A detachable towbar is as secure and durable as a fixed towbar, but it has the added convenience of allowing you to remove the neck. Some detachable towbars allow you to tow and carry bikes at the same time, and when not towing, they are nearly undetectable once removed.

A detachable towbar is unobtrusive to the appearance of your vehicle and simple to use, remove, and store. Detachable towbars include a safety lock, which prevents the neck from being removed. You may also be able to obtain a foldaway plate for your electrical socket, which will conceal the presence of a towbar while not in use. 

We supply detachable towbars and fit them, they are the desired type of towbar by clients but the downside is that they do cost more. In regards the actual towbar fitting cost, the cost is really no different with them.

We provide detachable towbars from the major UK towbar manufacturers so have a fantastic range to choose from.

Types of Detachable Towbars

Horizontally Detachable Towbar

The towball is inserted and locked in a horizontal direction.

This provides all of the benefits of the vertical detachable system described above, with the exception of the housing and socket plate being exposed when the neck is removed.

List of benefits

• Suitable for cars with reverse sensors.
• Alko compatible.
• Allows free access to the back of the car.
• Lockable with two keys given.
• Once the neck has been removed, a storage bag is provided to keep it secure.

Vertically Detachable Towbar

The towball is inserted and locked in a vertical direction, making it nearly invisible when removed.
Most vertical mounting towbars have a fold-away electrical plate that allows the towbar’s electrics to fold beneath the bumper when not in use. After removing the neck, the towbar becomes entirely undetectable.

List of benefits

• Suitable for cars with reverse sensors.
• In most cases, this technology is totally unnoticeable after the neck is removed, preserving the attractive aspect of the car.
• Alko compatible.
• Allows free access to the back of the car.
• Lockable with two keys given.
• Once the neck has been removed, a storage bag is provided to keep it secure.

How does a detachable towbar work?

Detachable towbars lock into place, making them safe and secure to your vehicle. When you remove a detachable towbar, there is a releasing mechanism. You also need to unlock it because it cannot be removed without the key. The towbar electrics stay linked to the car, and you might be able to find an electrics holder that folds away when the towbar is removed. After removing your towbar, keep it in your car’s boot to avoid banging your legs when accessing the boot.

Advantages of Detachable Towbars

Aesthetics – When removed, it doesn’t interfere with the vehicle’s look.

Convenience – Easy to attach and detach when needed.

Parking Sensors Friendly – Won’t trigger sensors when removed. 

Legal Compliance – Helps meet regulations in some regions that restrict fixed towbars when not in use.

Versatility – Works with bike racks, trailers, and caravans.

Disadvantages of Detachable Towbars

 Higher Cost – More expensive than fixed towbars.

 Security Risk – If not locked properly, it could be stolen.

Maintenance Needed – Requires occasional lubrication and checks to ensure secure fitting.

Installation & Compatibility

They should be fitted by professionals. Towbar fitting should be undertaken with caution. Safety standards and fitting guidelines need to be followed to ensure safety.

Compatible with most vehicles, but some may require modifications.

Always check towing capacity to match your vehicle’s capabilities.

You can read more about the different towbar types here.