Tow Bar

A tow bar is a rigid, A-frame style coupling that connects a towing vehicle to a vehicle being pulled with all four wheels on the ground. Most commonly associated with RV "flat towing," tow bars also serve classic car owners, off-road enthusiasts and anyone who needs to move a second vehicle without loading it onto a trailer or dolly. Because the bar carries the entire pulling load between two vehicles, it is a safety-critical component, and construction quality, capacity and fit matter more than almost any other detail.

How a Tow Bar Works

Most RV tow bars mount to a receiver hitch on the motorhome and attach to baseplates fastened to the towed vehicle's frame or bumper structure. Telescoping arms extend for hookup and lock in place, while safety cables, a wiring connection for lights and a supplemental braking system complete the setup. Many modern designs use a "non-binding" latch mechanism so the arms can be released even when the vehicles are slightly out of alignment or sitting on uneven ground.

Key Considerations When Shopping

• Towing capacity: Tow bars are rated by class and weight. Always match the rating to the actual weight of the towed vehicle, not just its curb weight with a full load of gear left out.
• Mounting style: Motorhome-mounted bars stay on the RV and fold away for storage, while car-mounted bars travel with the towed vehicle.
• Baseplate compatibility: Many bars only work with specific baseplate families, so confirm fitment for your vehicle before buying.
• Materials and finish: Aluminum reduces weight, while steel with a powder-coated or plated finish offers rugged durability. Stainless components help resist corrosion.
• Coupler size: Classic and utility bars are often built around 1-7/8" or 2" ball couplers, so check which your setup needs.
• Towed vehicle suitability: Not every vehicle can be flat towed. Check the owner's manual before setting up.

Top Tow Bar Brands

Blue Ox is one of the best-known names in RV towing, based in Pender, Nebraska. Its Aventa and Avail lines are common sights behind motorhomes, and its baseplates are widely used across the flat-towing world.

Roadmaster Tow offers tow bars including the Nighthawk, Sterling and Falcon families. The company's patented non-binding technology makes disconnecting easier at an angle, and the Nighthawk adds LED lighting along its arms for hookups in low light.

Roadmaster Tire also appears in this category, giving shoppers another route to Roadmaster-branded towing components for their setups.

EMPI is a long-time supplier to the air-cooled Volkswagen community. Its heavy-duty steel tow bars are designed for Beetles, buggies and similar vehicles, with 1-7/8" and 2" ball options.

Warrior Products is known for rugged off-road hardware. Its collapsible adjustable steel tow bars and D-ring adapters are popular with Jeep owners who want a universal, utility-focused solution.

Inspect and Maintain Your Tow Bar

Regular inspection is essential. Check pins, latches, arms and mounting hardware for looseness, wear, cracks or corrosion before every trip, and follow the manufacturer's care and inspection guidance. Keep moving parts clean and lubricated as directed, store the bar out of the elements when possible, and always connect safety cables and lighting. A well-matched, well-maintained tow bar keeps both vehicles safely connected for the long haul.