Vehicle mounted vs Motorhome mounted tow bar

We've also had both and we also prefer the type that stays on the back of the coach. It's easier (for us) and the toad has a "clean" front when not connected to the coach.

The big difference between a hitch-based tow bar and a car-based tow bar is the the smaller cars, for example: my smart car, are balanced so well that an extra 50 lbs (US) or so in front of the front bumper causes suspension/handling issues. The larger vehicles (jeeps, pickups, SUVs) are more than capable of having a car-based tow bar or even a good 'ol A-frame tow bar.

Like the poster above me said: a lot of it is personal preference. I would add to that:
-can the vehicle handle a car-based tow bar?
-cost: a car-based tow bar is less expensive than a hitch-based tow bar

This is my favorite feature of my tow bar - it all comes off when I don't need it:

Personally, I don't want the tow bar on the car while I am driving around sightseeing. It is a personal preference.

I have both types. A Demco Excalibar and a Roadmaster Stowmaster!

Both work well while towing.
The Demco Looks better while We are disconnected.
The Roadmaster is quicker to Connect and Disconnect.

Get whichever one You prefer!

We've had both. The one that was mounted to the vehicle was first, because we were new and didn't know any better. We very much prefer the hitch mounted to the motor home. It's easier to hook up, it looks better and there is no chance of damaging it if we should have an accident in the toad. We bought a Blue Ox last summer and have been real happy with it. Not cheap, but it's a one time purchase. The brackets are hidden and looks so much better

CPADWJ wrote:
I recently have purchased a Honda Fit to use as a dinghy with my 26' class C motorhome.
The dealer has given me two options for the tow bar. Vehicle mounted and motorhome mounted. The vehicle mounted option is about $200 less expensive than the motorhome mounted.
What are the benefits and disadvantages of each?
This is my first attempt at towing with 4 wheels down. I have previously used a dolly but look forward to this change.

That's kinda old school. No one really uses that type of tow bar anymore that stays with the toad. Way too many options and prices on the newer tow bars that disconnect from the toad and can totally be disconnected from the MH too.

I'd go with the dis-connectable tow bar. And like Bumpy said you can go real inexpensive with the rigid. I've seen many tow that way also.
You are gonna love leaving that dolly behind! :B

get a motorhome mount with levers to release it. I used a blue ox aventa II myself. you don't have to drive your toad around with something hanging on the front unless you go to the trouble and remove it all the time. If you want cheap, just get a solid A frame type that stays on the toad.
bumpy