When choosing a towbar the choices are confusing. So it is critical to grasp the distinctions between swan neck and flange designs, since each has unique benefits and cons. A swan neck towbar is made as one single unit that includes the towball and the tow neck. This is in contrast to the flange towbar that is made up of the towball and the tow neck bolted together.
We can explain and offer free advice on this with our towbar fitting service.
Our friendly customer service team are at hand to answer any questions and give any advice about the tow bar fitting process.

Swan Neck Towbars

A swan neck towbar features a sleek, curved shape, with the tow ball attached directly to the car.

Pros

Aesthetics

Provides a cleaner and less intrusive look.

Parking Sensor Compatibility: The compact shape makes it less likely to interact with parking sensors.

Detachable Options: Many versions allow the neck to be removed when not in use, which preserves the vehicle’s look.

Cons

Accessory limitations: A bike carrier cannot be used when towing.

Fixed Tow Ball Height: Does not allow for height modifications.

Cost: Generally higher than flange towbars.

Flange Towbars

A flange towbar has a tow ball affixed to a flat plate (the flange), which is subsequently linked to the vehicle’s frame.

Pros

Versatility: Supports a wide range of attachments, including bike carriers, bumper protectors, and tow balls.

Towing and Accessory Use: Allows for simultaneous towing and carrying cycles.

Adjustable Tow Ball Height: Allows for changes to meet various towing requirements.

Cons

Aesthetics: The design is more apparent, with exposed bolts and components.

Parking Sensor Interference: The projecting tow ball may activate parking sensors.

Permanent Fixture: Even detachable versions expose the flange plate when the tow ball is removed.

What towbar should you choose

Choose a flange towbar if you need adaptability and the ability to utilise numerous attachments at the same time.

Choose a swan neck towbar for a more streamlined appearance and less interference with parking sensors.

The best alternative for your car will depend on the towbar most suitable for you will come down to a number of variables.

If you are looking to carry bikes often, then the fixed flange ball towbar is certainly the right one to go for.

Alternatively, if you are looking tow with a parking-aid incorporated vehicle, then we highly recommend using a swan neck tow bar so that the parking technology is not interfered with. If towing large vehicles is your main priority (a caravan perhaps), it may be wise to invest in a swan neck towbar due to its ability to easily accommodate an al-ko stabiliser.

If you’re unsure of exactly what you will need it for in the future, perhaps getting a fixed flange ball towbar is your best bet due to its versatility and cheaper price point. Fixed flange towbars are the cheaper choice for towbar fitting.

Here at Trailer Trek Tow-bars (mobile fitters) we supply a wide range of towbars with high quality towing ability. Our towbars are all type approved and are from the major UK towbar manufacturers.

To find out more simply call us or complete our enquiry form that takes certain details that will help us offer you the right towbar.