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Head to head

Bateson Derby vs Cheval Liberte Maxi 3

The Bateson Derby is 720kg lighter empty. The Cheval Liberte Maxi 3 is rated 1.8 tonnes heavier gross and carries 1,080kg more.

Last reviewed 13 September 2026

Derby
Bateson Derby
Cheval Liberte Maxi 3
Cheval Liberte Maxi 3 - image: fieldfare.co.uk

Key differences

Specifications side by side

Bateson DerbyCheval Liberte Maxi 3
Gross weight1,700kg3500kg
Unladen weight675kg1395kg
Payloadapprox. 1,025kg2105kg
Internal length2.70m4000mm
Internal width1.50m2070mm
Internal height-2250mm
Horse capacity-3 horses (herringbone/diagonal loading)

Sources: Bateson Derby, Cheval Liberte Maxi 3. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.

Buy or hire the Derby if...

  • you want one that is 720kg lighter empty

A light double horse trailer that can be towed by a large saloon car rather than needing a 4x4, thanks to its low unladen weight. It suits owners moving one or two horses locally who want to avoid buying a heavier, purpose-built tow vehicle.

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Full Derby specifications →

Buy or hire the Maxi 3 if...

  • you want one that is rated 1.8 tonnes heavier gross
  • you want one that carries 1,080kg more
  • you want one that is 1.3m (4.5ft) longer inside
  • you want one that is 57cm (2ft) wider inside

The Maxi 3 is aimed at owners who regularly need to move three horses at once, using diagonal herringbone stalls and a full-size tack room rather than a simple extension of a two-horse layout. At 3500kg GVW it needs a suitably rated tow vehicle and, for newer licence holders, category B+E entitlement.

Listed by

Full Maxi 3 specifications →

Common questions

What is the difference between the Bateson Derby and the Cheval Liberte Maxi 3?

The Bateson Derby is 720kg lighter empty. The Cheval Liberte Maxi 3 is rated 1.8 tonnes heavier gross and carries 1,080kg more. The Bateson Derby is a lightweight rear-unload double horse trailer; the Cheval Liberte Maxi 3 is a a twin-axle herringbone (diagonal-loading) horse trailer for three horses, with a built-in tack room..

Which is lighter, the Bateson Derby or the Cheval Liberte Maxi 3?

The Bateson Derby. It is 720kg lighter empty than the Cheval Liberte Maxi 3.

Which carries more, the Bateson Derby or the Cheval Liberte Maxi 3?

The Cheval Liberte Maxi 3, by 1,080kg.

Can I tow the Bateson Derby or the Cheval Liberte Maxi 3 on a car licence?

Yes, as far as the licence goes. Both are rated at or under 3,500kg gross, and a car (B) licence has covered towing up to 3,500kg since 16 December 2021. Your car still has to be rated to tow the loaded weight - check the handbook or the VIN plate.

GetBrent is an independent directory and is not a dealer for, nor affiliated with, either manufacturer. Model and brand names are the trademarks of their owners.