Find the Perfect Detachable and Removable Towbar for Your Car
There is often a lot of confusion over the types of detachable towbar and removable towbar. In this blog, we hope we can help clarify what the options are and how they work. We have added videos so the fitting and operation of the bars are as clear as possible. At Kits-n-Bits we specialise in fitting detachable towbars UK wide. We have a range of removable towbars available to choose from that have different pros and cons.
Detachable Swan Neck Bars
The majority of detachable towbars are the ‘Swan Neck’ type of towbar. The vertical detachable swan neck towbar fits a wide range of vehicles but on some occasions, a horizontal swan neck is needed.
Vertical Swan Neck Towbar System – (fits most vehicles)
The vertical detachable swan neck towbars are in most cases invisible kits that are fully hidden behind the bumper once the detachable neck is removed. They come complete with a single 7 or 13 pin (not available for twin electrics) fold away electrical socket plate which enables the towbar electrics to be moved up behind the bumper when not in use.
For security purposes, all detachable necks are lockable and come with a set of keys to ensure peace of mind when the vehicle is left with the neck in place. A storage bag is also supplied once the neck is removed for safekeeping.
Click on the video to see how it works
This is a closer look at the mechanism
Detachable Towbars are available for most newer car models
Pros
- The neck can be removed when not in use (invisible on most vehicles)
- The removable neck cannot interfere with parking sensors
- Slim-line design
- Easy to use
- Secure (lockable neck)
- Compatible with Alko stabilisers
- Retractable electric sockets with 7 or 13 pin socket electrics (on most vehicles)
Cons
- Considerably more expensive than fixed bar
- Cannot be used for a cycle carrier whilst towing at the same time
- Cannot be used with a bumper protector
- Not compatible with all bike racks
Horizontal Swan Neck Towbar System – (it’s all about the bumper!)
Due to the design of some vehicles, it is not always possible for a vertical swan neck system to be designed and fitted. This is usually due to insufficient space behind the bumper for the housing of the neck and the socket plate to be located. In this instance, we recommend a ‘horizontal detachable’ system. Whilst not being completely invisible this still offers a removable, lockable neck solution that enables customers all the benefits of a detachable system apart from it not being invisible.
Pros
- The neck can be removed when not in use
- The removable neck cannot interfere with reversing sensors
- Slim-line design
- Easy to use
- Secure (lockable neck)
- Compatible with Alko stabilisers
Cons
- Not invisible, housing sits below the bumper
- Electrics do not retract
- Considerably more expensive than fixed bars
- Cannot be used for a cycle carrier whilst towing at the same time
- Cannot use a bumper protector
- Not compatible with all bike racks
Detachable Flange Towbar – (versatile but a bit pricey!)
Although the most expensive version, a Detachable Flange towbar is the most versatile of the options on offer. If you want a detachable bar AND a cycle carrier, this could be your best option.
Pros
- Most versatile option
- The neck can be removed when not in use
- The removable neck cannot interfere with parking sensors
- Alko ball can be fitted
- Can be used with a bumper protector and other accessories like a jaw ball & pin
- Able to tow and carry bikes at the same time
Cons
- Most expensive option
- Can be considered bulky
We hope this blog post has been helpful. Please call our office if you’d like some further information, we’ll do our best to help you choose the best option for your vehicle.
No matter which part of South Wales you are in—Swansea, Bridgend, Cardiff, and Newport —our expert fitters can install your towbar.