Community Forums

jjbhm · 03-13-2019, 10:37 AM

What are advantages/disadvantages of going with a small (<25') class A vs a larger class B? Thank you.

MSHappyCampers · 03-13-2019, 11:11 AM

Hi ! Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined the gang!

I wouldn't want anything smaller than about a 35' class A.

Noticed you are kinda new and wanted to say hello!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

HJRosch · 03-13-2019, 12:18 PM

Research, Research, Research! Look at a lot of coaches B, C, A to get a feel for the many floor plans. Set criteria for what you want then look for what fits your needs. After looking at shows and dealers and internet for two years we set our minimum criteria as: walk around bed (not in a corner where someone has to crawl over the other to get in or out), must be able to sleep in the bed when traveling (some smaller units fold up the bottom third of the bed to retract the slide), and the shower separate from the toilet and sink. Then it was C or A. Both had exactly the same floor plan but the visibility of the A was stunning so went for the 32' A and are very happy. Of course price, usage (short weekend trips, multi month trips, etc.) are factors too.

jjbhm · 03-13-2019, 12:32 PM

Hello and TY for the welcome!

One of the main criteria is drivability around town - why the class B is so attractive but I would like to have some room for 2 adults and a teenager. We've spent some time in class Cs and Bs but have never tried the As.

Why not smaller than 35'? Just bc of room?

Gary RVRoamer · 03-13-2019, 12:40 PM

I don't think the A vs B is relevant. If a 25 footer can meet your needs, go for whatever suits you best.

Are there any B's over 25 ft? By definition a B is a modified van, body & chassis. Most anything you find over 25 ft is going to be a C or an A.

Dutch Star Don · 03-13-2019, 01:40 PM

Your smart to ask about the drivability and storage length, but you also need to picture, in your mind, what you'll be doing while camping. If you plan on spending all day sightseeing, eating out and to bed early.....a small coach may be perfect. If you like to cook, spend some time in the coach relaxing, maybe watching TV, a small coach could get crowded quickly with three people and be uncomfortable.

Before anyone jumps on me about how they are very comfortable in their small coach, I'm just advising the OP to see if he and his family will be.

IC2 · 03-13-2019, 01:43 PM

I would be comparing a Class A with a Class C or Super C. A Class B is generally based on something like a a Mercedes Benz Sprinter/Ford Transit Ram Pro Master chassis.The ones that I've seen are fairly small, As others have said, do your research and know what your needs are as far as price and usability for your needs.

wildtoad · 03-13-2019, 02:53 PM

Two adults and a teenager will take you out of the B class altogether. (B+ is really a C) please take the time to consider a) where are you going to store all your stuff, b) will the three of you be ok with staying in it during a few days of inclement weather, and c) what sized holding tanks does it have? There are many shorter Class A’s that have room for three, large tanks, and decent storage. Not so for anything starting with a B.

jjbhm · 03-13-2019, 05:05 PM

I think I’m leaning to exploring the B+/small As. The Sprinter type Bs are an attractive idea and with good weather (no rain or unbearable heat) we spent a week around Zion. HOWEVER, I can see how the weather may turn a good thing bad.

Thanks for all the advice

RandDescape · 03-13-2019, 05:15 PM

Another key factor in the decision should be the available weight left before hitting max weight rating. I know the final straw for my conversion van was that our family outgrew the weight rating when packed for vacation.

Make sure there is enough capacity for what you want to bring - and that it is where you need it (sometime front axles are overloaded before the GVWR is hit).

Both classes of RV have manufacturers that ship units with limited remaining capacity.

Also consider if you would have a Toad in the class A. If so need to figure out the GCVWR.

Dcbenny · 03-13-2019, 05:17 PM

There is only 2 of us and our pooch. Had a 28’ class A for 2 years and than went to a 30’ class B+, really enjoy the B+ handling and more comfortable to drive. Have no issue which storage or room inside. It just works better for us.

twinboat · 03-13-2019, 05:36 PM

Look at the Thor Axis/ Vegas line.

Small A on a smooth riding C chassis.

Ramona · 03-13-2019, 08:41 PM

We really liked our Class A Winnebago Via (26', Sprinter Chassis Diesel), but looks like Winnebago has stopped making them. Full paint and classy looking. Had a cab-over bed, so could sleep three adults no problem. Problem is when three adults are awake—small inside.
Easy to drive and can get into almost anywhere. Towed a 4000+lb Jeep from Phoenix up to Flagstaff (nearly 6000' climb) no problem. It is small inside and light weight so big rigs on the Interstate and wind blew it around a lot. Keep a tight grip on the wheel.
All depends on what your specific needs are.