R-Vision Trail-Lite Bantam 19 Hybrid (Review after sale)

[Loraura]

I tried to reply to the Bantam thread, but it was too old and wouldn't allow me to add a reply.

I sold my 2004 Bantam 19! In 24 hours on Craigslist!

It seems that these trailers reach a point where they don't really lose much value as they get older as long as they are in good condition. I had it for a year and a half, took it on lots of weekend trips and two week long vacations, and sold it for what I paid for it.

I had made some upgrades to it (replaced microwave, replaced bunk latches, added television, added electric water heater option, installed exhaust fan in bathroom, added battery tender, new tires), probably around 750.00 worth of upgrades (mostly on the tires).

When I originally bought the trailer I worried some due to R-Vision being out of business. In reality this never became a problem. The only thing I wanted but couldn't ever find was a mapping of the fuses. Not a big deal. By trial and error I figured out which fuse operated the stereo, which was a parasitic load that would drain my battery.

The front end and propane surround had to be re-caulked, and will require diligent maintenance by the new owner. I feel this is the weak point of the trailer design. The metal lip where the fiber glass meets the bottom of the trailer will allow water into the front storage area if not maintained. I kept it in covered storage, so I never had a problem with it. It looked like the previous owners had a little trouble, but not enough to soften the flooring or walls or beams.

The front queen was not super comfortable until I put a mattress topper on it. There is a seam where the mattress folds, and if you sleep on the interior side, you feel that seam.

It says it sleeps 8, but unless at least 2 of those are small children, that's pretty unrealistic. 6 adults as long as one is under 5'5'' is doable, but you'd be tripping over each other inside the trailer. A family of 4 would be manageable. My husband and I often camped alone and never bothered to deploy the back bunk.

The fridge was a great upgrade over our previous popup trailer. It always amazed me how fast it cooled down and how well it battled the Texas heat.

Overall the trailer was a trooper. We had lots of fun in it and camped in all kinds of weather conditions, including snow/ice. It towed very nicely and was easy to handle for backing and maneuvering.

If someone were looking at at one of these Bantam hybrids, I'd recommend you just check the caulking over with a fine tooth comb and if it's free from damage, go for it!

We bought a Coachmen Freedom Express 292BHDS. I hope we get many many years of enjoyment out of it. I also hope I can back it in...

This is what happens when you buy a bigger tow vehicle and get a bonus at work!

[Superslif]

Go Big or Go Home....

Ya, that was the reason I bought a new Tundra last year, to be able to look at future RV's knowing I already have the tow vehicle. We have had a 2005 Aerolite hybrid (bought new, used 380 nights) now a 2013 Aerolite hybrid now starting it's 4th season and about 150 nights. Since I retire next year, might look more on the line of a non-hybrid tt that is more 4 season capable. The problem is my wife wants a floorplan where my son will have his own bed. I want one that still has a large couch, but still be no longer than 30'. Were at 26' now.