Poponcini Harmony BC2 Bit Kimblehook
Product Description
For horses that resist conventional metal bits, the Poponcini Harmony mouthpiece represents a fundamentally different approach to contact. The mouthpiece is constructed from a very lightweight, soft, and flexible plastic that moves with the horse rather than against it. At its core runs an inner steel cable — covered first in soft plastic, then coated in a non-toxic silicone layer — providing structural integrity without any of the rigidity that sensitive horses find objectionable. Raised ledges at the outer edges of the mouthpiece protect the corners of the horse's mouth from rubbing and prevent the bit from being inadvertently pulled through, ensuring the geometry stays correct regardless of rein pressure. The result is a mouthpiece so unremarkable to the horse that it simply stops looking for something to fight.
Where the Harmony mouthpiece handles comfort, the Kimblehook ring delivers control. Also known as the Kimblewick, this D-shaped ring features a series of slots positioned at different heights along the ring face. The placement of the rein within these slots directly determines how much leverage the bit exerts: reins set in the upper slot produce a mild action similar to a snaffle, while dropping the reins to a lower slot increases poll pressure and engages the curb chain or curb strap in the chin groove with greater firmness. A curb chain or strap is standard equipment with this bit and should be fitted correctly for the leverage effect to work as intended. This slotted mechanism gives the rider meaningful adjustment within a single bit — more precision through the contact, more authority when the horse tests it — without stepping up to a full curb bit with a solid shank. The BC2 designation refers to the Poponcini cheek configuration for this ring-and-mouthpiece combination.
Together, the Harmony mouthpiece and the Kimblehook ring address the specific challenge that defines the most difficult horses to bit: a sensitive mouth that is also genuinely strong. The soft, elastic quality of the mouthpiece removes the incentive to pull and brace, while the variable leverage of the slotted ring means the rider can respond to escalating behavior with escalating precision rather than switching to a harsher bit entirely. This is the strongest configuration in the Harmony line and the logical endpoint for riders who have already explored lighter snaffle options without achieving the stability they need.
Key Features
- Mouthpiece: very lightweight, flexible plastic over an inner steel cable core
- Inner cable covered in soft plastic and coated with non-toxic silicone for maximum comfort
- Ledges at the outer edges of the mouthpiece prevent corner rubbing and keep the bit correctly positioned
- Soft, elastic mouthpiece action discourages pulling and fighting the contact
- Kimblehook (Kimblewick) D-ring with slotted rein placement positions
- Variable leverage: upper slot produces mild snaffle-like action; lower slots increase poll pressure and curb chain engagement
- Designed for use with a curb chain or curb strap
- Non-toxic materials throughout
- Available in 125mm (5") and 135mm (5.5")
Why Riders Love It
- Allows horses that cannot tolerate a metal mouthpiece to accept a bit without resistance or anxiety, often for the first time
- The slotted ring provides real control options in a single piece of equipment, reducing the need to swap bits between flatwork and more demanding situations
- The combination of a forgiving mouthpiece with meaningful leverage creates a more relaxed, rideable horse — less bracing, more throughness
- A thoughtful upgrade from lighter Harmony snaffle options for horses whose training demands greater rider authority without greater severity
Care & Maintenance
Rinse the bit thoroughly with clean water after each use to remove saliva, debris, and any trace residue from the silicone coating. Dry completely before storage to preserve the integrity of the plastic mouthpiece and prevent moisture from being retained around the cable core. Avoid abrasive cleaning tools or harsh chemical cleaners, which can degrade the silicone coating over time. Inspect the mouthpiece periodically for any signs of cracking, compression damage, or separation at the ledge points — if the plastic shows visible wear or the cable core is exposed, retire and replace. Store in a dry environment away from direct sunlight, which can cause the plastic to harden and lose its characteristic elasticity.
Size Measurement
Best Suited For Small 125mm (5") Horses with a narrower jaw width and smaller muzzle conformation
Standard 135mm (5.5") Horses with average to slightly wider jaw width and muzzle conformation