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E-bikes are heavy, and that changes how you carry them. A standard bike rack that works for a regular bike can be too small for an e-bike on a Crosstrek, Forester or Outback. Here is how to decide and which racks to look at. Check each rack’s listed weight rating against your bike before you buy.
Quick Picks
• Best platform rack: Kuat NV 2.0, rated 4.7 to 4.8 stars on Amazon. Check its listed per-bike weight for your e-bike
• Best premium pick: Thule T2 Pro XTR, rated 4.5 stars on Amazon
• Best for heavy bikes: Kuat Transfer V2, a 3 or 4 bike platform rack
• Best loading help: Thule folding loading ramp, saves your back with a heavy bike
Why Weight Is the Problem
Many e-bikes weigh 50 lbs or more, and some weigh a lot more, so check the weight on your bike’s spec sheet. Lifting that overhead onto a roof is difficult, and the roof limit is also low. On most Subarus it is 150 to 176 lbs for the crossbars, the rack and everything on them. See roof weight limits by model and year.
The Hitch Rack Is Usually the Better Choice
A platform hitch rack lets you roll or lift the bike to waist height, and it keeps the weight off the roof. The catch is tongue weight, because the rack and the bikes all press down on the hitch. Subaru’s hitch listings show 150 lbs of tongue weight on a standard 2022-2024 Forester and on a standard 2024-2026 Crosstrek, and more on the Wilderness trims. Our hitch receiver guide has the details.
A Quick Weight Check
- Rack weight (platform racks are heavy, so check the listing).
- Plus the weight of each e-bike.
- Compare the total to your hitch’s tongue weight limit.
Two e-bikes and a platform rack can reach 150 lbs quickly, which is why one bike on a standard Forester or Crosstrek is more realistic than two. The Wilderness trims and some Outbacks have more room, so check the number for your hitch.
Racks Worth Looking At
The Kuat NV 2.0 and the Thule T2 Pro XTR are platform racks, which hold the bike by the wheels and frame. The Kuat Transfer V2 is a 3 or 4 bike option. A folding loading ramp saves your back with a heavy bike.
Tips for Carrying an E-Bike
- Remove the battery and any bags before you drive, so the bike is lighter and the battery is safe.
- Use a rack rated for e-bike weight that holds the bike securely.
- Check the rack and straps at your first stop.
FAQs
Can you put an e-bike on a Subaru roof rack?
You can, but the bike and rack count against a roof limit of 150 to 176 lbs on most models, and lifting an e-bike overhead is hard.
What kind of rack is best for an e-bike?
A platform hitch rack, because it keeps the weight low and lets you roll the bike on.
How many e-bikes can a Subaru carry?
It depends on your hitch’s tongue weight and the rack. One bike is the realistic choice on a standard Forester or Crosstrek.
Should I take the battery off?
Yes. It reduces weight and protects the battery on the road.
Final Thoughts
For an e-bike, start with a platform hitch rack and a quick weight check against your tongue limit. If the numbers are tight, carry one bike.
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