What is European (Sway Neck) Towbar?

A European (Sway Neck) Towbar is a type of towbar commonly used in Europe that is designed to provide a more flexible and stable towing solution than traditional fixed towbars. In this article, we'll explore what a European (Sway Neck) Towbar is and the benefits of using one.

What is a European (Sway Neck) Towbar?

A European (Sway Neck) Towbar, also known as a swan-neck towbar, is a type of towbar that is commonly used in Europe. Unlike traditional fixed towbars, which have a rigid attachment point for the tow ball, a swan-neck towbar has a flexible attachment point that allows the tow ball to move and sway with the vehicle being towed. This flexibility provides a more stable towing solution, especially when the towed vehicle may be heavier than the towing vehicle.

Features of a European (Sway Neck) Towbar

A European (Sway Neck) Towbar typically consists of a removable tow ball and a swan-neck attachment point mounted to the vehicle's chassis. The tow ball is secured to the swan-neck attachment point using a locking mechanism that allows for quick and easy attachment and detachment of the tow ball. Some swan-neck towbars also have a built-in electrical socket for connecting the trailer's lights and indicators.

Advantages of Using a European (Sway Neck) Towbar

The main advantage of using a European (Sway Neck) Towbar is that it provides a more flexible and stable towing solution. The flexible attachment point allows the tow ball to move and sway with the towed vehicle, which helps to reduce the risk of swaying and snaking, especially in high-speed or windy conditions. The swan-neck attachment point also provides a more streamlined and aesthetically pleasing solution than traditional fixed towbars, as it is less visible when not in use.

Additionally, European (Sway Neck) Towbars are often designed to be easily removable, which means that they do not have to be permanently mounted to the vehicle's chassis. This can be particularly beneficial for those who only tow occasionally or want to maintain their vehicle's appearance when not towing.

Conclusion

In summary, a European (Sway Neck) Towbar provides a flexible and stable towing solution that is particularly beneficial when the towed vehicle is heavier than the towing vehicle. Its flexible attachment point allows the tow ball to move and sway with the towed vehicle, which helps to reduce the risk of swaying and snaking. Additionally, the swan-neck attachment point provides a more streamlined and aesthetically pleasing solution than traditional fixed towbars. Many models are easily removable, making them popular for occasional towing. If you're looking for a new towbar, consider a European (Sway Neck) Towbar as a safe and flexible option