Category: Reviews

The Flagstaff Classic 826KBS absolutely fits the mold of a couples’ camper. But the overriding feeling of this travel trailer is how plush it is. Which is interesting. Perhaps, it’s just me, but lots of travel trailers just give you a feeling of being closer in nature. The Flagstaff Classic 826KBS feel different. It feels more like this posh space that you can transport with you wherever you go.

That’s not by accident. The Flagstaff Classic series is a premium offering in the company’s line-up, which  ranges from pop-up and tent trailers to fifth wheels. In Flagstaff Classic 826KBS, there are a lot of features that really distinguish it within the realm of travel trailers — both inside and out. So, let’s talk about both.

 

At a Glance: Flagstaff Classic 826KBS

I gave the Flagstaff Classic 826KBS travel trailer a rating of  four and a half out of five stars. These trailers have a torsion axle suspension which contributes to better handling and a smoother ride, which translates into less harshness reaching the cabin and promotes a longer life for the trailer. The company also does their own lamination in-house with top-notch components and there are so many features in these that will play-out well over time. It’s tough to beat these trailers for the combination of features and build quality.

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 2
• Hitch weight: 1,100 pounds
• UVW: 7,649 pounds
• CCC: 2,161 pounds.
• Exterior length: 29 feet 11 inches
• Exterior height 11 feet 7 inches
• Exterior width: 8 feet
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 54/78/39 gallons
• Awning: 22 feet

 

Benefits

• Posh interior design and premium cabin features
• Upscale suspension and tires for smoother towing

 

Challenges

• Underbelly enclosed, but gate valves are exposed
• Smaller sleeping capacity

 

Best For

• Couples who want a deluxe but cozy living space
• Buyers looking for an upgrade in build quality

 

The RV Trader Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Forest River Flagstaff Classic 826KBS.

 

Sleeping Space

At to the front of the Flagstaff Classic 826KBS, you’ll find the bedroom. And this is where you might almost laugh at how many drawers there are. Drawers and cabinets quite literally span the width of the front of the trailer. But it’s not over. They then make a turn and occupy the camp-side wall as well.

There are also counters above the drawers as well as a large hanging wardrobe. More storage is above the king-size bed, which is in a slide room on the road side. If you’re looking for an RV where there are a tremendous number of drawers and cabinets in the bedroom, you just may have found your ideal rig.

 

Bathroom

The bathroom in this travel trailer spans the width of the back of the trailer. That space translates into a bathroom vanity with a decent amount of counter space for an RV. There’s also a medicine cabinet and a couple of cupboards. Above the porcelain foot flush toilet is a very large cabinet that can be used for hanging storage or bathroom supplies or whatever you need. It’s quite a large, deep space.

The real surprise in this bathroom is the shower. Frankly, it is something you might expect to find in a fifth wheel. It has that sort of feel to it. As such, there is even a seat-step in here.

Something the Flagstaff team also does, even in travel trailers, is include a device called a Shower Miser. If you’re not familiar, it directs water back into the water system while you’re waiting for it to get hot. Which translates into less wasted water while you’re camping off the grid.

 

Living Area

Walking into the Flagstaff Classic 826KBS, it was funny: I almost instantly felt pampered. What made me feel that way was an effect of the overall feel of the interior design. There’s a cabinet adjacent to the entry door that sports hooks for coats or what not. You could also leave the shelves in place if you’d rather keep shoes or anything else in here.

On entry, you face the theater seats, which really felt very luxurious to my back side when I tested them. (I made sure to do proper research and spent a prolonged period of time doing a thorough comfort test — wink!) Conveniently, there’s also an induction smart phone charger between the two seats and a flip-up armrest that could house your electronic gadgets or remotes or whatever.

 

Kitchen

To the left of the entrance are two bar-height chairs and a breakfast bar. (Which I could see being used with a blender to serve-up some margaritas while Jimmy Buffett’s music fills the cabin.) That breakfast bar is part of an L-shaped kitchen counter that offers plentiful counter space. There’s a two-well, under-mount sink in here plus a three-burner propane stove with a proper 22-inch (vertical) oven. I have this same oven in my trailer, and we cooked a prime rib in it not long ago.

Beneath the countertop are plenty of drawers and cabinets, so you can store the aforementioned blender as well as any other cooking gadgets you bring along for the ride. There’s also a single overhead cabinet space and a smaller microwave plus a smart TV which directly faces those theater seats in the slide room on the road side of this trailer.

The slide room also is the home to a 12-volt, 10-cubic foot Magic Chef fridge. I had one of these in a trailer I owned, and, I’ll just say this: I replaced it with another model. The reason? I didn’t like the flimsy latch on the door which allowed the fridge to pop open in transit. I also believe Flagstaff is moving to a different model soon and that’s A-OK with me.

A large pantry sits ready for loading next to the fridge so this pantry, plus the storage in the kitchen itself, means you’ve got plenty of space for whatever you’re bringing.

 

Cooking Inside Isn’t Your Only Option

Moving outside, another notable feature on this trailer is the outdoor kitchen which features a two-burner propane stove and very large bar-style refrigerator. Since this RV has that inverter, you could run the fridge as you roll down the road on the way to the next camping adventure, and your beverages or food would be chilled and ready when you get to camp.

There’s also a flat-top griddle that slots into a rail on the side of this trailer as well as a metal table so there are plenty of cooking choices outside.

 

Four-Season Capabilities

The Flagstaff Classic 826KBS does have an enclosed underbelly with heat pads on all the tanks, but the space is not heated, and the gate valves are exposed. This limits you to how cold a temperature you might want to camp in. Frankly, I’ve camped in my own Rockwood in subfreezing overnight temps when the daytime temps are above freezing. But I don’t know if I would camp where winter is harsher than that.

This travel trailer also offers 200 watts of solar on the roof but also includes a 2,000-watt inverter. If you do camp off the grid, that inverter could power things like a CPAP machine or, perhaps, some coffee makers and that sort of thing. (Provided you have sufficient battery reserves, of course.)

Flagstaff operates its own laminating plant and builds the sidewalls of these trailers using a man-made substrate that is impervious to water damage. The walls are also vacuum laminated which is a superior process to the pinch rollers used by some other companies.

While they’re at it the roof and ceiling of these is also vacuum laminated which is completely unique in the industry. Of course they’re fully walkable roofs. Flagstaff also welds their own framing in house and uses these aluminum tube frames in things like dinettes and bed frame structures. Most RV companies use wood in places where you can’t see the build structure.

 

Storage Space

This is another RV where I have a difficult time finding fault with the features or function. Concerning storage in the Flagstaff Classic 826KBS though, it might depend more on what’s important to you. I’ve already raved about the shocking amount of storage in the bedroom. But perhaps outside storage is the weakest link in the chain. Still, there is outside storage under the bed (in the slide), as well as a very, very tall but somewhat shallow cabinet outside the rig behind the indoor fridge. So, the cabinet is as tall as the fridge and about eight inches deep — a possible candidate for camp chairs.

 

Closing Notes on the Flagstaff Classic 826KBS

Flagstaff shares a perch within the Forest River family near the top from a quality platform. Having visited the Flagstaff and Rockwood plant (essentially the same trailer with different brand names) quite a few times — and owning a Rockwood myself — there are logical reasons to choose this brand. And their attention to what’s under the cabin give you plenty to consider.

 

Where the Trailer Meets the Road

For starters, I like that the Flagstaff Classic 826KBS rides on nitrogen-filled Goodyear Endurance tires with banded tire pressure monitors. I often recommend starting at the chassis and working your way up when shopping for your next RV. Banded tire pressure monitors are attached to the wheel on a band inside the tire and transmits to a display. This also enables you to monitor the temperature of the tires as well.

The suspension for these trailers is a torsion-axle design. This is highly unusual in the towable RV space but provides a smoother ride for the trailer. Which means fewer road irregularities are transmitted into the trailer. In other words: less harsh jiggling.

 

Attention to Detail That Is Attention-Grabbing

Attention to detail is another thing that’s typical of Flagstaff products. A clear example of this is the owner’s manual binder where all the various components of the owners’ manual are put together in a single binder. This also includes a touch-up kit for the various wall surfaces in the trailer should one become nicked or such.

As mentioned, the feel of this rig seems rather plush. This could be a very nice choice for couples who spend a lot of time out on the road. It’s spacious in all the right places, including interior storage. Also know that Flagstaff and Rockwood offer nearly identical products. So if you like this rig but don’t have a Flagstaff dealer nearby, you might find that the Rockwood Signature 8265KBS is a suitable cousin.

 

 

Make Your Move

Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Flagstaff Classic 826KBS

 

What Other Campers Are Saying

Read the best reviews by owners. Search for an RV Model

The Prime Time RV Crusader 265MLE is the smallest fifth wheel in the Crusader line. Sleeping three, it’s well-suited to be a couples’ camper that’s fitted with a rear kitchen. Seating includes a four-place dinette on the camp side and theater seats in a slide on the road side. 

While some RVs are more price-focused, the Crusader 265 MLE is clearly designed with premium features and build quality at top of mind. Speaking with Spencer from Prime Time RV, he gave an example. The aluminum structure under the trailer is fully welded rather than spot welded, which is a common practice. This is part of what the company calls their Eternabond build. (Not to be confused, of course, with Eternabond tape — a common product used in RVs.) 

Other build quality features include a PVC roof which carries a lifetime guarantee and something I really liked: a Dexter EZ Flex suspension system. This system helps minimize shocks transmitted into the trailer itself, which can reduce wear over the long haul. It also rides on Hankook Vantra trailer tires — not the usual off-brand tire. Further, there’s a tire pressure monitoring system included which I feel is an important safety detail. There’s also a four-point auto level built into this trailer and another rarity — a rear bumper.

And all that is just the exterior. Let’s go inside.

 

At a Glance: Crusader 265 MLE

I gave the Prime Time RV Crusader 265MLE four and half out of five stars. This RV is well thought out with several solid features that will play-out well over time. The overall feel of this RV and little details are going to continue to be appreciated. The reason it didn’t receive a higher rating is that a few small details, like the thermostat and vent fans, don’t fit into the otherwise premium feel of this rig.  

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 3
• Hitch weight: 1,350 pounds
• UVW: 8,302 pounds 
• CCC: 2,800 pounds.
• Exterior length: 30 feet 11 inches
• Exterior height: 12 feet 6 inches
• Exterior width: 8 feet
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 54/68/34 gallons
• Awning: 16 feet 

 

Benefits

• Exquisite interior design and premium living features 
• Superb build quality, suspension, and enclosed underbelly

 

Challenges

• Thermostat is the kind that many owners replace
• Small vent fans in kitchen and bathroom

 

Best For

• Couples looking for a small but upscale fifth wheel
• Campers who take advantage of four-season capabilities

 

The RV Trader Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Prime Time RV Crusader 265MLE.

 

Sleeping Space

Upstairs, the bedroom features a queen-size bed. The bed itself is offset toward the camp side, which gives the opportunity to have a larger cabinet on the road side. That also provides space to accommodate a rather deep wardrobe slide with both hanging storage and drawers. (A rare RV luxury.) Conveniently, there are both household and USB outlets on each side of the bed. 

 

Bathroom

Through the upstairs, there is also good attention to detail. And that continues with the large bathroom, which even features a 40-inch shower. A ceramic toilet is another plus. It also has something you don’t often see in RVs: actual bathroom cabinets with doors. Many RV companies are shifting to simply using cubbies in bathroom cabinets, which seems odd in a moving vehicle. Not so — thankfully — in this bathroom.

 

Living Area

While I always encourage you to shop for an RV from the bottom up, paying attention to how the rig is built (see the intro), the truth is that many people start with the inside first. Those who do so are going to like what they see with the Crusader 265MLE. Prime Time RV hired an interior designer to give their interiors a new look for 2024. And this one definitely reflects the experience of someone with an eye for design. The evidence is everywhere. (Just look at these photos.)

The theater seats on the road side of this trailer face a large TV with a sound bar. although the TV is mounted pretty high up. Fortunately, you won’t need to crank the volume of that sound bar up to drown out the air conditioner noise. The Crusader 265MLE features a whisper-ducted A/C system. The Crusader line also all feature two A/C units in a racetrack type ducting system. So, you’re not going to have to look at the bottom of the A/C units themselves, but just the ducts. This quiets these systems down appreciably. 

 

Kitchen

The back wall of this rig has the kitchen counter across the width of the unit with a three-burner propane stove. It also features a large, usable oven. There are plenty of cabinets and drawers in here so storage shouldn’t be an issue. Even so, there is additional storage under the dinette. 

There’s also a walk-in pantry with enough space that it has a shelf with a power outlet. Naturally, this could be used for a coffee maker or blender. (Or, even better, a Margaritaville frozen concoction maker.) There’s also hanging storage and additional shelves here, too. For all those storing brooms or vacuums in their RV, this rig actually has a spot for those, as well as hanging space for coats and such. Another nice feature is the larger 16-cubic-foot, 12-volt fridge, very similar in size to the unit in many people’s homes. 

 

Four-Season Capabilities

For those who camp in shoulder seasons, it’s good to know that the Prime Time RV Crusader 265 MLE features a fully enclosed underbelly, heat ducted from the 35,000 Btu furnace into the space. Further, the holding tanks all have 12-volt heating pads on them. 

Another smart feature is that the gate valves for the holding tanks are enclosed in the underbelly. While some RVs have heated underbellies, the gate valves can freeze in colder weather. But these on the Crusader 265MLE are enclosed in the heated space. That’s smart. I would worry much less about camping in this trailer during the shoulder seasons due to the freeze protection built into it.

The exterior of this trailer is all fully laminated on five sides. That goes for the sidewalls, the back wall, and the sidewalls of the slide room. Those walls are all two inches thick for better insulation. The roof is a wooden-trussed structure with insulation. The roof of the slide boxes is fully walkable, and the PVC roof membrane is used up there as well. 

A Few Little Exterior Extras

On the opposite end of the weather spectrum, there is a 190-watt solar panel on the roof with an MPPT charge controller capable of handling up to 30 amps of input. Essentially that means that, should you want to upgrade your solar system with additional panels, this charge controller can handle that up to about 480 watts. 

 

Storage Space

Fifth wheels generally have good storage at the front. But —you may be picking up on a theme here — the Crusader 265MLE goes a bit further. One of the more interesting places you’ll find a place for your stuff outside is on a road-side compartment, which is rather large. 

As you enter the cabin there’s a neat smaller cabinet right opposite the doorway. (Could be a great place for a key rack, for example.) There’s also space under the steps for shoes. 

On the main floor, there’s that large pantry that sports two storage cabinets and a shelf with an adjacent power outlet. There’s a lot of space in cabinets and drawers around the kitchen and under the dinette as well. While bathroom storage seems to be disappearing in a lot of RVs, it’s plentiful here with stacked cabinets as well as a bit of storage under the sink. The main bedroom has a wardrobe slide with two big drawers and plenty of hanging storage plus there’s a lot of space over the bed as well as cabinets on either side. 

 

Closing Notes on the Crusader 265MLE

A Few Minor Things I Would Change

Overall, I think the Crusader 265MLE does a good job. Among the few minor things that I would change would be the vent fans. The vent fans in both the kitchen skylight and bathroom skylight are so small that they really do little more than make noise. Another is the thermostat, which is a unit that I had to frequently replace back the days when I handled warranties at an RV dealership.

The Crusader 265MLE also has two connections for the sewer system with one for the galley (kitchen) tank and another for the main holding tank. Not a big deal, but a bit of a nuisance. 

 

A Well-Balanced Couples Camper

As a couples’ camper, the Crusader 265MLE has a good balance of interior space and usability. All without being a very large fifth wheel. So, if Prime Time RV is not yet on your shopping list, by this point, they should be. The features built into this unit certainly got my attention. 

 

Make Your Move

Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Crusader 265MLE

 

What Other Campers Are Saying

Read the best reviews by owners. Search for an RV Model

The Forest River Sabre 26BBR is a fifth wheel that contains a few really pleasant surprises. And while it would be accurate to define it as a bunkhouse, it’s definitely not the whole story. With an overall length under 30 feet and weighing fewer than 8,000 pounds, this model is intended to be compatible with a wider range of vehicles. The smallish nature of this fifth wheel not only makes it more manageable. It makes it more affordable. Even so, the versatility of the Forest River Sabre 26BBR may surprise you.

 

At a Glance: Sabre 26BBR

I gave the Sabre 26BBR a score of three, which is average. In looking at this, things like the unique bedroom earn bonus points, but the small oven and entry-level suspension bring the overall score down. There is a great bathroom with that pull-out storage though.

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 7
• Hitch weight: 1,565 pounds
• UVW: 7,823 pounds 
• CCC: 2,177 pounds.
• Exterior length: 29 feet 10 inches
• Exterior height 13 feet 5 inches
• Exterior width: 8 feet
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 49/30/30 gallons
• Propane: 2 x 30 pounds
• Awning: 12 feet 

 

Benefits

• Bunkhouse doubles as alternate sleep space and office 
• Size and weight make it compatible with more tow vehicles

 

Challenges

• Suspension lacks additional absorption technology
• Single A/C unit comes standard; a second unit is optional

 

Best For

• Buyers looking for an affordable yet versatile fifth wheel that doesn’t sacrifice quality for size
• Young families who enjoy a separate space for the kids

 

The RV Trader Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Forest River Sabre 26BBR.

 

Sleeping Space

The master bedroom over the cap has a walkaround queen bed. The room itself connects with bathroom, which is also on the upper deck. But really, for sleeping space, one of the biggest surprises of this rig is the bunk room. It’s so much more than a bunkhouse model. 

As you might expect the bunk room features a fold-down upper bunk which is rated for 300 pounds. Depending on how you have it all configured, there’s also a desk in here with a cubby on the sides which means you can use this as a private office as well. 

There’s a cushion that is the mattress for the middle bunk, and that cushion can be folded so that you now have a couch or futon of sorts. But flip the top of the desk over, drop down the panel from the back wall and now you have a second bunk. That cushion that was a couch is now the mattress for this second bunk. 

But wait, there’s more. Up on the top bunk are two cushions and you can lay one of those on the floor so now you have a third bed. To be honest this space would be tight with three people here, but it’s certainly possible — more so if your occupants are smaller, younger human beings. But make no mistake: The fact that this is a whole separate room that can be an office or a bedroom or just a den is really unusual in a fifth wheel of this length. 

 

Bathroom

The bathroom, on the upper deck, has some nice surprises in it. There is a porcelain foot flush toilet (rather than plastic), and the cabinet on which the sink is placed leaves space for a small waste basket. A proper medicine cabinet is here as well. 

Behind the toilet is a pull-out cabinet that really has a lot of shelf space and is quite a nice find here. There’s a high-performance vent fan overhead. and the shower in here is pretty large. It has a seat-step as well. There’s also an Oxygenics shower head, which is what many owners buy after realizing what comes with most RVs is lousy. No need to make that upgrade to this RV. The Sabre 26BBR did it already.  

While we’re all in the bathroom, one more thing to note is that the controls for the tankless water heater are here, which seems convenient. 

 

Living Area

There is still a lot of living space in the Sabre 26BBR. The only slide in this trailer, featuring a rack-and-pinion slide mechanism, is on the main deck on the camp side. With a bunkhouse model, this makes so much sense because there are huge windows on the camp side of this rig in the slide as well as in the hallway up to the upper deck and in the door. If you do have littles, this allows you to keep an eye on them more easily. 

In the slide is a traditional booth-style dinette and a hide-a-bed sofa. The sofa faces a TV and fireplace. The dinette faces the kitchen.

 

Kitchen

The kitchen is a large L-shaped affair with a counter that spans the width of the bulkhead at the front of this space and extends down to the edge of the fridge. That fridge is a 12-volt DC model with 16 cubic feet of storage, including a two-drawer freezer and side-by-side refrigerator. It’s pretty fancy. 

The stove and oven are a new item in the RV industry featuring a convection air fryer oven and three-burner propane cook top. The oven operates on 120-vac, so shore power or a generator are needed to make it work. That’s true of the microwave above it but that’s common. This oven is something new. 

The sink here is also a new item and features a number of drop-in, stainless-steel accessories. Those drop-in items include a strainer for washing veggies, a dish rack, and cutting board. There’s even a device to allow you to wash cups and glasses by inverting them and pressing down. (That’s pretty nifty.) The faucet on the sink is also pretty nice with a restaurant-style sprayer faucet on a flexible mount.

 

Four-Season Capabilities

I was told that the Sabre 26BBR specifically provides space for 30-pound propane tanks in the compartments on the front of this rig. However, it includes 20-pound tanks. The reason is that 20-pound tanks are easier to deal with through exchanges all over. Those who wish to can upgrade to 30-pound tanks or remain with the convenience of these 20-pound models.

This trailer features a completely enclosed underbelly with heat provided by the furnace of the camper. Further, there are 12-volt heating pads on all the tanks. Another thing worth noting is that the gate valves for the holding tanks are all enclosed in that heated underbelly. 

There is also a reflective material in the underbelly as well as on the ceiling and in the nose cap to keep outside temperatures outside. What this means is that more of the plumbing and holding tank system is protected in a heated space, so you have fewer issues with freezing. While there is no rating of temperature range for this fifth wheel, these features do stack the deck more in your favor in shoulder season (as things start to cool down).  

Tinted Windows, Vacuum Lamination, and PVC Roofing

The windows have an amber tint to them from the outside which is a sun-reflecting coating on the glass to help keep the sun’s rays from heating things up inside. Another thing worth noting is that the walls of this fifth wheel including the walls of the slide boxes are all vacuum laminated. The significance of this is that vacuum lamination provides a more even and consistent glue distribution than being rolled through rollers as some companies do but is a costlier process, partially because the equipment is expensive. 

They also use a PVC roof membrane which has the advantage of being repairable using simple PVC solvents available at local hardware stores. It also carries a lifetime guarantee, but it’s important to note that the seals around breaches in the roof for things like vents, antennas and the like are all things that should be inspected quarterly and are not covered under this guarantee. 

 

Storage Space

Like many fifth wheels, the Sabre 26BBR offers a commodious cargo bay at the front. But storage surprises are on the inside. There, you’ll find a slide-out set of shelves in the bathroom — a space where storage is often neglected. There is also decent storage in the kitchen area with plenty of cabinets and drawers. Lastly, the upstairs bedroom features a space for totes under the bed and good-sized closets plus drawers on either side of the bed, which lifts up to reveal more storage.

 

Closing Notes on the Sabre 26BBR

Outside and Underside

While the nifty office/bedroom/bunk is certainly a distinguishing feature in this trailer, other things worth noting. And important ones start at the bottom. I often recommend shopping for an RV by starting at the underside and seeing how it’s made before ever stepping inside. In this case, the Sabre 26BBR uses a Norco frame. The significance of this is that it’s huck bolted together rather than welded. While I have no proof of this fact, the frame company claims that this is stronger and more consistent than welds. 

While I’m a fan of Goodyear Endurance tires and suspensions with additional absorption technologies, this model has neither. There is a rudimentary tire pressure system where the valve stems on the tires actually change the displayed color based on tire pressure, so you can easily see if they are properly inflated. (I’ll take it!)

Something you often find optional on RVs that is a standard feature here is a back-up camera which uses Bluetooth and the Lippert OneControl app. This is certainly an unexpected feature since it’s optional on most other RVs. 

 

Extra Features and Value of the Sabre 26BBR 

This fifth wheel packs a lot of value and features into a relatively small and affordable package. It would be worth noting that this unit does come with a single 15,000 BTU air conditioner but a second unit is available. 

There’s also 100 watts of solar and Sabre has wired the trailer with a 30-amp charge controller so you could add more solar if you wanted. There is also wiring in place so that you could power some of the outlets through an inverter. Speaking of wiring there is a household outlet in the pass-through storage on the camp side with a port to run an extension cord to the outside. This would also be an ideal place for a Starlink router with that port being used for the cable to the dish. 

This rig is also relatively light with the model I saw weighing 7,966 pounds dry. RV and truck makers might advertise certain types of trucks this would be compatible with, but I urge you to know how much cargo carrying capacity your truck has and be aware of pin weights on any fifth wheel. This is still a large trailer and controlling such a vehicle is paramount, especially since this is a model intended for families. 

If the Sabre 26BBR is not on your radar, and you’re looking for an affordable fifth wheel with an innovative bunk space, this model certainly merits consideration. It has a lot of features and a unique design along with a strong value proposition that should put it on more shopping lists.

 

Make Your Move

Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Sabre 26BBR

 

What Other Campers Are Saying

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Right out the gate, the 2024 Coachmen Euro 25EU stands out. This is a Class A that looks different than the large, bus-style motorhomes in its class. It’s smaller and sleeker, which makes it nimbler. It also means its cabin space is more intimate than its Class A cousins, with sleeping space for two in the main bed plus space two more on a folding couch.

While the function and features of any RV are what I like to focus on (and we’ll get to that), it’s impossible not to be taken aback by the appearance of this coach. I spoke with Zach Eppers, the general manager for Coachmen’s Class A division. He told me that European motorhomes are the inspiration for this design. In Europe, motorhomes tend to be smaller and more maneuverable. And that would certainly be an apt description of the Euro 25EU.

 

At a Glance: Coachmen Euro 25EU

I gave the Coachmen Euro 25EU four and a half out of five stars. There is a lot of thought that went into the details of this rig. Plus, it’s got a number of just good features. I also think it’s a size that successfully balances a drivable size with a comfortable interior space.

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 4
• GVWR: 16,000 pounds
• GCWR: 23,000 pounds
• GAWR (front): 6,500 pounds
• GAWR (rear): 11,000 pounds
• Fuel capacity: 80 gallons
• LP tank capacity: 85 pounds
• Exterior length: 28 feet 8 inches
• Exterior height: 11 feet 1 inch
• Exterior width: 8 feet 3 inches
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 50/31/31 gallons
• Awning: 16 feet

 

Benefits

• Drivers enjoy the enhanced maneuverability of sleeker size, the incredible visibility with a huge windshield, and rear and side safety cameras
• Smart use of overhead storage and lots of clever tech run throughout the length of this Class A

 

Challenges

• Not everyone loves an S-shaped kitchen
• Limited baking options with a conventional microwave

 

Best For

• Class A lovers who want a smaller, more stylish rig that they can comfortably drive and park
• RV couples who enjoy hosting a few friends

 

The RV Trader Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Coachmen Euro 25EU.

 

Sleeping Space

As I write, there are two variations on this floor plan. The one I saw has a king-size bed in a rear slide room, but there is also one which features twin beds in the back. The bed in this model is one that is split such that you basically flip the bottom of the mattress over the top to accommodate the closing of the slide room. This is a Lippert SlimRack mechanism.

Outside the bedroom and behind the cockpit, there’s a hide-a-bed sofa on the passenger side, which can accommodate two more sleepers. So many Class As enable you to bring a crowd, but the limited sleeping space in the Euro 25EU makes sure the sleeker and smaller European-like design doesn’t get too crowded.

 

Bathroom

One of the first things that I noticed is that with the slide room closed it was very difficult to get into the bathroom. (That is, unless you’re very thin.) One of the benefits of having a motorhome is that you have a bathroom available for pit stops along the way. But, depending on your size, that might not be as true in this slim Class A.

Making Elite Systems Standard

One of the surprises in the bathroom was the macerator toilet system. If you’re not familiar with macerators, you can think of them as a garbage disposal for the black tank. It does just what a garbage disposal does and grinds the contents. The advantage of these systems is that they pump out the contents when it’s time to dump the system rather than relying on gravity to accomplish that task. You may have heard an old saying that the contents of a black tank don’t flow up hill, but they would with a macerator system. This is something more common in higher-end rigs but not as much so in a more mainstream offering.

Another surprise is the use of an Oxygenics showerhead in this rig. Many RV buyers are disappointed with the shower head that comes with their RVs. Highly disappointed. This often leads them to purchase an upgrade — like the showerhead that’s already in this motorhome. In the Euro 25 EU, it’s just standard. Which is awesome.

 

Living Area

Behind the main cockpit of this rig are two theater seat/captain’s chairs on the road side and a hide-a-bed sofa on the passenger side. Each of these seating areas feature lap belts. But take note: Some states have limitations on who can ride sideways in a vehicle. (Some of these limitations are based on age and others on the size of the individual.)

The captain’s chairs do recline a bit, and there’s a Lagun-style table that slots in the space between them. One of the nifty things about these is that you can adjust the height, and they can be moved around like a planchette on a Ouija board. So you can find all sorts of positions that may work for you.

This table is also able to take up the floor space between the captain’s chairs and the sofa. Which means that you could share it amongst the people seated on either side of the aisle.

This motorhome also features horizontal strip lights that span the width of the curved ceiling, which is something I’m seeing appear in more RVs. I think these add a very modern flair but wish that you could disable individual fixtures, although there is a provision to dim the lights

 

Kitchen

Based on the comments I’ve seen about this in various forums around the internet, the interior and interior features of this rig do have a few polarizing pieces. The first of these is the kitchen cabinet which has an S-shaped build. That curvy design extends below the countertop to a drawer. That drawer has two trash cans and what I would describe as a housekeeping tote in it. Those totes are kept in place by specific cutouts in the drawer.

Something I liked about the drawers and many of the cabinet doors in this rig are that they feature positive mechanical latches and soft-close drawer glides. These latches mean the drawers and cabinets won’t go flying open in transit. (Always a plus!)

A Few Cooking Options

Surface cooking in this motorhome is done by a two-burner induction cooktop. There are a larger number of people using induction cooking. And I can see why. It makes so much sense not to have an open flame in an RV. Essentially, this cooktop uses magnetic energy to create heat in compatible cookware.

This wouldn’t be a rig that would appeal to those who liked to bake as the only other heating appliance in here is a conventional microwave oven. I would like to see Coachmen offer a convection microwave as an option, and the RV supply chain now has a number of convection microwaves that fit into the same size slot as this RV microwave.

Some Upscale Additions

Overhead cabinetry in this is something Coachmen will make a lot of noise about. They’ve employed a high-quality curved cabinet design, which is admirable because it certainly isn’t the least expensive way to go.

Another thing in this space is a rather elaborate stainless steel vent hood over the convection cook top. I’ve seen more than one internet commenter state that they wished there were either a convection microwaves up here or just more counter space instead. But I have to say, this vent hood is rather stylish.

Further back, there’s a 12-volt refrigerator, which I like to see in a motorhome. These are designed specifically for the realities of going down the road unlike residential refrigerators. Having managed warranty claims at a dealership, I’m not much of a fan of residential appliances in a mobile environment.

 

Four-Season Capabilities

For seasonal camping, the holding tanks on this RV are not enclosed in a heated compartment. The company indicated that the body on this was lowered to create the design we have here which eliminated the ability to put the holding tanks in a heated compartment.

That being written, the holding tanks do have 12-volt heating pads on them, but you’ll want to learn how this coach performs in colder environments before heading out for that winter jaunt to Alaska.

Standard Features and Options

A number of options available for this RV might affect your off-grid camping. The standard build for these includes an Onan 5,500 gasoline-powered generator which can run the entire rig including air conditioners and such. There is also a 100-watt solar panel on the roof, but, quite honestly, that’s nothing more than a battery tender at best.

Since we’re looking up, that’s where you’ll find the two 13,500 BTU air conditioners that come standard (nice!) in this smaller motorhome. Both of those also feature heat pump technology so you could heat or cool this rig entirely on electric power, depending on the ambient temperature.

When it does get colder that’s when you’ll want to be sure that you have propane aboard so you can run the proper furnace. That propane is also used for the tankless water heater.

 

Storage Space

I’ve already mentioned the very impressive overhead cabinetry. There are a few more cabinets that deserve our attention toward the back of this rig. Right behind the fridge is a pantry that’s rather deep. However, the door opening is narrow, so I can imagine that some folks will have trouble getting to the back of this space. With so many other obvious cases of attention to detail I’m surprised that this isn’t a pull-out pantry.

On the road side is a space that features hanging storage and more space above that for things like shoes or whatever. Opposite that on the camp side is another larger cabinet that has hanging storage and a removable shelf, but this can also be used for a washer-dryer combo unit with the appropriate plumbing and water service.

 

Closing Notes on the Coachmen Euro 25EU

Driving This Class A

Measuring just over 28 feet in length and about 99 inches wide, I would imagine that there are few campgrounds that you couldn’t get this into. Further, the size might make it a great rig for boondocking. (And the features included would support that.) With this being based on the Ford F53 chassis with its gasoline-fueled “Godzilla” 7.3-liter V8, this should have little trouble keeping up with traffic.

There’s a large touch screen on the instrument panel of this rig that features both Apple Car Play and Android Auto. Interestingly, this display can also be rotated. It also has more of the feel of an aftermarket iPad installation than something built into the instrument panel. Which is not a bad thing, at all. There are also side and rearview cameras to assist in seeing what’s out there on the road.

That copilot’s seat also features a flip-up desk so they can tell the driver where to go (in the politest of terms, of course). And there’s a household power outlet here so if the navigator is using a laptop, they can keep it charged up. There are actually a number of smart details like that in this rig.

Here’s another example. The driver has a control for their four-point auto level conveniently located on their armrest. Roll into a campsite and push a button and the coach will be doing its leveling dance in no time.

Great Views — Big and Small

That entire front compartment features a huge windshield as well as large windows on the side. When night falls and you’re no longer driving there is a power-operated shade that blocks the light from the windshield as well as manually operated shades for the side windows.

Another unique feature is a small window in the footwell of the copilot front cabin. I suppose it could be used to monitor what’s outside in traffic. But I expect it may be better used by a small breed to see just who needs a good barking at.

 

Conclusions on the Euro 25EU

There’s a lot to like about this motorhome, not the least of which is that it’s a good balance of interior space and exterior size. I’m with the various commenters on the internet who would prefer either more cabinet space or a convection microwave in place of the fancy vent hood over the induction cook top.

I would also like to see that pantry behind the fridge become a pull-out pantry as my wife couldn’t reach the back of it and you know that that’s where the most important ingredient would end-up when you’re in a hurry.

If I were the buyer on this, I would want to have an extensive test drive on freeway speeds and on a few back roads before signing on the dotted line. I have been told that this chassis can be a bit nervous in some driving conditions. There are upgrades to the handling of these, including a product called Liquid Springs, but they’re not inexpensive.

Overall, I like this size a lot and there are some good features and thinking here. Plus, this is a stylish rig that definitely stands out in a good way.

 

 

Make Your Move

Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Euro 25EU

 

What Other Campers Are Saying

Read the best reviews by owners. Search for an RV Model

Today’s RV review is of the Forest River Vengeance Rogue Armored 4007G2 toy hauler with the Folds of Honor (FOH) package. But first (indulge me), I just gotta say this: Is it just me, or do toy haulers really seem to go all-in on hardcore names? Vengeance. Sandstorm. Shockwave. These super serious names carry a lot of frowny-face emotions. Which is ironic, because I have seen a lot of these awesome RVs towed by people who then launch out with their nifty toys and go exploring. It’s an adrenaline-fueled adventure where everyone smiles — with a vengeance.

All kidding aside, the Vengeance Rogue Armored 4007G2 is a huge fifth wheel toy hauler that features a garage area that’s closed-off from the rest of the trailer — a feature that’s a particularly good thing if you’re carrying stinky machines (very likely) and don’t want your rig to smell like gasoline alley (also very likely).

The model I saw was part of a special edition that supports an organization called Folds of Honor which provides scholarships to families of America’s fallen, disabled military members, and first responders. As such, this Vengeance Rogue Armored 4007G2 was emblazoned with a lot of patriotic decor. 

 

At a Glance: Vengeance Rogue Armored 4007G2 

I gave the Vengeance Rogue Armored 4007G2 four out of five stars. From the standpoint of hauling toys and accommodating a good number of people for sleeping and eating, this rig does a very good job. But the corners cut with the small oven and budget-focused suspension are real drawback (to me) for an RV in this price range.

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 9
• Hitch weight: 3,100 pounds
• UVW: 13,174 pounds 
• CCC: 3,926 pounds.
• Exterior length: 45 feet 6 inches
• Exterior height 13 feet 4 inches
• Exterior width: 8 feet 6 inches
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 150/80/80 gallons
• Awnings: 12 feet and 18 feet

 

Benefits

• Closed-off garage area for almost 2 tons of cargo
• Ability to sleep 9, plus holding tanks to host them

 

Challenges

• Suspension system could improve for toy hauler this size
• Kitchen oven is smallish (17 inches)

 

Best For

• RVers who want to bring big toys — and a big crowd to play with them
• Patriots looking to go the extra mile to give back to the people who have served our country with honor

 

The RV Trader Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Forest River Vengeance Rogue Armored 4007G2 FOH.

 

Sleeping Space

The master bedroom is located in the upper deck of this toy hauler. And it’s quite spacious. I’m a bigger guy, but I had no issues walking around. The king-size bed in this rig has an adjustability feature to it which is also nice. Do note: It’s not a full king but is an “RV king.” For those who aren’t familiar with the difference, that means that it’s eight inches narrower. But an additional feature that it have is a power lift mechanism so you can raise the head of the bed. From the bedroom, you can also walk right into the master bathroom.

In the garage, there’s two flip-up sofas, a raised queen-size bed, and a loft. Together, with the additional sleeping space on the couch in the living area, these spaces mean you could very well have room for eight to nine guests. The couches on the walls of this rig fold flat against the walls, again, to accommodate larger toys such as a side-by-side. The bed that’s over the couches is held in place with four gas struts which is a method I really like. To drop the bed into position just pull the back and then the front down onto the supports. To lift it back up for cargo carrying just push it back into stowed position. This mechanism is simple and effective and fast. 

 

Bathroom

There are two bathrooms in this RV. The first is on the upper deck has a bathroom, and, as mentioned, has doors to the bedroom and to the hallway. Inside, there is plenty of space to change clothes plus a decent amount of storage in several cupboards. The shower is a corner unit with a nicer shower head.

There’s also a second bathroom downstairs in the cargo area. Which makes a lot of sense. If you have a crew sleeping in what is otherwise the cargo area, it gives them access to a bathroom of their own. Or, equally likely, if you come in off the road and are dusty and dirty, this is the place to go before the boss lets you into the main living space. 

This second bathroom can be created with folding walls and a folding upper berth that’s also the bathroom’s ceiling. When you want to bring in larger toys this bathroom’s walls fold away to accommodate them. When it’s time to camp, just fold out the walls and drop down the upper berth and now you have a fully enclosed bathroom with a porcelain foot flush toilet and small corner sink. 

 

Living Area

Speaking of the main living space, the Vengeance Rogue Armored 4007G2 has an unusual setup. There’s a theater seat/couch over on the road side, which that shares a slide room with the large 16-cubic-foot, 12-volt refrigerator. The couch features heat and massage for the outboard positions, but all three seats can recline. 

There is also sort of half a dinette on the camp side with a permanently mounted table and a bench. If you bring in a couple of camp chairs. you could now have seats that face one another if you like. This bench faces an electric fireplace and the kitchen. 

As with other large fifth wheels, this one features plenty of cabinets and drawers including upper cabinets that might require some campers to have to use a step ladder to reach things near the top.

 

Kitchen

The kitchen has a decent amount of counter space. You also get a three-burner propane stove top with a small 17-inch (vertical) RV oven. They are of the things that I universally dislike. I’ve found that these smaller ovens just have such hot spots and have limited space, so for a rig this pricey designed to serve so many people the larger 22-inch (vertical) oven would have been a much more logical choice. None are available in this model, unfortunately. However, this is nicely counterbalanced by there being a residential-sized convection microwave. 

As previously mentioned, across from the galley, there is the large 16-cubic-foot 12-volt refrigerator. Facing it, just to its left is a walk-in pantry — always a nice surprise.

 

Four-Season Capabilities

These big toy haulers have huge holding tanks and that makes them great for off-grid camping. As for cold weather camping, there are 12-volt heating pads on the holding tanks, which are in an enclosed underbelly. But, even so, the gate valves for the tanks are fully exposed. So, I would be cognizant of this when camping in colder temperatures. Especially if you’re off-grid.

Speaking of going off-grid, more and more RV companies are recognizing the advances in solar and battery storage systems. This trailer comes with 100 watts of solar with an additional 100 watts as an option. I doubt that even the 200 watts of solar would do a satisfactory job of maintaining the state of charge of the batteries with this large refrigerator. However, there is a package with 300 watts of solar and a 2,000-watt inverter, which gives you more muscle. And, of course, a 5,500-watt generator is also available as an option. 

 

Storage Space

The garage of this rig is 14 feet long and capable of hauling almost two tons of cargo, with 5,000-pound tie-down hooks mounted directly to the chassis. There’s also an optional camera where you can see what’s going on in the garage from inside the tow vehicle. (You know, in case you want to monitor those toys you’re towing along after you hit a pothole.)

The Vengeance Rogue Armored line of toy haulers feature a Z-frame construction. Essentially, that gives you a sizable front passthrough storage compartment that extends into the very front of the trailer and sports cargo tie-downs in the front. 

There are also two compartments below the main compartment deck in the front. On the camp side is a very large battery compartment. You can fill this with half a dozen batteries — no problem. 

On the road side is a gasoline-fueled 5,500-watt inverter generator which draws its fuel from the 3-gallon, onboard fuel tank. You can also utilize this to fuel-up gas-powered toys as well so you’re literally bringing your own gas station with you. 

 

Closing Notes on the Vengeance Rogue Armored 4007G2 

Ramptastic Features

There’s a very long/tall ramp at the back of this rig which can be dropped down to do double duty as a patio deck. Which is one of the things I really like about toy haulers. With the height of this rig, the ramp door is longer/taller, so there is a lower angle for loading up your toys. But also, the opening is taller so golf carts or side-by-sides can fit through the opening as well. 

There’s also a screened fence around the perimeter of the ramp door when it’s in patio position. You can also opt in a glass door to cover the opening which is nice. That means the ramp door can be in patio mode but there is a glass door to keep out the flying nuisances and also keep your heat or cool in. 

 

Folds of Honor Special Edition Package

For the 2024 model year, the Vengeance Rogue and Rogue Armored lines of travel trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers offers the Folds of Honor Special Edition. Folds of Honor is a national organization that provides scholarships to families of America’s fallen or disabled military and first responders. Since 2007, Folds of Honor has awarded abut 44,000 scholarships, an impact of nearly $200 million.

For each Special Edition that is sold, Forest River donates $1,000 to Folds of Honor in the customer’s name. In turn, Folds of Honor will supply a placard with the name and description of a fallen or disabled military and first responder to the owner to proudly display on their coach.

Among other things, the optional package features Folds of Honor graphics on the exterior and a number of accessories. That includes patriotic bedding, linen, and signage that carry the theme through on the inside.

 

A Pure Mission 

The partnership came about when sales manager Bradley Short came across Folds of Honor and was struck by their mission.

“It hit me like a brick,” he said, “so I looked into it a little deeper. Look, there’s a bunch of charities out there that are doing a bunch of good work. But the thing that got me about Folds of Honor was the fact that 91 cents out of every dollar goes to the intended recipient. Their message and their mission is pure. And it’s something that I could really get behind.

“So, I went to them and said, ‘Would you be interested in partnering with our division on building a coach?’ ” Short shared. Three days later, the agreement was in place and the Folds of Honor Special Edition package for the Vengeance Rogue brand was launched.

“We were able to get this done in such a short amount of time because it’s pure,” Short explained. “We absolutely support what these guys are doing, and we want to help them through building our RVs, and we want people to look at this and know that they’re making a difference in the family members’ lives of a wounded or fallen service member.”

 

Thoughts on Suspension, Service, and Shades

With as much as this rig can haul, I would also like to see a better suspension than simple leaf springs on dry bolts. Things like a MorRyde CRE4000 would offer better dampening so there is less vibration transmitted into the trailer which is better for the trailer. There are several brands of better suspensions out there. 

As someone who has helped to raise money for a charity called Operation Tango Mike which sends care packages to in-service military personnel, I can appreciate the patriotic references here. To my eye they’re tasteful and well done. 

Interestingly this one has those zebra shades, and I like them but not everybody does. I’m curious about your take on those and this whole patriotic them. (Does this idea resonate with you?) Overall, the Forest River Vengeance Rogue Armored 4007G2 that I saw had a number of good features. That particularly includes the power folding king-sized bed and the way the bathroom walls in the cargo bay can be folded away for larger hauling capability. That hauling capacity, of course, a dominant feature of measurement for any toy hauler.

 

Make Your Move

Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Vengeance Rogue Armored 4007G2

 

What Other Campers Are Saying

Read the best reviews by owners. Search for an RV Model

For Class C enthusiasts everywhere, today’s review is of the 2024 Forest River Sunseeker 2400DSB. This model is based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis and features a bunk above the cab. Also, there is a lot of technology in this unit, specifically when you’re in the captain’s chair. (We’ll talk more about that at the end of the review.) 

But first, while many familiar with the Sunseeker might know the 2400B, they will be surprised to see some of the design changes found in the 2400DSB. And he most significant change just might be moving from a single large slide room to two smaller ones. 

 

At a Glance: Sunseeker 2400DSB

I gave the 2024 Forest River Sunseeker 2400DSB four out of five stars. This is a nicely finished RV, but the access to the bathroom is a bit tight with the slide-out (and almost impossible with the bed slide in). There is also a low-budget bathroom fan in what is otherwise a premium-feeling RV. You will also want to be careful loading this with 971 pounds of cargo carrying capacity. This might sound like a lot, but a full tank of water takes over 400 pounds from this equation. 

However, a lot of the safety technology inherent in the Mercedes-Benz chassis (really, really nice) is what brings that score to where I have it. 

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 6 with dinette option; 4 with theater seating
• CCC: 971 pounds
• Exterior length: 25 feet 5 inches
• Exterior height 11 feet 3 inches
• Exterior width: 7 feet 11 inches
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 35/32/32 gallons
• LP Tank Capacity: 56 pounds
• Awning: 15 feet 6 inches

 

Benefits

• MB Sprinter fully loaded with safe driving tech
• Two slides enhance living space 

 

Challenges

• Bathroom could be a tight squeeze for larger RVers
• Some buyers may not prefer split mattress in bedroom

 

Best For

• Campers who enjoy exceptional driving and safety features
• Leaner RVers who can more easily navigate the floorplan

 

The RV Trader Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Forest River Sunseeker 4200DSB.

 

Sleeping Space

Starting with the bedroom slide, the configuration here involves one of those split mattresses that are split in half and fold on top of itself. My wife always finds that the split is right at her hips which makes sleeping far less comfortable. So, this is something that I absolutely recommend that you test if you are in the market for this unit. The mattress might very well be just fine for you. Or it could be a deal (and back) breaker. 

At the back wall of the bedroom is a full complement of drawers and cabinets so there is plenty of storage back here. 

The model I saw had theater seats in the living area, but you could also choose a dinette option instead. If you choose a dinette, this space can sleep two, although I suspect that grade-school sleepers will be more comfortable here than those with a teacher’s stature. 

At the front of the cabin, there is also a sleeping-space option above the cockpit. The model I saw featured the over-cab bunk which is also designed for two. (But you can also opt for something the company calls a Trekker cap, which is much lower in profile but doesn’t have the bunk.)

 

Bathroom

The Sunseeker 4200DSB is configured with a bathroom along the camp-side wall that takes about a third of the width of the camper. The bedroom takes the rest of the width and then extends further thanks to that second slide room. 

The svelte rep from Sunseeker deftly walked back there to show off the space, but, if buyers are closer in physical build to me, they are going to have a bit of issue getting back there. (As someone who personally displaces a lot of pool water, my sensitivity to tight spaces is acute.) Also, if that space weren’t tight enough, the door to the bathroom only opens about 40 degrees when the bedroom slide is out. So, it’s a bit of a squeeze to get into the bathroom, even when the slide is out. 

When the slide was in, our lanky rep had no problem getting into the bathroom, but I had to remain an observer. So, if this is the rig for you, make sure these spaces are easily accessible based on your own body build. 

 

Living Area

There are a number of nice details in the interior of the Sunseeker 2400DSB, including the light switches and controls right at the entrance to the camper body. You can easily flip on the interior lights as you step inside. That’s also where the optional four-point auto-level controls are as well. 

The model I saw was a transitional model between 2024 and 2025 and had some features that will ultimately be standard in forthcoming versions of this. This is also why the model designation on the exterior was 2400B, but on Forest River’s website it is listed as the 2400DSB. 

This name change reflects that there are two slide rooms on the roadside of this rig rather than the single large slide room. In the forward slide, room is typically a U-shaped dinette, but the model I saw had optional power theater seats installed. 

 

Kitchen

More and more, I’m seeing RV companies moving to induction cook tops which does make sense. The kitchen in the Sunseeker 2400DSB featured just a single induction cook top although, if you find yourself wanting another one, you can simply get those just about anywhere. I have a portable induction cook top that I use myself. 

The only other cooking tool is a convection microwave oven which is below the counter. If you do have more youthful campers with you, you’ll find that, depending on their age, the buttons on the microwave are irresistible. I wish the microwave were in the overhead compartment instead for a variety of reasons, including this one. 

Cabinet and drawer space aren’t bad in here, given the size of this rig. I was told that the pantry had to be made narrower to accommodate the two slides instead of the single larger slide, but this was also done for reliability. (The older single, large slide had presented issues with some buyers.)

 

Four-Season Capabilities

These little motorhomes with their generators are pretty decent for short-term boondocking. I write short-term because there is only 35 gallons of freshwater storage aboard so you might be able to stretch this for two to three days depending on your shower and coffee consumption habits. 

I was told that the Mercedes-Benz platform is such that Forest River is not able to enclose the underside. That means that this would be tougher for cold weather camping, if that’s your choice. 

One of the options that I thought was unique is that you can get one of these with no specific generator at all and with 13 kilowatts of lithium battery reserves aboard. That option also includes a 7,000-watt second alternator so now the motorhome’s diesel engine becomes your generator, and you have a tremendous amount of battery reserves. 

This could be a good option if you like to camp where there are generator restrictions. Plus, it would be one fewer engine to maintain — small generators do have their own maintenance requirements. 

 

Storage Space

One of the big considerations on any of these smaller motorhomes is cargo carrying capacity. Motorhomes aren’t light and many of these Sprinter chassis motorhomes have very little cargo carrying capacity. Remember a full 32-gallon water tank would add 256 pounds of weight. (This model’s freshwater tank has 35 gallons, for comparison.)

This is important to be aware of because that cargo carrying capacity includes any people, clothing, food and water. In many of these rigs, you can exceed the cargo carrying capacity with one passenger and some food in the fridge. The unit I saw had a cargo carrying capacity of about 971 pounds, which is respectable. (If you’re shopping for a smaller Class C pay close attention to this number. 

As for exterior storage on this rig, there are a few smaller compartments. Plus, there’s also a single larger bay that is made of a plastic material and even has a drain if you use it for wet things like hoses and such. Neat. 

 

Closing Notes on the Sunseeker 2400DSB

Lots of Driver Assistance

There are two areas in this rig where technology really stands out in this model: in the cab and chassis provided by Mercedes-Benz, and in the body of the camper itself. 

I got to speak with a rep from Sunseeker who told me that Mercedes-Benz offers a variety of safety technologies in the Sprinter cab and chassis and that Sunseeker checks all the boxes when they spec out their orders from Mercedes-Benz. That means not only adaptive cruise control (where the rig can slow down if it senses vehicles ahead) but also front-collision assist which will help you avoid hitting something ahead of you. 

There is also lane assist which helps you stay in your lane. But the thing that I was most intrigued with is something called crosswind assist. This essentially senses crosswinds and can use the braking system in the vehicle to help keep it on track. I would imagine that this alone would really make this much more pleasant to drive. 

 

The Right Amount of Power

Speaking of driving, this features the new 2.0-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. If you’re not a gearhead, just know that this is a relatively small diesel engine, but that diesel engines have the benefit of having a lot of torque which is the twisting force used to get things moving. 

So, while you might look at this size of engine on paper and wonder if you would have to get out and push on slight inclines, it’s actually rather capable. The Sunseeker 4200DSB purportedly has all the oomph (that’s a technical term) needed to keep up with traffic including merging onto highways. 

 

Keeping on the technology theme, this RV has a system that allows you to control the included 4-kilowatt generator a variety of ways. You can have the generator automatically start if the system senses the interior temp of the rig goes above a certain point which would enable the air conditioning to come on.

You can also have the generator come on if the state of charge of the house batteries gets below a certain point. Another feature is that you can have the generator auto-start at specific intervals which is useful if you’re not using the rig much but still want to exercise the generator, which is best practice. 

 

The Skinny on the Sunseeker 4200DSB

While this model had some technology that I really liked, this unit would be a challenge for me. And honestly, it’s because I’m someone who has more girth than my doctor would like. (However, Forest River offers a very similar floorplan in the Sunseeker 2400T, which has the large slide room with a Murphy bed so the interior space opens up significantly.)

I really like the useful technology on this rig in both safety and convenience features and recognize that a good deal of attention was paid to details. Overall, a nice package with some very useful features. 

 

Make Your Move

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What Other Campers Are Saying

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The Shasta Compact 16RE is a travel trailer by definition, but if you thought of this as a pickup camper on wheels, you wouldn’t be far off. While that might not really tell the whole story, it should give you an idea. At just 16 feet 9 inches in total length and weighing in at 2,983 pounds, its light, easy to tow, and lean. But despite its smaller profile and traditional build, the truth is that the Shasta Compact 16RE actually has pretty much everything you’d need in a travel trailer.

 

At a Glance: Shasta Compact 16RE

I gave the Shasta Compact 16RE three and a half out of five stars. This is a great little trailer for some campers, but it does possess a few oddities. The two sewer connections seem silly in a trailer this small. I’m also not a big fan of the latch in the 12-volt fridge on this unit. Other than that, for a camper of this size, this is a nifty little package.

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 4
• Hitch weight: 302 pounds
• UVW: 2,983 pounds
• CCC: 1,017 pounds.
• Exterior length: 16 feet 9 inches
• Exterior height 10 feet 6 inches
• Exterior width: 8 feet
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 40/30/30 gallons

 

Benefits

• Light, easy-to-tow trailer that keeps things simple
• Nice amount of counter space and storage, plus dry bath

 

Challenges

• Having two sewer connection points seems unnecessary
• Wood and aluminum construction not ideal for all seasons

 

Best For

• Weekend warriors looking for a traditional camper
• Single RVers who want to focus on the essentials

 

The RV Trader Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Shasta Compact 16RE.

 

Sleeping Space

In many ways, the Shasta Compact 16RE’s configuration reminds me of a pickup camper in that you enter from the back. The trailer is essentially a hallway with a bed on the front and that bed faces east-to-west. This configuration can scare away some buyers, but I can easily imagine this trailer being popular with single campers (as opposed to families, although in theory you can sleep four in here. The bed is an RV queen model, but if there are two people sleeping here, someone’s going to have to sleep against the wall. And that’s the primary reason some folks don’t like this configuration.

There is a wardrobe along the camp-side wall along with a space behind that for things like digital devices. (You know, the ones we’re not supposed to look at right before bed but many of us do. Guilty as charged.)

For additional sleeping space, there’s room for two on the sofa, but we’ll get there in a moment.

 

Bathroom

One surprise I enjoyed is that there’s a full dry bath in here. That means your toilet is not inside your shower. Shasta managed to get a proper shower in here as well as a plastic foot flush toilet.

The shower features the usual plastic enclosure and a shower curtain rather than a glass door, but this is what I would expect.

 

Living Area

On the camp side of this rig is a couch where the back can tumble over and form a bed. Truthfully, this won’t win any awards for comfort, but even so, it would work fine for a guest or grandchild, something like that. And let’s not ignore the fact that you have a trailer this small with a couch. Which is a win in and of itself.

 

Kitchen

Opposite the couch you have a kitchen that certainly has a respectable amount of storage and counter space — all things considered. If you’re a fancy chef, this kitchen might not work for you. But if you’re making meals in camp, this might be all you need. There’s a two-burner propane cook top and a microwave.

Somehow, Shasta has managed to put more counter space in this 16-foot trailer than in either of my first two campers, both of which were larger than the Shasta Compact 16RE. So kudos to Shasta. You’ll also find a decently large 12-volt refrigerator here.

 

Four-Season Capabilities

This is not the rig I would choose to a lot of winter camping with. There are no provisions for things like heated holding tanks. Nor are the knife valves enclosed or protected.  As for boondocking, there are no options for solar but you could easily get some portable solar panels and a good battery and be set. This has a surprisingly large 40 gallon freshwater tank and 30 gallons each of black and gray water, which is more than some much larger trailers.

 

Storage Space

You might be surprised by the amount of storage on this trailer, especially inside. There is certainly acceptable outside but inside is where it’s at. Surrounding the bed, there are cabinets overhead along with hanging storage on the camp side. There’s also a storage cubby behind this for things like tablets and phones and even medical appliances like a CPAP.

The kitchen has some overhead and cabinet storage, but you’ll also find a place for things under and over the folding couch.

 

Closing Notes on the RV Model

A Few Things I Would Change

One of the things I saw was a head scratcher — that there are two connection points for the sewer system. In a rig this small that seems, well, goofy. I know that costs are important when working on something at this end of the price spectrum, but, really?

Admittedly, I also am not a fan of the latch on the Magic Chef fridge. I had this kind of latch in my own RV, and it let the fridge door fly open several times before I just replaced the whole fridge with a different 12-volt model.

 

A Few Considerations

This camper is a simple stick-and-tin model, which means traditional wood construction with an aluminum skin. That’s how many campers have been built for many years, and this being the Shasta brand means that they’re continuing as have for decades. The company is proud of their start in 1941. In the case of the Shasta Compact 16RE, they use a thicker aluminum skin for the nose that is not corrugated and then a corrugated siding. (Makes sense to me.)

While some people aren’t a fan of this type of build, I have nothing against it. Plus, it’s really easy to repair if something unfortunate happens. It should be noted that the uneven skin means uneven gaps on the windows so it would behoove the owner to keep an eye on the seals around any breaches in the shell such as for windows or doors, that sort of thing. With proper maintenance these can last for decades.

What I really liked about this camper is that it truly has everything you need. A kitchen. A full bathroom. A water system and even a couch for Pete’s sake! But that’s all in a small, light, and easy-to-tow package that might be within the capability of some SUVs and mid-sized pickup trucks. I can easily see this being popular with solo travelers more than anyone else. Since I know a lot of these people, I can imagine this being something many of them would consider.

 

And a Few Final Niceties

I was also quite surprised — and delighted — to see that the Shasta Compact 16RE includes a tire pressure monitoring system, which is a safety feature I think all towable RVs should be equipped with. This one is, but not all trailers are. Of course, this does feature entry-level tires and a very simple leaf spring suspension, but I would be shocked if it were otherwise.

Also of note, with the entry door at the rear, there is an awning across the back plus a second power awning over the camp side of this rig.

Overall, if you can get one of these for the right price, it might make a great companion for some wonderful outdoor and camping adventures.

 

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What Other Campers Are Saying

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The Prime Time RV Sanibel 3952FBWB fifth wheel is an enormous fifth wheel that is very well suited to larger families. By design, it is packed with some truly unusual features to accommodate lots of people. 

For starters, the Sanibel 3952FBWB’s floorplan is like nothing I’ve seen before, and I imagine it would serve a family quite well, including families who take to the road full-time. While some RVs are more price-focused, the Prime Time RV Sanibel 3952FBWB has different focus: delivering premium features and build quality. Speaking with Spencer from Prime Time RV, he noted that the aluminum structure under the trailer is fully welded rather than spot welded, a common industry practice. This is part of what the company calls their Eternabond build. (Not to be confused with Eternabond tape, a common product used in RVs.)

Other build quality features include a PVC roof with a lifetime guarantee and a Dexter EZ Flex suspension system (something I really liked). This suspension system helps to minimize shocks transmitted into the trailer itself, which can reduce wear over the long haul. It also rides on Hankook Vantra trailer tires — not the usual off-brand tire. Further, there’s a tire pressure monitoring system included, which I feel is an important safety detail. Stacking these up, you get an idea what the Sanibel 3952FBWB is about — even before you step inside. 

 

At a Glance: Sanibel 3952FBWB

Without question this RV gets five stars in my book — for a number of reasons. The build quality and features are there. But this also really scores on the areas they focused on which is the upper bunk room with the office and the lower bedroom and living space. This will absolutely not be the fifth wheel for everybody but, for those who might be able to take advantage of this unique floor plan, it’s going to be a home run.

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 8
• Hitch weight: 2,362 pounds
• UVW: 12, 875 pounds 
• CCC: 3,487 pounds.
• Exterior length: 46 feet 2 inches
• Exterior height 13 feet 1 inch
• Exterior width: 8 feet 4 inches
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 54/78/78 gallons
• Awnings: 12 feet and 18 feet

 

Benefits

• Rare combo of sleeping space (8) and living space
• High build quality and premium features

 

Challenges

• Long, large, and heavy fifth wheel for towing
• High occupancy could strain water capacity off-grid

 

Best For

• Use as a home base for group/family adventures
• Large full-time families looking for a major upgrade

 

The RV Trader Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Prime Time RV Sanibel 3952FBWB.

 

Sleeping Space

Many bunkhouse RVs — including most of the larger fifth wheels that I’ve seen — put the bunk room in the back. And honestly, this creates a second-class type of feel to them. Not that they’re bad, but the occupants of the bunk room won’t be expecting room service to include caviar. In seriousness, it can make the person sleeping in the bunk space feel like an afterthought.

What you have here is different. The bunks are located over the pin box in the nose of this fifth wheel. There are four bunks on two levels in an L shape, along the road-side wall and nose cap of this rig. Below these is a storage space which would be great with totes. But there are even better surprises than that.

Behind the bunk is an actual proper desk with drawers. So, if you are home schooling (or just need a place to get some RV reviews written), this would be a good place to do so. There’s also a camp-side slide room with a wall of drawers and cabinets and a center cutout that leaves space for a TV. I was told that this space was really designed to support a video game station. 

The whole upstairs really has a very spacious feel. With the bunks in an “L” shape you could easily accommodate even taller adults on two of the bunks so it may not be limited to just youthful travelers. In fact, if you have two younger travelers and, perhaps, grandparents along for the journey this space could easily accommodate them. 

Don’t Forget Who Pays the Bills 

While the upstairs bunk room is unlike anything I’ve seen before the main bedroom in this fifth wheel is very much like a hotel suite. Those who drive the truck that pulls this rig and pay the bills that support this rig are treated to a very nice space indeed. 

There’s a large 72-inch by 80-inch king- bed in a slide room which faces a closet with a good number of drawers and hanging space. 

 

Bathroom

The very back of this rig harbors a rather substantial bathroom. There’s a vanity that features two vessel-style sinks. There’s a large shower. And the space around the porcelain foot-flush toilet is almost big enough to hold a small dance party. (Not that you’d want to, mind you, but you could.) There’s also a linen closet back here which is outfitted with hook-ups for a stackable washer and dryer. 

On the opposite side of the cabin, in the bunk area, there’s also a half bath up with a sink and porcelain foot flush toilet. 

 

Living Area

As unusual as the rest of this floorplan is, you might think that the main living space would stay traditional. But the Sanibel 3952FBWB is keeps it untraditional trend going. Along the camp side is a large slide room with a long sofa that is comprised of five reclining positions. No, seriously. I said five. I meant it.

Also, in the middle of this whole space is an island. And that island features a flip-up countertop on the camp side — with four bar-style seats. Why is this so pleasantly unusual? Typically, RVs with lots of sleeping space don’t always have a seat for everyone. The Sanibel 3952FBWB has more than enough places to sit. 

 

Kitchen

Someone who enjoys cooking will likely enjoy doing so here with a very large four-burner range and a huge oven. To heat things up, there’s also a large residential-style microwave overhead. To keep things chilled, there’s a very capable 16-cubic-foot, 12-volt refrigerator. And to keep things stored, there’s also a decent pantry. 

Counter space is not only good on the island, but there’s also a coffee bar near the entrance. I was told that Prime Time RV, which makes the Sanibel line, hired a professional interior designer to give their products a nicer look. All I can say is that based on just this model, I think she did a great job. I don’t normally like to comment on style, but this model really is attractive. 

 

Four-Season Capabilities

I’m not sure that a fifth wheel this large is going to be doing a lot of boondocking. Sure, it provides a lot of sleeping capacity, but I would imagine you could blow through the 54-gallon freshwater tank in no time. (Particularly if some of the occupants are teenagers.)

But if you have hook-ups, you could comfortably spend time in some pretty chilly places with this. The underbelly of this camper is enclosed and heated. Plus there are 12-volt heating pads on all the tanks. Further, I was told that forthcoming models will even have heated elbows on the tanks, and the knife valves for the holding tanks are also enclosed in the underbelly. 

 

Storage Space

Like most fifth wheels this has a good-sized storage bay at the front and in a large passthrough. As mentioned earlier, inside in that unusual bunk room there is a slide room that has cabinets and drawers for storage plus there are some drawers in the desk as well. But the space under the lower bunks could easily be used for totes and storage and there is a lot of space underneath there. Few RVs with bunks are going to provide that much capability for stuff.

On the main deck, the kitchen has a large pantry, and there is room for stuff on either side of the stove in closets and there are more drawers and cabinets under the counter in the island. There’s even a closet in the downstairs main bedroom plus storage in the bathroom. Storage is absolutely a strong suit in this RV.

 

Closing Notes on the Sanibel 3952FBWB

This is one of the best bunkhouse floorplans I’ve come across, and I’ve seen a lot of RVs. I could see this easily accommodating a family who live full-time on the road giving the younger members of the family a great space to do their homework — but also get some time away from homework. 

The parents, too, get an almost spa-like feel to their space. And the joint space is very well suited for everyone to come together and enjoy a meal prepared in a very capable kitchen. 

There are often times I see RVs where they’re intended for large groups but miss the mark in something pretty critical. This is not one of those at all. 

However, it’s worth noting that at 46 feet 2 inches in length and with a dry weight of 12,875 pounds, this is not an RV to be taken lightly. Accommodating something this large and heavy is going to take an above-average amount of forethought. 

Still, quite honestly, if you park this at a base camp that can accommodate very large rigs, you now have a really nice home base from which to plan your adventures. With all the seating and desk space in here there’s certainly a place to make those plans. It’s pretty rare that I find an RV where there’s no big negative, so this one gets both thumbs up from me. 

 

Make Your Move

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What Other Campers Are Saying

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Today’s RV review is of the 2024 Forest River IBEX RV Suite RVS1. I would imagine that followers of Forest River’s relatively new IBEX brand appreciate the way IBEX products enable more adventurous travel with the offerings being smaller and shod with more off-road tires. Last year’s new Beast Mode suspension option further reinforced that image with a very, very solid off-load suspension system courtesy of Lippert’s Curt brand as an option.

In fact, RV family Jason and Abbey Epperson of RVMiles took their own IBEX with this suspension up to Alaska and found it to be quite capable. The brand also offers an off-grid power package that features plenty of solar and lithium battery power, further reinforcing the overlanding lifestyle.

All this is to invite you to forget all that with IBEX’s new line, the RV Suite. Comprised of three models you could almost call these park model trailers — but with a twist. A big twist.

 

At a Glance: IBEX RV Suite RVS1

What is the IBEX RV Suite? The IBEX RV Suite line is a completely different kind of offering from the brand. These high-content travel trailers are really more suited to be taken somewhere where they’re going to spend much of their time much like larger park model trailers. But these are smaller and nimbler. The model I saw is the RVS1 which measures 32 feet 6 inches in length.

Overall, I give this RV a four out of five stars. This is not the RV for everybody, so my rating is meant relevant to who might consider this. There is so much right with this rig but know that you’ll have to convert the bed every night. Also, I love technology, but these voice- activated devices hardwired into an RV are already frustrating and won’t be updated like something like Siri or Alexa.

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 3
• Hitch weight: 790 pounds
• UVW: 7,380 pounds
• CCC: 2,210 pounds
• Exterior length: 32 feet 6 inches
• Exterior height 11 feet 3 inches
• Exterior width: 8 feet 5 inches
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 90/60/30 gallons

 

Benefits

• Spectacular views from the windows and porch
• Very social set up with smart features, modern décor

 

Challenges

• Better suited for on-grid than off-grid living (requires 50-amp)
• Converting the bed every night, limited sleep space

 

Best For

• Use as a vacation home on a scenic property
• Park model setups versus nomadic travel

 

The RV Trader Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Forest River IBEX RV Suite RVS1.

 

Sleeping Space

The IBEX RV Suite RSV1 has lots of the makings of a very social RV. More on that when we get to the living area. But when it’s time to kick the revelers out and enjoy some rack time, the entire side wall folds down. And that’s your king-size bed. So, this back bedroom/living room/party palace offers multiple uses. (I guess that makes it a multipurpose room.) By day, there is a table that can flip up and offers a counter- or bar-height surface. Put the table down against the back wall and you’ll have a large open air – perhaps for holding dance parties. Oh, or how about karaoke in the campground?

In the lounge, what you might assume is simply a couch is also an additional sleeping area. With the right bedding this, too, can be a place for additional guests to sleep, but probably only one adult could fit there comfortably.

 

Bathroom

The front of the trailer features a very spacious bathroom with two sinks and a large walk-in shower. There is a closet here which reveals a washer-dryer combo — something you’d really like if you were living in this, or offering it as a vacation home on your property.

 

Living Area

Something really unusual in the RV industry is that this model doesn’t have a slide room, again more common in a tiny house. So, the main living space features your kitchen on one side and a lounge on the other.

Since we’re in the main living space, let’s take a closer look at that lounge. Under the head of the couch is a cushion system that pops out and up so now you’ve got an “L” shaped seating arrangement. Another ottoman-style cushion awaits at the lower end of this thing and that, too, pops up so you can go from a single lounge to something that can accommodate a number of people.

This lounge also has the ability to sort of kick up the center cushion so that it becomes almost a fainting couch. (You know, in case you get the vapors.) But it’s a comfortable place to sit in this position.

 

Onto the Porch

From this space, there is a sliding glass door that takes-up the entire rear of the trailer and leads to a substantial metal back porch. That porch is surrounded by metal a railing with a gate on the camp side and steps down to adventure.

There is also a barbecue grill and wooden table that can be mounted to the receiver hitch on the back of this trailer and that’s the one place you’ll find propane. The barbecue grill is powered by those one-pound propane bottles that can’t be recycled, unfortunately.

 

Kitchen

The kitchen in Forest River’s IBEX RV Suite RVS1 consists of a two-burner induction cook top with a convection microwave beneath it. A single-bowl stainless steel sink with restaurant-style faucet is for cleanup, and the refrigerator is a vintage-style 12-volt unit.

That was a surprise indeed as the rest of this interior has a very modern look with dark green cabinets and very clean, modern styling. That refrigerator’s style runs a little counter to this with its 1950s styling.

 

Four-Season Capabilities

The shape of the trailer is much like the tiny houses that are in vogue at the moment, which is intentional. While the IBEX line might be associated with off-grid living this is more of an on-grid offering. All the functions inside the trailer are electrical from cooking to heating. This trailer requires a 50-amp service and is not set-up to operate on solar or other off-grid systems.

Even the heating in this trailer is electric only with two small furnaces at each end, one in the bathroom and one in the bedroom. The ducted air conditioner features a heat strip which provides warmth as well, but there is no propane furnace.

In fact, there is almost no propane whatsoever. This inaugural model has some interesting innovations in it and really is well-suited (forgive the pun) to taking on the role of a tiny house instead of being an RV.

 

Storage Space

There is more storage in this RV than you might suspect. While this doesn’t have a traditional pass-through compartment like many towable RVs, there is the metal locker on the tongue. Considering that this is likely not going to be traveling, but rather parked in a location for extended periods of time, that should prove sufficient.

Inside there are a lot of drawers and cabinets in the bathroom and kitchen. There may be enough there that you bring what you need to bring and still find an empty cabinet or drawer left. Unless you’re related to my family.

Somewhere you might not expect to find a place for your stuff is under the couch but if you use this in multiple seasons that could be a good way to keep bulkier winter outfits when the weather isn’t right to wear those.

 

Some Smart Talk Features

If you have one of those personal digital assistants that live in your phone, you are probably already used to cursing that thing. Now there’s another one for you to say unkind things to as this has a new item from WFCO where you can ask for things by saying “Hey Power Pro.”

This trailer voice assistant can control lighting and report on tank levels – that sort of thing. At this point the people at IBEX told me they didn’t want it controlling the temperature in the rig, but this is one of my favorite features with the voice assistant I’ve set up in my house. I tried it out in this example, and it seemed to recognize my requests.

Closing Notes on the IBEX RV Suite RVS1

This is certainly an unusual offering from the IBEX line. Like an RV, it does have holding tanks, so you could use it as a travel trailer. The model I saw had a cover in place for the front window when this unit is being transported, but this can also be removed once you get to where you’re getting to. That’s a good thing.

While this could be used like a normal travel trailer, where I see this working well is with a property in the mountains or by a lake or something like that and then being a second home. When it’s time to close down for the season, it could simply be towed back to storage or something and returned once the weather changes to more tolerable conditions.

In support of that this trailer has a tremendous number of windows so it would be particularly nice in a place with a beautiful view. But remember it does require a 50-amp service which is something to consider if you’ve got a piece of land in a remote place.

 

Make Your Move

Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your IBEX RV Suite

 

What Other Campers Are Saying

Read the best reviews by owners. Search for an RV Model