7 Best Bike Racks For Subaru Outback Reviews

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The Subaru Outback is an SUV that is used by thousands of people worldwide.

It is extremely popular. A very small number needs a bike rack for safely transporting their bicycles out of all these people.

That is why the market for it is so small. You may have a hard time finding the best bike rack for Subaru Outback.

This article will surely help you in that regard. I have accumulated a list of seven of the top bike racks that you can buy right now with complete research.

I can assure you that you will not find anything better than them. You will be genuinely impressed with what they have to offer. Let’s dive right into it!

7 Top Rated Subaru Outback Bike Racks Comparisons

IMAGEPRODUCTEDITOR'S RATINGPRICE
TOP PICK & BEST BUDGET
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack

Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack

9.7
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Allen Sports 3-Bike Hitch Rack

Allen Sports 3-Bike Hitch Rack

9.5
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IKURAM 4 Bike Hitch Rack

IKURAM 4 Bike Hitch Rack

9.1
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Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack

Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack

8.8
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Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack

Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack

8.6
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Thule 910XT Passage 2 Bike Trunk Mount Carrier

Thule 910XT Passage 2 Bike Trunk Mount Carrier

8.2
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SportRack 3-Bike Anti-Sway Trunk Mount Bike Rack

SportRack 3-Bike Anti-Sway Trunk Mount Bike Rack

8
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1. Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack

TOP PICK
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack
$36.03 ($0.23 / oz)
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11/09/2023 10:19 am GMT

You are in luck because earning first place on this article is a Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack from Allen Sports. The manufacturer is known for making some outstanding products.

Its rack quality is so good that its products have earned the number one spot on my articles every single time. It looks like this time is no different either.

This bike rack has racked up more than 20000 ratings. That alone should be enough to convince you that it is good. Let me walk you through the features of this rack.

It will work with small vehicles, whether they are sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, or even minivans. So, there is no doubt that it will be a perfect fit for your Subaru Outback.

You know a company means business when the word patent is thrown around. This bike rack uses a tie-down patented system that is miles better than the offerings of other competitors.

The system ensures that each bike will be secured individually. The manufacturer has made sure that the chance of your bicycles falling on a ride are slim to none.

There are even side straps that ensure lateral stability. You will not have to worry about the rack not being stable enough.

Let’s talk about installation!

Allen Sports is a brand of commitment and sheer will. It overcomes challenging tasks to impress its clientele.

Thanks to this mindset, they have managed to ship this rack in a preassembled form. You will not have to waste any time in getting everything together.

The install will be done in not minutes but seconds. The company really does know how to please consumers.

Unfortunately, nothing is perfect. That can be seen by the small trail of negative ratings of these products.

Buyers complained that the hooks are bare metal, and they will damage your vehicle’s paint.

PROS
  • Patented tie-down system
  • Side straps for lateral stability
  • Comes preassembled
  • Installation within seconds
CONS
  • May damage your car paint

Allen Sports is a trusted brand. Their products are high quality, and that can be seen by the thousands of ratings of other buyers.

The only possibility is that some units sent were faulty. The manufacturer should investigate its quality control to ensure it is not a widespread issue.

2. Allen Sports 3-Bike Hitch Rack

Allen Sports 3-Bike Hitch Rack
$78.57 ($0.33 / oz)
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11/09/2023 09:03 am GMT

If you have searched the market, then you must know that the above rack checked all the right boxes that are required from a decent rack.

But one thing that Outback owners look for is the ability to open the rear gate without having to remove the entire rack.

This is where this Allen Sports 3-Bike Hitch Rack steps in. This is not a mistake. The company was able to earn a second spot on this article. I find that absolutely incredible.

Unlike the previous rack, which supported up to 2 bikes, this one can be used with three bikes.

If you are looking to go on an expedition with your friends or loved ones, there is no 3-bike rack that can beat this one.

It is compatible with all SUVs, and that definitely includes the Subaru Outback. If you have a 2-inch receiving hitch or a 1 1/4th one, then this rack is compatible with your vehicle.

The installation process is fairly simple. You have to attach the rack to the hitch, use the patented tie-down cradle system to secure each bicycle, and then you are good to go.

The process is simple, efficient, and if you know what you are looking for, then you don’t even need an instruction manual for the job.

A common issue with bicycles racks is wobbling. The company has addressed that problem too.

This rack contains a non-wobble bolt that ensures that the rack will not move inside the hitch.

This reduces the chances of it or your bicycle rubbing with and damaging your vehicle’s paint.

Unfortunately, even with the no-wobble bolt, buyers informed that the rack moved inside the hitch.

This is a design flaw that must be fixed in newer models of the rack to make sure that it will not cause any issues.

PROS
  • Supports up to 3 bikes
  • The patented tie-down cradle system
  • Easy to install
  • Anti-wobble bolt
CONS
  • Loose inside the hitch

It looks like the anti-wobble bolt did not do a very good job. Knowing Allen Sports, I know that it will fix the problem as soon as it comes to its attention.

3. IKURAM 4 Bike Hitch Rack

IKURAM 4 Bike Hitch Rack
$79.99 ($86.95 / 100 cm)
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11/10/2023 03:19 am GMT

I could fill this list with Allen products and call it a day, but that is unfair for other manufacturers. There are companies that make comparable products.

Let’s take this 4 Bike Hitch Rack by the Brand IKURAM, for example. With just over 2000 positive ratings, it is definitely a popular option.

Let us see what makes it so good!

This rack is made out of solid steel. Yes, that’s true. It is extremely durable, and will not break, even when under intense pressure.

The steel frame has been coated in a protective finish to not only give it that sleek black color but to protect it from rusting too.

It will look just as good after years of usage. This rack has a dual-arm design for mounting your bicycle.

These arms allow you to accommodate bicycles of all sorts of frame sizes. So, whether it is a mountain bike or a kid bike, you can easily use the rack with it.

The best part is that you can store four of them together, which is perfect for a family or a friend’s outing.

There are two other features that will definitely please you. This rack has an easy tilt-down mechanism.

This is similar to the one on the previous Allen Sports bike rack. The mechanism allows you to open the rear of the vehicle without having to remove the entire rack.

There is also a fold-down feature, which is great for when you want to store or pack the rack. It folds down to a compact size, which is perfect if you are trying to store it in a tight place.

Unfortunately, the straps on this rack are of very poor quality. A handful number of buyers complained that the straps broke down, which caused them to lose their bicycles.
PROS
  • Made from solid steel
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Can access the rear without removal
  • It can be folded down
CONS
  • Low-quality straps

As I said, there are brands that are comparable to Allen Sports. IKRAM is one of those companies that lead the pact. I admit there are issues, but it is definitely a worthy contender.

4. Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack

Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack
$999.95
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11/09/2023 10:59 am GMT

Are you one of those buyers that don’t want to spare any expense to ensure that you get the ultimate bike rack?

I think this Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack will surely catch your attention, then.

Thule is a brand that makes extremely high-quality bike racks. Its products are unparalleled, and they are definitely worth it, given that you can afford them.

Most of you may scroll past this listing, but I have a commitment to serve all customers. Of course, you can expect top-of-the-line features from this product.

It has a great capacity, which means you can transport bikes and mountain bikes that are quite heavy. The solid platform ensures that it will handle anything you put on it.

The bikes can be easily mounted, thanks to the lockable torque limiter. The wheel holders on this rack have enough distance between them.

This is for bikes that have larger wheelbases. This rack basically allows you to carry any type of bike on it, no matter the weight or size.

The manufacturer has even included wheel straps for fastening the wheels to eliminate any chance of your bike falling off of the rack.

The best bit about the whole thing is that you can still access your Outback’s trunk, even with the bikes mounted.

Yes, you will not have to remove the bikes. This is possible, thanks to the smart pedal tilt.

The convenience provided by this product is unmatched by other bike rack manufacturers out there.

The company has even added integrated wheels and a carrying handle that allow users to easily transport the rack.

There is even a bike loading ramp that can be connected to the rack. Before you ask, yes, the ramp is included in the package.

Apart from the eye-watering price tag, buyers complained that the build quality of it is poor. This is surprising considering that it is one of the company’s flagship models.
PROS
  • AcuTight torque limiter
  • Large wheel holders for large bikes
  • Accessible rear thanks to smart foot pedal tilt
  • Included ramp
CONS
  • Extremely expensive
  • Low-quality plastic

If the plastic feels flimsy, there is a guarantee that this rack will last through thick and thin. You will certainly be impressed with it if you choose to buy it.

5. Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack

Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
$120.93
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11/09/2023 01:08 pm GMT

Coming at a relatively low price, when compared to the previous rack, is this XTC2 by the Company Swagman.

With over 1200 happy buyers, it certainly is a product worth writing about.

Let me tell you a bit more about what it can do!

Unlike some other racks on the market, this one does not come assembled. But the manufacturer has made the process as easy as possible.

It will take you only a few minutes to fully assemble the rack. The instructions are included in the box. I can assure you that the process is simple and quick.

Like all other racks on this article, this one can fold too. This is perfect for people who don’t want to keep it attached to the back of their vehicles.

After folding, the rack becomes compact and easy to store. I know that almost all of you are worried about your bikes falling-off while using a rack.

The possibility is very real. But Swagman has taken appropriate steps to make sure that this will not happen.

The use of ratchet hooks and a locking hitch pin, just like the non-wobble bolt on the Allen Sports rack, is proof that the company knows what it is doing.

Let’s talk compatibility!

This rack is compatible with any 1-1/4-inch or 2-inch receiver hitch. It will be able to fit bikes of almost all frame sizes. You also will not have to worry about the shape or style of your bike.

As long as it is under the 35 pounds per bike limit, you are good to go. And, yes, you can store two bikes on this rack.

Buyers had two main issues with this rack. Some complained that the rubber straps broke after short usage.

Others informed that there was a wobble, even with the locking hitch pin installed.

PROS
  • Easy to assemble
  • Foldable design
  • Ratchet hooks for a secure fit
  • Included instructions
CONS
  • Rubber straps may break
  • Wobble issue

The brand has two things to do to make this rack a perfect product. It has to improve the quality of the rubber straps and use a different pin to ensure that the wobble will be controlled.

6. Thule 910XT Passage 2 Bike Trunk Mount Carrier

Thule 910XT Passage 2 Bike Trunk Mount Carrier
$179.95


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11/10/2023 04:18 pm GMT

If you liked the previous Thule rack but are looking for a cheaper option from the same brand, I have got you covered.

The article is about to end, but the list of great brands does not seem to stop. After I tell you about this rack’s feature set, you will definitely appreciate it.

With 760 ratings, this 910XT Passage 2 Bike Trunk Mount Carrier has gained a respectable four stars.

It is available in two options. You can choose from a two bike variant or a three bike one, whichever suits your needs.

The rack features soft rubber cradles that not only keep the bike placed securely but they also protect the frame from scratches and dents.

The weight limit of this rack is 105 pounds. That is plenty of weight to accommodate two bikes. It is very rare for a bike to cross this limit.

The company has used a patented FitDial system that guarantees a perfect fit with your vehicle.

This is something that most rack manufacturers cannot do, so it really is an outstanding feature that I appreciate a lot.

Moreover, the arms on this rack can also be folded down to save space. The soft cushion leg pads make sure that your trunk and the hatch will not be damaged.

There will not be any cosmetic issues with your vehicle after installing this rack. The rack is designed for use with factory spoilers.

If you have aftermarket spoilers, then there is no guarantee that the rack will work with your vehicle.

This is great news, as many manufacturers don’t mention this, and buyers are then stuck with an incompatible product.

Unfortunately, buyers ran into issues with placing their bikes on this rack. They complained that their adult bikes would not fit.

This is a rather serious design flaw and must be addressed by the company as soon as possible.

PROS
  • Patented FitDial system
  • Soft rubber cradles
  • Foldable arms
CONS
  • Bike fitment issue
  • It may not be compatible with aftermarket spoilers

Thule has created a great product. But it really should have tested this rack out properly to ensure that buyers would get a product that they could actually use.

7. SportRack 3-Bike Anti-Sway Trunk Mount Bike Rack

SportRack 3-Bike Anti-Sway Trunk Mount Bike Rack
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We have finally reached the end of this article!

Taking the last spot on this article is this SportRack 3-Bike Anti-Sway Trunk Mount Bike Rack.

This one is designed for people who do not require any fancy features and are looking for practicality.

This bike rack can fit up to 3 bicycles at a time. Whether it be a kid bike or a mountain one, you can fit it easily on it.

As long as each bike reaches the 35-pound limit, you will not have anything to worry about.

The maximum weight that this rack can handle is 105 pounds. You must make sure to remain under the limit in order to avoid any issues.

Let’s talk about the anti-sway design that the brand has used with this rack!

The cradles themselves are fully stable, which ensures that there is no bike-to-bike or even bike-to-vehicle contact.

Both scenarios may cause scratches, so you don’t have to worry about that. The cradles are also made of rubber, so they will not cause any damage to the frame of your bike.

The rack can be adjusted for a proper fit. This eliminates any chances of incompatibility.

So, none of you Subaru Outback owners have to worry about the rack having installation issues with your vehicle.

The installation of this rack is very easy. It is so easy, in fact, that you don’t even need tools to install it.

The whole process is quick, easy, and simple. You will be done within a matter of minutes, and you will be ready to transport your bikes wherever you like.

For added convenience, the manufacturer has also made the rack foldable. It can be stored easily, without it taking away a ton of space.

Some of the buyers complained about missing rubber straps and even broken cradles after short usage.

The manufacturer must get a grip on these issues as they can cause severe damage, financially, to consumers.

PROS
  • Easy to install
  • Can mount three bikes
  • Adjustable fit
CONS
  • Missing rubber straps
  • Cradles may break prematurely

Before you start considering this SportRack bike rack, I would recommend that you check out the six other racks in this article.

This is because they have more ratings and are from properly-known brands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How Many Bikes Can I Fit On My Subaru Outback?

This solely depends on the type of rack you are using. If the rack supports it, you can transport up to 4 bikes on it.

But, considering everything, I would advise that you don’t transport any more than two bikes in your vehicle. Or else, the added weight will translate to an impact on your fuel mileage.

Q2. Are Thule Bike Racks Worth It?

I knew there would be some buyers that would consider a Thule bike rack, even though they started with a lower budget. Well, I can safely say that the company is definitely worth it.

If you are willing to pay for it, you will get excellent features, which you may or may not see in cheaper alternatives.

But it would be better that you check out products from companies like IKURAM and Allen Sports before. They are also great alternatives.

Q3. What Size Is A Subaru Outback Hitch?

A Subaru Outback hitch has a fixed size of 2-inches. No matter which model of the Outback you choose, this is the size of the hitch you will have to install.

Although most of you know this already, the answer is directed towards those readers who are in the initial steps of their excursion planning.

Q4. Can I Fit A Bike In A Subaru Outback?

Yes, that is definitely possible. A bike can be stored with the back seats folded flat. This gives it more than enough space to store the bicycle, with some room to spare.

I recommend against that. You may hit the sides of the vehicle, plus you are letting go of storage space that you can utilize for bags and clothing.

Conclusion

Do you know which bike racks are the most popular for a Subaru Outback? Read my buyers guide

I know that some of you guys must be even confused after seeing this collection of outstanding bike racks.

Many of you couldn’t find a decent bike rack, but now you have an option to buy from five different manufacturers.

Each product is worthy of the title of the best bike rack for Subaru Outback, but I think you do know who the winner is.

The champion of this article is the Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Rack. The rack is an outstanding one. There is very little chance of getting something faulty.

You can trust the brand blindly. Regardless of my recommendation, any one of these seven racks will surely exceed your expectations.