Brenderup vs. Featherlite

[Caballista]

So, I've downsized from a Sundowner LQ and a Dodge dually. Have a Jeep Grand Cherokee 4X4 with a Hemi engine and a tow package. Which would you buy and why? I've been leaning toward the Brenderup. I prevously pulled a Featherlite with a Jeep Grand Cherokee -- but not a 4X4 with a Hemi -- and had a few white knuckle moments when 18 wheelers whizzed by in rainstorms. I've read that the Brenderup is designed to track better behind a SUV. I found the Brenderup was actually more spacious for the horses than I had imagined. But the fact it is fiberglass gives me some pause.... My boy (16.3 and ISH) while generally a solid citizen travelling, kicked the back door a couple of times in my Sundowner with no ill effect. Would the same be true in the Brenderup? Also, I've heard people fret about outcomes in the event of an accident with the Brenderup. But I'm thinking that an accident is likely to be bad news in either. I've been a member of this board for years but rarely post. I look forward to reading everyone's views. Thanks in advance for your wisdom.

[ChocoMare]

If your vehicle is the only one available set up for towing, then Brenderup it is. I'd not tow anything else with an SUV-type vehicle.

[Guilherme]

I'm neither a Brederup nor an SUV fan, to add some table salt, here! ;)

SUVs are, as a rule, marginal as tow vehicles for horses no matter what kind of trailer you've got. They simply lack the mass and wheelbase necessary for U.S. towing. I know that many in Europe use them, but on U.S. highways where you'll routinely find 18 wheelers doing 75 mph (and pushing one BIG aerodynamic "bow wave" I wouldn't do it here.

For a kicker I'd guess the Brenderup construction might be problematical. Aluminum dents (and can be repaired without undue muss and fuss). The Brederup material (looked like a composit) might not fare so well and would likely be more difficult to repair.

I understand the motivation to downsize, I just don't agree that it's a very good idea. :)

As between a Brenderup and a Featherlight, I'm on Featherlight Number 3. :lol:

G.

[Foxtrot's]

I had such a bad trip in a Benderup. Two big horses pulled by a Suburban (under the speedlimit) on the freeway - going down a hill it started to sway alarmingly. The driver managed to slow down and pull over but I think they are just too light for our freeway type of travel. I don't want those sweaty armpits ever again. I think, probably, with no divider inside between the heads one mare probably snagged at the other and cused the trailer to lurch and then start the back and forth swaying.

[clm08]

I've already said in other threads and repeat it here: I've had a Brenderup for 5 years, trailered one or two horses for distances as far as 1,000 miles round trip with my minivan and never had any issues. I travel at posted speed limits on highways and most of the time I don't even remember I have a trailer behind me. With 2 horses, sure, I can feel the weight when going uphill.

I did have white knuckles when I drove a friend's conventional trailer with her truck and felt it swaying and dragging the truck a little bit every time I changed lanes or took a turn. Having never driven a regular trailer with a truck, I felt a big difference from my lightweight Brenderup and minivan.

As for accidents, I pray I don't have to deal with one, whatever trailer, because even the metal ones can cause serious injury.

I once had a trailer tire blow up when I was on the highway, doing 65mph, and had to pull over all the way from the left lane to the shoulder on the right lane. I was scared, but the minivan held it well, the vibration wasn't too bad, and when I stopped and checked on the 2 horses, they could have cared less, and continued to munch on the hay inside the trailer.

If Brenderups were such bad deals, you would find a lot more used ones for sale from unhappy owners, but try to find a used one for sale and you will find out owners don't want to get rid of them for a good reason.

[JWB]

I towed my featherlite hand-full of times with a tow-equipped Durrango. It scared the :o out of me every time. I tried the Brenderup and it was better but not much.

When it came down to replacing the tow vehicle or replacing the trailer, it was actually more cost effective for me to just buy a 2nd vehicle. Brenderups are expensive and not that much of an improvement in tow performance. I got a used Ford F-250 for $6,000. It's older but I maintain it well and I only drive it to tow the trailer.... I also keep the better gas mileage the rest of the time. Yes, it's an extra insurance payment but it's pretty low since I just have the required coverage - no sense in comprehensive on a truck with 120k miles on it.....

Yes, Brenderups have their very loyal owners - and that's part of why they are so expensive. The people who have them NEVER part with them. I guess it's a matter of personal opinion.

[mypaintwattie]

I am currently in the market for a trailer, and have my heart set on a brenderup. Have you watched the free DVD that they have one their website? In it they show how strong their composite material is. I do believe that on BB'er here was in an accident with her Brenderup, and that her horses were okay.

FWIW, while I would consider an older Featherlite, I've read reviews that the newer ones are not made as well.

[slpeders]

B'up owner here, on #2, and this post will address the 'crash factor' mostly since the basic towing has been addressed.
In a nutshell, I totalled #1 towing two horses home from a show in late July on a 98 degree day. Three people tried to merge into space for two and the last person in line (19 yo girl on her phone) panicked, overcorrected, hit the shoulder, spun while overcorrecting again and shot across the highway PERPENDICULAR to traffic. Now... we were in the center of 3 lanes and could see this start to unfold and slowed, then stood on the brakes. I had noted traffic on both sides of me, so didn't dare to swerve (tho in retrospect I probably could have at the last minute because everyone else had been able to stop MUCH quicker than me, but I didn't think about that at the time) and ended up clipping the girls car as it entered the left-most lane of traffic. Spun her 90 degrees and we both ended up side-by-side against the center divider.
Horses hit the chest bar hard enough to bow it fairly well and there were star-shaped fractures in the walls around the chest bar anchors, but THEY HELD. The 1" thick resin just cracked. That was the only noticable damage to the trailer and we got it off my truck and put it on another and towed ponies home.
This took about two hours though, and the horses just ate hay and looked out the windows as we sorted everything out -- I don't even remember them breaking a sweat, despite standing on a hot highway.
Insurance determined that the frame wracked a little during the hard stop, so between that and new walls, #1 was a writeoff. Horses were bruised on the chest, one got a cut on the forehead.
People all walked away with VERY minor stuff too, so really high on the scare-factor, not so high on the horrible-accident-factor, thank goodness. Guy behind us (first on scene) was an acquiantance and a Featherlite dealer and was VERY impressed with the trailer behavior and didn't mind telling me so. He didn't drop his dealership and switch to Brenderups though. heehee.

[cyndi]

I rented a Brenderup once to tow my "trailers well in everything" horse and he didn't even want to load. I was really shocked at how flimsy the thing was. The ramp was nothing more than a glorified piece of plywood. I swear the entire thing turned into a parallellogram when it started moving, the sides were so thin.

I have had the same Featherlite 2-horse with dressing room since 1992. It's been a great trailer. I keep looking at new ones, but can't really justify it, since there's really nothing wrong with mine - other than being 17 years old!

That said, I pull with full size truck and would not feel safe pulling with less - and my Featherlite only weighs 2300 lbs.

[slpeders]

wow! I wonder how much it depends on which model B'up you have? I know some of the entry-level models used to be (still are? don't know) made with a different wall material than my Barons are. Mine is very solid-sided, but they DO depend on the buttbars being up to help stabilize them in motion.
This one (#2) has had the living bejeezus kicked out of by an ANGRY TB gelding that we think got stung by a bee. He bucked/kicked, broke the safety on the butt bar, even left bite marks on the front panel. Felt bad for the horse but was pleased to see the trailer take a beating without much sign of it.

[Tangerine Farmer]

I have a big heavy steel trailer (Trails West). The F350 dually does feel the heavy trailer! But, I don't want my guys in a lighter, softer material one.

I don't like the look of the short wheel base on the Brenderup. They also look top heavy.

The big rig trucks here are much larger than in Holland, where they are mini big rig trucks! Everything is faster and bigger and more dangerous here.

I have thought and thought again, and am keeping my large horse moving apparatus. Though for my personal driving, smaller is better and so much easier to buz around town!

[deltawave]

Ditto Chocomare. I would pull ONLY a Brenderup if my tow vehicle was an SUV. I did, in fact, for 8 years and absolutely loved my Brenderup. I can recommend them unconditionally. There are several posters here on COTH who have had wrecks with them (through no fault of the trailer) and they can all attest that these trailers more than hold their own in terms of keeping horses safe.

People that drive them regularly, love them. Almost to a one. People who hate them (IME!) either hate the idea, hate the look, or just haven't used them enough to really feel how they haul. Ask someone who's owned one for a while and you'll get a real sense of how they work for people.

[Gayla]

I am always surprised at what an emotional response come from people about Brenderups. I think that people who like big vehicles will always want a big heavy trailer and no amount of "data" will sway them. The same people probably like to drive big cars. I can't wait to have one. It is on my wish list for next year. Just praying for a new job so waiting to see what new paycheck looks like before investing in anything new. Is Brenderup the only game in town for lightweight trailers of this type?

[jn4jenny]

Is Brenderup the only game in town for lightweight trailers of this type?

Unfortunately yes, unless you live in Canada where there are several brands of this type. Brenderup has the exclusive US patent on that lightweight, small-vehicle-friendly trailer design. I saw a few of the Brenderup competitors at a show in Michigan (where people had crossed over from Canada) and the technology was very similar.

For the record, I own a Brenderup but I have absolutely nothing against traditional rigs. My horse rides often in traditional rigs when we're hauling with friends or with my trainer. Assuming a traditional rig is hooked up to a 3/4 ton truck or larger, it's a great ride. I would never EVER hitch a Featherlie to any SUV smaller than the Suburban.

For a kicker I'd guess the Brenderup construction might be problematical. Aluminum dents (and can be repaired without undue muss and fuss). The Brederup material (looked like a composit) might not fare so well and would likely be more difficult to repair.

Somebody didn't do their homework. On both the Brenderup info DVD, and in the Mr. Truck review, they show/talk about wailing on the Brenderup resin walls with a hammer as hard as they could. It can really, really, really take a beating. Then they do the same with aluminum, which crumples pathetically under the pressure.

If you did manage to damage the resin, which would be challenging, you can replace the panel.

The big rig trucks here are much larger than in Holland, where they are mini big rig trucks! Everything is faster and bigger and more dangerous here.

Yes, which makes it very convenient when I can *get my Brenderup the hell out of the way quickly and easily*. Try that with a traditional rig.

Research has consistently shown that smaller, more maneuverable vehicles are safer because they are more likely to avoid an accident altogether. But most Americans seem unable to comprehend that idea.

OTOH, Brenderups are very expensive and have very limited tack storage space. For the price of a Brenderup, one could have a VERY nice Featherlite 2-horse gooseneck with a spacious dressing room. If you go B'up, you'll need to budget for a transmission cooler on your tow vehicle, but you'll also save the cost of trailer tires (Brenderups ride on automobile tires) and wheel bearing packing (the wheel bearings are permanently sealed). And you'll have to get used to people staring at you all the time and saying rude things about how your trailer is made of plastic.

As for the back ramp, it's the most solid part of the trailer. I'm pretty sure there's a steel plate in there, but don't quote me on that. Call Brenderup--Simon Barr or his son Chris usually answer the phone themselves, and they are happy to answer questions.

[spotmenow]

I don't think a 16.3 hand horse would do well in a Brenderup and really, the issue with trailer/vehicle is that you want your vehicle to be able to stop your trailer with your horse loaded. How about going to a 1/2 ton truck and a smaller trailer?

One of my boarders has a Brenderup. It has the same size tires that my Honda Civic does, stabilizers for loading, and her horse consistently gives her a hard time loading into it (loads fine into other trailers). Makes me wonder if the horse isn't smarter than the owner...

[clm08]

I don't think a 16.3 hand horse would do well in a Brenderup and really, the issue with trailer/vehicle is that you want your vehicle to be able to stop your trailer with your horse loaded. How about going to a 1/2 ton truck and a smaller trailer?

One of my boarders has a Brenderup. It has the same size tires that my Honda Civic does, stabilizers for loading, and her horse consistently gives her a hard time loading into it (loads fine into other trailers). Makes me wonder if the horse isn't smarter than the owner...

It depends on the model of Brenderup. Some are smaller, like mine (older Prestige) and meant for horses up to 16h. The Royal and Barron are larger and meant for bigger horses, 17h or so. You have to remember this is an European trailer and European horses on average are big, probably between 16-17h.

What does the size of the tires and stabilizers have to do with loading? They all have a ramp - very sturdy ramp, covered with rubber material, non-slipping. My horses load without any problems, other people's horses who have traveled in my trailer didn't have any issues either. Maybe they are not as "smart" as your boarder's horse??;)

[SBrentnall]

The big rig trucks here are much larger than in Holland, where they are mini big rig trucks! Everything is faster and bigger and more dangerous here.

I'm confused by this statement. I lived in Germany for a few years and regularly drove to the Netherlands, and the trucks I saw on the autobahn were every bit as large as the ones here.

As for speed, 65mph just doesn't compare to NO SPEED LIMIT on most sections of autobahn. And the Brenderup-style trailers we drove in Germany handled it just fine.

I've also driven in France and the UK, where they also use Brenderup-style trailers on freeways with much higher speeds than here.

[Aussie08]

Hi

I've owned a Brenderup for many years and I will NEVER give it up, even though I will probably be getting another trailer soon. When I first got it I had a Mazda 6cy Auto extended cab pickup, I live in the metro Atlanta area and unless I was in the mountains or steep hills, I never had any problems. And then it was just a matter of going slow. I have had 18 wheelers fly past me on the interstate and never felt it move. And until recently I mostly hauled with a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee (like the opening thread) and had no issues. It's even better hauling with my 2003 Tundra.

As far as problems with Brenderup's. I would say it mostly depends on the horse(s) you haul. For my tempermental, claustrophobic TB, it's fine it I haul him in the Brenderup with the divider swung and secured so that he have a big triangle type area. By the way, he can't haul in any straight load. But I've hauled other horses in the Brenderup and I've had no problems. But some horses would not like it.

For me, the trailer is so perfect for hauling one horse. It is soooo easy to use and the ramp (mine is very solid) is easy to open/close for one person. I can rock it over if I am slightly off when I go to hook up. And I've become an expert packer when hauling to shows, so that I can take everything I need.

No, a Brenderup isn't for everyone but it works for me and when I go to the gas station and have to fill up a lot less often than the "big" rigs, I have something else to be thankful for.

[tkhawk]

My first trailer was a Brenderup and I towed it with a Dodge Durango. It worked just fine and never felt anything bad back there. You could put some big horses in there.

But I switched to a gooseneck and a F350. I camp a lot and the Brenedrup simply does not have the space for me sleeping as well as to put in tack/feed/everything else for a weeklong camping trip. I just like the way a gooseneck handles and it is a 3 horse slant-never had a horse refuse to go in it. Did have a few friend's horses refuse to get in the Brenderup. But a nice trailer otherwise.

Although in Europe they seem to have a different standard for what is acceptable for towing. I took a trip to Ireland a couple of years ago. There was a sedan towing a trailer that looked just like a Brenderup, up and down hills, with a bull in it !:lol: I know Brenderup advertises that you can tow with a sedan-but that was the first I actually saw someone do it.

I think the biggest pain with the Brenderup was to remember to release the parking brake each time!:lol: No experience with featherlites-so no opinion either way.

[suzyq]

I have a Ford Expedition. Really wanted a featherlite trailer. Hubby wanted a Brenderup, he's an engineer and thought it would be less wear and tear on the car. So I bought a used Brenderup Baron, figured any trailer was better than none :) I couldn't bring myself to buy a new one, they are a bit pricey.

At first I hated the trailer, mostly because it needed some work and had some issues. But since we've fixed a few things, I like it. It's easy to hook up and tow. Pulls very well, sometimes I forget it's back there. No sway when big trucks go by. Stops and turns well. My horses like it in there. One thing nice is there's no rattling noises when it's moving since it's not metal.

Also, the guys at Brenderup are great at answering questions and talking you through repairs.

I taught both horses to self load into the trailer, as I don't think the exit doors are really made for leading the horse in. My horses are decent loaders, not sure how the trailer would work with bad loaders.

[spotmenow]

What does the size of the tires and stabilizers have to do with loading? They all have a ramp - very sturdy ramp, covered with rubber material, non-slipping.

The size of the tires and stabilizers have to do with stability while moving...I like the person who said it turns into a parallelogram when in motion :) That is my impression as well. I personally wouldn't put my 13 hand pony into one, let alone a 16.3 hand warmblood, but I guess we'll have to agree to disagree...and, one person made a very good point about driving in Europe vs. driving in the good ol' US of A with our 4-lane highways with 65 mph speed limits (that are often ignored).

Anyway, don't want to derail this thread or start an argument-I vote for downsizing your truck to a 1/2 ton and getting a smaller steel or aluminum trailer (FYI-Featherlite is now owned by Universal, as is Jamco and Exiss-the quality has suffered but the price tag is still significant).

[pandorasboxx]

The comment about the plywood loading ramp and the trailer turning into a parallelogram is complete load of hooey. My Baron has an extremely sturdy and heavy ramp that gives you the option of using the stabilizer bars. I rarely do. Recently, the pneumatic assist pieces on the ramp failed, ordered new ones but lifting that heavy sucker while awaiting the new parts was not fun. I wished it was a cheap piece of plywood the day I had to lift it alone. ;)


Contrary to the assertion that the whole trailer is fiberglass, the body up to above the horse, is made of solid phenolic core, what is used to make the bathroom stall walls in schools. Built to withstand abusive hooligans. :lol: No parallelograms here.

Last month I trailered my horse and another horse (belonging to a new acquaintance). The other horse had a meltdown during the ride and repeatedly kicked the bejesus out of the side of my trailer before we could get him off. :eek:

After getting the horse off, I inspected for damage. There was not one dent, not one, and this horse was giving it his best. The only marks were scuff marks from his shoes. I'm not certain a metal like aluminum would have fared as well.

Obviously, IMO the OP should get a Brenderup. They hold their value extremely well and if it doesn't suit her needs then it would be fairly easy to sell it without losing money on the deal. I searched for a used one for 3 months before biting the bullet and purchasing new.

Btw, I plan on getting a 3H living quarters at some point. My friend has one that is to covet! Nothing like a hot shower and a convenient toilet after a long day on the trails. But the Brenderup will always stay. It is quite convenient to do day trips and short weekend trips without having to drive a big rig. Simply irreplaceable to me.

The main drawback IMO is price.

And yes, if your tow vehicle doesn't have an auxillary transmission cooler, then invest in one. I put one on my previous tow vehicle, Infinity QX4. My current vehicle, a Land Rover, already came equipped with the proper tow package.

[dbts]

I pull my Brenderup Baron TC, which is the large model, with a Jeep Grand Cherokee (with tow package). I have done this since 2000. Living in remote Colorado, I usually must cross the continental divide and travel 400 to 500 miles round trip to get where I'm going. I travel on I-70 where speeds are 75 mph. Sometimes I use Hwy 285 which is very scenic and curvey. In either case I am thrilled with my trailer/car performance. This trailer does not sway because of it's aerodynamic design. No fear when you are running with the 18 wheelers. You often forget it is behind you. I have easily fit a 16:3 hand horse inside (own Hanoverians). All my horses have loaded into it without problems. The ramp is a blessing. It is really sturdy and easy to use due to the hydraulic assist. These trailer have "inertia brakes". I can't say enough good things here. No brake box is needed inside the tow vehicle. I have had to make sudden stops (due to rock slide on the road at night) and pulled it off successfully.

I formerly used the traditional pick-up and steel trailer arrangement before I got the Brenderup, so I can compare from experience. The Brenderup gets my vote.

[Caballista]

I appreciate all the information -- and the various opinions. I did get the transmission cooler in the tow package for the Jeep. I loved the dually and the LQ. But if you don't have a farm, parking, logistics and up keep (electric plug in particularly) on a rig like that is a PITA for a city dweller. Believe I am going to get the Brenderup.

Question remains one horse or two? I have RARELY hauled another horse, but regularly used the other side for hay and stuff. Has anyone bought the one horse and found it big enough? I mainly go to weekend shows and clinics. I saw a solo that looked like it was more spacious for one horse than the two-horse model. There appeared to be room for a hay bale and tack trunk. And I suspect the stability in a one horse would be better than the two horse model with just one in it.

Also, the specs and price are different for the Prestige versus Royal and Baron models, with the exception of the Solo and the Baron One being similar. I am aware there are big horse and smaller horse sizes in the Prestige. But my question is more about the towing and material specs. Anyone tried the Prestige and upgraded?

And finally, I'm interested in opinions on the dressing room features offered. I'm not sure I see the point of a folding dressing room, tack storeage notwithstanding. But I may be missing something.

Thanks again!

[jn4jenny]

Question remains one horse or two? I have RARELY hauled another horse, but regularly used the other side for hay and stuff. Has anyone bought the one horse and found it big enough? I mainly go to weekend shows and clinics. I saw a solo that looked like it was more spacious for one horse than the two-horse model.

There appeared to be room for a hay bale and tack trunk. And I suspect the stability in a one horse would be better than the two horse model with just one in it.

"Room for hay bale and tack trunk" = yes, but that's about it. Look at the Brenderup Baron One if you want more storage space than the Solo. I just put my stuff in the tow vehicle and that avoids the whole problem. ;)

As for stability in one horse versus two horse, think about the market implications of selling a 2-horse trailer that was unstable with one horse in it--nobody would buy it. I pull my 2-horse B'up with my one and only horse in it all the time, and we don't have any "stability issues". I did call Brenderup headquarters to ask if it would be a problem in the short or long term to pull one horse only in the 2-horse, and the answer was a definite "no".

[danceronice]

We hauled our guy on one side of a two-horse Brenderup for years and never had a problem (we hauled with a Ford E-series van.) Only trouble we ever had was loading, and honestly it didn't matter what kind of trailer it was, unless you put another horse in first loading him was a very long stressful process (probably related to the person we got him from using a whip and chain lead as her answer to all behavior problems.)

[clm08]

When I was considering buying a trailer, I only had 1 horse and considered buying a Solo. Then I came across an ad for a used 2-horse Prestige 500 miles away and jumped at the opportunity to buy it, sight unseen. Never regretted it, because I had the flexibility to haul another horse to go on trail rides, help a friend get their horse to a clinic or show, etc. Now I own 2 horses, so a Solo would not have worked... When we go to shows, I usually take only one of my horses, and have room in the trailer to take 2 bikes besides all the hay, shavings, muck bucket and cart, etc. The bikes come in handy when going back and forth between cross country course and stables! I'd say get a 2-horse trailer.

[Caballista]

Thanks again everyone!

[Shermy]

Another happy Benderup owner!

I have the Royal HB. It doesnt have a LOT of storage, but enough for me. I normally haul to local trails for the day.

I haul a couple times a week mostly w/two horses. I have never had a horse refuse to load. Most of the time, the difficult haulers do better in my trailer since it is open and very light inside.

I self load my horse, but if you need, you can walk your horse in, and hop out either of the doors in the front.

I bought my trailer new over 2 yrs ago. I love it, and haul w/my Dodge Durango. If I go camping or endurance rides, I just put an air mattress in the back of my Durango. It sounds strange, but I am VERY comfy sleeping in my SUV.

Way down the road, I may get a bigger three horse trailer w/a LARGE tack room w/a big truck. Until then, I am VERY happy w/my B'up.

Also, most of the negative comments do NOT apply to my trailer. It hauls extremely smoothly. I haul some friends' horses that are very large. On horse that I normally go trail riding is 16.3, and she has plenty of headroom.

Some models are smaller, but if you do a Baron or Royal, they can haul up to 17 hands comfortably.

The material of the trailer is VERY strong!

When I first got my trailer, I was riding around our parking lot w/out any horses. It was my FIRST trailer. I was backing up, and was going too fast. The trailer fishtailed and I hit it w/the back of my car. The bang was huge.

I almost started to cry. I thought I ruined my brand new trailer.

Well....I cracked my Durango's bumper and shattered the tail light. My Benderup was in perfect shape. No scratch or anything.

If my trailer had been metal, it would have had a huge dent.

So, keep that in mind whenever people say they are flimsy. They arent.

Most people that hate them, have never had any actual experience w/them.

A friend of mine was recently in Europe. All the trailers there are Benderups. If they were really sooo horrible, I am sure they would not be soo popular in Europe.

They are expensive, but have great resale value. It also saves a LOT in gas. Last year, when gas was really expensive, I was very happy w/how little gas it took to haul it.

Good luck w/your decision!

[costco_muffins]

I don't think a 16.3 hand horse would do well in a Brenderup and really, the issue with trailer/vehicle is that you want your vehicle to be able to stop your trailer with your horse loaded. How about going to a 1/2 ton truck and a smaller trailer?

One of my boarders has a Brenderup. It has the same size tires that my Honda Civic does, stabilizers for loading, and her horse consistently gives her a hard time loading into it (loads fine into other trailers). Makes me wonder if the horse isn't smarter than the owner...

I have a 16.1 hh TB and a 16.2 hh TB. They both load perfectly into a Brenderup and have plenty of space once they are in there. The trailers are actually quite tall in comparison to conventional trailers.

Our Paint and Mustang who are accustomed to the Brenderup actually balked before getting into a slant load. It all comes down to the loading training and the horse.

[Flamboyant]

Unfortunately yes, unless you live in Canada where there are several brands of this type. Brenderup has the exclusive US patent on that lightweight, small-vehicle-friendly trailer design. I saw a few of the Brenderup competitors at a show in Michigan (where people had crossed over from Canada) and the technology was very similar.


Since I'm located in Canada, I'm curious to know what these similar brands are!

[tkhawk]

Since I'm located in Canada, I'm curious to know what these similar brands are!

Well I don't know about Canada, but I saw a few ads in magazines for this company. Boeckmann -apparantely a German company and very similar to the Brenderup...

http://www.boeckmannusa.com/frames_intro.html

[jn4jenny]

Well I don't know about Canada, but I saw a few ads in magazines for this company. Boeckmann -apparantely a German company and very similar to the Brenderup...

http://www.boeckmannusa.com/frames_intro.html

Yep, the ones that I saw at Richland were Bockmann!

[scrtwh]

I've never towed a Brenderup, but they look really unsubstantial. I have a featherlite TB size with dressing room and tow with an F250. I love it, tracks great, my guys have plenty of room inside, and I don't think there is that much difference in price. I don't think that SUV's are really made for the control that a trailer with horses need, but again, I have never tried towing either a Brenderup or an SUV.

[Xanthoria]

I have towed both a Featherlite and a Brenderup with my 4Runner. First I borrowed a friend's Royal, then I used another friend's Featherlite many times, and disliked it so much that I bought the Baron.

The Featherlite has a much higher tongue weight - it weighed several hundred pounds more than the biggest Brenderup too, so the wear and tear on the car, not to mention gas useage, was much higher.

The Featherlite cost my friend about $14k new, and she is selling it 4 years later for $8k I think. It has a big dent, she had multiple problems with the doors breaking and the locks breaking and on and on back and forth to the dealer. The black rubber lined inside was SO hot and airless, my horses sweated a lot. The edge of the top of the lining rubbed them raw. The ceiling was low. My 16hh and 16.3hh horses were very cramped in that slant.

The Brenderup on the other hand cost $16k, delivered. If I wanted to sell it now, 3 years later, well I'm seeing several 2006s in my area selling for $14-15k...

My horses are very comfy in there - loads of space, loads of headroom, light, airy, good ventillation, a solid, low-angle ramp. Lots of neat features. And it feels stable - the 250# tongue weight is because it's balanced front to back, not, like US trailers, leaning heavily on the back of your car.

If you call Brenderup they are SO nice and helpful. My SO slammed the door with the door held open with it's metal thingy. Which bent a bit, but still worked. They sent me a new one. Free.

Inertia brakes? They don't rely on electricity. No brake controller. No sway bars. The thing is just well designed and it works.

It could use a bigger tack room, that's the only complaint! :D

[IronwoodFarm]

I've owned a Royal TC for 9 years. I haul everything from a 17.1 Oldenburg to 13.2 Nowegian Fjords with it. I have a Suburban. I haul all over the place -- up/down hills, out of state, etc. My only complaint about Brenderup is that they don't make models for 3, 4, and 6 horses! If they did, I would buy the trailer. Yes, I realize I would need a different towing vehicle, but I would be thrilled to have a Brenderup gooseneck!

To the OP, I would NOT buy a single horse trailer. You have to think resale value and the market is small on the solo trailers. A 2-horse model will have greater value over the long haul. Plus it give you the option of taking someone along with you to the show, clinic, or wherever you are going. And of course, you could always get a second horse for yourself! :lol:;)

I agree that tack storage is limited. I show regularly and we use the TC and the back of the Suburban for stuff. It works. I didn't find the Baron's tack room a huge improvement over my current system, but others seem to like it. I do vote for having at least a tack compartment. It helps.

I can't say enough nice things about Brenderups.

[LarkspurCO]

I don't think a 16.3 hand horse would do well in a Brenderup and really, the issue with trailer/vehicle is that you want your vehicle to be able to stop your trailer with your horse loaded. How about going to a 1/2 ton truck and a smaller trailer?

My largest horse is 16:2 and weighs 1285 lbs, but he has room to spare in the Brenderup Baron. A larger horse would fit, no problem.

One of my boarders has a Brenderup. It has the same size tires that my Honda Civic does, stabilizers for loading, and her horse consistently gives her a hard time loading into it (loads fine into other trailers). Makes me wonder if the horse isn't smarter than the owner...

Not sure how tire size is relevant. The important thing is that the tires meet or exceed the load capacity requirements.

That your friend's horse gives her a hard time loading is a training issue, not a trailer issue. I've trained six horses to load in the Brenderup with no problems.

My aforementioned 16:2 hand horse once untied himself from the tie ring and loaded himself into the trailer while my back was turned. He was hot standing outside, the trailer was shady and cool inside, and he was ready to go home.

Also, I have towed two horses on the freeway many times and never once has there been even the slightest sway. Speed limit is 75 mph and I try to stay there or a little under. Too slow and I'm a hazard.

[Trakehner]

A classic train wreck and popcorn forum.

Anyway, I used to tow an extra wide/high Featherlite bumper-pull trailer I had custom made in the late 80's. I towed it with a 1988 full sized Ford Bronco. Big truck, just short wheelbase. I used a Reese anti-sway/equalizing hitch. it towed beautifully.

I towed a friend's steel trailer with her Jeep Cherokee...holy cow! Was that scary.

With the correct type of hitch and brake controller, a Featherlite works very nicely. I'm not a big fan of Brederups...I liked the description of them as a parrallelogramme..I've had to push against the sides of one to close the ramp. Not good...but Brenderups sure have their fans, so they fulfill somebody's needs well.

[baysngreys]

When I brought my new Brenderup trailer to the barn EVERYONE had to come and have a look!

Lots of questions, comments, people climbing in and out of it. Even had people who insisted their horse would NEVER go inside something that looked like that! Yeah right, said horse walked right on and stood looking out the front window.

It's 9 years old now, clean as a whistle, no dings, dents. The only repair we've ever made was replacing a bulb in a tail light.

I've hauled cross country several times. I trailer everything from a 13. hand pony to a pair of 17.+ hand ISH's.
I love to watch my horses looking out the big front window, I can see them in the rearview mirror.
I can hitch, load, unload, unhitch myself. Easy, no sway bars, no brake controller, the "assisted" ramp I can lift with one finger.

I've gotten stuck on the Beltway, for hours on a Fri rush hour - in August. At 9pm I unloaded dry, calm horses. It's cooler in the traile on a summer day than standing outside.
I've driven through rain storms that made most other vehicles pull over because they were getting baffeted about so much, yes, I slowed to 20 mph but was able to keep going.

My husband is an engineer. He watched the DVD, called and asked questions. The aerodynamic design means the trailer keeps itself straight as you drive.
On the fwy, at 75 mph I forget it's back there!
I've towed with a Range Rover and a 1500 truck.

At times I wish it had a bigger tack room or 3 stalls, but all in all it's the best investment I've ever made.

[SharonA]

Saw this website.... doesn't seem fair how much lower the prices are in other parts of the country! :-) By the time the trailer gets to my state, you're talking some significant shipping costs.

But, looks like some deals to be had, if they were in your area or if you were able to travel to them.

http://www.brenderupusedhorsetrailerdealer.com/index.asp

[Lieslot]

You'll done fine with either the Brenderup or Featherlite.

I have a 2-horse bumperpull Cotner and in goes two 18hh+ WB's.
We mainly pull it with our Dodge 2500, however we also have, just like you, a Jeep Grand Cherokee Hemi 4x4 with tow package and on several occasions we have towed above combo with the Jeep.
You do need stabilizer bars & a good braker control.
Towing the boys with the Jeep vs towing them with the Dodge feels NO difference. We pull uphill and we can brake them downhill no issues.
I personally prefer towing them with the Jeep, coz I find it easier to manoeuver and back up then doing so with the long Dodge.

Then again I used to live in Europe where you'll see people transport their 17hh+ WB's in Henra trailers towed by a Passat. YES, they are everywhere in the Netherlands. I personally don't approve of such combos and it freaks me out, but the goverment and transport authorities over there approve of it, so something must be right.

[Shermy]

Towing a normal trailer, no matter how light, w/a SUV is dangerous. Brenderup's have their OWN brakes, and are very lightweight.

The question is NOT whether you can HAUL the horses, but can you STOP if you need to do so fast.

That is why it makes me VERY nervous to see people use SUV's to haul their trailers. ONLY Brenderup's are designed for that purpose. Any other trailer, you are taking a chance everytime you haul.

[deltawave]

the goverment and transport authorities over there approve of it, so something must be rightHee hee. Hee hee. Oh, you're serious? :uhoh:

Brenderup's have their OWN brakes

So do other horse trailers. :) I know all about Brenderup brakes, but my Sundowner has brakes, too. They're electric instead of inertia-based, I get that. But they're there.

[danceronice]

I talked with my Dad, the retired automotive engineer. He never had a problem hauling the Brenderup, has no issues with its construction, and about the only thing he'd have liked them to add would be electric brakes but said that their absence is only a problem if you forget to drive like you're hauling a trailer. He mentioned they even used the Brenderup to haul my brother's boxes and furniture from Michigan to Florida for grad school and the only problem at all was backing around in the gated-apartment parking lot.

He also was rather interested to hear how in-demand they are as used trailers, as ours is just sitting under the run-in shed because we haven't had anything to haul with it for ages.

[tempichange]

He also was rather interested to hear how in-demand they are as used trailers, as ours is just sitting under the run-in shed because we haven't had anything to haul with it for ages.

I can tell you right now, as used trailers, they go very quickly especially if they are priced below market. My friend sold her's (8 plus year old trailer upgrading to a gooseneck due to her horse population) in about a week of listing it.

[jn4jenny]

I can tell you right now, as used trailers, they go very quickly especially if they are priced below market. My friend sold her's (8 plus year old trailer upgrading to a gooseneck due to her horse population) in about a week of listing it.

Yep, most people I know sold their B'up in a month or less. It's not unusual for them to go in 7 to 10 days. Let me put it this way: People email and PM me ALL THE TIME asking if I will sell my B'up to them. It is not for sale at the moment, but people ask anyway--and when I say no, their answer is "Well please email me when and if you do sell it." These are people from all over the country. Name one other road vehicle you know of where people clamor to buy a 12-year-old version of it. The resale market for them is *hot*.

[AlfalfaGirl]

I purchased an 09 Royal TC in April. I haul with my 07 Toyota Rav4 or my husband's Tundra. It hauls like a dream no matter which vehicle I haul with. I have two geldings: a 15.3 hh Quarter Horse and a 15 hh wide load Quarter Horse! Sarge has a really wide backside!

The Brenderup tows so easy one can almost forget it is behind the tow vehicle. It backs up easy too. My cousin is an old fashion cowboy and he was looking over my trailer this weekend and he told me that he could tell it was well made but he wondered if it would jack knife easy on backing it up. My husband has hauled all kinds of trailers and he said "no...it doesn't. It backs up smoother than any kind of trailer I have ever hauled".

I sent my wide load gelding to the trainer (trainer had owned him and trained him originally) and left my trailer there with him as Sarge was a little persnickety about the ramp. (I got him in the trailer one day and made the mistake of snapping the breakaway snap before putting the butt bar up. My husband's gelding decided the trailer wasn't for him and sat back and started pulling and throwing around. My trailer was swaying and the snap released and down the ramp he went. My trailer was just fine - it sounded like he was tearing it apart!!) Ray had him loading in 5 minutes (I was doing it wrong!) and he told me that he hauled Sarge to town in my "sissy" trailer. He said "I hate to admit it but that little trailer tows great! I barely knew it was behind me and it just follows behind like a dream". Now Sarge loads in the trailer like a little doll. Walks right up and stands quiet as he can be.

I would love to have a LQ horse trailer for weekends off trail riding but I couldn't haul that with my RAV4. I love my trailer and can't imagine getting rid of it - but if I do I love the fact that it has great resale value! I vote for the Brenderup.

[dani0303]

I have an 06 Baron SL that I tow with an 06 F-150. I've never had any problems with it but never realized how superior it is to other bumper pulls until I recently had a rollover with a 3-horse Exiss caused by malfunctioning electric brakes and an out of control sway.

[KFC1177]

Just wanted to add that I love my brenderup.
I have a baron model and have never had any problems with it.
My horse self loads.
I've had anything from 15 to 17+ hands in it, one horse or two horse.
Done many local hauls and 1000+ miles.
The only drawback I see is the small tack/dressing area, but you just have to be creative. I bought a 7 drawer and 5 drawer plastic container and everything (and I mean everything) has its own spot and it all fits. . 2 saddles, 2 bridles, brush boxes, pads, blankets, the 7 drawer and 5 drawer stands, 4 water containers and 6+ buckets. .
I have never had a problem with the trailer, either on the highway or local turning roads.
It gets my vote again and again.

[mypaintwattie]

I have an 06 Baron SL that I tow with an 06 F-150. I've never had any problems with it but never realized how superior it is to other bumper pulls until I recently had a rollover with a 3-horse Exiss caused by malfunctioning electric brakes and an out of control sway.

Is that what they discovered? Wow. I'm still amazed everyone walked away from that accident.

[sayyadina]

We have an '89 Brenderup Royal TC and we've been very happy with it. So far, we've only towed it with the heavily modified F-250 but plan to try it with one of our early Broncos when its out of the shop.

So far, we've only used it 3 times, and not for my ponies. The first time we filled it with stuff when we moved up here. Then we took 4 alpacas to a show. Then we took a mom & baby alpaca for the mom to be bred. Its very solid & in very good shape with an all new floor. We were very lucky to find it on one of the used trailer sites. Paid $5000 or $6000, which included bringing it to us.

[AlfalfaGirl]

Wow Wee sayyadina - your Brenderup really held its value! That was one of the reason's I purchased a Brenderup was its resale value. Glad to hear it is solid and is an '89! That is terrific.

Dani0303 - I had read about your rollover and that was so scary. I am so glad you walked away unharmed and the horses too!