Propickup Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/130418
BUYER'SGUIDE By John Tiger 2013's newest towing products make the hitchand-go part of work easier T owing is an integral part of any construction and landscaping business, and something the majority of pickup owners do, be it related to work, recreation or both. That's why today's pickups come with hitch receivers installed from the factory. But just because there's a hitch on the company truck doesn't mean it's the best, newest or even the most efficient for your towing needs. For many years, the trailer hitch and towing market has remained stable with few advancements and updates in technology, but no real breakthroughs. But 2013 is another story. There're new players in the game, and new hitches for those with new vehicles – or for those just wanting to upgrade their pickups with the latest technology. NEW PLAYERS For the past decade, the aftermarket towing products market was dominated by three big players: Cequent, Curt Manufacturing and Valley Towing Products. Cequent (parent company of Reese, Draw-Tite and Hidden Hitch) has been the "Big Kahuna" since the early 2000s with Curt Manufacturing chewing away at Cequent's dominance until they are now considered equals. Valley hasn't fared as well, recently closing up shop. However, several new players have stepped onto the field to fill the Valley void, albeit in a limited fashion. HITCHED AND HAULIN' 20 PROPICKUP June 2013 PP0613_Hitch Buyers Guide.indd 20 5/8/13 2:56 PM