Finding the perfect bike rack for your Subaru Crosstrek can feel like a puzzle. You want something secure, easy to use, and that won’t scratch up your ride. After years of weekend bike trips and a few unfortunate rack mishaps, I’ve learned what to look for. This guide shares my top picks for bike racks that work great with the Crosstrek, based on personal experience and lots of research.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Thule Epos: Premium hitch rack, easy loading, fits all bike types.
- Saris Bones EX 3-Bike Trunk Rack: Budget-friendly trunk rack, fits a variety of cars.
- Yakima RidgeBack 4-Bike Hitch Rack: Solid hitch rack, good value, anti-sway feature.
- SeaSucker Talon QR: Unique vacuum-cup mount, portable, fits almost any car.
- RockyMounts BackStage Swing Away Hitch Rack: Convenient swing-away design, easy access to the rear of the car.
Top 5 Best Bike Racks For Subaru Crosstrek
1. Thule Epos
The Thule Epos is a premium hitch rack designed for ease of use and versatility. It’s perfect if you have different types of bikes because it handles everything from road bikes to e-bikes without needing adapters.
Pros:
- ✅ Super easy to load and unload bikes.
- ✅ Fits a wide range of bike sizes and frame types.
- ✅ High-quality build and finish.
Cons:
- ❌ It’s one of the more expensive options.
- ❌ Can be a bit heavy to install.
- ❌ Takes up a fair amount of storage space when not in use.
Verdict: If you’re willing to invest in a top-of-the-line rack and want something that will last, the Thule Epos is a great choice. It’s ideal for cyclists with multiple bikes or those who prioritize convenience.
2. Saris Bones EX 3-Bike Trunk Rack
The Saris Bones EX is a trunk-mounted rack known for its compatibility with a wide range of vehicles. It’s made from recycled materials and offers a solid, secure way to transport up to three bikes.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ Easy to install and remove.
- ✅ Fits a wide range of vehicles.
Cons:
- ❌ Bikes can sway and potentially rub against each other.
- ❌ Requires careful strap adjustment for a secure fit.
- ❌ Trunk access is limited when the rack is installed.
Verdict: The Saris Bones EX is a good option if you’re on a budget and need a rack that can be easily transferred between different cars. It’s best for occasional use and shorter trips.
3. Yakima RidgeBack 4-Bike Hitch Rack
The Yakima RidgeBack is a sturdy hitch rack designed to carry up to four bikes. It features an anti-sway system to minimize bike movement during transport, protecting both your bikes and your vehicle.
Pros:
- ✅ Anti-sway cradles prevent bike-to-bike contact.
- ✅ Tilting feature allows access to the rear of the vehicle.
- ✅ Easy to install and remove.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be heavy to lift and install, especially the 4-bike version.
- ❌ Some users find the tilt mechanism a bit stiff.
- ❌ May require a separate adapter for bikes with non-standard frames.
Verdict: The Yakima RidgeBack is a reliable choice for families or groups who frequently transport multiple bikes. The anti-sway feature is a definite plus.
4. SeaSucker Talon QR
The SeaSucker Talon QR is a unique bike rack that uses vacuum cups to attach to your car. It’s incredibly portable and can be installed on almost any vehicle, making it a great option for travel.
Pros:
- ✅ Very portable and easy to store.
- ✅ Attaches to almost any car.
- ✅ Doesn’t require a hitch.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be unnerving for some users due to the vacuum cup attachment.
- ❌ Requires a clean surface for proper adhesion.
- ❌ Only carries one bike.
Verdict: If you need a bike rack that’s easy to travel with and doesn’t require a hitch, the SeaSucker Talon QR is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for solo riders who want a versatile mounting option.
5. RockyMounts BackStage Swing Away Hitch Rack
The RockyMounts BackStage is a hitch rack with a swing-away design. This allows you to easily access the rear of your Crosstrek without having to remove the bikes or the rack itself.
Pros:
- ✅ Swing-away feature provides easy access to the rear of the vehicle.
- ✅ Sturdy and well-built.
- ✅ Accommodates a variety of bike sizes and frame styles.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be quite heavy.
- ❌ More expensive than standard hitch racks.
- ❌ The swing-away mechanism adds to the overall length.
Verdict: The RockyMounts BackStage is a great option if you frequently need to access the cargo area of your Crosstrek. The swing-away feature is a game-changer for convenience.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right bike rack for your Subaru Crosstrek involves considering a few key factors. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Type of Rack: Hitch racks are generally the most stable and can carry multiple bikes, but require a hitch receiver. Trunk racks are more affordable and easier to install but can be less secure. Roof racks are good for carrying bikes and leaving the hitch free, but require lifting bikes onto the roof. And vacuum racks are portable and versatile, but require a clean surface.
- Number of Bikes: Consider how many bikes you typically need to transport. Racks are available in various capacities, from single-bike to four-bike models.
- Bike Compatibility: Make sure the rack is compatible with your bike’s frame style, tire size, and weight. Some racks may require adapters for certain bikes.
- Ease of Use: Look for a rack that’s easy to load and unload bikes, as well as install and remove from your vehicle. Features like tilt-down mechanisms and integrated locking systems can add convenience.
- Security: Choose a rack that securely holds your bikes in place and minimizes swaying during transport. Anti-sway cradles and locking mechanisms can help prevent damage and theft.
- Budget: Bike racks range in price from affordable trunk-mounted options to premium hitch-mounted models. Determine your budget and choose a rack that offers the best value for your needs.
- Vehicle Compatibility: Double-check that the rack is compatible with your Subaru Crosstrek. Some trunk racks may not fit certain vehicles, and hitch racks require a specific hitch receiver size.
FAQs
Q: Will a hitch-mounted bike rack affect my Crosstrek’s gas mileage?
A: Yes, any bike rack will likely have some impact on gas mileage due to increased wind resistance. Hitch-mounted racks tend to have a greater impact compared to roof racks.
Q: Can I open my Crosstrek’s trunk with a trunk-mounted bike rack installed?
A: In most cases, no. Trunk-mounted racks usually block access to the trunk. Some hitch racks have a tilt-down feature that allows you to access the trunk, but it’s important to check the specific model.
Q: Are bike racks easy to install?
A: Some are easier than others. Trunk racks are generally the easiest to install, while hitch racks require a hitch receiver and may involve some initial assembly. Vacuum racks are also straightforward, as they attach with suction cups.
Q: How do I prevent my bikes from getting scratched on the rack?
A: Use foam padding or bike frame protectors to cushion the contact points between the bikes and the rack. Also, make sure the bikes are securely fastened to prevent them from swaying and rubbing against each other.
Q: Do I need lights on my bike rack?
A: Depending on your local laws, you may need to ensure your tail lights and license plate are visible. Some hitch racks have built-in light bars or require the use of an adapter to relocate your license plate.
Conclusion
Choosing the best bike rack for your Subaru Crosstrek depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize affordability, ease of use, or maximum bike capacity, there’s a rack out there that’s perfect for you. I hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options and find the ideal solution for your cycling adventures.
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