Flat towing your car behind your RV opens up a world of travel freedom, but it comes with a serious responsibility: ensuring your towed vehicle can stop safely. A reliable supplemental braking system is not just a convenience—it’s a critical safety feature that protects you, your passengers, and everyone on the road.
This guide reviews the best flat tow brake systems on the market, covering portable, installed, and mechanical options. Whether you prioritize quick setup, permanent installation, or budget-friendly simplicity, you’ll find the perfect match for your towing setup.
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Blue Ox BRK2022 Patriot Flat Tow Brake | Faster Extension of Braking Action…
Best forCompact and lightweight towing
- Lightweight at 6.2 lbs
- Automatic brake pressure check
ConsiderMay be pricey for some
CURT 52202 RVibrake 4 Portable Flat Tow Brake System
Best forQuick and easy portable setup
- 0.5-second reaction time
- One-button interface
ConsiderBreakaway kit installation needed
CURT 52201 RVibrake Shadow 2 Installed Flat Tow Brake System
Best forPermanent installation with auto mode
- No setup before trips
- 10-amp battery charger included
ConsiderRequires permanent installation
BRK2022 Patriot Flat Tow Brake System | All-Electric Proportional Braking |…
Best forProportional braking with easy setup
- All-electric, no air lines
- Automatic pressure verification
ConsiderMay require professional install
CURT 52212 RVibrake 3 Portable Flat Towing Brake System
Best forPortable with brake-lock detection
- Brake-lock detection prevents errors
- 30-second setup with audio guide
ConsiderPortable unit must be moved
Roadmaster 8700 Invisibrake Support Braking System with Emergency Breakaway…
Best forDiscreet installation with power brakes
- Uses vehicle's power brakes
- Compact and hideable
ConsiderOnly for vacuum-powered brakes
Generic Patriot 3 Brake System BRK2022 Patriot Flat Tow Brake | Limited 2 Y…
Best forWireless control and lightweight design
- Wireless RF controller
- Lightweight at 6.2 lbs
ConsiderGeneric brand may vary
Ready Brake Cable Harness Kit for RV Flat Towing, Extra Brake Control Cable…
Best forMechanical backup for Ready Brake
- Simple mechanical activation
- Compatible with off-road vehicles
ConsiderOnly works with Ready Brake systems
Flat Tow Breakaway Cable System for RV Towing, Ready Stop Device with Suppl…
Best forEmergency breakaway safety
- Complete kit with 3 cables
- Durable steel construction
ConsiderRequires proper installation
RV Brake System for Flat Towing, Emergency Breakaway Kit & Ready Stop Devic…
Best forNon-electronic emergency braking
- Non-electronic, dependable
- Heavy-duty steel construction
ConsiderNot a primary braking system
Blue Ox BRK2022 Patriot – Compact and Responsive
Brand: Blue Ox
A top-tier portable option with excellent responsiveness and easy handling.
The Blue Ox BRK2022 Patriot is a standout choice for RVers who want a smaller, lighter brake system without sacrificing performance. Weighing just 6.2 pounds, it’s significantly lighter than its predecessor, making it easier to handle and store. Its compact profile (8 x 7.5 x 11.5 inches) fits more towed vehicles, so you won’t have to worry about space constraints.
This all-electric system automatically checks brake pressure during setup and continuously monitors it while you tow, giving you peace of mind. The faster extension of braking action means quicker, more responsive stops. The in-coach controller features an extended RF range and a supercapacitor lifetime battery, so you’ll never need to replace batteries. A breakaway system is included, adding an extra layer of safety.
- Lightweight at 6.2 lbs
- Automatic brake pressure check
- Extended RF range controller
- May be pricey for some
- Requires initial setup
CURT RVibrake 4 – Portable and Quick
Brand: CURT
An excellent portable system for those who prioritize speed and convenience.
The CURT RVibrake 4 is designed for RVers who value speed and simplicity. With a rapid 0.5-second reaction time, it ensures your towed vehicle’s brakes engage almost instantly, enhancing control and stability. The one-button interface and audio assistant guide you through setup, making it incredibly user-friendly.
This portable system is thin, lightweight, and features a built-in carrying handle, so transporting it is a breeze. The only installation required is for the breakaway kit, which adds security without complicating the process. If you’re looking for a brake system that’s easy to move between vehicles and set up in seconds, the RVibrake 4 is a compelling choice.
- 0.5-second reaction time
- One-button interface
- Lightweight with carrying handle
- Breakaway kit installation needed
- Portable design may not suit all
CURT RVibrake Shadow 2 – Installed and Automatic
Brand: CURT
A set-and-forget solution that combines safety with ultimate convenience.
The CURT RVibrake Shadow 2 is a permanent installation system that eliminates the need for setup before each trip. Once installed, it automatically detects when you’re towing and engages the brakes, so you can hit the road without any extra steps. This is ideal for RVers who want a hassle-free experience.
Its 0.5-second reaction time ensures rapid braking, and the built-in 10-amp battery charger keeps your towed vehicle’s battery topped up while you travel. The plug-and-play installation is designed to be quick and straightforward, making it accessible even for DIY enthusiasts. If you’re tired of moving equipment around, this installed system offers unmatched convenience.
- No setup before trips
- 10-amp battery charger included
- Fast 0.5-second reaction
- Requires permanent installation
- Higher upfront cost
BRK2022 Patriot – All-Electric Proportional Braking
Brand: Generic
A reliable all-electric option with smart features for safe towing.
This BRK2022 Patriot system offers all-electric proportional braking, meaning the braking force mirrors your RV’s braking intensity for a smooth, natural feel. It’s engineered for faster braking response, with quicker extension of the braking action during flat towing. The fully electric design eliminates the need for air compressors or hydraulic lines, simplifying installation and maintenance.
The automatic brake pressure check during setup removes guesswork, ensuring your system is always ready. Designed specifically for flat towing, it’s compatible with a wide range of vehicles. If you prefer a clean, low-maintenance setup with reliable performance, this system is worth considering.
- All-electric, no air lines
- Automatic pressure verification
- Proportional braking force
- May require professional install
- Limited to flat towing use
CURT RVibrake 3 – Portable with Safety Features
Brand: CURT
A safe, user-friendly portable brake system ideal for frequent travelers.
The CURT RVibrake 3 is a portable flat towing brake system that emphasizes safety and ease of use. With a 0.5-second reaction time, it ensures your towed vehicle brakes quickly when needed. The built-in brake-lock detection helps prevent installation errors that could damage your brakes, giving you confidence in your setup.
Setup is a breeze with the one-button interface and audio assistant, guiding you through the process in about 30 seconds. The slim, lightweight frame includes a carrying handle, making it easy to store and transport. If you want a portable system that’s both safe and simple, the RVibrake 3 is a solid pick.
- Brake-lock detection prevents errors
- 30-second setup with audio guide
- Slim and portable design
- Portable unit must be moved
- No battery charging feature
Roadmaster Invisibrake – Hidden Power Braking
Brand: Roadmaster
A clever system that preserves braking power and hides out of sight.
The Roadmaster Invisibrake is a unique support braking system that energizes your towed vehicle’s power brakes, giving you the same braking power as when you drive it normally. Unlike systems that work on a ‘dead’ brake pedal, this one connects to the vehicle’s vacuum system, providing full power braking assistance. It fits vehicles with vacuum-powered brakes, which covers many modern cars and SUVs.
Its compact size (8″ x 8″ x 2″) allows for discreet mounting under seats or in trunks, keeping your vehicle’s interior unobstructed. It connects directly to the battery and trickle-charges it during towing, so you won’t return to a dead battery. Made in the USA, this system is built to last and includes an emergency breakaway system for added safety.
- Uses vehicle's power brakes
- Compact and hideable
- Trickle-charges battery
- Only for vacuum-powered brakes
- Installation may be complex
Generic Patriot 3 – Lightweight and Wireless
Brand: Generic
A feature-packed, lightweight system with convenient wireless control.
This Generic Patriot 3 brake system is a fully electric unit that replaces traditional air-powered systems, offering quick and responsive braking without the need for air lines or tanks. Weighing just 6.2 pounds, it’s ideal for compact cars, SUVs, hybrids, and trucks, making it a versatile choice for many towed vehicles.
The wireless in-coach RF controller lets you monitor brake status, adjust brake force, and even activate manual braking from the comfort of your RV. The plug-and-play design ensures fast setup, so you can get on the road quickly. With a limited 2-year warranty, it provides peace of mind for your investment.
- Wireless RF controller
- Lightweight at 6.2 lbs
- Plug-and-play installation
- Generic brand may vary
- Limited warranty period
Camoo Ready Brake Cable Harness – Mechanical Backup
Brand: Camoo
A practical spare cable for mechanical brake systems, ensuring you're never without a backup.
The Camoo Ready Brake Cable Harness Kit is an essential accessory for RVers using Ready Brake mechanical tow braking systems. This extra brake control cable connects the tow bar system to the towed vehicle’s brake pedal, ensuring reliable activation during towing. In the event of sudden deceleration, the cable activates the lever in the braking system, applying braking force to the towed vehicle.
This cable harness is designed specifically for flat towing setups, including off-road vehicles, and provides a dependable mechanical connection. It’s a simple, non-electronic solution that adds an extra layer of safety. If you already have a Ready Brake system, this spare cable is a smart investment for peace of mind.
- Simple mechanical activation
- Compatible with off-road vehicles
- Reliable emergency braking
- Only works with Ready Brake systems
- No electronic monitoring
Camoo Breakaway Cable System – Emergency Protection
Brand: Camoo
An essential safety kit for any flat tower, offering reliable emergency braking.
The Camoo Flat Tow Breakaway Cable System is designed to apply the brakes on your towed vehicle if it becomes separated from the RV, providing essential emergency protection. This complete kit includes three cables: a 109-inch cable with a red breakaway mount, a 47-inch woven steel cable, and a 24.3-inch PVC-coated cable. All necessary mounting hardware is included.
The cables are made from high-strength woven steel with UV-resistant PVC coating, and the zinc-plated snap hooks resist corrosion, ensuring long-term durability. This system is a crucial safety addition for any flat towing setup, giving you confidence that your vehicle will stop even in a worst-case scenario. It’s a straightforward, mechanical solution that requires no electronics.
- Complete kit with 3 cables
- Durable steel construction
- Mechanical, no electronics needed
- Requires proper installation
- Not a full braking system
Camoo RV Brake System – Non-Electronic Backup
Brand: Camoo
A sturdy, mechanical safety device that enhances your towing security.
The Camoo RV Brake System for flat towing is a non-electronic breakaway cable that provides a dependable mechanical connection between your motorhome and towed vehicle. It helps activate the brake pedal during emergency situations, adding an extra layer of protection to your towing setup. This system is designed specifically for RV flat towing, ensuring compatibility with most tow bars.
The heavy-duty construction uses high-strength woven steel with a corrosion-resistant coating, ensuring longevity even in harsh conditions. It serves as a supplemental breakaway device, providing a backup connection between the tow vehicle and trailer. If you’re looking for a simple, reliable safety net without complex electronics, this kit is an excellent choice.
- Non-electronic, dependable
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Acts as backup connection
- Not a primary braking system
- Limited to emergency use
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right flat tow brake system involves balancing safety, convenience, and compatibility. Consider your towing frequency, vehicle type, and budget. This guide highlights key factors to help you make an informed decision.
- Portable vs. Installed: Portable systems like the CURT RVibrake 3 are easy to move between vehicles and store, but require setup each trip. Installed systems like the RVibrake Shadow 2 are permanently mounted, offering convenience but higher upfront cost and installation effort.
- Braking Technology: All-electric systems (e.g., Blue Ox Patriot) use sensors and actuators for proportional braking, while mechanical systems (e.g., Camoo cables) rely on physical connections. Consider your vehicle's compatibility and your preference for electronic vs. mechanical reliability.
- Reaction Time: Faster reaction times, such as 0.5 seconds in CURT models, mean quicker brake engagement, enhancing safety. Slower systems may feel less responsive, especially in emergency stops. Prioritize systems with rapid response for peace of mind.
- Ease of Setup: Look for features like one-button interfaces, audio guides, and automatic pressure checks that simplify installation. If you prefer minimal effort, installed systems with auto-detection are ideal, while portable units with quick setup are great for occasional towers.
- Safety Features: Breakaway systems are crucial—they apply brakes if the towed vehicle detaches. Some systems include battery charging, brake-lock detection, and continuous monitoring. Ensure your chosen system has these protections to avoid accidents and comply with regulations.
Conclusion
Selecting the best flat tow brake system is vital for safe and legal towing. Whether you opt for a portable model like the CURT RVibrake 4 for flexibility or an installed system like the RVibrake Shadow 2 for convenience, prioritize systems with fast reaction times and reliable breakaway protection.
For most RVers, the Blue Ox BRK2022 Patriot offers an excellent blend of lightweight design and advanced features. If you prefer a non-electronic backup, Camoo’s breakaway kits are essential additions. Assess your needs and choose a system that gives you confidence on every journey.
Erica Steven is the founder and lead writer of WorstBrands, a site dedicated to providing honest and trustworthy reviews about outdoor gear and fashion products.
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