Subaru Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B020 or Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier? Which Subaru Model to Buy
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You are deciding between the subaru roof bike carrier soa567b020 vs roof fork bike carrier. Both are OEM roof-mounted carriers from Subaru designed for single bikes. They share key features like integrated mounting clamps for easy vehicle switching and include one lock for security. The main difference lies in how they hold the bike. One uses self-adjusting jaws on the frame, while the other mounts to the front fork. This changes compatibility and setup for you.
Key differences
| Aspect | Subaru Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B020 | Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Mounting Style | Jaws wrap around downtube | Mounts to front fork |
| Max Tire Width | 2.6 inches | 3 inches |
| Wheel Compatibility | 20 to 29 inches | Not listed |
| Included Fork Holder | Not listed | Sold separately (SOA567B030) |
| Weight | 1 pounds | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Subaru Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B020 if
- You prefer a carrier that grips the bike frame directly without needing extra parts
- Your bike has wheels between 20 and 29 inches wide
- You want a lighter unit at 1 pound
Choose Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier if
- You have bikes with tires up to 3 inches wide
- You already own or plan to buy the separate fork holder
- You want a corrosion-resistant aluminum tray
Verdict: Choose the SOA567B020 if you want a straightforward frame-hold solution that works out of the box. Pick the roof fork bike carrier if you need wider tire clearance and already have the necessary fork holder. Both options secure your bike safely to the roof.
Roof Bike Carrier Comparison
Frame contact type
The Subaru Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B020 uses self-adjusting jaws that wrap around the downtube. This method secures the main triangle of the frame. It works with most standard bike geometries without needing special adapters. In contrast, the Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier attaches directly to the front fork. This design avoids contact with the frame itself, which protects the finish and suspension components. You must ensure your bike has a standard fork mount for this carrier. The fork mount is often preferred for high-end bikes to prevent frame stress during transport.
Tire width capacity
You need to check your tire size before choosing. The Subaru Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B020 fits tires up to 2.6 inches wide. This covers most standard mountain and hybrid bikes. The Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier offers a wider range, accommodating tires up to 3 inches wide. Its sliding wheel tray adjusts to fit these thicker tires securely. If you ride a fat bike or a bike with very wide knobby tires, the fork carrier provides more clearance. The extra inch of width can make a difference for stability on the road.
Wheel size compatibility
The Subaru Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B020 explicitly lists compatibility for wheels ranging from 20 inches to 29 inches. This range covers children's bikes, standard adult bikes, and most modern mountain bikes. The data for the Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier does not specify wheel diameter limits, only the tire width. You should assume it fits standard adult bikes, but small-wheeled bikes might not be confirmed compatible. If you have a diverse collection including smaller wheels, the SOA567B020 gives you confirmed flexibility across different sizes.
Security features
Both carriers include one lock to secure the bike to the carrier. The Subaru Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B020 uses ratcheting straps for both the front and rear wheels. The Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier uses a ratcheting wheel strap for the rear wheel and integrates a lock for the carrier to the vehicle. Both designs aim to keep your bike safe from theft. The fork mount may feel more secure to some because the bike is held by the rigid fork rather than the frame tubes. However, both provide essential locking mechanisms for peace of mind.
Vehicle compatibility
Check your specific Subaru model year before buying. The SOA567B020 fits the Legacy from 2020 to 2025, which the fork carrier does not list. The fork carrier fits the Impreza from 2017 to 2026, while the SOA567B020 does not list Impreza compatibility. Both fit the Ascent, Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, and WRX, though the start years vary slightly. You must verify your exact model year against the lists. The fork carrier includes a note that a separate front wheel holder (SOA567B030) is sold separately, which affects your total package requirements.
Choose the right Subaru bike carrier
Rider with wide tires or plus-size bikes
The fork mount carrier supports tires up to 3 inches wide, accommodating wider rubber than the 2.6-inch limit of the downtube model. Its sliding wheel tray adjusts to fit various bike lengths securely. If you ride fat bikes or e-bikes with bulky tires, this wider clearance ensures a safer fit without squeezing the rubber.
Owner of a 2010-2014 Outback or Legacy
The downtube carrier fits Outback models from 2010 through 2026 and Legacy models from 2020 to 2025. The fork mount version only supports Outbacks from 2015 onward and does not list Legacy compatibility. If you drive an older Outback or a Legacy, this is the only OEM option that mounts directly to your roof rails.
Rider preferring lightweight aluminum construction
The fork mount carrier features a low-profile aluminum tray that is corrosion-resistant. This material choice keeps weight down and helps withstand weather exposure over time. While the exact weight of the fork model is not listed, the aluminum build suggests a durable, light design suitable for daily commuting or weekend trips on your Subaru roof rack.
The products compared
Subaru Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B020
Best for: Single bike transport on Subaru roof rails
- Bike Capacity
- 1
- Mount Type
- roof
- Locking
- one lock
- Tire Width
- 2.6"
- Use
- Bike
- Weight
- 1 pounds
View on Amazon: Subaru Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B020 Affiliate link
This Subaru roof bike carrier mounts directly to your vehicle's roof rails. It features self-adjusting jaws that wrap around the downtube for a secure hold. The unit includes ratcheting straps to secure both front and rear wheels. It fits bikes with 20 to 29-inch wheels and tires up to 2.6 inches wide. You get one lock for security. This is a single-bike solution designed for Subaru models like the Outback and Forester.
Pros
- Self-adjusting jaws grip the downtube precisely
- Fits 20 to 29 inch wheels
- Accommodates tires up to 2.6 inches wide
- Includes one security lock
- Adjustable mounting clamps for easy installation
Cons
- Limited to carrying only one bike
- Requires roof rails for mounting
- No mention of tool-free quick release mechanism
Good fit if
- You own a Subaru with roof rails
- You need to transport a single bike
- You have bikes with tires up to 2.6 inches wide
Skip if
- You need to carry more than one bike
- Your vehicle lacks roof rails
- Your bike tires exceed 2.6 inches in width
Verdict: Subaru Roof Bike Carrier is a secure, single-bike option for Subaru owners. It fits most standard road and mountain bikes on compatible models.
Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier
Best for: single bike transport on compatible Subaru models
- Bike Capacity
- 1
- Mount Type
- roof
- Tire Width
- 3 inches
- Frame Contact
- fork mount
- Use
- Bike
View on Amazon: Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier Affiliate link
This is a fork-mounted roof bike carrier designed for one bike. It features a sliding wheel tray that fits tires up to 3 inches wide. The lightweight aluminum construction resists corrosion. Integrated clamps allow for easy installation on compatible Subaru models. It includes a lock for security. This setup secures your bike by the front fork, keeping the frame safe during transport.
Pros
- Fits tires up to 3 inches wide
- Lightweight corrosion-resistant aluminum tray
- Includes lock for security
Cons
- Holds only one bike
- Front wheel sold separately
- Requires front fork removal
Good fit if
- You own a compatible Subaru model
- You transport a single bike
- You prefer fork-mounted security
Skip if
- You need to carry multiple bikes
- You want to keep the front wheel attached
- Your vehicle is not a compatible Subaru
Verdict: Subaru Fork-Mounted Roof Bike Carrier is a secure option for single-bike transport on compatible Subaru models. It suits riders who prioritize frame protection and have a compatible vehicle with roof racks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Subaru Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B020 | Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Bike Capacity | 1 | 1 |
| Mount Type | roof | roof |
| Locking | one lock | not stated |
| Tire Width | 2.6" | 3 inches |
| Frame Contact | not stated | fork mount |
| Use | Bike | Bike |
| Weight | 1 pounds | not stated |
| Color | Standard | Silver |
| Model | SOA567B020 | SOA567B010 |
| Size | not stated | unisex-adult |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Subaru SOA567B020 fit all Subaru models?
It fits most standard road and mountain bikes on compatible Subaru models. You must verify your vehicle has roof rails. The carrier is designed specifically for Subaru roof systems. Check your model year and rail type before purchase to ensure proper fitment and secure attachment.
How much does the Subaru roof bike carrier weigh?
The Subaru Roof Bike Carrier SOA567B020 weighs 1 pound. This light weight helps minimize impact on your vehicle's fuel economy. It remains lightweight even when mounted. This makes it easy to install and remove when you are not transporting a bike.
What color is the Subaru roof fork bike carrier?
The Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier is silver. This finish matches many OEM roof rack components. It provides a clean look on your vehicle. The silver color is part of the standard design for this specific fork-mounted model.
Is the fork carrier suitable for adult riders?
Yes, the Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier is listed for unisex-adult use. It is designed to handle standard adult bike frames. The mounting system supports the fork directly. This ensures stability for typical adult-sized bicycles during transport.
Can I use the downtube carrier for a single bike?
Yes, the SOA567B020 is best for single bike transport. It is designed to hold one bicycle securely on your roof. The self-adjusting jaws grip the downtube firmly. This single-bike focus ensures a stable and safe carrying experience for road or mountain bikes.
What is the model number for the fork carrier?
The Subaru Roof Fork Bike Carrier model is SOA567B010. Use this number to verify compatibility with your vehicle. It distinguishes this fork-mount unit from the downtube model. Ensure you order the correct part number for your specific Subaru roof rack setup.