Community Forums

britski · 09-30-2015, 01:52 PM

Hello to everyone. I have been driving a Class C Jayco for a while now and since we are now retiring decided I would get something a little bigger with slides so that we could have more room. I recently came across a 2013 Allegro Open Road 31sa that I have totally fallen in love with. I have done my research and visited probably about 100 units since February and have not found one that I like better then this one. I am nervous about driving the bigger unit. Is it going to be hard to adjust or am I just being intimidated by it? I look forward to your comments.

beamisl · 09-30-2015, 02:05 PM

Hi Brtski,

Welcome to the forum. We just bought a Class A in May. Our first RV. Both my husband and I drive it and I am completely comfortable with doing so.

YouTube has videos. They talk about spactial awareness. Basically know where your back wheels are (especially with turns) as well as the width and length of the rig. Height.

There are classes out there (search RV driving instruction) if you would feel better with that. Go into a RV dealership, ask to drive a rig similar in size to what you are looking at and see what you think.

It is a bit iffy at first but it doesn't take long to get comfortable. We went to Texas ( from MI) and picked up our rig and drove it home. When you are a bit worried I think you may be more careful until you feel better with driving it and that isn't a bad thing.

As far as backing up and pulling into spots, you should have the person not driving standing outside and checking where your rig is and how you are moving within the spot. We use walkie talkies and the spotter must always be within view of the driver. You figure out what signals work for the two of you. Big parking lots like are great for practicing backing up (at lest when they are empty)

Good luck, Lynne

sunset4k · 09-30-2015, 02:15 PM

Hi and welcome!! We stepped up from a fiver to a 36' DP in April. My wife and I both drive. We started slow, taking short drives to get a feel for how the bigger coach handled. After two or three short drive we headed from North Texas to the coast. Within about 25 miles of Highway driving I relaxed a bit, and really enjoyed the time driving. There is a spatial awareness difference but honestly, if you take it slow at first, you will do fine. Good luck!!!

Bruce C · 09-30-2015, 03:44 PM

You'll be just fine. trust me.

MSHappyCampers · 09-30-2015, 04:20 PM

Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined us!

You'll adapt to the larger size in no time at all! Keep her between the ditches!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

denlock · 09-30-2015, 05:08 PM

hal1phx · 09-30-2015, 09:16 PM

Good luck with your new adventure .... it'll come quickly ... just get out there & enjoy !!!

Mr_D · 09-30-2015, 09:30 PM

We upgraded from a 26' Type C to a 35' Type A, no problems. Then went to a 38' DP and no problems. Then to a 40 DP and no problems. Now have a 45' DP and no problems, but I do have to watch the tail swing closer when I raise the tag for tight turns as there's lots of MH back there!