Bateson Ascot or Ifor Williams 506 mk2

[lts1978]

Am toying with the idea of getting either a Bateson Ascot (2009) or an Ifor Williams 506 mk2 (2012).
Pony is 14hh - may possibly have something bigger in the future but certainly not something in consideration at the moment.
Towing car is a BMW 5 series estate.
If anyone has any tips or advice on either of these, or another make to throw in the mix, I’d be grateful!

 

[Jambarissa]

I always had ifors and always coveted the bateson.

I would prefer the bateson but spairs for the iwt are cheaper and easier to get hold of.

In your situation or with even a small horse it makes little difference. I'd go for whichever is in budget and has been regularly serviced.

I haven't helped at all!

 

[Tiddlypom]

Agree with above. As long as the Ifor is the mark 2 (don’t touch a mark 1) go with whichever is in best condition. Batesons are good, but any older trailer might need a fair bit of work.

That said, my owned from new Ifor is 2006, has not long been serviced, and is grand.

What tow limit does the car have?

 

[P.forpony]

I love my bateson, seems to give them a nice ride.
It's the only trailer (of a very long list tried!) That my tb doesn't constantly boot the back doors of!

 

[lts1978]

Thanks everyone; really appreciate it.
@Tiddlypom Tow limit is 2000kg on the BMW...

 

[LittleOwl]

I’ve had both and much prefer my Bateson. I sold the ifor after towing someone else’s Bateson. It’s so much smoother to tow so I’m convinced it gives them a much smoother ride. We shared a lift to a show in a Ifor not long ago and my horse spent most of the journey kicking the trailer, but travels beautifully in our Bateson.

A 2009 will still be the older heavier style so you’d be better looking for 2012 onwards (double check this but I think 2012 were the first gen of the new style). I also found I could have a significantly newer Bateson for my budget compared with the Ifor market

Brakes, bearings and general wear items are cheaper in my area for Bateson

 

[AandK]

I have a Bateson, its the second one I've had over the years. Never had an issue getting parts, Bateson are very helpful!

 

[lts1978]

Thanks all; really appreciate the advice. Think I’ll go for the Bateson!

 

[OldNag]

You won't regret it! I loved my Ascot, and always found Bateson so helpful when I needed anything.

 

[lts1978]

Thanks @OldNag - already spoken to Bateson and they’ve been super helpful