When you want to take bikes along with your car on a wonderful trip, I do believe you will think of bike racks. There are various kinds of bike rack to suit your demand. But I know how confused it is to choose the best one for your family, especially for an innovative Subaru Outlook. Thus, let me make a list of the top 13 Best Bike Racks for Subaru Outback in this article. Read on!
Table of Contents
Why Do You Need A Bike Rack for Your Subaru Outback?
Getting a bike rack would be always a good idea to bring your bike along. I can see there are various bike rack types on the market now, but you may sometimes wonder what could trigger you to purchase a bike rack for Subaru Outback. Let me give you some reasons here:
Carry Bikes Along With Cars
It is actually the main reason when you think of a bike rack. If you have 2, 3 or 4 bikes, you would totally need the bike rack to hold it tightly. The bike rack would be convenient and safe to keep bikes and protect your car cover as well. Sometimes, they can make use of the bike rack to carry other stuff, but most of the time, you will need a bike rack for your bicycles.
Lock Bikes During Travelling
I do believe that many people do not imagine that the bike rack can be somehow supportive for security purposes. There are some special racks which come with a lock system to not only keep the bike firmly, but also prevent the bike from being stolen. That would be awesome when you have to leave the bike outside or take a rest before continuing the journey.
Read more:
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- Top 16 Best Bike Racks For Suv Reviews In 2021
- Top 15 Best Hitch Bike Racks Reviews In 2021
- Top 14 Best Bike Racks for Garage Reviews In 2021
What Are The Best Bike Racks for Subaru Outback?
Before you want to take an option, I would like to share the list of best bike racks for your Subaru Outback in 2021 so you can see which you prefer. Hope it would help much:
- Best Overall: Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Bike Rack
“Easy to install and release, load and unload bikes quickly, firm frame to handle heavy bikes”
- Best Hitch Bike Rack: Allen Sports 2-Bike Bike Rack
“ Foldable rack with hitch mechanism, handle 2 bikes with black powder-coat finish”
- Best Bike Rack for Subaru Crosstrek: Saris Bones EX Bike Rack
“Lightweight bike rack, easy to install and release, rust-free material”
- Best Bike Rack for Subaru Forester: Allen Sports PREMIER Bike Rack
“ Soft and secure tie-down, easy installation, long carrying arms to handles 2 bikes”
- Best 4-Bike Rack: Allen Sports 4-Bike Bike Rack
“Carry 4 bikes, simple construction with foldable design, long carrying arms”
- Best 3-Bike Rack: Allen Sports 3-Bike Bike Rack
“Padded spine shield built-in, handle 3 bikes with nice locking mechanism”
- Best 2-Bike: Allen Sports 102DB Bike Rack
“Affordable price with secure straps and sturdy frame for 2 bikes”
- Best Secure Bike Rack: Tyger Auto TG-RK3B203S Bike Rack
“Firm and handy design, multiple straps for padded frame and easy installation process”
- Best for Versatility: Allen Sports 104DB-R Bike Rack
“ Hold more bikes, compatible with multiple frame sizes, more side straps with further security”
- Best for Simple Installation: Hollywood Racks Bike Rack
“Suitable women and kid’s bike frame, foldable rack, soft and flexible rubber cradles”
- Allen Sports 102DN-R Bike Rack
“ Good material with firmness, more stability, compatible with various frame size”
- Allen Sports Ultra Compact Bike Rack
“Lightweight bike rack, foldable design, easy to install and release”
- Allen Sports 103DB Bike Rack
“Easy to install and release, sturdy frame, handle 3 bikes”
Best Bike Rack for Subaru Outback Comparison Chart 2021
And this is the comparison chart so that you can review further for best bike rack for Subaru Outback in 2021:
Top 13 Best Bike Rack for Subaru Outback Reviews In 2021
After you go through the introduction and some overviews of the top 13 best bike racks for Subaru Outback in 2021, I will go into details:
Best Overall: Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Bike Rack
Pros
- Durable rack to handle heavy bikes
- Easy to install and remove
- Convenient to load and unload bikes
- Appealing and simple appearance
- Foldable bike rack for more conveniences
Cons
- Expensive rack
- Quite heavy product to install
I will recommend you to the other brand: Thule with the exact product: Thule T2 Pro Bike Rack.
This rack has no strap or normal cradles to hold your bikes in the rear of Subaru. I do like this design since it indicates the firmness and it can tighten the bike without any cords.
Besides, the appearance and design is truly appealing to you with 2-bike handling capacity. Many users think that it is super easy to load and unload bikes onto. Also, they can lower the rack with external support. I believe this is true when you loot at the construction directly.
The most highlight from this rack is that it can maintain high stability at high speed. Isn’t that extremely awesome for your Subaru?
Product Specs
| Weight | 52 pounds |
| Dimension | 54 x 15 x 43 inches |
| Highlight Features | Sturdy frame
Easy to load bikes Fit most heavy bike: carbon frames, mountain, ebikes |
To learn more about this bike rack, please watch this review video:
Allen Sports 102DN-R Bike Rack
Pros
- Good material hooks to enhance firmness
- Reasonable price
- Quick release and installation for Subaru Outback
- Side straps included to improve stability
- Compatible with various frame sizes
Cons
- Hook might cause scratches on cover
Indeed, this product comes with hooks to keep racks attached to the car firmly. You might want to use extra bungee cords to enhance the tightness but the hooks made of high-quality material should be good enough for your rack.
The 102DN-R Bike Rack is said to be great for anyone who does not spend much money for a rack.
Furthermore, the straps are sturdy and the whole rack also brings about comfortable experience for 2 bikes. Other users report that the installation is quite easy so many people prefer this rack for more convenience when they want to make a far-distance trip.
Product Specs
| Weight | 7.5 pounds |
| Dimension | 4.49 x 22.99 x 13.7 inches |
| Highlight Features | Compatible with sedan, hatchback
Quick installation Lower frame with pads Secure straps and hook |
To learn more about this bike rack, please watch this review video:
Best 4-Bike Rack: Allen Sports 4-Bike Bike Rack
Pros
- Quick release and installation rack
- Long and foldable carry arms
- Secure tie-down system
- Firm frame to handle up to 4 bikes
Cons
- Bike-mounting positions are too close
Move on, I want to share another cool bike rack for Subaru Outback called Allen Sports 4-bike Bike Rack.
This rack is well-known for its pretty simple design and construction. Thanks to this, you would find it quick to install or release the rack from your cars. Many users say that they spend around 5 minutes to complete the installation.
The rack is made of heavy steel so it can be very sturdy to handle bikes. Furthermore, this rack can work well under the tough weather conditions.
The straps and buckles are believed to serve well in terms of security. They are good enough to hold bikes firmly even when you go through the terrain surface or high speed.
In short, it would be cool for multiple bikes with heavy-duty handling.
Product Specs
| Weight | NA |
| Dimension | 25 x 13 x 3.5 inches |
| Highlight Features | 4-bike racks
Long carry arms Easy to install |
To learn more about this bike rack, please watch this review video:
Allen Sports Ultra Compact Bike Rack
Pros
- Lightweight bike back
- Foldable design for more convenience
- Easy to install and release
- Good straps to tighten bikes
Cons
- Still get scratched from hooks
I have to say that this rack is super easy to assemble and install. Even your child can complete the installation within a few minutes.
Another good thing is that this Allen Sports is lightweight and quite affordable. Furthermore, it is foldable so you can take it away or store it in a bag or car if needed.
You might wonder if it is secure enough to keep bikes from sliding or swinging during your trip. I could confirm that when you put a bike and follow the correct instruction to install, it is a great rack to handle and hold your bike thanks to nice straps.
Thus, let’s consider this rack if you want to have something handy and lightweight.
Product Specs
| Weight | 1 pound |
| Dimension | 18 x 18 x 16 inches |
| Highlight Features | Good tie-down and padding
Compatible with most car types Foldable rack |
To learn more about this bike rack, please watch this review video:
Best 2-Bike: Allen Sports 102DB Bike Rack
Pros
- Easy-to-install bike rack
- Super reasonable price
- Sturdy frame to hold 2 bikes
- Secure straps to attach rack
Cons
- Rear bumper might be scratched
You would need a bike rack for 2 bikes but it must be very affordable since you are not going to pour so much money into a car accessory? Let me introduce to you this rack: Allen Sport 201DB Bike rack.
As mentioned, this rack with a very reasonable price can win you over at the first sight.
When you look at this rack, you might see how sturdy its frame is. That’s why it can hold up to 2 bikes well. Some people mentioned that they can put their heavy Schwinn bike on the rack then test. Amazingly, this rack can handle it perfectly.
Besides, it comes with the high-class straps to keep bikes securely on far-distance trips. Sometimes, you might notice some little movement, but it barely affects your journey.
Product Specs
| Weight | 8 pound |
| Dimension | 23 x 15 x 4 inches |
| Highlight Features | Durable frame
No-hassle installation Secure tie-down |
To learn more about this bike rack, please watch this review video:
Best 3-Bike Rack: Allen Sports 3-Bike Bike Rack
Pros
- Simple design for quick assembly
- Hold up to 3 bikes
- Padded spine shield included to protect bikes
- Nice locking mechanism
Cons
- The rack might shake a little when moving
It is obvious to say that this rack is considerably simple. Its design does not have many components. Only one frame with 2 carry arms to handle 3 bikes well. So, it is really quick for you to complete installation.
Many users shared that what they love most is its locking mechanism. This locking is built in and very functional. The carrier is drilled to fit the hitch so it is tight enough.
If you want to have protection for bikes, this rack is also an ideal product. It comes with a spine shield which includes pads so you will be free-worry during transporting.
Product Specs
| Weight | NA |
| Dimension | NA |
| Highlight Features | Easy to install
Handle 3 bikes Padded spine shield |
Best Bike Rack for Subaru Forester: Allen Sports PREMIER Bike Rack
Pros
- Compatible with multiple car type
- Long carry arm to reduce the bike scratches
- Secure tie-down to hold 2 bikes
- Quick installation frame
Cons
- Rubber cradles are not so durable
This rack comes with a well-made frame to handle 2 bikes perfectly. The rack is also easy to install and release. Many people said that they can install within 3-5 minutes or even under 2 minutes if you are getting more familiar with the process and around 3 minutes to release.
The special thing from this rack is its side straps. There are multiple side straps to keep the rack attaching firmly to the car. Thanks to this, you will not have to worry about the security when travelling at high speed. Many users believe that this bike rack is born for Subaru Forester.
Besides, the wider pads will distribute the loading ability and support the rack better.
To sum up, I highly recommend you to get this rack if you want to ensure the rack is installed and kept securely.
Product Specs
| Weight | NA |
| Dimension | NA |
| Highlight Features | Fit various car type
Soft and secure cradles Easy-to-install rack |
To learn more about this bike rack, please watch this review video:
Allen Sports 103DB Bike Rack
Pros
- Easy-to-install bike rack
- Handles up to 3 bikes
- Securely patented tie-down
- Sturdy frame to handle multiple bikes
Cons
- Could not foldable
When I look at this product, I am impressed by its sturdiness to carry bikes. I am referring to the Allen Sports 103DB Bike Rack.
Allen Sports is always offering us with the great bike rack, especially for Subaru Outback.
You will see that the bike rack has more padded components to avoid the scratches into your car’s cover paint.
The material is really superior to make this rack allowing 3-bike handling. Furthermore, it is equipped with the side bars to enhance the loading capacity. I do think it is wonderful enough to help you hold bikes in a long trip with Subaru.
Product Specs
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Dimension | 28 x 18 x 5 inches |
| Highlight Features | Single configuration
Secure tie-down Fit most current car types |
To learn more about this bike rack, please watch this review video:
Best Hitch Bike Rack: Allen Sports 2-Bike Bike Rack
Pros
- Foldable bike rack
- Sturdy frame to handle 2 bikes
- Locking hitch mechanism for more security
- Simple setup process
Cons
- Not enough space to ensure the safe distance for bikes
I will send to you another nice option from Allen Sports which is lightweight and simple to install.
The first impression from this bike rack is that it is covered by a nice black for 1 main frame and 2 carry arms to hold 2 bikes well. With only one main bar, it can emphasize the Allen logo which makes me users feel luxury from the rack.
A good point from this Allen Sports is that it can be folded down for your convenience.
Thanks to the simple design, this rack will not affect your Subaru Outback’s paint as others. This plus can help to reduce the scratches and get you more confidence when driving. Locking hitch mechanism is an amazingly innovative method to lock the rack well. I do think it is one of the best bike racks with hitch features – good improvement from this Allen Sports.
Product Specs
| Weight | NA |
| Dimension | 3.54 x 24.17 x 14.02 inches |
| Highlight Features | Handle 2 bikes
Compatible with 1-¼ and 2-inch receiver hitch Foldable rack Black powder-coat finish |
To learn more about this bike rack, please watch this review video:
Best for Security: Tyger Auto TG-RK3B203S Bike Rack
Pros
- Multiple secure straps
- Easy to install the racks
- Soft rubber cradles to protect bikes
- Flexible cradles to fit various frame
Cons
- Nuts can be rusted easily
You will often take care of how securely the bike rack attaches to your Subaru, but this rack will do beyond its normal functions.
This Tyger Auto TG-RK3B203S Bike Rack comes with very soft rubber cradles to protect your bikes from any bad effects. The product can handle up to 3 bikes without any issue. So, it is even better if your bikes can be shielded from scratches.
The security also comes from the rack’s side straps. There are 6 side straps to keep your rack to Subaru firmly. That’s why I can confirm that this rack is one of the most secure bike racks on the market.
Furthermore, this rack brings about great flexibility. If you look at the rubber cradles, you can see various hole options to suit different bike frames.
In short, I totally recommend this bike rack for your family if you want to take some bikes along with your terrific trip.
Product Specs
| Weight | 3 pounds |
| Dimension | 25 x 4 x 3 inches |
| Highlight Features | Sturdy frame
Handle 3 bikes Quick installation |
To learn more about this bike rack, please watch this review video:
Best for Versatility: Allen Sports 104DB-R Bike Rack
Pros
- Handles more bikes
- Easy to install and release
- More side straps to tighten rack
- Suitable for more car types
Cons
- The design might cause scratches among bikes
The design might cause scratches among bikes
And now, I will be back to Allen Sports product to introduce a different brand for your reference: Allen Sports 104DB-R Bike Rack.
This rack is well-known for its ability to load 4 bikes at the same time. Many users experienced and commented that they think it can totally handle 4 bikes without big issues. But you might consider not to put many bikes frequently to lengthen its durability.
When I mention that the rack can load up to 4 bikes, I have to share with you that the rack comes with many side straps to ensure that feature. As same as other Allen Sports, this product is believed that its design is simple and easy to assemble.
On top of that, this product can fit a very wide range of frame sizes. Thus, you can believe in its versatility. To sum up, please note the great capacity and simple setup process of this rack to see if you want it.
Product Specs
| Weight | 18 pounds |
| Dimension | NA |
| Highlight Features | Easy to install
4-bike handling Secure tie-down system |
To learn more about this bike rack, please watch this review video:
Best for Simple Installation: Hollywood Racks Bike Rack
Pros
- Most suitable women and kids’ bike frames
- Handle heavy bikes
- Soft and flexible rubber cradles to protect bikes
- Foldable rack for more convenience
Cons
- Bikes might swing at speed
This next rack is another option if you are looking for a product to handle 4 bikes. I am mentioning Hollywood Racks Bike Rack.
I do believe this rack belongs to the top products which are super easy to set up or detach. You will see only one mainframe to insert into the receiver hitch of the car.
Since it has to keep up to 4 bikes securely, the frame is made of really sturdy material and covered by nice black.
Speaking of security, the locking hitch mechanism will wipe out your worries. Additionally, you might love the cradles. The reason I said that is because the rubber cradle is flexible for a wide range of bike frames.
In short, let’s come and get this rack if you have multiple bikes and you love simplicity.
Product Specs
| Weight | 31.7 pounds |
| Dimension | 17 x 6 x 41 inches |
| Highlight Features | Compatible with multiple frames
Handle 4 bikes Easy to install |
To learn more about this bike rack, please watch this review video:
Best Bike Rack for Subaru Crosstrek: Saris Bones EX Bike Rack
Pros
- Innovative design to handle bikes well
- Firm frames with rust-free material
- Easy to install and release
- Lightweight rack with pads to protect car’s paint
Cons
- Might get dents because of hooks
The last option for you is coming. It is Saris Bones EX Bike Rack.I would say it is one of the high-class with high price on the current market.
The first thing I have to list out is its convenience. Why could I say that? The rack is designed to be folded if you need. So you will see how great it is if you want to save space in your stores.
Besides, its tie-down system is super cool. It is made of special material to hold the bike well. I have collected some feedback and find out that this option is perfectly suitable for Subaru Outback Crosstrek.
Furthermore, the whole rack is quite lightweight and there are not so many components so the installation is considerably simple for users.
The last thing I want to share is its rust-free carry arms. This feature is
truly distinguished from others. Thus, it is worthy to consider and order.
Product Specs
| Weight | 12 pounds |
| Dimension | 22.4 x 19.1 x 9 inches |
| Highlight Features | Simple design
High-quality frame material Lightweight and easy to install |
To learn more about this bike rack, please watch this review video:
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Bike Rack for Subaru Outback In 2021
That will be wonderful to know which one you like the most. But I think you should check further on different aspects to understand what can suit you in each situation. Let’s take a look on this buying guide with details to select your own bike rack:
Type of bike rack
In this article, I will mention 2 most popular bike racks for Subaru: Hitch bike rack and strap bike rack. The rack equipped with a hitch locking mechanism seems to be more expensive. Besides, it is normally made of very sturdy material to handle multiple bikes. The reason might come from the only one main frame and 2 carrying carms or even one carrying arm.
Thus, you should select the bike rack type depending on your own case.
Capacity
Bike rack can carry up to maximum 4 bikes. You should check and calculate how many bikes are normally needed for your trips to get the proper bike rack.
Another thing you need to consider here is the loading capacity. Some bike racks from Thule brand can hold up to 100 pounds. So if you have an e-bike or downhill bike, this rack is totally perfect for a wonderful trip.
Installation
Installation process will be another crucial point when you are going to purchase a bike rack. Most of the current bike rack will offer a simple design and allow you to install quickly. The average installing time is around 5 minutes or less. Therefore, you can just pick up the most simple construction if you are always in a hurry or you are a woman.
Flexibility
You might have various bike types with different frames in house. So, I think it would be worth your time to check and take the bike rack which can support a wide range of frames.
Some racks are great for lower frames and women or kid’s bikes if you want a bike rack for family. Thus, I do recommend you to read through the specification and get confirmation to have a best choice.
FAQs
What is the best bike rack for Subaru Outback?
I would nominate this candidate for best bike rack: Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Bike Rack. This product wins me over when it can give you firmness and convenience. You can load or unload the bikes easily with its simple design.
Can you fit a bike in a Subaru Outback?
Yes, it is possible. You can shove your bikes in the rear of a Subaru Outback. This can be implemented by moving the seatpost and the back seats have to be folded. However, this is not really a good idea to carry a bike securely and smartly.
What is the best platform bike rack?
This Hollywood Racks Bike Rack may be considered as the best platform bike rack. It has a unique design which is simple but strong enough to handle many bikes at the same time. Besides, the construction allows the installation and release of the rack quickly.
Can a bike rack hold a wheelchair?
Yes, it can keep the wheelchair but it certainly causes some risks to your cars and your trips as well. I do think you should make use of a hitch wheelchair carrier to securely handle stuff.
How do you install a Graber Outback bike rack?
A Graber Outback bike rack is a nice option for your Subaru. Let’s see the mandatory steps to install it.
- Putting the rack’s front leg on your car’s rear bumper.
- Fastening 2 top straps over your car’s top hinge
- Connecting the 2 bottom straps to your car
- Attaching 2 side straps on the side lid
- Tightening the rack by built-in buckles
My Top Pick
As per my sharing above, Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Bike Rack is the best choice and it is my favorite rack if I need one for my car. I have mentioned that the Thule can offer an extremely sturdy frame to handle bikes, especially the heavy ones. Furthermore, it offers a simple installation process for me. Thus, I do love it for the next trip.
How about your choice? Please check and let me know what will interest you.