purchase from you a draw-tite trailer hitch receiver class II 1-1/4. It seems you no longer offer that. Im looking to connect a bike rack and dont need a receiver that can handle massive loads. What would be the best option for me given this? Kindly advise. Thank you!
asked by: Agnieszka G
Expert Reply:
Hi Agnieszka!
The best option for your 2024 Subaru Outback is going to be the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" # e25TR. It's American made and the matte finish helps it blend in a lot better than the glossy finish other brands use (you can barely even see it in the image I included). It sounds like it will be rated higher than you will need, but I checked with all our manufacturers and there is currently not a 1-1/4" option available for your vehicle.
With that said, if your bike rack does not have an adapter for it to fit the larger 2" hitch, you will also want to grab the Curt Reducer Sleeve - 2" Hitch to 1-1/4" Shank - 4" Long # C49WQ. This slides right into the receiver and converts it to the 1-1/4". It's a quick and easy way to get smaller shanks working in the hitch. It also will not affect any of the capacities (hitch or bike rack), which is a good thing.
What kind of bike rack do you have? And how many bikes are you carrying?
(click to enlarge)
Dennis
7/16/2026
Took some time but was an easy install
Lazer S.
7/16/2026
Lazer S.
7/16/2026
Craig H.
7/16/2026
Agnieszka, Aligned with expert: Lazer S. I put the E25TR on my wife's 2025 Outback. Relatively easy install but highly recommend an extra set of hands to hold/position the bumper facia. Hitch looks / functions great. Mounting is solid and you'll know have access to ANY 2" receiver: bike rack, basket, etc. You'll even be able to pull a SMALL trailer (however I don't recomend towing much weight with an Outback). Finally, if you have 1-1/4" mounting implements...you can get the 2" to 1-1/4" adapter. Go with it...won't be disappointed.
Lazer S.
7/17/2026
Lazer S.
7/21/2026
Jerry K.
7/16/2026
I bought the class III 2” hitch for my 2024 Outback. My bike carrier requires a 2” receiver. The hitch took about 2 hours to install and is barely noticeable. It would have been more difficult if I hadn’t had access to a good floor jack. Although everything works fine and I only use it to carry my bikes, I should have also bought and installed the light kit just in case I ever need to tow a small trailer.
Lazer S.
7/17/2026
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class III
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
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on Trailer Hitch
Tom K.
7/16/2026
The hitch shown is the one I purchased for my Subaru Legacy. I didn't want a hitch that hung down below the cowling and this fit the bill. It took me a couple of hours but wasn't difficult. Taking the plastic cowling off makes it sound like you're destroying the car but it's just the clips releasing and caused no issues. Follow the online installation video and you'll be fine.