10 Best Bike Rack For Subaru Forester – Reviews for 2023!

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Having the best bike rack for Subaru Forester vehicles is essential for those who enjoy riding and exploring new locations.

However, those who are looking to transport their bike without having to bend it to fit in a car, they’ll find an endless number of options available today.

Knowing what a user needs and examining a vehicle’s features are the best ways to choose the best product for them.

Carriers for this particular vehicle come in all shapes and sizes, making it difficult to pick just one.

As a result, a user will now understand which Subaru Forester bike rack will work best with their vehicle.

What is the best bike rack Subaru Outback/Forester/Impreza?

While considering the best bike racks Subaru Forester, the Genuine Subaru SOA567B020 is top of the list.

Such a bike rack is made with high-quality and hence is a guarantee of durability OEM parts which is why they are the ideal return for a user’s investment.

However, those who don’t prefer this brand can go for other quality bike racks like Subaru New Thule OEM SOA567B041, Allen Sports, Thule T2 Pro XT, etc. have some advanced features and hence is a top brand.

Why “Subaru Genuine” is the best bike rack brand for Forester?

Whenever one needs to go for a biking adventure in their Subaru, they’ll need a sturdy rack having the capacity to hold their bikes firmly while the vehicle travels on bumpy roads.

As a result, there is hardly any better model that does this job than the Genuine Subaru SOA567B020.

In addition to ratchet belts that hold the front and rear tires, this Thule roof-mounted bike carrier has self-adjusting jaws that keep the bike’s frame in place.

Besides, since they are manufactured by a very trustworthy brand, it ensures that they are a very high-quality product.

Therefore, a vehicle owner won’t have to worry at all about its longevity.

The 10 Best Bike Rack for Subaru Forester/Outback/Impreza Review 2023

best bike racks for subaru forester

1. Subaru OEM SOA567B041- Best Bike Rack for Subaru Outback/Forester

Highlighted Features

  • Holds two bicycles securely and safely
  • Cycle and vehicle protection is provided by anti-sway cages
  • Foldable arms compatibility
  • The rotating function allows for simple access
  • Both the locking cable and the hitch pin are included

At the start of the list, this Thule Subaru bike rack Forester must be included because it is a highly durable bike rack made to carry bikes while traveling long distances.

A driver will have no issues with this bike carrier even if they are traveling on uneven roads.

Designed exclusively for the authentic Subaru trailer hitch, the Thule bike rack is lightweight and easy to install and remove.

Such an impressive bike rack is designed explicitly with anti-swaying cages that won’t allow bikes or cycles to sway while a vehicle is in motion.

As a result, there is no danger of your favorite two-wheeler dropping on the road and suffering damage in case the vehicle hits a bump on the road.

The rack’s arms can be folded when unused, and to gain access to the rear of the car, one can pivot the rack around.

Finally, an integral cable and hitch pin secures the carrier and the bike to the vehicle.

For those looking for a low-cost replacement for a rebuild or repair, this is the product for them.

It’s easier to trust a genuine OEM item because a user doesn’t need to worry about whether or not it will work with a vehicle’s specifications.

However, choosing the correct parts to protect an investment might be difficult. As a result, one must choose an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) item instead of a remanufactured one.

Pros

  • Highly durable
  • Lightweight
  • OEM Parts
  • Reasonable price
  • Universal fit

Cons

  • To use this device, the vehicle must have a trailer hitch.
  • Adapter SOA567H011 (2-inches), supplied separately, is required for Ascent.

2. Genuine Subaru SOA567B020- Best Subaru Bike Carrier Roof Rack

Highlighted Features

  • Anti-sway
  • Foldable
  • Long-lasting
  • Safe and secure to use
  • Universal Fit

Such an item is a top bike rack for Subaru Outback because they’re highly durable and a high-quality product from a reputed brand.

Like any quality model, such a rack is easy to install and straightforward to remove. In addition, no additional equipment is required for this task. As a result, it is highly convenient for all.

In 2019, this rack made its debut, although it easily outperforms all other racks ever created. Moreover, it is compatible with both the Outback and Forester models of Subaru.

Everything a user is looking for can be found right here.

This is the one to go with for the best possible strength, security, and accessibility from a service provider. Having this for a user’s next big excursion is a no-brainer.

To avoid bike-on-vehicle collisions, the rack features an anti-sway. In addition, the rack may be tilted because of its arm-bending feature to be folded up when not being used.

One can also utilize it to access the back or trunk, even if they have fully-loaded racks.

Whether it’s a road bike, an e-bike, or a fat bike, this best bike rack for Subaru Outback can fit them all.

Whatever type of bike a user might have ensures that they get to their destination without any damage whatsoever.

Overall, this incredible bike rack should be an ideal vehicle accessory for all Subaru owners.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Ideal carrier for all bikes
  • Offers access to the rear even if the racks are full
  • Roof-mounted

Cons

  • This carrier will not support carbon fiber bike frames
  • Crossbars are needed separately

3. Kuat Racks NV 2.0- Best Bike Rack Subaru Outback

Highlighted Features

  • Can hold two bikes up to 60 lbs each
  • Incredible design
  • The Cradle system for the front tire can be adjusted for wheelbases up to 48″ and tires up to 4..8 inches
  • Integration of cable locks
  • Hand-tight hitch cam device for no-tool installation

This Kuat NV has been redesigned with this new Kuat NV 2.0 model, one of the most popular bike racks.

As a result, this model is at the top of the company’s product line currently as far as a top bike rack on Subaru Forester is concerned.

Regarding installation, it’s a simple matter of plugging it in. One won’t have a hard time putting this together because the instructions are clear and simple to follow.

Also included in the kit, are the Allen wrenches a user will need to complete the installation.

Ratcheting arms, on the other hand, maybe quickly stowed and unloaded. The rear wheel straps are strongly built and easy to use.

As a result, it’s simple enough to use even for newbies. The pivot point is fitted with a big lever. Hence, there is a significant improvement in ease of use with this design.

Also, if the rack is erect, its design permits the model to be pushed by the foot. As a result, you will not require bending for this purpose.

At the receiver’s end, a knob is used for adjustment. When you turn it, the cam mechanism on the receiver of the hitch expands, eliminating the wobble that occurs due to this action.

Because this rack supports bikes by their tires, it doesn’t consider the different frame designs and axle specifications.

Bicycles with wheels ranging from twenty to twenty-nine inches in diameter can also be transported in this vehicle.

However, one may require an adapter for the twenty-inch and twenty-four-inch models.

It uses two heavy-duty cables that stretch from the rear of every tray to ensure the safety of the bike.

For safety and stability, the wires are designed to ensure they can be coiled around both the motorcycles’ frames and have a large diameter.

Even so, this 2.0 model is an improvement over the original.

Pros

  • Hitch rack that folds for storage
  • Has a tool-free extending wedge.
  • Included is a lockable receiving connection.
  • Versatile and long-lasting.
  • The back wheel can be retracted.

Cons

  • A very costly bike rack

4. Subaru Roof Bike Rack OEM New Thule Adjustable with Mounting Clamps

Highlighted Features

  • Self-adjusting jaws
  • Mounting clams (adjustable)
  • Universal fit
  • Highly durable

As far as the top Subaru Impreza bike rack is concerned, this one is right up there. Despite the carrier’s small weight, it has a high level of adaptability.

In addition, this is guaranteed to last for a long time and give a user maximum capacity and durability. Such a product is made of heavy-duty steel, so one can expect it to last for many years.

As a result, this bike rack is the safest available rack. The ratchet arm on this bike carrier allows to swiftly and securely attach a bike to the carrier.

There is no need for any touch with the frame to do so. This feature can minimize or remove the damage to a user’s bike that it can do.

Such a rack is universally compatible with most vehicles. They are just the perfect model for bikes with twenty to twenty-nine inches and tires that are 2.6 inches wide.

Besides, it comes with an auto-locking feature that enables to hold the bike securely with the carrier and mounting clams for easy installation.

In addition, the rack may be folded up when they are unutilized, because of the feature that allows it to tilt.

One can also use this to get into the back of the vehicle’s trunk, even if the racks are filled.

To keep each bike in place, it uses robust hooks (shepherds) that don’t contact the frame.

As a result, a bike’s chances of being damaged are lowered as a result of this safety measure.

To conclude, all of the best features a user wants in a bike rack for the Subaru Impreza are included in this product.

A bike’s chances of being damaged are lowered as a result of this safety measure.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Sturdy shepherd hooks
  • The safest option for the bikes
  • Cable lock included

Cons

  • The crossbar set will be required to be bought separately

5. Allen Sports 4-Bike Hitch Racks with Quick install

Highlighted Features

  • Foldable
  • Fits with a wide range of bikes
  • Hitch-mounted rack
  • Highly durable and all weatherproof
  • Can transport up to four bikes

Another value-addition to the list of the best bike rack for Subaru Outback is this product from Allen Sports. Such a bike rack is one of the top Subaru bike racks available today.

It’s a rugged rack with many great features that’ll be perfect for all bicycle travel.

One of the major reasons why it has become so popular is that it is simple to install. Such a bike rack arrives entirely constructed and ready to use straight from the box.

Unlike most racks, this one has a simple setup method that requires no tools. Such a product is a steel hitch-mounted rack that’s built to last.

The powder-coated coating protects it from hazardous components of the environment in addition to its durability feature.

So use it on rainy and sunny days without fear of it being damaged by the weather.

Additionally, it can transport up to four bicycles, each weighing a maximum of 140 lbs.

The family’s next trip to the park, camping trip, or another outing will be a breeze with this in tow.

Also, it has folding arms that may be stored when they are not utilized. Finally, managing this rack won’t be a problem because it can be shifted back and forth with just one hand.

Such a rack is regarded as a top bike carrier for vehicles with rear-mounted hitches.

Additionally, this bike carrier is available in various configurations, including two, three, and five bike racks.

One can choose from the following options: deluxe locking, premier lock (with spare tires), or premier lock with spare tires.

Overall, it’s a great deal on a high-quality bike rack. This is the best Subaru Forester bike rack, and it’s deservedly so.

Pros

  • Compact design
  • Cable-lock security included
  • High-quality material-made product
  • Powder coating

Cons

  • The close proximity of the mounts is a problem

6. Allen Sports 2-Bike Hitch Racks for Subaru All Vehicles

Highlighted Features

  • Installs in a flash and keeps rack tight against hitch;
  • Comes with two keys.
  • Foldable arms
  • The rack can be tilted back when needed.
  • Ideal for a variety of bike frame styles.
  • Quick set straps and dual compound tie-down cradles safeguard bikes.

Allen Sports has supplied outdoor enthusiasts with quality, service, and happiness for more than half a century.

Such a company’s goods have been praised because of their high level of performance and build quality. The Allen Sports Bike Rack is one such example.

For those who need to keep the trunk area of the car uncluttered, this Trunk Mounted Bike Rack is a wonderful choice.

Most buyers and users have given this bike rack excellent marks for its many impressive features. So for the best in the business, go no further than this one.

It’s little wonder it’s ranked in the top five on this list among all alternatives.

Such a bike rack on Subaru Forester simply requires a minor assembly to get it up and running. All the hardware a user will need to carry out the installation is included in the box.

In addition, it has a wobble-free bolt assembly to prevent or reduce any movement during transport.

Additionally, it comes equipped with two sturdy straps that keep the bikes in place on lengthy road journeys. Such a bike rack has wide pads to distribute the bike’s weight evenly.

Lastly, this two-bike rack has a maximum weight capacity of seventy pounds for each bike, sufficient for the bikes.

One will have a great time exploring new places in the Subaru Forester, with their bike safe and sound at the back.

Pros

  • Safe product
  • Rubber straps are strong
  • Can hold two bikes of 70 lbs each
  • Flexible and strong

Cons

  • Abrasive materials used in its contact pads could damage the bikes

7. Thule T2 Pro XT Bike Rack 60 Pounds & Load Capacity

Highlighted Features

  • The load capacity of one hundred lbs
  • The rack can be tilted for rear access
  • Tool-free attaching system
  • Ideal for fat bikes with fat tires
  • Adjustable front and back bike trays

Such a product is also a fantastic value addition to the list of the best bike racks in Subaru Forester. A Subaru Forester can tow two bikes with the Thule T2 bike rack.

Such a rack can accommodate bikes with fat tires up to five inches wide and a wide range of sizes and types.

One will find it possible to configure the bike trays in such a way as to minimize bike-to-bike contact.

For example, there is no touch between the bike’s frame and the wheel trays and ratcheting arms.

In addition, one can tilt it down to gain access to the Subaru Forester’s rear cargo area while the rack is loaded.

Moreover, the bike trays in the front and back may be adjusted to provide ample room for mounting the bikes.

To adjust the tray’s spacing, loosen the four bolts holding it to the rack frame, slide the tray forward and backward, and secure the bolts tightly.

This is a great way to do it for those who don’t want to be concerned about their bikes’ handlebars getting tangled up.

Thule T2 Classic’s inbuilt Hitch Switch lever makes it simple to tilt down the rear luggage space with or without bikes attached.

When a user doesn’t need to carry a bike, this bag can be folded up and stored in a car trunk. When parking in a garage or other space-constrained location, this is a godsend.

A device that prevents rattling and a snug-tight hitch lock is included in the rack.

Using the accompanying lock cylinder (Key System), one can stop the hitch from rattling and moving while the rack is attached to it.

Pros

  • Auto-lock system to secure bikes
  • Ideal for all style bike frames
  • Anti-rattle device included
  • Offers enough space during bike mounting

Cons

  • It’s a tad too heavy
  • There is no option for remote tilt control

8. Saris Mount 2-4 Bicycles Bike Rack with Trunk or Hitch Carrier

Highlighted Features

  • Universal fit
  • Clean and polishing appearance
  • Anti-rust
  • Strong hence durable

Saris is a reputed brand as far as the Subaru bike rack Forester is concerned. Such a rack also is loaded with several features that make it a top product. 

Moreover, the rack has five arching arms and three lengthy straps. A few more parts exist, but its Italian design proves that simplicity is the prime requisite.

Moreover, one will have several advantages to using a rack like Bones. An appealing feature here is the simplicity with which the arms can be moved.

Simply loosen the locking nut, slide the arms to the central beam’s center, and set them to operate with the car as desired.

The straps are simple to tighten, and the feet may be rotated to match the vehicle’s contours.

Long gravel roads did not loosen the rack’s grip. Moreover, it comes with ratcheting strap hooks to secure bikes to the Bones rack.

Moreover, the straps are long enough to secure the bikes in place, but they are also easy to remove.

As a result, it’s a simple job to set up or unload traditional diamond-shaped frames like road and hardtail mountain bikes.

Also, the arc of the arms also helped keep the bikes apart from each other. In contrast to a roof rack or large hitch-mounted rack, a strap-on bike rack can be easily removed.

Like other racks, the Bones is easily removable, but it folds up into a bit of a package. Moreover, it’s small enough to fit in the trunk or rear of a vehicle, and it’s easy to transport.

Pros

  • Strap-on bike rack
  • Foldable arms
  • Ratcheting strap hooks
  • Italian design

Cons

  • Potentially obstructs viewing through the rearview mirror

9. Saris Superclamp EX Bike Hitch Car Rack Adjustable for Subaru

Highlighted Features

  • It can be tilted
  • Compact and convenient
  • Universal hitch
  • Fits with most bike frames
  • In-built cable lock

Moving ahead with the list of the best bike rack for Subaru Outback, the Saris Super champ is the next quality rack that has become very popular.

One can safely transport two motorcycles on a Subaru Forester’s 1-1/4-inch or two-inch hitch with the Saris SuperClamp EX.

The back and front wheel hooks keep the bikes from contacting the frame during transport.

Moreover, it has a platform-style configuration for the quick loading and unloading of bicycles.

Hence, there is no need to do anything other than place the bicycles and secure them with the built-in cable lock.

Besides, it includes padded ratchet hooks that attach the bicycles by the wheels, not the frame, rather than the handlebars.

SuperClamp EX is an excellent alternative for carrying motorcycles with carbon fiber frames because of this feature, which eliminates scratches or scuffs on the bike’s paint.

When users push the grey button and move the hook down or up, they can adjust the hooks individually.

As a result, this adaptability makes it possible to transport a variety of bicycles, including adult, women’s, children’s, and alternative-frame models.

As a bonus, the rack comes with an inbuilt lever that allows lowering the rack while laden with bikes so one can access the Subaru Forester’s rear cargo compartment.

Locks are included with the SuperClamp EX to keep the bicycles and the rack safe.

With a stainless steel cable lock embedded in the base, the two-wheelers are safe and secure. To avoid scratching the bikes, a vinyl coat has been applied to the cable.

When one is not using the rack, the lock is tucked inside the arm.

Push-button unlocking prevents the lock from dangling on the ground when being transported.

One can secure the hitch and the rack with the Hitch-tight lock that goes over the end of the hitch pin threaded for attachment.

As an anti-rattle mechanism, the hitch pin also helps in decreasing motion and sound in the hitch.

Pros

  • Vinyl coating to avoid scratches to the bikes
  • Anti-rattle mechanism
  • Ideal for carrying different loads of bikes
  • Safe product

Cons

  • It’s a little heavier
  • The wheel tray is not very sturdy

10. YAKIMA Hitch Mount Aluminum Design Tray Bike Rack with 2 Bike Capacity

Highlighted Features

  • 2+1 bike carrier
  • Offers up to 18-inch spacing between the bikes
  • Ensures the safety of the gear
  • Anti-sway cradles

One can fit three bicycles on the Yakima FullBack trunk rack for the Subaru Forester’s trunk.

The rack features adjustable arms that ensure the safety of the bikes while being transported.

To make loading and unloading the bike as simple as possible, the arms have ratcheting ZipStrip straps and SuperCrush anti-sway cradles.

With four buckle straps and a vehicle-specific interlocking hub, it may be attached to any vehicle.

In addition, it contains locks for securing the rack and the trunk and folds flat for easy storage.

The rack features TPE padding integrated into the cradles to safeguard the bike frames that absorb road impact during transit.

To make unloading and loading the bikes even more accessible, the cradles contain ratcheting ZipStrip straps.

Slide the straps into the cradle buckles and push them downwards until it is secure around the bike’s frame, and the user is ready to go!

Release mechanisms on the side of each cradle make it easy to remove the ZipStrips.

The Yakima FullBack’s two arms provide high stability for the bikes.

In addition, the inbuilt dials on either side of the rack enable users to set the arms to ensure that the two-wheelers are straight throughout transportation and enhance ground clearance.

Included in the FullBack is a set of locks for attaching the rack to the trunk and the rack to the bikes.

The cable lock can be extended from the right arm’s front and wrapped around a bike for securing it.

Moreover, the rack is further protected by a steel-reinforced security cable.

Besides, the base of the rack is attached to this cable, which threads through the trunk of a car.

After a long ride, one can enjoy a cold beverage with an inbuilt bottle opener on the tip of the left arm.

Pros

  • Ratcheting ZipStrip straps
  • Offers storage
  • Ideal for any bike frame
  • Bottle opener included

Cons

  • Using the front wheel might be problematic

User Buying Considerations About The Best Bike Rack for Subaru Forester

bike rack for subaru forester

While choosing the best bike rack for Subaru Impreza/Outback, keep the following things in mind:

Purpose

Determine the purpose of buying the best bike rack for the Subaru Forester. Remember, a simple rack with a sixty-pound capacity should be enough for most purposes.

A fat bike, beach cruiser, or electric bike will necessitate a more robust option. One will need a larger rack if they’re going on a mountain drive with family or friends.

Thread Length

Don’t forget to check the dimensions of the tires and the wheels! It’s not a huge problem if one has a tiny road bike.

A chink set of rubber tires is all one will need. A user will need a rack that can accommodate tires of this size.

Moreover, the wheel mounts need to be large enough to accommodate the tires’ diameter.

Besides, truck-mounted bike racks can also be used if one doesn’t have a lot of space in the truck.

Rack Type

Bike racks can be divided into several categories. So what’s the significance of a rack-type?

There are merits and drawbacks to each form of the rack. Also, many people won’t prefer roof-mounted racks because they have difficulty hoisting their bikes on top of the Subaru Outback.

So instead, they’ll use the racks that attach to the back of the truck or the hitch.

Related Hitch: Best hitch for Subaru Outback

Pricing

One of the essential factors in determining a product’s purchasing power is its cost. If a user is on a tight budget, they’ll have to settle for a reasonably priced rack.

It isn’t, however, to say that one should settle for low-quality goods.

Anti-Rust

A rainstorm might come out of nowhere at any time and catch one off guard. Because of this, it is imperative to purchase anti-rust bike racks.

Besides, the oxygen and water formulations used to create these racks ensure their safety when being covered.

As a bonus, anti-rust racks save a user money and time in the long run.

Most Important FAQs

1. How to find out what kind of car rack I need?

The trunk-mounted racks are an excellent place to start for those who are a novice. Other types, such as the roof-mounted bike rack, can be discovered as one goes along.
But, generally speaking, the hitch-mounted Subaru Impreza bike rack is a top option for professional bikes.

2. With my bike rack, how many bicycles can I carry?

At a time, bike racks may hold up to four bicycles. A single bike rack is all they’ll need for those going on a solo road trip.
However, those traveling with their loved ones will likely require a larger rack to accommodate everyone.

3. Is there anything else I need to complete the installation of my bike rack?

Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. For example, some bike racks require no equipment to install, while others provide all the necessary tools in the box.
Moreover, these come with a detailed instruction manual to help a user get started with installing their bike rack for Subaru Impreza.
Fortunately, most things on this list are easy as far as assembling is concerned and will not need any specific tools.

4. Are there any risks in installing roof racks on my car?

No. All one has to do is make sure the bike carrier is firmly secured to the roof of the car.
It’s safe to say that a poorly-fitted or overloaded bike carrier can cause damage. The bike rack handbook or online research can let users know how much weight the roof can support.

5. During the installation of the bike rack, can the car be washed?

No. This isn’t such a smart thing to do. Always detach the bike rack from the vehicle wash because it could get caught in some machinery and cause both pieces to be damaged.
As a result, it’s better to remove the bike rack first for safety.

Conclusion

With this, the review for the best bike rack for Subaru Forester concludes. We’ve taken a look at a variety of bike racks and their advantages and disadvantages.

Before a user goes to buy a carrier for their car, it’s highly recommended that they do their homework to get the ideal product for themselves.

A buyer should check out several retailers and ask for recommendations from friends who already own them before purchasing.

Moreover, a buyer must keep in mind that they shouldn’t rely solely on what they hear while purchasing. Instead, they must choose a bike rack based on what they need it for.

Hopefully, this review is of some help to potential buyers of a bike rack. Happy shopping!