Monaco's stated goal is to “build homes on wheels that are innovative, dependable and competitively priced - while offering a lifestyle for customers that exceeds their dreams.”  With the production of the 2011 Monaco Cayman 40 PBQ they have surely accomplished that goal.

At first glance you can't help but notice that the completely redesigned 2011 Monaco Caymen 40 PBQ is dripping with curb appeal. The lustrous new full-body paint is perfectly applied and looking at it was like looking into a 40-foot long mirror.  While we were preparing for our shoot, several people walked by and stopped in their tracks to either admire the paint job or themselves – we’re not sure which – but either way their actions spoke to the quality of the paint job and the fresh look Monaco has given the Cayman!

Underneath the beautiful exterior of the 2011 Monaco Cayman 40 PBQ is a Cummins ISC 360 horsepower diesel engine that powers along the new Roadmaster RR8R chassis.  Eight air bags work in conjunction with eight gas-charged shock absorbers to prevent road trauma from ever reaching the coach. Ride height sensors continually adjust the air pressure at each axle to maintain a level ride and eliminate nose diving, weight transfer and floating on curved roads.

Stepping aboard, the first thing you notice is the attractive, residential styling and spacious feel throughout the coach. Immediately our eyes were drawn to the stunning, matte finish full ceramic tile floor, which is standard on all four floor plans.  Monaco’s choice of tile was inspired.  It’s beautiful, yet practical for every-day RVing. Upscale yet easy to clean, and in between cleanings you won't notice every little piece of dirt.

The dashboards of all Monaco products are always nice – but the Cayman in particular is top-notch. The console to the left of the driver has all the necessary controls as well as a convenient cup holder. The console curves up into the dash like a well-crafted luxury car showing off a perfectly designed instrument cluster.  The center console features an LCD back up monitor with side cameras, radio and a wooden drawer at the bottom for storage.

The first of three HDTVs - a 26" Flatscreen LCD - is located in the overhead of the cab area. It's perfect for viewing when parked and you can't open the slides.

Moving back into the living area, the 40 PBQ features opposing leather sofas – one a 90" sofa bed and the other a 65" sofa. There is practical storage above both sofas overhead – but not so large that you might hit your head on a cabinet. Additionally, the cabinet size does not take away from the spacious living area.

While we were discussing our camera shots, we took advantage of the sofas’ comfort. This can be a mistake as you can fall asleep very easily on these comfy couches – especially after putting some miles on your feet at an RV show!  Nevertheless, we highly recommend them!

Aft of the main living area are the kitchen and dinette. The kitchen is really nicely laid out and features gorgeous solid surface counter tops with removable covers for the range and sink.  The range is a high-output, two-sealed burner cooktop and above it is a combination stainless steel convection/microwave oven. This is a full size residential unit with range fan and light built in.  The entire kitchen is framed by Newport cherry raised-panel cabinetry with doors that have hidden hinges.

Two of the kitchen’s additional features really stood out to us. From a décor standpoint, the backsplash behind the range features a beautiful pattern of hand-laid tiles. This breaks up the solid surface color and is a very elegant look. On a more practical note, to the left of the range is a short Corian strip that has been designed to catch any spills and prevent them from finding their way onto the leather sofa. It's clear that the designer of this kitchen meant for it to be used and enjoyed.

The kitchen also comes with a 12 cubic-foot two-way four-door refrigerator with ice maker. (A residential refrigerator option is available if you plan to full-time.)

Opposite the kitchen is a dinette that seats four. As an option, it can be upgraded to the ever-popular freestanding table with computer workstation/buffet that can seat two or four. This can be very nice if you telecommute with your laptop PC.

On the aft bulkhead, beside the dinette, is a 40” LCD HDTV wired with a surround sound home theater system.  The unit fits nicely into an AV cabinet with storage above and below the TV.

The walk-through bath has a large one-piece molded fiberglass shower with curved doors and skylight, and very upscale plumbing fixtures. The shower nozzle can slide up and down a pole to accommodate a person of any height.

The lavatory next to the shower features a solid surface countertop, under-mounted flush sink and the same hand-laid tile backsplash as in the kitchen.

Across from the lavatory and shower is a private toilet compartment. It features a ceramic toilet with sprayer and another sink with the same high-end tile treatment, plumbing fixtures and countertop.

Typically, the aft bedroom is an after-thought – pun intended. Not in this case. This bedroom, or luxury suite as it could be called, impressed both cast and crew. The fabrics and pillows are plush and very upscale without being over-stated. Of particular note is the padded headboard, which is stunning to look at, yet practical for propping up to read a book or watch TV. And on those nights when you don't want air conditioning but just a bit of a breeze – there's a ceiling fan to accommodate your whim.

Speaking of watching TV, the third HDTV – a 26” LCD model - is across from the bed atop a nice chest of drawers.

The back wall features a mirrored wardrobe and closet for an optional stackable washer/dryer. The doors are thoughtfully designed with louvers at the top and bottom, which create a chimney effect and keep the space humidity-free when in use.

RV Buddies was duly impressed with the Monaco Cayman 40 PBQ.  We also liked the full-wall slide 36 PFT model for its living area and 40" HDTV. There’s another 40' model with bunk beds if you travel with children.

Many options are available to personalize your coach including an outdoor entertainment center with, yes, a fourth HDTV - a 40" LCD - to keep you entertained while barbequing.

If you opt for the residential refrigerator, an optional 10Kw generator is available, but only two house batteries are standard with no mention of additional batteries or extra inverter power.  Make sure you ask about that.

And don't forget to personalize your coach after you take delivery. Our first suggestions would be to install automatic fire control systems and one solar panel per house battery. (That's a good rule of thumb on average.) From there, enjoy the road. The 2011 Cayman is designed to do just that!

New Horizons builds three fifth wheel models – the Summit, Motomover (toy hauler), and the Majestic. RV Buddies had the opportunity to see the all-new Majestic 102-F37RLTSS recently at the RV show in Tampa, Florida.

As you approach the coach, you realize that the Majestic is very aptly named. It is formidable in size, simple in line, and looks like it was carved from one single piece of material. The quality is evident from a distance, and the classic lines are, well, simply Majestic.

Over seven years of research and consumer sampling have gone into the design of the Majestic. New Horizons claims that it offers unmatched luxury in a fifth wheel and that the comment they hear most often is "The Majestic is the most beautiful and thoughtfully designed RV we have ever seen."

CLICK ON THE PICTURE ABOVE TO WATCH THE VIDEO
CLICK ON ANY PICTURE TO SEE A LARGER VIEW

The Majestic is certainly beautiful - making it hard to get past the surface of this luxury fifth wheel. There is so much to see from the artisan knots in the wood to the hand-tumbled stone (optional). But once you get past the surface, you are that much more impressed with the foundation and super structure which are just as rock solid as the solid surface counter tops in the kitchen.

When you enter the coach, you enter a voluminous space with 8' ceilings. Generous windows allow plenty of light into the coach, adding even more to the feeling of spaciousness.  Just to the right of your entry is a small closet – not big enough for everyone's coats – but a nice, convenient space nonetheless.

The practical vinyl tile flooring extends throughout the kitchen area. An optional island in this floorplan is both practical and convenient, adding additional counter space for food prep or to act as a buffet during a party. This particular layout is very well suited to social gatherings, as at most parties, the majority of people end up in the kitchen. This model puts the party in the middle of things with complete style and flair. Additionally, it comes with a pullout pantry that has plenty of room to store all your staples.

The kitchen itself has plenty of counter space with a large double sink and Corian solid surface countertops.  The tumbled stone backsplash is understated, but rich and elegant beyond compare - Just the type of feature you would see in a million dollar home or custom Prevost conversion. The kitchen includes a 22" oven and range as standard equipment, along with a 1.5 cubic foot microwave oven. A 12.3 cubic foot Dometic refrigerator will keep all your drinks and food ready for the party.

(We’re comfortable in saying this coach is built for entertaining because when we were filming inside, it was very hard to find moments when people weren't roaming all over this beautiful RV. At times there were a dozen people in the kitchen/living area and there was room for more!)

The slide-out with the solid wood dining table has a generously high ceiling.  The table itself comes with a 12" leaf that expands to comfortably seat four.

The living area of the F37RLTSS features two of the most comfortable-ever, over-stuffed large recliners in existence. (During filming, Robert and Elise ended the video in these chairs and were so comfortable we had trouble getting them to get up for our next shoot!)

The aft wall of the living room has a convertible sofa-bed with an air mattress that is equally comfortable.

Just to the left, and directly across from the recliners is the entertainment center, which makes viewing comfortable without having to twist one’s neck.

The entertainment center is nested in a versatile piece of cabinetry. In the upper section there is a 37" Samsung HDTV that can hide behind beautiful wood doors when not in use. All the other electronics can be hidden from view as well, however an infrared repeater system allows your remote control to work with the cabinet doors closed if you like.

There is plenty of storage with a pull out desk surface. And of course, this is New Horizons, so you can opt for a fireplace if you need a practical warm glow to snuggle up in front of on those cool autumn evenings.

Back by the entry, there are three steps that lead up to the upper level of the Majestic fifth wheel.

The model we looked at has a bath that opens into the master suite. An optional pocket door is available to separate the two areas for privacy if you desire. Just to the right is a water closet with china toilet. There is a window in the WC, as well as an exhaust fan for ventilation.  There’s also a large storage cabinet that can be fitted with a combination washer-dryer if you prefer.

Across from these utilitarian spaces, the vanity shares the same craftsmen-style cabinetry and solid surface counters with tumbled stone backsplash as the kitchen.  And what makes the vanity truly stand out is a bronze-glass sink bowl that floats on top of the counter with a beautiful designer antique-bronzed faucet. The adjacent curved one-piece molded shower has glass doors and matching plumbing fixtures with a skylight overhead.

In the middle of it all is a beautiful bed that graces the master suite - you can choose either a queen or a king. The bed has a hand-crafted wood headboard with lots of throw pillows, all standard. Propping up with a good book will be very comfortable, and further eased with reading lights recessed in the overhead.

Opposite the bed is a dresser, flanked by floor to ceiling cabinets. As an option, the dresser can be replaced by a vanity for primping, if so desired. There is storage throughout, including a cedar-lined wardrobe.

The Majestic is available in eleven standard plans. That may seem a bit overwhelming, but they are all logical variations and after looking at them – you should find a base model that exactly matches your needs or does so with only a few modifications. You can also start with a clean sheet of paper if you want to go fully custom.

And if you require, you can take advantage of a New Horizon’s program that offers you the opportunity to build out any of their coaches as a handicap accessible coach complete with wheel chair lifts and hoists.

Major options include a disc brake upgrade, tumbled stone backsplashes and MCD day/night shades. Queen beds are typically standard. King size beds are available, and may add 2' of length overall to the coach.  New Horizons will semi-customize any plan within its structural limits, or build a coach 100% custom to your order.

With Majestic pricing starting in the low hundred thousands, New Horizons fifth wheels are designed and built for the experienced RVer who won't settle for anything less than exactly what they want. To visit their website CLICK HERE.

For 2010, Winnebago re-styled their Class A Itasca Sunstar / Winnebago Vista inside and out. The new approach features three distinct floorplans, some beautiful updates and a variety of options at an affordable price.

The manufacturers are putting a lot into their smaller products, nd Winnebago is at the forefront of the trend.  No longer do you have to buy the highest-priced product to get the features that you want.

RV Buddies developed an appreciation for a lot of nice features when we took a close look at the Sunstar 30W – a very livable coach that is fairly compact in size, measuring in at just under 31.'

The bold new front cap styling and available full body paint make an excellent first impression. Upon entering the coach, you can’t help feeling you have stepped into a much larger coach.  The layout is open and spacious. Of particular note is the stunning new dashboard in the cab area.

In the living area, the standard "U-shaped" dinette can be replaced with a optional table, chairs and 40" HDTV. This provides eye-level viewing of the 40" HDTV directly opposite the sofa. Viewing is easy and comfortable with this setup, and 40" is huge in a coach of this size!

The galley is set nicely in the corner of the living area so that the chef can whip up a feast while still enjoying the party.

Aft are the bath areas, shower split from the sink and toilet, and then a private bedroom with short queen bed – all exceptionally well designed to make best use of the available space.

There are two other plans available, the 26P, which provides a very short and efficient layout, and the 32K, which is large enough to offer bunk beds – perfect for the family who wants to get out and see America!

The Sunstar starts at just under $90,000. There are a wide variety of plans to option out your dream coach to fit your needs exactly.

There are two kinds of camping along the route of the Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year’s day: snuggling in sleeping bags on the cold pavement of the parade route, or playing cards in cozy RV within a block.

Not only are RV dwellers more comfortable (and warmer), they have an important role to play in pre-Rose Parade security. Since 2001, the Pasadena Police Department has recruited RV campers to report suspicious activity along the parade route. Police department volunteers go door-to-door among the RVs to give people information on what to look for and how to report it.

This informal neighborhood watch helps to ensure that the overnight rowdiness doesn’t get out of hand and that police can respond more quickly to emergent situations. (To report suspicious activity, any can call 626-744-4241.) Another good thing to know: Vehicles parked within one block of the route are subject to search - so leave the moon shine at home!

The "load-in" begins at 9:30 PM the night before the parade and the best spots go for a lot of money. One of our RV Buddies and his family paid $500 for the privelege of a coveted spot.

But what better way to kick in the new year. Good friends. Warm hearts (and coach). Cold beverages, and a cozy bed nearby right in the middle of all the action.

From every one here at RV Buddies - we wish all of you a safe and prosperous 2010. See you next year!

NORAD is hard at work again tracking Santa and his reindeer as they perform their global mission of giving gifts. Thanks to the marvels of technology, you can now get up-to-date information by visiting the NoradSanta.org website.

There's lots of fun stuff, including Google Earth, videos and a whole lot more.

All of us at RV Buddies are getting ready with last minute details to enjoy this holiday with our families and friends.

So tonight, put out your milk and cookies. Because whether you live in an RV park, house, or are camping in a tent, Santa is his way, in the very first RV to wish you a very Merry Christmas.

From all of us to you and your families, we wish you a wondrous and blessed holiday.

And check this out:

Thetford Sani-Con developer Lanny Stegal spent some time with RV Buddies Host and Producer Mark Summers and shared his in-depth knowledge of the development of macerator technology and the easy-to-use Sani-Con system.

Every RVer has seen the infamous scene where Robin Williams attempts to empty his holding tanks in the movie "RV". While no RVer has had an audience or accident to that level, accidents can happen – from mild to very unpleasant. Stegal is the expert and Summers poses questions you just might be too embarrassed to ask.

"Understanding the workings of these devices makes maintenance a lot easier" says Mark Summers. “And if there’s one piece of RV maintenance RVers want to handle quickly and easily, it’s emptying your black water holding tank.”

Stegal developed macerator technology for Thetford along with the Sani-Con product. During the interview, Stegal covers the macerator in detail and provides an in-depth look at the benefits of the Sani-Con system. Available in fixed and portable models, the Sani-Con system gives RVers with drop-through toilet models the benefits of macerator technology, plus the ability to pump black water contents great distances. Dumping tanks at home is made much simpler with the Sani-Con system – especially when the homeowner has a "P" trap for draining their pool.

American Coach completes first factory delivery under new ownership.

American Coach, the luxury motor home division of Fleetwood RV, today announced it retailed its first VIP factory delivery – an optional service available to all American Coach customers – since American Industrial Partners, Inc. acquired the company in July. VIP factory delivery is unique in that customers take delivery of their new American Coach model where it was built, and to learn how to operate it with a factory representative.

“The American Coach VIP factory delivery is one of the many ways we try to make our customers feel special,” said John Draheim, president of Fleetwood RV, Inc. “It creates an opportunity for us to personally connect with our customers, as well as helps us ensure their complete satisfaction before they hit the road.”

“Customers who select our VIP factory delivery option have the unique chance to see where their coaches are made and to meet the people that helped build them,” said Justin Humphreys, national sales director for American Coach and Revolution LE. “Everyone who is involved in the production of our American Coach line of luxury motor homes has a tremendous sense of pride about what they do, and who better to take a customer through their new coach then someone who had a hand in its construction.”

Customers John and Pat Goodwin selected the VIP factory delivery option when they purchased their second American Coach – a 2009 American Tradition 42M, from Tom Johnsons Camping Center in Concord, NC.

“We are extremely pleased with our VIP delivery experience,” said Pat Goodwin. “The American Coach Delivery team brought an attention to detail and an incredible knowledge of the product which made our delivery the best we have ever had. We left Decatur feeling confident and excited about our beautiful new coach, and with peace of mind in having American Coach’s legendary service standing behind us. We would highly recommend the American Coach VIP option.”

Freightliner Custom Chassis Gets North America Moving with Free Fuel Special RV travel deal.

This season, forget the "staycation." Take a road trip of a lifetime on Freightliner Custom Chassis.

Motorhome enthusiasts who have waited to buy a new rig now have 1,250 reasons to start planning their next road trip immediately in a new RV. Called "Fueled By Us," FCCC is offering a $1,250 USD fuel card with the purchase of any qualifying new motorhome built on a Freightliner chassis from dealers in the United States and Canada. The Fueled By Us offer is available from Oct. 15 - Dec. 31, 2009.

"The freedom and adventure of the open road is an irresistible draw," said Jonathan Randall, director of sales and marketing for FCCC. "The dream of a great road trip is the passion of many RVers and this sales event is designed to help them take a trip they might normally not be in the position to take at this time."

RV travel has long been known as a great way to maximize travel budgets. With room for the entire family, no airline restrictions or fees to deal with, the ability to cook meals and avoid costly hotel charges, motorhome travel offers many advantages. With Freightliner Custom Chassis' latest offer of free fuel, the value is that much stronger.

"We know travelers are anxious to get out there and explore, but they want to be sure they are getting the most for their dollar. Our offer to take your next RV trip on us is a strong added incentive when considering the purchase of a new motorhome," said Randall. "Not to mention Freightliner chassis offer best-in-class ride and handling, the tightest turning radius in the industry, the most expansive dealer and service network and outstanding customer service 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

Freightliner chassis power some of the most popular and well-built Class A motorhomes available in the industry. The following OEMs are participating in the Fueled By Us program: Damon, Entegra Coach, Forest River, Gulf Stream, Itasca, Jayco, Four Winds International (formerly known as Mandalay Coach), Newmar, Sportscoach, Tiffin, Triple E and Winnebago. FCCC's Fueled By Us offer applies to new 2008, 2009 and 2010 model-year retail-sold motorhomes built by the aforementioned participating OEMs on FCCC chassis. FCCC manufactures diesel powered chassis and even offers the first-of-its-kind hybrid-electric version called ecoFRED, designed to increase fuel economy while delivering optimal power.

Qualified Fueled by Us participants receive a Visa debit card pre-loaded with $1,250 that can be used at any diesel fueling station across the country where Visa is accepted. FCCC is also looking for motorhome enthusiasts to share ideas and photos for where they would go on their next great adventure on Facebook for a chance to win great FCCC gear. CLICK HERE

For more information and details about the Fueled By Us offer, please visit freightlinerchassis.com/fuel.

Fleetwood RV announced the launch of its limited edition 2010 Quest, a value-priced Class C diesel motor home built on the fuel-efficient Dodge Sprinter chassis. This limited production run of 150 units will be available at select Fleetwood RV dealers nationwide.

The 2010 Quest is available in two 24-feet, single slide-out models: a rear bath floor plan with opposing sofa beds (24E); and a rear gaucho dinette with sofa sleeper and optional Queen air mattress sofa bed floor plan (24L). Low profile cap and overhead 26"LCD TVs are standard on both models. Customers can also select the optional cab-over bed with 19" LCD TV and DVD player.

"The 2010 Quest combines the fuel-efficiency of our Icon and Pulse motor homes with the value pricing of our traditional Class C motor homes," said John Draheim, president of Fleetwood RV, "The market's response to Quest has been better than expected. Our entire production run sold out in two weeks, and dealers are retailing them as fast as we can deliver them."

"Our customers love the 2010 Quest," said Loren Baidas, owner of General RV, located in Michigan, Ohio, Florida and Utah. "Both models are equipped with a multitude of standard features and increased sleeping capacities - even without the optional cabover bed, plus its price point makes it difficult to ignore."

MSRP for the 2010 Quest starts at $84,000. For more information about the 2010 Quest, or any Fleetwood RV, Inc. motor homes, please call 1-800-322-8216 or visit fleetwoodrv.com.

Of all the coaches at “The Rally” in Albuquerque, only the 43’ Country Coach Veranda “Redcloud Peak” had folks waiting in lines resembling those for a new ride in an amusement park.  Lucky for us, the rep arranged for us to shoot the coach before the show opened!

We went to bed the night before eager with anticipation… AND concern.  Uncharacteristic of New Mexico in the spring, we were greeted with snow upon our arrival.  We wondered if snow flakes would cloud our camera lenses, but our worries were wasted.  As we awoke on the morning of our shoot, the sky was clear and the sun shown bright.  However in between the snow and the sunshine, an overnight rainstorm had dampened the area.  For some reason, RV shows seem to attract rain.  It’s as if the Rain Gods know all the coaches have been polished to perfection, and aim to spot and speckle them.

Bright and early the crew arrived at the display, and helped the factory rep dry off the coach. The rain sat on the lustrous finish in plump glistening drops reflecting the rising sun. The term "automotive finish" in this case is insulting as the paint was much more beautiful and reflective than on any production car. The length of the coach was sleek and flat - the paint liquid smooth with the distant view reflected in its depth.

Entering the coach, we were instantly aware of Country Coach’s commitment to quality. Even though the 300 is the entry series for Country Coach’s Veranda line, it still exudes that custom class feel.  It was grand.

The driver's area is a great example of form and function. The captain's chairs are covered in sumptuous leather and are six-way power adjustable. The dash is padded, contoured and ergonomic – with all the gauges you need to be in full communication with your coach. The "SmartWheel" is ready to guide you down miles of memorable roads.

Our review coach featured a rear view monitor with optional side cameras and an in dash GPS with optional XM service. The optional SmarTire system is available, and on a coach like this seems like a logical addition.

The chassis is the DynoMax, exclusive to Country Coach. The 300 offers two different drive train packages – a 425 HP Caterpillar with Caterpillar transmission, or a 425 HP Cummins with Allison transmission. Both offer independent front suspension, tag axle and air brakes as standard.

Moving into the living area, the big news is the "Veranda". Instead of a slide-out, the wall opens to form a luxurious outdoor living space. If you have any concerns about how well this works you can put them to rest right now. Country Coach engineered, or rather over-engineered this marvel. Hardware is beefy, framing is thick and the sliding glass doors look like they could stand up to a hurricane. When the Veranda is closed, the top of the wall is glass which illuminates the interior when traveling. When opened up, it provides the signature look of a glass balcony to look out on any horizon where you may have parked or camped.

No less important in the living area are the quality furnishings including a beautiful dinette set, leather sofa-bed, and complete HDTV home theater system. In addition to the 42" LCD inside, there is another cleverly placed 37” TV for outdoor viewing!

Moving amidships, the galley features an attractive tile backsplash and solid surface countertops. Cooking is fast and easy with the Advantium convection/microwave and a three burner gas cook top.  An ample pantry provides plenty of space for food stores, and a four-door Norcold will keep all your favorite beverages chilled for entertaining on that beautiful Veranda.

Just past the pantry, a half bath is tucked into the passenger side. It is efficient yet comfortable in size. Unlike many mid-coach baths, this one gives a nice feeling of privacy as the TV and pantry create a buffer from the living area. Just across from the bath is space for a combo or stacked washer-dryer – both optional, or you can just enjoy more storage space.

The bedroom suite is comfortable and quiet. The entire coach features extensive sound deadening – and it really shows when you are lying on the bed. The quality of materials is obvious. The box valences, for example, are clean, timeless in design, and made from elegant hardwoods and covered in expensive fabrics. These are designs that will age and wear well through the life of your coach without looking dated.

Finally, the rear bath is something to behold. Country Coach first featured a large shower last year in the Allure Crane Prairie. That has proven to be very popular and has made its way into many floor plans including the Redcloud Peak. Two feet shorter than the Crane Prairie, the bath is a bit less palatial, but the shower and amenities still abound. A large wardrobe, plenty of linen storage, the second of two china Tecma heads and loads of privacy are noteworthy. (Note: our video review does not show the shower. That would be one of those moments where the press record did not get pressed!)

Judging from the looks on their faces after their tour of the coach, the folks found the long line to get in well worth it.  Everyone was impressed with the quality and tastefulness of execution. Some fantasized about their travels in this magnificent coach, others were calculating out loud how they might purchase one, and a few were beginning negotiations with the factory rep.

We talked with the rep too. While the Country Coach Veranda 300 Redcloud Peak isn't normally in the range of products reviewed by RV Buddies, we would gladly take her for a test drive anytime!