Putting on weight

kentman
kentman Forum Participant Posts: 147
edited March 2017 in Caravans #1

I have described in a previous blog the saga of our series 3 Bailey Unicorn Vigo's broken axle. Having got it back following a `good will' repair by Bailey (they also repaired a leak we didn't know we had) our dealer has given us a very good deal to exchange it for a barely-used 2016 Coachman VIP, replated to 1700kg.

It occurred to me to Google the CI Sprite Musketeer which we owned from 1980 to 1997, throughout our children's childhoods.  I was astounded to discover that this fairly large van's maximum loaded weight was only around 850kg!  The Sprite had a fridge (gas), a four-burner hob, a foot pump for the kitchen sink tap and a toilet which was little more that a large bucket with a seat yet we took it as far south as the Med. and north to Oban, and had years of great fun.  Of course, we all appreciate the luxuries incorporated into modern 'vans, but it does make you think  -  have we gone a bit over the top?

Comments

  • Takethedogalong
    Takethedogalong Forum Participant Posts: 17,068 ✭✭✭
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    edited March 2017 #2

    Our caravan is thirty years old, and has all we need. Bed, shower, space/water heater, cooker, fridge. Needs a bit of do up at moment, new curtains, carpet, lick ' o paint. Be good for another decade or so then. Used all seasons, plenty of space. We are happy.

    Although we do have a small MH as well, but not new.

  • Bakers2
    Bakers2 Forum Participant Posts: 8,198 ✭✭✭
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    edited March 2017 #3

    Our motorhome is about to celebrate its 15th birthday. Only one we've ever had it was just over 3 when we acquired it. It needs it bonnet cover resprayed and decals are a tad faded but it's genuine. We've looked at others but not impressed with quality and there seems too many extras for us. Bed bathroom fridge full cooker all we need. Yes I do look at the size, personal choice no criticism intended, and extras on some modern vans and wonder why? But so long as each of us is happy all's well with the world. 

  • Wherenext
    Wherenext Club Member Posts: 10,607 ✭✭✭
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    edited March 2017 #4

    Ours weighs 1000kgs.max. We seem to manage on CLs and touring around Europe. OK so we're not tall and are quite slim by todays standard but we don't lack for anything and are more than content.

    I fully understand that its not for everyone but the industry may have to start thinking smaller soon as I can see diesels being fazed out or priced out of us towers reach in the not too distant future.

     

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