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10 Best Car Bike Rack For Subaru Forester 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Yakima HoldUp Hitch Mount Car Bike Rack, 2-Bicycle Capacity Carrier w/ SKS Locks, Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,500
Ease of Installation
Security Features
Accessibility

Most important from
768 reviews

Ease of Installation
Installation is straightforward, with the rack being mostly pre-assembled and taking only 10-20 minutes to set up.
Security Features
Built-in hitch and cable locks provide excellent security, keeping bikes stable and secure during transit.
Accessibility
The rack's ability to tilt down, even when loaded, allows easy access to the rear of the vehicle without unloading the bikes.
Durability
Bikes remain secure and steady on both freeways and bumpy gravel roads, offering great value for money.

The Yakima HoldUp Hitch Mount Car Bike Rack is a strong contender for Subaru Forester owners. It offers a tray-style design that can hold up to 2 bikes, each weighing up to 60 lbs. This rack is highly compatible, fitting both 1.25” and 2” receivers, making it suitable for various vehicle types beyond just the Subaru Forester.

The installation process is relatively straightforward, thanks to its ready-to-use setup and clear dimensions (34.5” L x 64” W x 12” H). Users will appreciate the ease of loading bikes, with side-to-side adjustability for different wheel sizes (20” to 29”). The inclusion of SKS locks provides a reliable security feature to keep bikes stable and secure during transit. An added bonus is that the rack tilts down even when loaded, allowing access to the rear of the vehicle without needing to unload the bikes.

Its size and weight (27.67 kg) might make handling it a bit cumbersome for some users. Additionally, while the finish is durable and aesthetically pleasing, the higher price point could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. The Yakima HoldUp Hitch Mount Bike Rack stands out for its durability and practical features, making it a solid choice for biking enthusiasts who value security and ease of use.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,500
Ease of Installation
Security Features
Accessibility

Most important from
768 reviews

Ease of Installation
Installation is straightforward, with the rack being mostly pre-assembled and taking only 10-20 minutes to set up.
Security Features
Built-in hitch and cable locks provide excellent security, keeping bikes stable and secure during transit.
Accessibility
The rack's ability to tilt down, even when loaded, allows easy access to the rear of the vehicle without unloading the bikes.
Durability
Bikes remain secure and steady on both freeways and bumpy gravel roads, offering great value for money.
#2

Thule Apex XT Hanging Hitch Bike Rack, Carries 4 Bikes, Perfect for Traveling with Multiple Bikes - Quick, Tool-Free Installation, Suitable for a Wide Variety of Bike Sizes and Frame Styles, Black

Rating
10.0
Bike Capacity
Compatibility
Ease of Installation

Most important from
947 reviews

Bike Capacity
Heavy duty and easy to install, this bike rack holds a lot of weight and stays solid once mounted.
Compatibility
Compatible with both 2" and 1.25" receivers without needing an adapter, thanks to its ingenious design.
Ease of Installation
Heavy duty and easy to install, this bike rack holds a lot of weight and stays solid once mounted.
Security Features
The plastic straps for securing bikes can be tricky to adjust, especially in cold weather.
Accessibility
The tilt feature is particularly useful for accessing the rear of the vehicle, even with heavy loads.
Durability
Heavy duty and easy to install, this bike rack holds a lot of weight and stays solid once mounted.

The Thule Apex XT Hanging Hitch Bike Rack is a versatile and convenient option for Subaru Forester owners looking to transport up to four bikes. Its key strengths include quick, tool-free installation, which simplifies the setup process, and its ability to fit a wide variety of bike sizes and frame styles, making it an adaptable choice for families or groups of friends with different bikes. The anti-sway cradles are a notable feature, preventing bike-to-bike contact and enhancing stability during transit.

Additionally, the rack's bike arms can be folded down when not in use, saving space and reducing the risk of accidents when parking or maneuvering the vehicle. The ability to tilt the rack down for rear vehicle access is a practical feature, allowing you to reach the trunk without removing the bikes. However, it's important to note that the rack's load capacity is 150 lbs, which should be sufficient for most users, but it's essential to ensure your vehicle's hitch can support this weight.

On the downside, some users might find the rack's size and weight (42.1 x 11 x 37 inches) a bit cumbersome, especially when handling alone. Additionally, while the ratcheting cradle straps provide secure bike attachment, they may require occasional adjustment to maintain optimal tightness. The durability of the rack is robust, backed by Thule's reputable brand name and a limited lifetime warranty. Security features are adequate, but adding a bike lock for extra safety might be a good idea. This bike rack is well-suited for those who frequently travel with multiple bikes and value ease of use and adaptability.

Rating
10.0
Bike Capacity
Compatibility
Ease of Installation

Most important from
947 reviews

Bike Capacity
Heavy duty and easy to install, this bike rack holds a lot of weight and stays solid once mounted.
Compatibility
Compatible with both 2" and 1.25" receivers without needing an adapter, thanks to its ingenious design.
Ease of Installation
Heavy duty and easy to install, this bike rack holds a lot of weight and stays solid once mounted.
Security Features
The plastic straps for securing bikes can be tricky to adjust, especially in cold weather.
Accessibility
The tilt feature is particularly useful for accessing the rear of the vehicle, even with heavy loads.
Durability
Heavy duty and easy to install, this bike rack holds a lot of weight and stays solid once mounted.
#3

Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model MT2-B

Rating
9.8
Bike Capacity
Compatibility
Ease of Installation

Most important from
5301 reviews

Bike Capacity
Compact but sturdy, performing well even with heavier bikes.
Compatibility
Fits on a MINI Cooper perfectly, with minimal pressure on the car's window.
Ease of Installation
Instructions are clear and easy to follow, making the initial setup straightforward.
Durability
Once strapped to the car, the rack is surprisingly sturdy and doesn't budge.

The Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model MT2-B, is a practical option for your Subaru Forester, thanks to its ultra-compact design. This rack is designed to hold up to 2 bikes with a maximum load capacity of 70 pounds, making it suitable for most bicycles. One of its strengths is its wide compatibility, fitting various vehicle types including sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs, which means it should fit well on a Subaru Forester.

The padded lower frame helps protect your vehicle from potential scratches, while the individual tie-downs ensure your bikes remain secure during transit. Installation is straightforward due to its strap mounting system, though it may require some initial adjustment to get the perfect fit. The foldable design makes it easy to store when not in use, which is an excellent feature for those with limited storage space.

On the downside, some users have pointed out that the rack might not be as durable as more robust models, potentially leading to wear and tear over time. Additionally, while the security features are decent, they may not offer advanced protection against theft compared to more expensive racks. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding Bike Rack is a solid, budget-friendly option for occasional use or short trips, especially for those who need a compact solution.

Rating
9.8
Bike Capacity
Compatibility
Ease of Installation

Most important from
5301 reviews

Bike Capacity
Compact but sturdy, performing well even with heavier bikes.
Compatibility
Fits on a MINI Cooper perfectly, with minimal pressure on the car's window.
Ease of Installation
Instructions are clear and easy to follow, making the initial setup straightforward.
Durability
Once strapped to the car, the rack is surprisingly sturdy and doesn't budge.

Buying Guide for the Best Car Bike Rack For Subaru Forester

Choosing the right car bike rack for your Subaru Forester involves understanding your specific needs and the features of different racks. The right bike rack will securely hold your bike, be easy to install and use, and fit your vehicle properly. Consider how often you will use the rack, the type of bikes you have, and how many bikes you need to transport. Also, think about how easy it is to load and unload bikes, and whether you need access to your vehicle's trunk or rear hatch while the bikes are mounted.
Rack TypeThere are several types of bike racks, including hitch-mounted, roof-mounted, and trunk-mounted racks. Hitch-mounted racks are easy to install and use, and they can carry multiple bikes. Roof-mounted racks keep the rear of your vehicle accessible but can be harder to load and unload. Trunk-mounted racks are usually the most affordable and easy to install but may limit access to the trunk. Choose the type that best fits your needs and vehicle usage.
Bike CapacityBike capacity refers to the number of bikes a rack can hold. If you only need to transport one or two bikes, a smaller capacity rack will suffice. However, if you plan to carry more bikes, look for racks that can accommodate three or four bikes. Consider your current and future needs to ensure you choose a rack that can handle the number of bikes you plan to transport.
CompatibilityCompatibility is crucial to ensure the bike rack fits your Subaru Forester. Check the rack's specifications to see if it is designed to fit your vehicle's make and model. Some racks are adjustable and can fit a range of vehicles, while others are specifically designed for certain models. Make sure the rack you choose is compatible with your Forester to ensure a secure fit.
Ease of InstallationEase of installation refers to how simple it is to mount the bike rack on your vehicle. Some racks require tools and a more complex setup, while others can be installed quickly and easily without any tools. If you plan to frequently remove and reinstall the rack, look for one that offers a straightforward installation process.
Security FeaturesSecurity features are important to protect your bikes from theft. Look for racks that come with locking mechanisms for both the rack itself and the bikes. Some racks have integrated locks, while others may require additional accessories. Consider how secure you need your bikes to be and choose a rack with appropriate security features.
AccessibilityAccessibility refers to how easy it is to load and unload bikes from the rack and whether you can access your vehicle's trunk or rear hatch while the bikes are mounted. Hitch-mounted racks often tilt or swing away to allow access to the rear of the vehicle. Roof-mounted racks keep the rear accessible but can be harder to load. Trunk-mounted racks may block access to the trunk. Choose a rack that offers the level of accessibility you need.
DurabilityDurability is important to ensure the bike rack can withstand regular use and various weather conditions. Look for racks made from high-quality materials such as steel or aluminum, which offer strength and resistance to rust and corrosion. Consider how often you will use the rack and the conditions it will be exposed to, and choose a durable option that will last.

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