What Is a Class 4 Towbar?

If you’re looking for a new towbar, no doubt you’ve seen the term “Class 4 towbar” pop up. Today we’re going to tell you exactly what it is, so you know whether it’s the right fit for what you’re planning to tow. 

We fit Class 4 towbars every day at Speedy, so we know them inside out and are here to help if you have any questions not answered below. 

Towbar Classes Explained

In Australia, towbars sit in different classes according to their towing capacity. Class 4 towbars are the most common and versatile of them all, which is the reason why you keep coming across the term. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of each towbar class:

Class 4 (Heavy Duty)

Class 4 towbars are commonly referred to as ‘Heavy Duty’. They’re typically rated to the maximum tow capacity of the towing vehicle as each towbar is vehicle-specific. They come with a 50mm square removable hitch and are a very popular option due to their versatility. They can be used for accessories like bike racks, and the adjustable tongue means you can match the height and drop to whatever you’re towing.

Most vehicles will run a Class 4 option, regardless of whether it’s rated to 750kg or 3500kg. 

Class 2 (Light duty)

Class 2 towbars are rated to a maximum of 1,600kg and have a ‘fixed’ tongue solution. Even though this is considered a fixed part, the tongue is still removable via two M16 bolts. Class 2 towbars offer a smaller profile for low cars and less bumper modification for the tongues. Their limitation is in towing capacity- although vehicle-specific, they still only hold a maximum of 1600kg. 

Euro Towbars

Euro towbars have a swan-neck design, and sit low and flush behind the bumper. They’re unobtrusive and stylish, and as a result have been growing in popularity in Australia. 

What Makes a Class 4 Different?

Class 4 towbars are built to tow at your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity and offer the convenience of being removable and adjustable. Designed to last and withstand Australia’s harsh conditions, it’s easy to see why this is by far the most popular option for vehicle installations.  

Class 4s have an easily removable ball mount, locked in with a pin and clip. You can take it off when you’re not towing – this is a good idea as it reduces the chance of painful shin knocks! There’s also the option to purchase secure locking pins with your Class 4 towbar. This reduces  the risk of theft of your ball mount and the hitch set-up.

Your Vehicle’s Tow Capacity Comes First

While a Class 4 towbar can be rated to 3,500kg, that doesn’t mean your vehicle can tow that much. The tow capacity set by your vehicle’s manufacturer takes precedence over your towbar rating. 

Even then, your tow capacity isn’t a target. In real-world towing, you want to leave a buffer between the maximum tow capacity of your vehicle and the total weight you plan to load your trailer with. That stops you from exceeding capacity limits when you factor in fuel, people and accessories. 

By playing it safe and always leaving a bit of leeway, you’ll enjoy safer towing experiences. 

What About Weight Distribution Hitches?

Class 4 towbars fitted by Speedy Towbars are compatible with a weight distribution hitch. These spread the ball weight across all axles of both the tow vehicle and the trailer, which keeps everything level and helps with steering and braking. They’re popular with motorists towing heavier caravans.

Get the Right Towbar Fitted by Speedy

Once you know what you’re towing and what your vehicle can handle, the next step is making sure you’ve got the right towbar installed correctly. At Speedy Towbars, we’ll guide you to the right class and brand of towbar – one that will keep delivering for the entire lifespan of your vehicle. With lifetime warranties on the towbar and wiring and thousands of positive reviews online, you can’t go wrong with Speedy!

Get in touch now and let’s discuss whether a class 4 towbar is the right one for your vehicle. You can reach us here or give us a call on 1300 604 060.