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09-07-2013, 09:58 AM
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#1
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Member
Join Date: May 2013
Location: PA
Posts: 63
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Class A or C for newbie?
I will be purchasing my first RV next Spring and I am still undecided concerning Class (A or C). The Class A I am considering is a Georgetown 280DS. The Class C is a Sunseeker(28 - 30 Ft). I would appreciate any suggestions or comments from experienced RVers. My concerns are how much more difficult to drive, park, etc. are class A as compared to class C. I will be test driving but I would like some input from RVers who have experienced all types of driving conditions. I know everything is subjective, I am looking for personal opinions and any advice anyone has to offer on either Class or the models I have shortlisted. Thanks
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09-07-2013, 10:18 AM
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#2
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Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: Kalamazoo, Michigan
Posts: 1,188
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Our first motor home was a 27' class C that we used for several years to decide if we liked the lifestyle or not. We had moved to the "C" from a pop up. Our primary motivation to start with the C was price. After several years we decided we wanted something newer. We discovered that a class A of the same length actuall offered more living space when parked, as the driver and passenger seat became part of the living area.
After test driving a 32" class A I discovered that they are no more difficult to drive than the class C. In fact, it seemed a bit easier to me. Sitting a bit higher allows you to see over traffic in front of you, and the big front window offers a fantastic view. There is also substantially more basement storage in a class A. For us, the class A is perfect.
I suggest you test drive both and decide which suits you best.
__________________
Tom and Barb
'07 Winnebago Voyage 35L
Workhorse W22 chassis FMCA 219315
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09-07-2013, 10:21 AM
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#3
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Senior Member
Country Coach Owners Club
Join Date: Jun 2013
Posts: 608
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I went class A, I felt driving a C was deceiving. Sitting low in a "van" I sometimes forgot what was behind me. I also felt there was more room in the A.
__________________
1997 Country Coach Intrigue Horizon 36' (The Dinosaur Burner)
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09-07-2013, 10:22 AM
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#4
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Member
Winnebago Owners Club Ford Super Duty Owner
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Liberty Hill, TX
Posts: 38
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Wife and I just took delivery of new Itasca Cambria 27k...under 30'.....traded in 38' diesel pusher she would not drive. Just loaded new unit and I am amazed at how much storage we have. Decided the old mh was too big for the 2 of us, was not comfortable with the size on the road (both height and width) and was looking for something that was less complicated to use and something we could use in state parks. We are really pleased with the ride and the amenities that this new unit has in it (alot of class A things that we liked are in this unit). We are biting the bits to get her out on the road. Installing the satellite today, but we were pleasantly surprised at how good the jack antenna gets reception. We live rurally and have never gotten reception from an outside antenna to our house. The jack antenna got all of our local plus at least 10 more channels. Things have improved so much from past years and they continue to do better all the time. I wish you luck with whatever unit you decide on. For us it is smaller......but the most time we will spend in it is going to be 3 months so that might be a factor to consider...Happy Trails to you and maybe one day our paths will cross.
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09-07-2013, 10:40 AM
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#5
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Member
Winnebago Owners Club Ford Super Duty Owner
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Liberty Hill, TX
Posts: 38
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Forgot to answer your concerns.....driving class a can be bit more tricky especially between two big rigs. The class a is harder to find parking spaces for. We spent 3 months in our class a last year and it was on that trip we decided we could downsize to a class c. We spent all of our nights in commercial campgrounds because state parks either could not handle our size or the few sites that could we're full (alot of times the length was okay, but we were too tall to get under the trees). When we loaded the new unit we left a few things out that we never used, but everything we wanted was put in (we have the entire back end as storage) so we did not need all of the basement storage the diesel had. We also had an extended warranty on the old mh and would suggest you get one since we used it monthly. I am a machinist by trade and have always done my own work on cars, the house etc, and I still found the big unit too much to work on...of course I am now 69 maybe that has something to do with it.... I was just ready to simplify our camping experience and let my wife help me drive again... We have gone from tent to tent camper to 19' trailer to 23' class c mh to 26' trailer to 33' trailer to 38' diesel pusher to 29' class c mh....so we have used alot of different types of rvs. Good luck to you
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09-07-2013, 07:19 PM
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#6
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Registered User
Join Date: Aug 2013
Posts: 307
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Funny you asked. We went from 2 5ers to a class c, back to a 5er. Just traded today for a 2000 Southwind class a to see if we liked the a. I drive a tour/charter bus part time so the class a was no problem. My wife wants to see if she can "learn" to drive the a. I figured I could drive the older class a for a couple years to see which one, the a or c, I/we liked the best, then trade up to newer model.
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09-07-2013, 09:50 PM
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#7
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Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2013
Posts: 343
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Quote:
Originally Posted by richard44
Wife and I just took delivery of new Itasca Cambria 27k...under 30'.....traded in 38' diesel pusher she would not drive. Just loaded new unit and I am amazed at how much storage we have. Decided the old mh was too big for the 2 of us, was not comfortable with the size on the road (both height and width) and was looking for something that was less complicated to use and something we could use in state parks. We are really pleased with the ride and the amenities that this new unit has in it (alot of class A things that we liked are in this unit). We are biting the bits to get her out on the road. Installing the satellite today, but we were pleasantly surprised at how good the jack antenna gets reception. We live rurally and have never gotten reception from an outside antenna to our house. The jack antenna got all of our local plus at least 10 more channels. Things have improved so much from past years and they continue to do better all the time. I wish you luck with whatever unit you decide on. For us it is smaller......but the most time we will spend in it is going to be 3 months so that might be a factor to consider...Happy Trails to you and maybe one day our paths will cross.
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That's what we're looking at too...beautiful coach and so innovative. Glad to hear you like it. Did you get the dinette or one of the couches? I like the "power couch" but haven't seen one in action except in the videos.
Can you comment yet on comfort of the main bed. Any gripes/wishes?
Thanks & good luck!
__________________
Cam... Georgetown 280DS 2015
Vespa Lx150 2013 Stella Auto125 2014
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09-08-2013, 09:47 PM
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#8
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Member
Winnebago Owners Club Ford Super Duty Owner
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Liberty Hill, TX
Posts: 38
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Cam
we got the reclining couch and are really liking it a lot. With the tv located directly across from it, it is a good setup. We have been playing house with it in the back yard. We leave for the first trip next weekend and I will let you know if we find any flaws....have not so far. We were like you and had not seen one in person until about a month before we ordered the unit.
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09-09-2013, 09:03 AM
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#9
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Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Birmingham,Al/Destin,Fl
Posts: 301
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Just went through the same thing. Bought the Class A. After driving a C I hated the limited visibility and the cramped driver compartment.
__________________
2014 Entegra Aspire 42RBQ
2018.5 Entegra Aspire 44R on order
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09-09-2013, 02:10 PM
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#10
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Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Out there, somewhere
Posts: 9,940
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Frankie Z
I will be purchasing my first RV next Spring and I am still undecided concerning Class (A or C). The Class A I am considering is a Georgetown 280DS. The Class C is a Sunseeker(28 - 30 Ft). I would appreciate any suggestions or comments from experienced RVers. My concerns are how much more difficult to drive, park, etc. are class A as compared to class C. I will be test driving but I would like some input from RVers who have experienced all types of driving conditions. I know everything is subjective, I am looking for personal opinions and any advice anyone has to offer on either Class or the models I have shortlisted. Thanks
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Frankie Z,
The A and C ARE different in driving. Not necessarily harder, just different. You say you'll be purchasing your first RV next spring. Does that mean you've not driven any, of any type up to this point? If so, then it would behoove you to either go out with a friend or, series of friends who have different units, both A and C, and see how theirs drives/acts. Smaller anything is different than larger of the same unit. A small C will handle/operate differently than, the larger Cs out there. Now, not extensively but, it will be different.
And, the smaller "A"s will be different than the really larger ones. The steering/projected turns etc. is different than an A largely due to the fact that the turning/front wheels are out in front of you where as, in many Class A units, you're either right on top of the steering axle or, it's a tad behind your sitting position. So, in approaching turns, allowing for clearances in judgment in approaching camp spots, gas station islands, parking lots, tight situations and more, there's some things to be considered.
None of it is hard. Driving anything is easy if, you take the time to learn and or be shown what and how things work. Everyone's capabilities and qualifications in driving are different. Some folks think a Ford Excursion is a really BIG vehicle. Well, it is if you compare it to a Fiat 500 or a Smart Car. But, driving it, with the exception of trying to find a parking space in a crowded grocery store parking lot, is not hard at all compared to a zillion other differently sized vehicles out there.
Now, there ARE a zillion things that ARE different in the floor plans, layout, loading, storage, fuel capacity, water capacity, holding tank capacity, bathroom size, ride quality, interior noise while driving, sleeping arrangements (how many), towing capability, braking, tire sizes and much, much more.
Just how you're going to use this motor home, how many will be with you, where most of your travels will take you, if' you'll be towing a toad, and how often you plan on using it might influence your decision making process. Definitely do go out and look at many. The smart thing would be to go to a couple of "RV" shows, where many are present and all lengths/types etc. and get a good feel for what's out there and, what each has to offer.
Driving them might come later. But, seeing what each has to offer may influence you to sway either way and then, you take on the driving part. Good luck.
Scott
__________________
2004 ITASCA HORIZON 36GD, 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 4x4 Toad '20 Honda NC750X DCT
2018 Goldwing Tour DCT Airbag
Retired-29.5 yrs, SDFD, Ham - KI6OND
Me, Karla and the Heidi character, (mini Schnauzer)!
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09-10-2013, 02:55 PM
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#11
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Senior Member
Join Date: May 2013
Location: AZ
Posts: 233
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Frankie Z
I will be purchasing my first RV next Spring and I am still undecided concerning Class (A or C). The Class A I am considering is a Georgetown 280DS. The Class C is a Sunseeker(28 - 30 Ft). I would appreciate any suggestions or comments from experienced RVers. My concerns are how much more difficult to drive, park, etc. are class A as compared to class C. I will be test driving but I would like some input from RVers who have experienced all types of driving conditions. I know everything is subjective, I am looking for personal opinions and any advice anyone has to offer on either Class or the models I have shortlisted. Thanks
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Just purchased two months ago after debating the same thing. Looked for over a year and decided the class A was best for us. Once you decide class A versus class C spend time to narrow down to the exact coach.
Key: Read this blog in the owners forum to get a feel for which manufacturers have the fewest issues. Just because a coach is pretty doesn't mean you will love it after you spend more time in repairs than in use. Then set your price and send offers to dealers in many States and save thousands even after the drive home.
__________________
Phillip, AZ, 2013 Fleetwood Storm, Roadmaster Front Stabilizer, Koni FSD Front Shocks, DIY Rear Track Bar, CHF, 5 Star Tune, 2010 Kia Soul Toad
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09-10-2013, 03:03 PM
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#12
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Senior Member
Newmar Owners Club Workhorse Chassis Owner
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Michigan
Posts: 5,692
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Personally I would choose the Class A. The two you mention are both the same length but you'll have better storage arrangements in the "A" and being that you will sitting up higher as well you sure will enjoy the view. I wouldn't think manuevering would be much of a problem as well as I've stated they're both approximately the same length. JMHO Good Luck with your decision and enjoy whichever you choose.
__________________
Steve & Sally / Hudson Our Little Pom / Heidi, Houston & HiTee Forever in our Hearts
04 NEWMAR MACA 3778 W22 / 05 PT Vert
Michigan (Summer) Michigan (Winter For Now)
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09-10-2013, 04:22 PM
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#13
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Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Suwanee,GA.
Posts: 500
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I have owned both a 32' Class A and a 30' Class C in the past. We prefer the Class A. Just a couple reason are: Weighs more, so it handles better on the highway. The front seats become part of the living area making the RV more user friendly. Sits higher so you have better visibility when driving. Plus, they look cooler then the class C's. LOL!
__________________
2005 National Dolphin 5376 W24 Workhorse chassis
2021 Equinox RV pusher
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09-11-2013, 09:22 AM
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#14
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Member
Winnebago Owners Club Ford Super Duty Owner
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Liberty Hill, TX
Posts: 38
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Having just moved down to Class C from dp, I think the newest class c offer a lot of the amenities that larger Class A have...
Example our Class C offers Corian solid surfacing over the entire length of the kitchen, making for one long countertop, it has large slideout pantry, lg refrigerator (not 4 door, but 8 cuft) automatic leveling jacks, front seats that swivel to become part of the living area, automatic awning with LED lights built into it, LED lights throughout the coach, slide out closets, leather interior and outside a full paint job..
So that makes it look way cool SuperDad....lol
The windshield is smaller, but we kept the shades down in the Class A while driving because of the sun and when we were parked that huge expanse of window let in an enormous amount of heat...the smaller windshield does let in heat too, but it is not as large...
I don't think you can put all Class C in one lumped group nor can you put all Class A in one group.....different units fit different people. A lot of the difference in the two will be where you want to camp. Most State parks and most National Parks have length limits...that being said the length limit being the same, the Class A will be taller and wider than the Class C so if you are in a park under the length limit, you can still find it a challenge to find a site with a higher Class A...not always but a lot of the time ( I am talking from experience of camping in those parks with an A). It does not mean you can't visit those parks, you just have to get close by in a commercial site and visit in a toad.
Of course with everything, there is give and take and with our Class C, we have a small bath...
The best advice anyone can give someone looking to find either a C or A is to do your research, look in person, rent if you can, talk with others (like on here) and then make a decision of what is best for yourself.
Most owners are going to give positives to whatever they have....just the way of the beast...
And as you can tell even people who have had both end up liking different size vehicles....it comes down to whichever unit has more pluses than minuses. And hopefully when you decide you don't chose wrong, because from personal experience, that can be costly.
As for us the wife has already driven the C and says it is like driving her Excursion..and I have to agree it is a easy drive.
Either unit will get you out for the adventures of a lifetime....
Enjoy the ride because we are only here for a short time.....
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