New 2012 models unveiled at Featherlite

March 17, 2011 Off By Roberta Johnston

New dual flatbed/stock trailer, canoe/kayak trailer, ‘Wow Mat’ and more

 The new collection of 2012 Featherlite trailers was introduced to its dealer network Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2011, as part of the annual 2-day Featherlite Dealer Meeting. Emerging from the unveiling was an array of enhancements that feature a mix of versatility, safety, value and uniqueness and span across all product lines – horse, stock, car, recreational and utility/commercial.

Model 2012 Featherlites will be available at Featherlite dealerships beginning in April. Orders for 2012s can be placed at Featherlite dealerships now.

Multi-functional designs and options One of the versatile new Featherlites is Model 8192, a dual flatbed and stock trailer that gives farmers two trailers in one. Built on a flatbed frame, the trailer features an enclosed livestock topper that is removable for using the trailer for hauling other types of cargo. “This is a great versatile option for haulers of smaller livestock or for those that haul less frequently, such as 4-H families,” Featherlite National Sales Manager Randy Lewis said.

Featherlite’s recreational/utility trailers serve multiple purposes and now a new optional kayak/canoe rack gives the trailer one more function. The optional rack is easily removable, allowing the trailer to remain versatile for hauling all types of other cargo like motorcycles, ATVs and lawn mowers.

A new 1-car “wedge” option is now available on Featherlite’s 20-foot Model 3110 car hauler. This option adds a gradual slope to the trailer to accommodate wider vehicles, such as modified race cars or dually trucks.

Safety a standard fixture Keeping safety a focal point, Featherlite’s enhancements to its horse trailers include new standard feed doors on select models, new standard rubber floor mats, optional ‘WOW’ rubber mats and a thicker stall pad option.

Horse trailer Models 8533, 9409 and 9407 join the rest of Featherlite’s line-up of horse trailers in having Featherlite’s standard glass ‘Light Flo’ drop down feed doors. “This premium window allow up to 90 percent more airflow and light into the horse area, keeping horses calmer and more relaxed while traveling and during loading,” Lewis said.

Featherlite horse trailers will now feature a new rubber floor mat that has a lifetime warranty from the mat manufacturer to the original purchaser. In addition to its long life and durability, these horse trailer mats do not absorb urine, making them healthier for horses and easier to clean. The mats provide superior traction, comfort and cushion for horses, while also protecting the trailer’s floor. A new optional rubber floor mat, the ‘WOW Mat’, is available in Featherlite horse trailers. In addition to the benefits of Featherlite’s new standard floor mats, the new ‘WOW Mat’ includes knobs strategically located underneath the mats to give even more absorption and cushion. This means horses are calmer during travel and experience less fatigue.

Featherlite’s optional stall pads are now 2″ thick instead of 1″. “This provides even more cushion, protection and safety for horses during travel,” Lewis said.

Distinctive appearance A range of external innovations enhance the aesthetics of Featherlite trailers for 2012. Among the new options is a distinctive, bright back lit feather and silver aluminum wheels. Also unveiled at the Dealer Meeting is a Model 1610 with polished panels on the bottom of the trailer’s exterior.

Another unique configuration highlighted was a bumper pull horse trailer with a front cooking area. The flip-up door in the front houses a cooktop stove, microwave and sink for outdoor entertainment and cooking at horse shows. Inside the trailer is a .9 cubic foot refrigerator, 19″ LCD TV/DVD, cabinets and radio/CD player. The trailer features an awning, exterior speakers, porch lights and more.

More options for farmers Giving more options to farmers was also a focus with this year’s product revamp. Model 8270 semi stock trailer is now available in any length starting at 34 feet. This gives farmers and commercial haulers more choices when opting for a durable, all-aluminum trailer for hauling their livestock.

New optional flooring from RumberR is now available in Featherlite livestock trailers. The Rumber floor, which comes with a 10-year warranty, serves as a cushioning surface for livestock, giving them firmer footing and minimizing the risk of injury and stress on joints. It’s quieter for livestock when entering the trailer, will increase the value and life of the trailer due to its durability and is UV and water resistant.

Rear camera and more The introduction of a camera and rear motion sensor makes maneuvering a trailer and backing up easier and safer for the driver. Another convenient option is the keyless entry available on trailer doors.

Other options and enhancements for 2012 include a 5-horse “lite-priced” Model 8533, optional NudoR flooring in car and recreational trailers, a new modular cabinet option in car haulers, a maximum length of 36 feet on Model 1585 and an easy-to-use cable assist rear ramp option on Model 1610, among others.

Additional information For more information, see a Featherlite dealer or call 800-800-1230 for a free brochure or go to the Featherlite website at www.fthr.com/tnews .