For a car or small SUV on a budget, with the release and warranty of pricier bars.
Amazon $788.64The Demco Commander 2 9511012 is the better tow bar overall, rated 3.9 to 3.3. The Demco Commander 2 9511012 leads on features and price. The Roadmaster StowMaster 501 wins on weight or install. The Demco Commander 2 9511012 costs $171.36 less ($788.64 vs $960).
For owners who want the bar to stay on the car and already have a crossbar baseplate. Others get more for the money elsewhere.
Amazon $960Prices 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 Demco Commander 2 9511012 for features (self-aligning arms, non-binding latches, stores on the motorhome, safety cables included vs self-aligning arms) and price ($788.64 vs $960).
- Choose the Roadmaster StowMaster 501 for weight or install (38 lb vs 41 lb).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every tow bar tow bar; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Demco Commander 2 9511012 | Roadmaster StowMaster 501 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.9/5 | 3.3/5 |
| Price 25% | 72 $788.64 | 52 $960 |
| Capacity or braking 20% | 14 6,000 lb towing capacity | 14 6,000 lb towing capacity |
| Weight or install 15% | 56 41 lb | 68 38 lb |
| Features 20% | 90 self-aligning arms, non-binding latches, stores on the motorhome, safety cables included | 25 self-aligning arms |
| Warranty 20% | 100 limited lifetime warranty | 100 limited lifetime warranty |
Specifications
| Demco Commander 2 9511012 | Roadmaster StowMaster 501 | |
|---|---|---|
| Tow bar | ||
| Type | Tow bar | Tow bar |
| Towing capacity | 6,000 lb | 6,000 lb |
| Hitch | - | 2 in ball coupler |
| Self-aligning arms | Yes | Yes |
| Non-binding latches | Yes | No |
| Stores on motorhome | Yes | No |
| Safety cables included | Yes | No |
| Lights in arms | - | No |
| Brake included | No | No |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 41 lb | 38 lb |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime |
