Types Of Towbars

TOWBAR INFORMATION

There are a number of towbar styles and each one has its advantages and disadvantages. When choosing the type of towbar that is best for you, consider what it will be used for to make sure that you order the correct type for your needs.

FIXED FLANGE BALL

The style of towbar is where you have a Fixed Flange Ball bolted to the neck of the towbar with two M16 24mm bolts.

Versatile.
Can be used with a bumper shield.
Usually the Cheapest option.
Fits cycle carriers that bolt behind the ball as well as those that clamp onto the ball. So you can carry bikes and tow a trailer / caravan at the same time.
Can be used with blade style stabilisers.
A choice of towballs, jaws, universal couplings and accessories can be fitted.

Can be bulky and unsightly.
Likely to be picked up by Parking Sensors.
You will require an extended towball if you wish to use an AL-KO stabaliser.

FIXED SWAN NECK

The swan neck style towbar is where the towball is part of the neck of the towbar, this type of bar looks tidier on the vehicle but is not as versatile.

Better looking compact design.
Compatible with AL-KO stabilisers.
Less likely to trigger parking sensors.

Cannot be fitted with a bumper shield.
Only compatible with bike racks that clamp onto the ball.
No other towing couplings or accessories can be fitted.

DETACHABLE FLANGE BALL

This style of towbar offers all the versatility of a fixed flange bar whilst leaving very little if anything of the towbar visible when detached.

All the versatility of a fixed flange ball.
Fits cycle carriers that bolt behind the ball as well as those that clamp onto the ball so you can carry bikes and tow a trailer / caravan at the same time.
Removable when not in use.
Parking Sensors will not be activated when towball removed.
Can be used with blade style stabilisers.
A choice of towballs, jaws, universal couplings and accessories can be fitted.
Includes an extended towball (e.g. for use with an AL-KO stabaliser).

More expensive.
Can be bulky and unsightly when neck fitted.

DETACHABLE SWAN NECK

The detachable tow bar looks similar to the swan neck bar when fitted to the vehicle however when not in use the neck of the bar can be unclipped leaving very little or nothing visible when detached.