I have the exact same experience with a bit vs sidepull as Janice and Tivar. Kolur was constantly poking his nose out and opening his mouth with a bit, getting increasingly agitated. Brenna not so much if the reins were always slack but she got increasingly annoyed with it during a trail ride if I needed to slow her down. I would never go back to a bit since in my experience there isn't any good reason for one.
Sue
