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If you own a 2014-2018 Subaru Forester and need a reliable way to haul bicycles, picking the right bike rack makes a big difference in safety, convenience, and vehicle access. The wrong rack can block visibility, complicate loading, or risk damage to your bike or Forester. This guide covers five top-rated bike racks shortlisted for this Forester model, chosen to represent common mounting styles and load requirements.You will find practical guidance on installation effort, weight capacity, and how each rack type affects rear access, roof clearance, and bike stability. Read on for clear, vehicle-specific advice to match a rack to your typical rides and storage constraints.
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Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall Bike Rack A versatile, reliable rack that fits most user needs and installs easily | Subaru Roof-Mounted Bike Rack (SOA567B020) by Thule |  |
| Best Budget Bike Rack A low-cost option that provides acceptable performance for occasional use | Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack (Model 102DB) |  |
| Best Roof-Mounted Bike Rack Carries bikes on the roof to free up rear access and trunk space | Subaru Thule Fork-Mounted Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B011 |  |
| Best Trunk-Mounted Bike Rack Straps onto the trunk or hatch for no-hitch, no-roof convenience | Saris Bones 2-Bike Trunk Rack |  |
| Best 2-Bike Bike Rack Designed specifically to carry two bikes securely and efficiently | Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack (Model 102DN-R) |  |
1. Subaru Roof-Mounted Bike Rack (SOA567B020) by Thule
Best Overall Bike Rack
| Compatible vehicle type | Car |
|---|---|
| Mounting type | Clamp Mount, Roof Mount, Crossbar Mount, Strap Mount, Hitch Mount |
| Fit type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Material | Alloy Steel, Aluminum |
This Subaru-branded roof bike rack, manufactured by Thule, is a vehicle-specific carrier designed to mount to factory crossbars and hold one bike securely on the roof. It uses self-adjusting jaws that clamp the downtube for a snug frame hold and ratcheting straps for the front and rear wheels, which makes loading and securing a 20" to 29" wheeled bike straightforward. The carrier includes a lock for theft deterrence and adjustable mounting clamps so it can be moved between compatible Subaru roof rails. Being roof-mounted it keeps the hatch and rear access clear and is ideal for everyday rides, weekend trips, or transporting road and mountain bikes with tires up to 2.6" wide. Buyers should note that a crossbar set is required and roof load limits from the vehicle manual must be observed, and roof carriers add wind noise and slightly reduce fuel efficiency compared with hitch options.
Best for: Buyers who want a reliable, factory-fit roof carrier that makes loading a bike quick and keeps the rear hatch free, ideal for regular riders who prefer roof transport and value a secure, OEM-matched solution.
Less Ideal for: People who need to carry multiple bikes at once or who prefer lower-drag, easier-access hitch-mounted systems should consider alternatives.
- Vehicle-specific design for direct fit on listed Subaru models
- Self-adjusting jaws that clamp the bike downtube for secure frame hold
- Ratcheting straps for front and rear wheels minimize movement during transit
- Includes a lock and adjustable clamps for added security and cross-vehicle use
- Supports common wheel sizes 20"–29" and tires up to 2.6" wide
- Requires a separate crossbar set and adherence to the vehicle roof load limit
Verdict: The best overall bike rack balances fit, ease of installation, secure bike transport, durability, and value to suit most buyers looking for a dependable everyday solution.
2. Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack (Model 102DB)
Best Budget Bike Rack
| Load Capacity | 70 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Strap |
| Is Foldable | Yes |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel |
The Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack is a no-frills trunk carrier that hauls two bicycles using padded 12-inch carry arms and a strap-based mounting system. For a 2014–2018 Subaru Forester it installs quickly without tools and uses individual tie-downs to hold each bike in place, making it suitable for short trips and occasional use. The alloy steel construction and foldable design keep the unit lightweight and easy to store when not in use. Its straightforward strap mounting and universal fit approach mean setup is fast, though you will need to check and tighten straps periodically and avoid high-speed highway hauling with heavy bikes. The rack comes assembled and includes a lifetime manufacturer warranty on workmanship, which adds reassurance at this price point. If you want a simple, low-cost way to move two bikes on a Forester for weekend rides, this rack covers the basics reliably, but it lacks the security features and smoother road isolation of higher-end platform or hitch-mounted systems.
Best for: Buyers wanting a low-cost, simple way to transport one or two bikes on occasional weekend trips in a 2014–2018 Forester who prioritize upfront affordability and easy storage.
Less Ideal for: Frequent long-distance riders, owners of heavy electric or downhill bikes, or anyone needing high security and minimal bike-to-vehicle movement should consider a platform or hitch-mounted rack instead.
- Carries up to two bikes with individual tie-downs for each bike
- Mounts quickly to trunk or hatch with strap-based universal fit for easy installation on a Forester
- Foldable, lightweight alloy steel design stores compactly when not in use
- Comes fully assembled and includes a lifetime workmanship warranty
- Strap mounting requires regular tension checks and can allow more movement than hitch or roof systems
Verdict: The best budget bike rack gives reliable, no-frills bike transport at a low price, ideal for occasional riders or buyers prioritizing upfront cost over premium features.
3. Subaru Thule Fork-Mounted Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B011
Best Roof-Mounted Bike Rack
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Roof Rails |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 150 pound |
| Mounting Type | Clamp |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
This Subaru-branded Thule fork-mounted roof carrier secures a bike by clamping the front fork and supporting the rear wheel on a sliding tray, making it a straightforward roof-mounted solution for models in the specified Subaru range. Installation uses integrated mounting clamps that attach to factory roof rails, so switching between compatible vehicles is quick and tool-light. The aluminum tray is low-profile and corrosion resistant, and the ratcheting rear-wheel strap plus included lock help keep a bike stable and deter theft. The sliding tray accepts tires up to about 3 inches wide, which covers most road and many hybrid mountain bikes. Expect to lift the bike overhead and align the fork with the clamp each trip, which is the usual physical trade-off of roof transport compared with rear-mounted options. This carrier is best when you want the rear hatch free and prefer a tidy, aerodynamic roof load; it is less convenient for very heavy bikes or frequent solo loading because of the required lifting and overhead work.
Best for: Buyers who want to keep the vehicle rear clear and prefer a tidy, aerodynamic roof solution for occasional to regular bike trips and are comfortable lifting bikes onto the roof.
Less Ideal for: People who routinely transport very heavy e-bikes, carry many bikes without help, or need a no-lift mounting solution should consider a hitch-mounted or platform rack instead.
- Vehicle-specific design fits Subaru roof rails for a secure factory-quality fit
- Aluminum low-profile tray resists corrosion and reduces wind impact
- Sliding tray and fork clamp accommodate tires up to about 3 inches wide
- Ratcheting rear-wheel strap plus included lock improve bike security
- Requires lifting the bike onto the roof, which can be difficult with heavy or e-bikes
- Front fork mount means a front-wheel removal step is needed for each bike
- Not suitable for very wide tires beyond the specified 3 inch range
Verdict: The best roof-mounted bike rack is for buyers who prefer keeping the rear of the vehicle clear and don’t mind lifting bikes onto the roof for transport.
4. Saris Bones 2-Bike Trunk Rack
Best Trunk-Mounted Bike Rack
| Load Capacity | 35 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Trunk Mount, Strap Mount |
| Model | Bones 2-Bike |
| Brand | Saris |
The Saris Bones 2-Bike is a trunk-mounted rack built for simple, portable bike transport and easy storage. It secures to the hatch or trunk with coated straps and spring-buckle attachments, holds two bikes up to 35 pounds each, and separates frames with its arc-based design to reduce bike-to-bike contact. Injection-molded arms and legs create a rust-resistant frame that stays light for one-person installs, and the ratcheting anti-sway straps help keep bikes steady on winding roads. For practical use on a Subaru Forester (2014–2018), it installs without tools and avoids the need for a hitch or roof bars, making it handy for occasional trail runs and weekend trips. Limitations include less stability compared with hitch-mounted platform racks during aggressive driving and potential compatibility issues with very large spoilers or nonstandard rear trim, so verify fit before relying on it for long highway hauls.
Best for: Buyers who want a simple, easy-to-store trunk solution for occasional to regular cycling trips and prefer not to use a hitch or roof bars.
Less Ideal for: Those who frequently carry heavy bikes, need maximum on-road stability for long highway travel, or require a permanent hitch-mounted solution.
- Portable, lightweight design for easy one-person install and storage
- Arc-based arms separate bikes to minimize contact and scratching
- Rubberized feet and coated straps protect the vehicle finish
- Injection-molded, rust-resistant frame for long-term durability
- Ratcheting anti-sway straps improve stability on typical drives
- Less secure and more movement-prone than hitch-mounted platform racks at high speeds
Verdict: The best trunk-mounted bike rack fits buyers who need a simple, portable mounting option that requires no hitch or roof bars and is easy to store when not in use.
5. Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack (Model 102DN-R)
Best 2-Bike Bike Rack
| Load Capacity | 70 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Is Foldable | Yes |
| Mounting Type | Strap |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Bicycle, Car |
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
The Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack is a strap-mounted carrier that holds two bikes on a vehicle trunk or hatch using padded lower frame supports and upper and lower straps that secure to the vehicle. It installs quickly without tools and ships fully assembled, so you can fit two road or mountain bikes for short trips or weekend rides. The padded lower frame helps keep bikes off the vehicle surface and the patented lower strap design reduces hook slip during use. With a 70 pound load capacity the rack handles two modestly weighted bikes and folds flat for storage when not in use. Limitations to expect include potential movement on long highway trips compared with hitch-mounted systems and the need to double-check strap routing on vehicles with integrated spoilers or complex rear trim. For a 2014–2018 Subaru Forester this style gives a lightweight, noninvasive way to carry two bikes without a hitch or roof bars, provided you follow the fitment checks and secure padding to protect the rear finish.
Best for: Buyers who regularly transport two bikes and want a lightweight, easy-to-install trunk carrier that fits a Forester without adding a hitch or roof rack.
Less Ideal for: People who frequently make long-distance highway trips with heavy bikes or who prefer a more rigid hitch- or roof-mounted system for maximum stability.
- Holds two bikes with a 70 pound total capacity suitable for most casual riders.
- Padded lower frame keeps bicycles away from the vehicle to reduce scuffs and contact.
- Comes fully assembled and installs quickly with straps for fast on/off use.
- Folds compactly for easy storage when not in use.
- Strap-mounted design can allow more movement than hitch-mounted racks on long highway drives.
Verdict: The best 2-bike bike rack is targeted at buyers who typically transport a pair of bikes and want a compact, balanced carrier optimized for that capacity.
Choosing the Right 2014-2018 Subaru Forester Bike Rack: Key Factors to Consider
Mounting Style and Vehicle Fit
The mounting style determines how the rack attaches to your Forester and affects installation complexity, clearance, and access. Hitch-mounted racks require a compatible receiver and usually offer the easiest loading height, while roof-mounted racks need crossbars and raise the center of gravity. Trunk-mounted racks can be an economical option but may block the rear hatch or stress the vehicles paint and trim if not fitted correctly.
For the 2014-2018 Forester, confirm whether your vehicle has a factory hitch, aftermarket receiver, or roof rails before choosing. Also consider how often you open the rear hatch: some racks allow hatch access without removal, others do not. Proper fit reduces rattling, prevents contact damage, and ensures safe transport.
Weight Capacity and Number of Bikes
Weight capacity defines how much total load the rack and the Foresters attachment points can safely carry. Consider the combined weight of your bikes, including heavier e-bikes or fat-tire models, and allow a margin for accessories like racks and panniers. Rack capacities vary by mounting type; hitch racks often support higher total weight than roof or trunk options.
Also check how many bikes you typically carry. A rack that supports two bikes may be sufficient for solo riders, while families or group riders may need three or more positions. Overloading a rack can stress the vehicle and create unsafe handling, so match the racks rated capacity to your usual load.
Installation Effort and Day-to-Day Use
Installation effort influences how often you will realistically use the rack. Roof racks require lifting bikes overhead and securing them to crossbars, which can be strenuous. Hitch-mounted racks often allow loading at waist height and can include tilt or fold features for rear access. Trunk-mounted racks are generally quicker to fit and remove but may require careful positioning and tightening.
Evaluate whether you need a rack that stays on the vehicle year-round or one you will remove frequently. Look for tool-free adjustments, straightforward tie-downs, and intuitive locking points to reduce time at the trailhead or grocery store.
Bike Protection and Stability
Protecting both bike finish and Forester paintwork is a key consideration. Anti-sway cradles, padded contact points, frame clamps, and wheel straps all help keep bikes stable and prevent rubbing or scratching during transport. Sway control is especially important on longer drives and at highway speeds where wind and vehicle motion can cause bikes to collide.
Ensure straps and contact points are robust, replaceable, and serviceable. Consider whether the rack secures wheels as well as frames; wheel-focused retention can reduce stress on carbon frames or suspension forks.
Access, Clearance, and Parking Practicalities
A rack changes how you use and park your Forester. Roof racks raise vehicle height and may affect garage clearance or low overhangs. Hitch racks extend the vehicles rear length and might complicate tight parking or backing into spaces. Trunk racks can block the hatch and interfere with loading cargo.
Think about your typical parking environment and storage situation. Foldable racks or those with tilt-to-access features can restore hatch usability or reduce overall length when parked. Also consider whether the rack allows you to use roof rails or a cargo box simultaneously.
Security and Locking Features
Security matters when you leave bikes unattended. Look for integrated locks or the ability to add locks to secure both bikes to the rack and rack to vehicle. Durable straps and tamper-resistant fasteners deter casual theft and limit the risk of bikes coming loose during transport.
Also consider how easy it is to lock and unlock the rack while managing bikes. A secure system that is cumbersome in daily use will likely be bypassed, so balance theft protection with usability.
Hitch Receiver Considerations for the Forester
If your 2014-2018 Forester has a receiver hitch, hitch-mounted bike racks offer convenient loading height and high weight capacity. Confirm the receiver class and the vehicles tongue weight rating to ensure safe operation under load. Many Forester owners prefer hitch racks for heavier bikes or regular multi-bike transport because they reduce lifting and provide strong attachment points.
Pay attention to how a hitch rack affects rear clearance and whether the design includes a tilt or swing-away feature that allows rear hatch access without removing the rack. Also check whether a hitch adapter or extension is necessary when using a spare or aftermarket receiver to avoid contact with the bumper.
- Verify receiver class and tongue weight limits before choosing a hitch rack.
- Look for tilt or fold features to maintain rear hatch access.
- Confirm hitch clearance to avoid bumper contact when loaded.
Roof Mount Tradeoffs and Practical Tips
Roof racks keep the rear of the Forester free and are useful when you need hatch access or carry other cargo on a hitch. However, loading bikes onto the roof requires lifting and can be awkward for heavier models. Roof-mount setups also add height, which matters for garage clearance and low overpasses.
If you use a roof rack, secure crossbars properly to the Foresters roof rails and choose a bike attachment that protects frames and wheels. Pay attention to the combined system weight rating of bars plus mounts, and distribute bikes to avoid overloading one side.
- Watch garage and parking height limits with roof-mounted bikes.
- Use padded clamps and wheel trays to protect bike frames.
- Confirm crossbar weight rating plus bike load does not exceed roof limits.
Trunk-Mounted Racks: When They Make Sense
Trunk or rear-mounted racks are often the most budget-friendly and simple to fit for occasional use. For Forester owners who rarely haul bikes or who lack a hitch or roof rails, a well-fitted trunk rack provides a reasonable compromise. Proper padding and correct strap routing are essential to avoid paint scuffs or trunk misalignment.
Remember that trunk racks can restrict rear hatch operation and may not be ideal for longer drives or highway speeds unless well secured. Periodic checks of straps and attachment points are more important with trunk racks because they rely heavily on tension and padding rather than fixed mount points.
- Ensure straps do not contact sharp trim or scrape paint.
- Avoid extended high-speed highway use unless rack and bikes are very secure.
- Remove and store trunk racks if you need regular rear hatch access.
Folding and Storage-Friendly Designs
If you plan to keep a rack on the vehicle part-time or store it in a garage, folding or quick-release features reduce footprint and improve convenience. Many hitch and platform racks fold toward the vehicle when not in use, helping with tight parking or when entering a garage. Folding roof towers or collapsible trunk racks can also save space during storage.
When assessing folding systems, verify that hinges and locking points feel robust and that the folded position does not place strain on the Foresters attachment points. Ease of folding with bikes still mounted is a valuable convenience feature for frequent users.
- Test folding mechanisms for solidity and user-friendliness.
- Check folded dimensions against garage or storage space.
- Ensure folded position does not stress vehicle mounting points.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
A rack will last longer with routine inspection and care. Check straps, buckles, and foam padding for wear and replace them before failure. Lubricate moving parts on hitch-mounted racks to prevent rust and stiff operation, and inspect bolts for tightness after the first few trips and periodically thereafter.
Store racks off the ground during winter to prevent salt corrosion and keep locks functioning with occasional lubrication. Replacing worn contact pads is often cheaper than repairing damaged bike paint or vehicle finish.
- Inspect straps and pads regularly and replace worn components.
- Lubricate moving metal parts and keep hardware tight.
- Store racks indoors or elevated in winter to limit corrosion.
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Subaru Forester configuration to see the most relevant Hitch-mounted Bike Racks recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2014-2018 Subaru Forester Bike Rack
We focused on practical fitment, secure mounting, and usability for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester. Our selection filters emphasized compatibility with the Foresters roof and hitch options, how each mounting style affects vehicle access, and the real-world tasks owners face when loading and securing bikes.Concrete evaluation criteria included mounting type and vehicle fit, load capacity and the number of bikes supported, ease of installation and day-to-day use, impacts on rear hatch or roof access, and durability of straps, locks, and fasteners. We also considered folding or stow options for garages and tight parking situations, anti-sway and anti-tilt features for bike protection, and whether the rack preserves frame and wheel contact points.Excluded items were specialty racks that require major vehicle modification, single-use novelty carriers, or options that do not fit the Foresters common attachment points. Our process prioritized racks that balance secure transport with straightforward installation and routine convenience for Forester owners.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Can I use a trunk-mounted rack on my 2014-2018 Forester year-round?
You can use a trunk-mounted rack year-round, but it requires frequent checks of straps and attachment points. Trunk racks depend on tension and padding, so inspect for wear and tighten straps before every trip, especially in winter when materials can stiffen.
Will a hitch-mounted rack allow me to open the Foresters rear hatch?
Some hitch-mounted racks have tilt or swing features that permit rear hatch access without removing the rack. Confirm that the rack you choose explicitly lists a tilt or swing function compatible with the Foresters hatch clearance.
How do I know if my Foresters roof can handle roof-mounted bikes?
Check your Foresters roof rail and crossbar weight limits and the vehicles published roof load rating. Add the weight of crossbars, mount hardware, and bikes to ensure you do not exceed the combined rating to avoid damaging the roof or compromising handling.
Are there special considerations for carrying e-bikes or heavy bikes?
Yes. Heavy bikes require higher weight capacity and often favor hitch-mounted platform racks that support wheelbases. Verify total tongue weight capacity for hitch setups and the racks per-bike rating to ensure safe transport of heavier e-bikes.
How should I secure bikes to prevent sway and rubbing during transport?
Use racks with anti-sway cradles, padded frame clamps, and reliable wheel straps. Tighten all tie-downs and consider additional secondary straps for long trips to minimize movement and protect both bikes and the Foresters finish.
Can a folding rack remain on the vehicle while parked in tight garages?
Many folding racks reduce overall length or height when stowed, but you should measure the folded dimensions against your garage clearance. Ensure hinges lock firmly and do not press against the vehicle when folded.
Final Verdict
Prioritize a rack that matches how you use your 2014-2018 Subaru Forester. If you regularly haul heavy or multiple bikes, a hitch-mounted option with high weight capacity and tilt access is often the most practical. For occasional use or limited budgets, a well-padded trunk rack can be acceptable if you take care to route straps and inspect attachments before each trip.Balance load capacity, installation effort, and how the rack affects hatch and roof access. Focus on secure attachment points, good anti-sway features, and replaceable straps or pads for long-term reliability. With those priorities in mind, you can choose a Forester-friendly bike rack that meets your riding and storage needs confidently.
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