CURT RVibrake Shadow 2 52201
#7 in BrakeFull review
For owners who keep one towed car and want a hidden brake with battery charging. Confirm the breakaway setup before buying.
Amazon $1,595.95$1,595.95
The CURT RVibrake Shadow 2 52201 is the better tow bar overall, rated 3.7 to 3.3. The CURT RVibrake Shadow 2 52201 leads on warranty and weight or install. The Blue Ox Patriot BRK2022 wins on features and price. The Blue Ox Patriot BRK2022 costs $185.50 less ($1,410.45 vs $1,595.95).
Blue Ox Patriot BRK2022
#8 in BrakeFull review
For owners who want a light portable brake they can control from the coach. The short warranty is a drawback.
Amazon $1,410.45$1,410.45
Prices were last checked November 3, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the CURT RVibrake Shadow 2 52201 for warranty (limited lifetime warranty vs 2-year warranty) and weight or install (stays installed in the car vs portable, set up each trip).
- Choose the Blue Ox Patriot BRK2022 for features (breakaway included, motorhome monitor included vs motorhome monitor included) and price ($1,410.45 vs $1,595.95).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every brake tow bar; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | CURT RVibrake Shadow 2 52201 | Blue Ox Patriot BRK2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.7/5 | 3.3/5 |
| Price 25% | 28 $1,595.95 | 44 $1,410.45 |
| Capacity or braking 20% | 50 braking type not published (neutral score used) | 50 braking type not published (neutral score used) |
| Weight or install 15% | 100 stays installed in the car | 50 portable, set up each trip |
| Features 20% | 50 motorhome monitor included | 100 breakaway included, motorhome monitor included |
| Warranty 20% | 100 limited lifetime warranty | 11 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| CURT RVibrake Shadow 2 52201 | Blue Ox Patriot BRK2022 | |
|---|---|---|
| Tow bar | ||
| Type | Supplemental brake | Supplemental brake |
| Braking | ||
| Install | Installed | Portable |
| Breakaway included | - | Yes |
| Motorhome monitor | Yes | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Weight | - | 6.2 lb |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime | 2 years |