If you have ever been in the market for a horse trailer, you probably have asked yourself which type of trailer would be better to buy, a gooseneck or a bumper-pull horse trailer.
Each has their own advantages and disadvantages. Sorting out these pros and cons may help you make the right decision when buying In the end you'll end up with the best horse trailer that suits your needs.
Advantages of owning a bumper-pull horse trailer.
o Typically less expensive.
o Can tow with multiple types of vehicles, not just trucks.
o Easier to turn corners as the trailer follows the path of the vehicle.
o Because they are usually smaller they take up less space when storing.
o Overall easier to handle allowing breathing room for novices.
Disadvantages for bumper-pull horse trailers.
o Depending on the load the vehicle is pulling there can be considerable weight distribution issues.
o Not as much space for living quarters.
o Potential to hitch the trailer to a vehicle not best suited for towing.
Advantages of owning a gooseneck horse trailer.
o Gooseneck horse trailers center the weight of the load more evenly allowing for greater stability.
o Goosenecks pivot closer to the center of the vehicle allowing for a tighter turning radius. This becomes useful when maneuvering in tighter places.
o More space for living quarters.
o Overall better stability when hauling more than two animals.
Disadvantages for goosenecks horse trailers.
o With the tighter turning radius it easy to cut corners too sharply, this can result in the hitting of curbs, mailboxes, etc. You must practice maneuvering a gooseneck before loaded with animals.
o Goosenecks require that you climb in and out of your truck while hitching up.
o More expensive.
o The combined weight of the trailer and vehicle can result in weighing more than 10,001 lbs, if this is the case the trailer must be licensed as a commercial trailer.
As you can see there are many different options when choosing a trailer that best fits your needs. Picking a trailer that requires a vehicle upgrade can be cost prohibited and ultimately make the choice for you. If the current vehicle can haul and accommodate a gooseneck horse trailer the advantages are great. With the purchase of a gooseneck there are possible trailer and vehicle licensing issues that can arise so be sure to contact you local DMV to determine the requirements. Don't forget to practice towing a gooseneck trailer to make sure all the ins and outs are worked out before hitting the trail.
