[jennyshaffus1]

I just need a bike rack for three bikes, but in the past I have used those ones that attach to the trunk and do not feel stable. So, I think I am going to bite the financial bullet and have a hitch installed on my 2019 Forester in order to add a bike rack. Any suggestions are welcome on the hitch or bike rack.

 

[Fibber2]

3 bikes or more typically move you from a 1.25" stinger on the rack up to a 2" stinger. There are exceptions (Allen being one), but I'd go with a 2" hitch receiver if at all possible.

Tray style racks are indeed easier to live with than traditional 'hanging' racks, but typically cost 2x or more.

Receivers for your Forester? Lots of opinions on that. I've always done the install myself. If you will farm this out, U-Haul is a popular choice. They typically install either Cequent brands or occasionally Curt hitches with the U-Haul label.

 

[jennyshaffus1]

3 bikes or more typically move you from a 1.25" stinger on the rack up to a 2" stinger. There are exceptions (Allen being one), but I'd go with a 2" hitch receiver if at all possible.

Tray style racks are indeed easier to live with than traditional 'hanging' racks, but typically cost 2x or more.

Receivers for your Forester? Lots of opinions on that. I've always done the install myself. If you will farm this out, U-Haul is a popular choice. They typically install either Cequent brands or occasionally Curt hitches with the U-Haul label.

Thank you. This is really helpful information. I am new to all of this.
Would you recommend going to the dealership for the hitch?

 

[neolynne]

I have a 2020. I have the Torklift Ecohitch and like it better than the Draw Tites I've had before simply because I prefer the design and install not because I'm convinced it is superior. Definitely get a Class III with a 2" receiver. My rack of choice is a 1Up USA. I have a single with an add-on. Your best option would be a super duty double with an add-on. They are pricy but worth it. I have had literally every permutation of hitch and bike rack style on my Foresters and the one I currently have is hands down my favorite.

 

[TampaTom]

Thank you. This is really helpful information. I am new to all of this.
Would you recommend going to the dealership for the hitch?

Go to the dealer only if you enjoy paying too much. I personally would order one from E-Trailer and find a place to install it

 

[Fibber2]

Subaru brand hitches are very well designed, but you are typically limited to 1.25 receivers. The exception may be hitches designed for the new Wilderness, but not sure if they will install these on non-Wilderness trims. For that reason I stopped going to the dealer and turned to the aftermarket.

 

[hotkohls]

Curt Hitch install at a Uhaul Dealer in Escondido, CA. Had an appt. Job went like clockwork. Good price. See below:

Hitch Class:​ Hidden Cross Tube Max Towing Weight:​ 3500 With Weight Distribution:​ 0 Vehicle Type:​ 2021 Subaru Forester Installation Date:​ 1/1/2022 7:00 AM
Part Code	Description	Item Cost​	Quantity​	Line Cost​
CMF13459	2 Inch Receiver Hidden Cross Tube	$204.95​	1.0​	$204.95​
	Hitch Labor - CMF13459	$90.00​	1.3​	$117.00​
HITCH WARRANTY	HITCH WARRANTY	$5.00​	1.0​	$5.00​
Subtotal:​	$326.95​
Taxes:​	$15.88​
Total Charges Including Tax:​	$342.83​

 

[puffdc]

Ecohitch, made in USA

 

[DragonSubie7]

Curt hitches have a good reputation.
Ditto on going with a 2 inch receiver, as it gives you more options.

What it doesn't give you is the capability of safely towing more weight.
In @hotkohls invoice above, the hitch may be rated 3500 pounds, but the car isn't.

 

[Phil From Texas]

I bought a 2 inch Curt hitch online, and had a local trailer shop install it. If I bought the hitch from them, it would have been double the price, for the same product. They charged about $75.00 to put it on. I would not bother with the dealer, unless price is not a consideration.