A drop down TV mount in this would be huge. I would love to see the booth be swappable with a free floating table and chairs also to add some more versatility.
Full access without opening the slide is a wonderful plus. The cabnets being "up" around the dinette isn't really a problem. Glad they did it this way.
Would love the bar top for me and hubby and would rather have a larger window vs overheard cabinets because the RV already has a lot of cabinets. I find that when we camp we never fill all our cabinets now in a smaller RV (Starcraft Autumn Ridge 20MB). I also would rather have a bigger window over the kitchen sink vs cabinets so I can have a view when washing dishes or cooking.
Would lose the dinette and have a place for my dog’s crate. Wonder if you can load a folding e-bike in the cargo area? When are RV companies going to make it easier to load and unload heavier e-bikes, like a Biktrix?
A sofa “option” for the uncomfortable booth dinette would give you a far more residential look and feel, and most importantly, it will give you more than just 2 comfortable seats to entertain guests👍
@@craigroosa9321 After over 4 decades of RVing with backbreaking 1960’s diner booth dinettes, my back now tells me that I can eat, play cards or look at my iPad and laptop outside, or while sitting on my comfortable theater seating or sofa on a rainy day or in the evening😂
@@craigroosa9321 lot of folks get by with things like tv trays or portable/fold away tables. I'm fine with those myself but that doesn't work for everybody of course. Dinettes arent useless or pointless by any means of course
Certainly personal preference. It would be nice to have that option but we like to play cards/games on rainy days and there isn't much that beats a dining booth for that purpose.
I have the Grand design reflection 150 226 RKS from from 2023 model our slide is a bit longer with the 3 seat reclining couch. We have always been able to access the bedroom and bathroom just by ducking under the cupboard and sliding through so they’ve shortened up the couch on this model and really not made the access that much more accessible. Perhaps it is a slight bit easier, but but we’ve been accessing ours all along, and never knew that it wasn’t meant to be.
That outlet may be good for a wall mounted vacuum stick (or anything else wall mounted). I love the road mode access as a small trailer like this is meant to be used in a Walmart/Cracker Barrel/Bass Pro parking lot when you are jamming down the road to the next national park or boon docking location. If the discounted pricing is similar to others of this floor plan, I could also see this a good "second" RV for a retiree who has the finances, and wants the option of a smaller rig that can get into state and national parks that a 35+ footer won't fit in. Really like this rig and the possibilities that it opens up!
Wow, GD knocked it out of the park! Finally, a small 5th wheel with great road mode. Not thrilled with the queen bed, but I can live with it. 12v fridge, good storage. I want one!
Nice layout! Could you do a video on the Slim Rack mechanism? Schwintek is so hated and for good reason. I’d like to know more about this “new?” system.
I could see leaving the shelf as you walk in ,removing the dinette and make a little contoured "bench" with a small end table or coffee table to sit and eat or have coffee and make that area feel bigger .
I will definitely check this model out when we're ready for a new trailer. Only have a 1/2 ton F-150 with max tow package so like you said I'll have to check it out. Otherwise love this unit.
I feel like the road access is crucial on a smaller 5th wheel like this, good on grand design to listen to feedback. Those power outlets under the cabinet by the dinette would be a good spot for a space heater, assuming you have one with a long enough cord, it's a good central location that's also not in the way. Edit: love the no skylight in the shower. Not only do they tend to leak around the edges they also get brittle and crack. I'm currently procrastinating replacing the one on my new to me rv because of that.
Agreed. Skylights are nothing but trouble at the worse possible time. They look great when they are brand new. They within a few years they are cloudy and just waiting to leak.
Very nice. That outlet would be great for a vacuum or a night light. As for travel access, excellent, we cannot open a slide at home were we store our trailer. As for open shelves, I'm not a big fan of them as stuff falls out while traveling, unless packed tightly. This would be perfect for us. Thanks
Would work perfect for me. I like the dinette, theater seats and love the kitchen. Just not sure I'd wanna give up my trucks bed use for the fifth wheel. I do love the bedroom and roomy bathroom. For that i might just give up my trucks bed.
Hmm.. I'm struggling to think of something that isn't fairly sizeable. This is the smallest opposing slide model I can think of offhand: ua-cam.com/video/fYVj5HUUQRc/v-deo.html
Absolutely love this size and floorplan! Just wish it had a rack & pinion slide. If it is a cost thing I would happily pay extra for it. If it's an engineering thing, it is what it is I guess. Love the vids!
Awesome design and if it were just me and the wife and pups with no kid, this would be on the short list or the one to buy! Love the access to the bath and bedroom with the slide in. A second AC a must for here in the south with the humidity. Great job Josh showcasing this little fiver.
I went back to look at the Cougar, but I think this is better for the accessibility (and no floor vents), I think the bathroom in this one is better too.
There's definitely enough cupboard space to pack most of your supplies, no real need for a pantry. Maybe instead of the theatre seating they could use some kind of sofa or sofa bed that has storage underneath it? Love the fact the Shower is rectangular. I don't think this is a longer-term liveable camper, necessarily (the one I lived in was much smaller lol), but it's definitely one for weekends away, or a solo person traveling and working. #nerdherd #RVnerdherd
We're in the process of ordering the 27BH. I've done my research, including your video's related to Grand Design in general and your review of the 100 series via this video. Even though we will likely already own one by the time you might produce a video on the 27BH, I'd love to see you review one. You always point out something that I have not picked up.
Very nice job again Josh! Perfect ending by mentioning the comparable models and their links; saves me a bunch of time...very respectful and insightful. Improvements: Drop-down TV mount (if I'm watching TV, not interested in looking out the window), double roof solar, bummer about the pantry (just means we'll have to get creative about where to put our dry goods). What we can't see is the build quality (products, fit & finish, etc)...that's been the nagging question since C-Vid (for the entire industry). Now my job is to review these 3 videos again to see which one matches up the best. Thanks again.
I'm actually really glad you like those comparable links. I've always wondered if people actually find them helpful and everything I do adds a little time to each video Really wish these had a drop TV. Man that'd be great Regarding build quality: I've yet to find the "Bulletproof Brand" sadly. I always recommend using these videos only as an idea as to which one you may prefer. But I still recommend seeing RVs in person before pulling that final trigger
If you can mount a TV on the outside wall in the bedroom, you can mount door hinges and put a swinging door instead of the sliding one and put the TV on the wall that makes sense. With the heater vents under the dinette seat I can see why no table and chairs. I would remove the floor mounts for the table and put folding legs on the table top though. I'm a fan of the road mode for sure.
Getting up there for the EcoBoost but still within comfortable limits. Man that cargo capacity is epic! Same with everything else. Only gripe is the carpet but that's a quick fix along with the usual customization so don't care. This is a must see in person so I'm basically sold! This is so perfect for me that it's first on the list for a 5th weel. Great job 🍻
Even for how short it is, it’s still very tall at 12ft without an A/C. I think manufacturers need a have a label for “lithium battery ready” Also the water heater door is backwards, door hinges are on the rear side and door latch is facing forward. So if the latch fails especially at highway speeds, that door is swinging open with the likelihood of bending the door. Many other makes have the same thing if the WH is on the right side.
I bought a small padlock for my WH door after having it pop open once on the interstate, fortunately it opened vertically downward and I caught it quickly.
Josh: This Grand Design Reflection 100 has a lot going for it. As a long time members of team-no-slide, wife and I might consider this 5th wheel. It excels as a rolling bed, head and mess. A really nice feature you didn’t emphasize is that the head is a separate compartment that someone doesn’t need to enter to get to the bed. It has good rest area or truck stop usability without deploying the slide. But, unfortunately, the pin weight and the cargo capacity are just too close for comfort for our half ton Silverado 1500. And while the length and width are “barn friendly”, the height is at least a foot too much. Now IF Grand Design were to lighten the load by getting rid of the slide, this would definitely be a contender for our next RV. Respectfully, W.S.
For a short 5th wheel, the kitchen is wonderful with lots of storage so no pantry no big deal. For all the pluses carpet in the slide, who cares. Second air a must and having a true queen is perfect. CCC is really good, and storage is very nice.
Very nice! I think moving the bedroom TV ready location to the other wall would be a great tweak. It would be more out of the way, so it isn't staring at you when you walk in the room.
Or the Allen/Idle-Time 199RB, which is the absolute shortest, traditional fifth wheel that only weighs 3,450 dry, under 21ft length and only 10ft height. Plus, it has 0 slides. They actually make 5 fifth wheel models that are shorter and lighter than this standard RK floorplan, and still have full travel access, all while not being a molded fiberglass/specialty RV. One is a bunk model with 0 slides, too. FWIW, Allen Camper has been around since the '50s and you can buy from a dealer, not just some factory direct, no-trade-ins deal.
I think in a few years a no slide fifth wheel camper with come out most likely with opposing sofas with lagoon tables or a set like the nexus viper 23v b+ motorhome
@@larrycox6614 This Reflection 100 is like the Cougar Sport. Their baseline fifth wheel with more aggressive pricing The next step up is called "Cougar half ton" which is where the 23MLE is found. Kind of like stepping from this reflection 100 to a 150 series. you're moving up in features. But also in price
Oh, and the Highland Ridge (various sub-brands, but mostly Roamer) Light Duty 244RLS is under 28ft (pin to bumper) with a really unique layout. It's a mid-entry, rear living, opposing slides layout, but under 28ft (pin to bumper). Since Highland Ridge is under Jayco, maybe you can get access to their Light Duty lineup? If you do have access, the 304BHS is also a very unique , shorter-than-the-competition mid-bunk model.
So glad they put that 60A solar controller. 180W is not a lot so they built in expansion room. Also agree road mode is essential. Glad it's there. I also really appreciate that the "hallway" is on the far side. Too many models have you walk in and right there is the bathroom. If I was looking for a 5th wheel this'd be it!
Loves : 1. Short ! 2. Travel accessible 3. CCC 4. Decent fresh gallon capacity Dislikes 1. Dual gray sewer ports 2. High TV mount 3. Carpet in slide USEFUL SUGGESTIONS 1. Show stove with slide in. Might be able to use the back burner with slide in. Front burners may not be useable due to heat to side of slide. ( should still consider airflow for back burner - vent/ window would solve this) 2. A left opening microwave door might give you enough access to make a hot cup. with slide in (Yes - microwave manufacture’s listen up for RV use ). Right opening microwave door in corner makes it harder to get food in and out even with slide open.
TY for the suggestions. I always appreciate constructive input. I'm not sure I'd want to try to cook with the slide closed myself. In the event of a spill or something you just can't get to anything
A couple really good examples of this floor plan in a travel trailer are the Rockwood MiniLite 2515s(new for 2024) and the Grand Dedign Imagine XLS 23LDE. Keystone Cougar and Freedom Express both make a similar floor plan but they're a bit longer, closer to 30ft.
Looks good. I live in a Keystone Cougar 25RES similar to this. When shopping for this one, I wanted a Grand Design, but their bedroom storage was always much smaller, in terms of hanging closet space, something I needed. The kitchen counter space looks very minimal, something often overlooked. I do like how they put many 110 outlets around the kitchen, my Cougar has just 1 in the kitchen, something I overlooked when buying it. Otherwise, nice rig.
@@JoshtheRVNerd Ford no longer offers heavy duty payload on their 150's. I ordered this in 2022 and made it as bulky as possible. These small 5th wheels are what I am after 🙂
@@thompsongl I rarely saw anybody choose that option so it doesn't surprise me. Like a lot of brands auto makers are also trying to control costs on their builds
@@JoshtheRVNerd Absolutely controlling cost especially in these times. The F150 payload package requires a 3:73 rear end that is higher revving and less fuel efficient combined with a longer wheel base (6ft) box. It's not the cool look the young guys want 😎
Thanks for the video, Uncle Josh! I suspect for most folks the juice is worth the squeeze here, but with the other half's size and mobility issues, she's not making it past that slide when it's closed. As for those outlets above the dinette, those are for when I rip out the dinette and build my desk into that area.
Yeah it's tight for some folks and just not possible for others. There are definitely other models better for travel access but _in this size_ this is the best I've seen When I start talking traveling FWs its hard for me to ignore something like a cougar 23MLE
Theater seat is more like an airliner seat with room for one elbow. Yes, it should fold up, why not? Much rather have table and chairs option versus the backbreaking dinette with shin pillars. Then add a full height pantry to the right of the table and ditch the small cabinets. TV in bedroom is awful. Could you make (yes $$$) or buy a custom bracket the sticks out from the right side of the wardrobe that will let the tv be in front of the bedroom door when its closed? That would reduce a big negative to something pretty appealing. Can you reach the stove knobs when slide is closed? I couldn't see from your camera angle.
If that floorplan had existed when I was shopping, I would absolutely have bought it. I would like a bar dinette in place of the booth dinette, at least as an option; They might have to abbreviate that door-side storage, but I'd like the "living room" space.
The keystone Cougar 23mle is 28 ft, has auto level, fully accessible with slide in and has a large pantry, solar panels, one or two and a slide out in the bed room for the wardrobe and is just over 7000 lbs.
This one is a champ, they nail it at GD. As it is a couple 5th wheel no need for a dedicated pantry. I'd like to know the success of this rig in the future. For me it checks all the boxes.
Very possibly at some point. We'd like to get larger but we noticed we needed to improve the work we were doing from our existing stores and made the active decision to slow down our expansion I'd REALLY like a store in/near florida/georgia area
Looks nice and Cracker Barrel friendly as well. Questions: 1) what is the difference between the Schintek and the Slim slide? 2) Which is better? 3) While no manufacturer does the slide weight occupancy test, could you occupy this slide with the Slime track that it uses in road mode? Now for the ultimate question… 4) If one has never RV’d before, I know that you can rent all different types and styles off of the internet and in rare cases from an RV dealer. But do people actually rent a truck set up for fifth wheel in order to rent a 5th wheel? After all, how does one know what to buy if they don’t try them all out first?
Love the layout but for me and my personal preferences, I would prefer to see a bar under the tv rather than a dinette. I'd leave the storage cabinet at the end of the dinette and raise it a few inches and attach the bar to it making an L shaped dining/storage area. I'd also flip-flop the tv with the cabinet and have the tv swing out to be able to view it from the couch.
Man I'm 100% about those camp-side dining bars! Please keep that feedback coming. The more MFGs see it the more likely we are to get them. Don't ever feel like you're being repetitive or annoying. That's how we get them to listen!
I'm unsure on the front bench having storage. I see there are heat vents coming out of it so at least part of it is occupied by "stuff." There may still be some space there but I cannot recall after seeing so many rvs A local team member could check and send you a photo as needed however!
Love the length. Would really like a table set up rather than booth. Also would like more solar & storage so ac could be run for pups when rig is parked when traveling on the road. Swing down tv would save the neck big time. Josh, great job as usual. Phoned Bish trying to locate this little animal. What kind of king pin hitch does it have?
Now, that is a very cool floorplan, with the travel access making it a game changer. The dinnette is on the proper side, which is rare. It's worth getting over the Imagine to steer clear of the hideous cabinets. Some obvious cheap choices though, like the bargain basement countertops and comically small oven.
We like this camper! I see on East to West website they have a model very similar to this this, do you know if they are going to get one out for us to see. It's a Tandara 22rk. Thanks for what you do, and hopefully you have time to check into this, I know you are on the run alot.
Road access is definitely worth more than a pantry in my opinion. Besides, it has plenty of storage.
Ty
I'LL TRADE AWAY A PANTRY FOR ROAD ACCESS ANY DAY
I don’t understand this fascination with “road access” Do you have people riding in the camper while going down the road?
@@gregjames5070. Its nice to pull into a rest area and not have to open.
Totally agree!
A drop down TV mount in this would be huge. I would love to see the booth be swappable with a free floating table and chairs also to add some more versatility.
I think it would help too. Ty
Full access without opening the slide is a wonderful plus. The cabnets being "up" around the dinette isn't really a problem. Glad they did it this way.
awesome Ty
Damn near perfect! Being a single or couple travelers i would almost get rid of the dinette and maybe do a bar top with some stools under the window.
😊
Nooooo.... keep the dinette for when the grands visit. @@JoshtheRVNerd
Would love the bar top for me and hubby and would rather have a larger window vs overheard cabinets because the RV already has a lot of cabinets. I find that when we camp we never fill all our cabinets now in a smaller RV (Starcraft Autumn Ridge 20MB). I also would rather have a bigger window over the kitchen sink vs cabinets so I can have a view when washing dishes or cooking.
@@terrygreenlee5425 well your Grands aren't visiting me. This is my preference you're entitled to your preference. So bye bye dinette!!
Would lose the dinette and have a place for my dog’s crate. Wonder if you can load a folding e-bike in the cargo area? When are RV companies going to make it easier to load and unload heavier e-bikes, like a Biktrix?
This is an awesome trailer. Love the fact there is travel access to the bath and bedroom. The suspension and self leveling are very nice features.
I don't have a panrty in my camper now so i wouldn't never miss it. Love the idea of having access with the slide close.
Great to know
A sofa “option” for the uncomfortable booth dinette would give you a far more residential look and feel, and most importantly, it will give you more than just 2 comfortable seats to entertain guests👍
Could be cool!
But eating ? Cards at nite ? Laptop if you need ? But a thought !
@@craigroosa9321 After over 4 decades of RVing with backbreaking 1960’s diner booth dinettes, my back now tells me that I can eat, play cards or look at my iPad and laptop outside, or while sitting on my comfortable theater seating or sofa on a rainy day or in the evening😂
@@craigroosa9321 lot of folks get by with things like tv trays or portable/fold away tables. I'm fine with those myself but that doesn't work for everybody of course.
Dinettes arent useless or pointless by any means of course
Certainly personal preference. It would be nice to have that option but we like to play cards/games on rainy days and there isn't much that beats a dining booth for that purpose.
I love the travel access! That is always my deal breaker. Thank you for giving a real person example. ❤this one.
I have the Grand design reflection 150 226 RKS from from 2023 model our slide is a bit longer with the 3 seat reclining couch. We have always been able to access the bedroom and bathroom just by ducking under the cupboard and sliding through so they’ve shortened up the couch on this model and really not made the access that much more accessible. Perhaps it is a slight bit easier, but but we’ve been accessing ours all along, and never knew that it wasn’t meant to be.
Love this rig. Must be able to get to the bathroom and bed in road mode. Winner for sure!
Awesome! Ty
Super sweet & smart set up. Love the cargo capacity and road mode accessibility.
Us too!
That outlet may be good for a wall mounted vacuum stick (or anything else wall mounted). I love the road mode access as a small trailer like this is meant to be used in a Walmart/Cracker Barrel/Bass Pro parking lot when you are jamming down the road to the next national park or boon docking location.
If the discounted pricing is similar to others of this floor plan, I could also see this a good "second" RV for a retiree who has the finances, and wants the option of a smaller rig that can get into state and national parks that a 35+ footer won't fit in. Really like this rig and the possibilities that it opens up!
Vac stick makes sense
Like this better than previous year
Wow awesome!
Wow, GD knocked it out of the park! Finally, a small 5th wheel with great road mode. Not thrilled with the queen bed, but I can live with it. 12v fridge, good storage. I want one!
🙌🏻
Nice layout! Could you do a video on the Slim Rack mechanism? Schwintek is so hated and for good reason. I’d like to know more about this “new?” system.
I need to learn more about it myself
That funky plug would be great for vacuum
Good call!
Nice design with a few factory upgrades in the right areas….tires and suspension to mention a couple. Thank you for the showing.
You bet!
Dude. This is perfect. The entrance table could be made to use a little laptop work station.
Yeah, I think this is one of the better execution of that floor plan
So excited to see a small fifth wheel do good ole travel access! Also means easier to sleep at the ole cracker barrel or wally mart!
Yeah it's about the shortest I've seen with travel access like this
Winner Winner prime rib dinner. Great stuff. 👍 thanks for sharing. ✌
Sounds tasty
Collander on the head thing is genius. We should start wearing those more often
Josh: Is it true that the collander really inproves the reception of the alien overbrain control waves??😊😊 Respectfully, W.S.
Hahaha
I could see leaving the shelf as you walk in ,removing the dinette and make a little contoured "bench" with a small end table or coffee table to sit and eat or have coffee and make that area feel bigger .
I could see that
The road access is great. The kitchen and bedroom cabinets are enough storage for me.
Awesome Ty
Ild hang my dust buster on the cabinet end- perfect with outlet right there!!
Ooh good idea
Our new favorite! Travel access is a must!
Awesome! TY for watching :)
The electric outlet in the left side of the cabinet by the dinette looks like a great spot from which you could hang a small rechargeable vacuum 👍
That's a great idea!
Now this one I can live with. The plug under the overhead cabinet by the dinette is a head scratcher though…..
I like this camper. I appreciate the video. I take screenshots, so if you don't mind, would frame some good shots for me.
Great video Josh
Glad you enjoyed it
Hey RV Nerd!! SUP? Really enjoy your videos!
Hey Terry! TY for watching :)
Love the travel access
Excellent travel access! This going to be a popular one! ❤👍🇨🇦✌
Sure has been!
I will definitely check this model out when we're ready for a new trailer. Only have a 1/2 ton F-150 with max tow package so like you said I'll have to check it out. Otherwise love this unit.
You don’t own a Ram so should have a chance!
I feel like the road access is crucial on a smaller 5th wheel like this, good on grand design to listen to feedback. Those power outlets under the cabinet by the dinette would be a good spot for a space heater, assuming you have one with a long enough cord, it's a good central location that's also not in the way.
Edit: love the no skylight in the shower. Not only do they tend to leak around the edges they also get brittle and crack. I'm currently procrastinating replacing the one on my new to me rv because of that.
Agreed. Skylights are nothing but trouble at the worse possible time. They look great when they are brand new. They within a few years they are cloudy and just waiting to leak.
Totally agree
Very nice. That outlet would be great for a vacuum or a night light. As for travel access, excellent, we cannot open a slide at home were we store our trailer. As for open shelves, I'm not a big fan of them as stuff falls out while traveling, unless packed tightly. This would be perfect for us. Thanks
Stick vac is a great idea
Would work perfect for me. I like the dinette, theater seats and love the kitchen. Just not sure I'd wanna give up my trucks bed use for the fifth wheel. I do love the bedroom and roomy bathroom. For that i might just give up my trucks bed.
Enjoy all of your videos! How about a video on the smallest couples travel trailer with opposing slides? Thanks!😊
Hmm.. I'm struggling to think of something that isn't fairly sizeable. This is the smallest opposing slide model I can think of offhand: ua-cam.com/video/fYVj5HUUQRc/v-deo.html
Absolutely love this size and floorplan! Just wish it had a rack & pinion slide. If it is a cost thing I would happily pay extra for it. If it's an engineering thing, it is what it is I guess. Love the vids!
what about no slide?
Good input. Ty
I agree. Wish it was rack and pinion. That could be a deal breaker for me. I'd pay more for it. @@JoshtheRVNerd
Awesome design and if it were just me and the wife and pups with no kid, this would be on the short list or the one to buy! Love the access to the bath and bedroom with the slide in. A second AC a must for here in the south with the humidity. Great job Josh showcasing this little fiver.
Ty so much!
Great Layout!
Glad you like it!
Love this layout! Yes I'm glad the pantry was removed!!👍 The double sewer connection is the only downfall.👎
I went back to look at the Cougar, but I think this is better for the accessibility (and no floor vents), I think the bathroom in this one is better too.
Thank you for comparing and sharing
There's definitely enough cupboard space to pack most of your supplies, no real need for a pantry.
Maybe instead of the theatre seating they could use some kind of sofa or sofa bed that has storage underneath it?
Love the fact the Shower is rectangular.
I don't think this is a longer-term liveable camper, necessarily (the one I lived in was much smaller lol), but it's definitely one for weekends away, or a solo person traveling and working. #nerdherd #RVnerdherd
I like the trend of no skylights. I always end up putting some of that reflective insulation over it in summer because it heats up the camper so much.
I do as well
Aww it's cute 🥰
You might could almost do this without a slide! Nice unit.
yes!!! #team_no_slide
Yeah it’s close
We're in the process of ordering the 27BH. I've done my research, including your video's related to Grand Design in general and your review of the 100 series via this video. Even though we will likely already own one by the time you might produce a video on the 27BH, I'd love to see you review one. You always point out something that I have not picked up.
Hopefully I can get one tracked down. I have been in the model but didn't have the time available to record it
I just want a guest bed that will fit a grown up. Is that sooo much to ask? Other than that, this one is a gem.
Very nice job again Josh! Perfect ending by mentioning the comparable models and their links; saves me a bunch of time...very respectful and insightful.
Improvements: Drop-down TV mount (if I'm watching TV, not interested in looking out the window), double roof solar, bummer about the pantry (just means we'll have to get creative about where to put our dry goods). What we can't see is the build quality (products, fit & finish, etc)...that's been the nagging question since C-Vid (for the entire industry).
Now my job is to review these 3 videos again to see which one matches up the best. Thanks again.
I'm actually really glad you like those comparable links. I've always wondered if people actually find them helpful and everything I do adds a little time to each video
Really wish these had a drop TV. Man that'd be great
Regarding build quality: I've yet to find the "Bulletproof Brand" sadly. I always recommend using these videos only as an idea as to which one you may prefer. But I still recommend seeing RVs in person before pulling that final trigger
This little fiver ought to gain quite a following
Little small for my needs, but wonder if you could take the door side bench out and the legs off the table to make a more room at the table.
I found over 40 items that were different than the 226RK, some better some not so good.
Love this floor plan, especially being able to access the bathroom around the slide. Not sure about that slide system though.
Dang, if U put a TV stand or sm. cabinet. U could use it to charge all Ur phones watches tables!
I can't tell you how many units I"m ruling out because they are not road mode friendly. This one definitely nailed it.
Glad my road mode footage was handy for you!
One could mount some flat-to-the-wall tablet or mobile phone holders right under that obtuse plug...
If you can mount a TV on the outside wall in the bedroom, you can mount door hinges and put a swinging door instead of the sliding one and put the TV on the wall that makes sense. With the heater vents under the dinette seat I can see why no table and chairs. I would remove the floor mounts for the table and put folding legs on the table top though. I'm a fan of the road mode for sure.
Yeah it’s nice they cracked that code I think
Getting up there for the EcoBoost but still within comfortable limits.
Man that cargo capacity is epic! Same with everything else.
Only gripe is the carpet but that's a quick fix along with the usual customization so don't care. This is a must see in person so I'm basically sold! This is so perfect for me that it's first on the list for a 5th weel. Great job 🍻
TY for watching!
Cougar has a similar model here ua-cam.com/video/yJk0yfw4THs/v-deo.html
Avenue also has one ua-cam.com/video/b-OsOJtPBxE/v-deo.html
Even for how short it is, it’s still very tall at 12ft without an A/C.
I think manufacturers need a have a label for “lithium battery ready”
Also the water heater door is backwards, door hinges are on the rear side and door latch is facing forward. So if the latch fails especially at highway speeds, that door is swinging open with the likelihood of bending the door. Many other makes have the same thing if the WH is on the right side.
I bought a small padlock for my WH door after having it pop open once on the interstate, fortunately it opened vertically downward and I caught it quickly.
Josh: This Grand Design Reflection 100 has a lot going for it. As a long time members of team-no-slide, wife and I might consider this 5th wheel. It excels as a rolling bed, head and mess. A really nice feature you didn’t emphasize is that the head is a separate compartment that someone doesn’t need to enter to get to the bed. It has good rest area or truck stop usability without deploying the slide. But, unfortunately, the pin weight and the cargo capacity are just too close for comfort for our half ton Silverado 1500. And while the length and width are “barn friendly”, the height is at least a foot too much. Now IF Grand Design were to lighten the load by getting rid of the slide, this would definitely be a contender for our next RV. Respectfully, W.S.
Ty as always!
Love this rv ,,,have a bumper pull Lance and new Silverado 1500 also with 1650 lbs cargo so would be close . Never carry water so maybe .
For a short 5th wheel, the kitchen is wonderful with lots of storage so no pantry no big deal. For all the pluses carpet in the slide, who cares. Second air a must and having a true queen is perfect. CCC is really good, and storage is very nice.
Yeah I feel like they nailed this one pretty well
Great floor plan. Absolutely hard no on a theater seat.
TY Sir
Thanks Nerd! The juice is worth the squeeze. Prefer the road access for travel days! Thank you!!
Good to know! TY
Very nice! Do like the travel use!
Sorry do what?
Very nice! I think moving the bedroom TV ready location to the other wall would be a great tweak. It would be more out of the way, so it isn't staring at you when you walk in the room.
Ty for the idea. Do you think that could be problematic with the storage doors on the other side?
I would Take the loss for the travel access. Great set up!
Ty. Good to know
Or the Allen/Idle-Time 199RB, which is the absolute shortest, traditional fifth wheel that only weighs 3,450 dry, under 21ft length and only 10ft height. Plus, it has 0 slides. They actually make 5 fifth wheel models that are shorter and lighter than this standard RK floorplan, and still have full travel access, all while not being a molded fiberglass/specialty RV. One is a bunk model with 0 slides, too. FWIW, Allen Camper has been around since the '50s and you can buy from a dealer, not just some factory direct, no-trade-ins deal.
I think in a few years a no slide fifth wheel camper with come out most likely with opposing sofas with lagoon tables or a set like the nexus viper 23v b+ motorhome
Possibly!
For about 1 foot longer I would choose Cougar 23MLE.
That MLE is a monster layout
There’s a solid money gap between them as well
@@JoshtheRVNerd In which direction Josh?
@@larrycox6614 This Reflection 100 is like the Cougar Sport. Their baseline fifth wheel with more aggressive pricing
The next step up is called "Cougar half ton" which is where the 23MLE is found. Kind of like stepping from this reflection 100 to a 150 series.
you're moving up in features. But also in price
Oh, and the Highland Ridge (various sub-brands, but mostly Roamer) Light Duty 244RLS is under 28ft (pin to bumper) with a really unique layout. It's a mid-entry, rear living, opposing slides layout, but under 28ft (pin to bumper). Since Highland Ridge is under Jayco, maybe you can get access to their Light Duty lineup? If you do have access, the 304BHS is also a very unique , shorter-than-the-competition mid-bunk model.
So glad they put that 60A solar controller. 180W is not a lot so they built in expansion room. Also agree road mode is essential. Glad it's there. I also really appreciate that the "hallway" is on the far side. Too many models have you walk in and right there is the bathroom. If I was looking for a 5th wheel this'd be it!
Awesome! TY
Josh- your review of this model is the best I have seen - if we decide to purchase we will definitely come to see you - thanks 🍻
I appreciate that! TY
If only it had a bathtub, it certainly would almost be perfect. I could do without the slide as well.
KZ Sportsmen 231RK is the shortest, traditional fifth wheel with full travel access going down the road and is also under 25ft.
That 2nd outlet by the dining table could be a little space heater on the floor.
Loves :
1. Short !
2. Travel accessible
3. CCC
4. Decent fresh gallon capacity
Dislikes
1. Dual gray sewer ports
2. High TV mount
3. Carpet in slide
USEFUL SUGGESTIONS
1. Show stove with slide in. Might be able to use the back burner with slide in. Front burners may not be useable due to heat to side of slide. ( should still consider airflow for back burner - vent/ window would solve this)
2. A left opening microwave door might give you enough access to make a hot cup. with slide in (Yes - microwave manufacture’s listen up for RV use ). Right opening microwave door in corner makes it harder to get food in and out even with slide open.
TY for the suggestions. I always appreciate constructive input. I'm not sure I'd want to try to cook with the slide closed myself. In the event of a spill or something you just can't get to anything
That plug on the left side of the cabinet is a tad odd, but I think I’d build a phone charging shelf under the cabinet.
👍🏻
I would think it could be “out of the way” by making it similar in the little pocket just below the kitchen sink.
Josh,
Great tour and commentary.
Larry from Texas
well TY Larry! :)
Nice RV!
Thanks!
8.8 out of 10. Make it a TT instead of a 5th and change the knee knocker table to a dream dinette style table, and this would be a 9.9 😁
👍🏻
A couple really good examples of this floor plan in a travel trailer are the Rockwood MiniLite 2515s(new for 2024) and the Grand Dedign Imagine XLS 23LDE.
Keystone Cougar and Freedom Express both make a similar floor plan but they're a bit longer, closer to 30ft.
They did 2250rk, no longer made ☹️
Josh this is probably going to be my next rig do you think they would get rid of the dinette and do table and chairs
Looks good. I live in a Keystone Cougar 25RES similar to this. When shopping for this one, I wanted a Grand Design, but their bedroom storage was always much smaller, in terms of hanging closet space, something I needed. The kitchen counter space looks very minimal, something often overlooked. I do like how they put many 110 outlets around the kitchen, my Cougar has just 1 in the kitchen, something I overlooked when buying it. Otherwise, nice rig.
That 25RES always struggled for kitchen outlets for sure. A lot of their other models have done better that way
They missed the boat here. No pantry. Yes there are shelves but I don’t think it would work very well.
I like this design it has a lot of great features ! F150 w/ 2,495 lbs payload 👍😎
Bulky half ton wow
@@JoshtheRVNerd
Ford no longer offers heavy duty payload on their 150's. I ordered this in 2022 and made it as bulky as possible. These small 5th wheels are what I am after 🙂
@@thompsongl I rarely saw anybody choose that option so it doesn't surprise me. Like a lot of brands auto makers are also trying to control costs on their builds
@@JoshtheRVNerd Absolutely controlling cost especially in these times. The F150 payload package requires a 3:73 rear end that is higher revving and less fuel efficient combined with a longer wheel base (6ft) box. It's not the cool look the young guys want 😎
Yes yes yes
Thanks for the video, Uncle Josh! I suspect for most folks the juice is worth the squeeze here, but with the other half's size and mobility issues, she's not making it past that slide when it's closed. As for those outlets above the dinette, those are for when I rip out the dinette and build my desk into that area.
Yeah it's tight for some folks and just not possible for others. There are definitely other models better for travel access but _in this size_ this is the best I've seen
When I start talking traveling FWs its hard for me to ignore something like a cougar 23MLE
Theater seat is more like an airliner seat with room for one elbow. Yes, it should fold up, why not? Much rather have table and chairs option versus the backbreaking dinette with shin pillars. Then add a full height pantry to the right of the table and ditch the small cabinets. TV in bedroom is awful. Could you make (yes $$$) or buy a custom bracket the sticks out from the right side of the wardrobe that will let the tv be in front of the bedroom door when its closed? That would reduce a big negative to something pretty appealing. Can you reach the stove knobs when slide is closed? I couldn't see from your camera angle.
Unsure on stove nobs. Apologies
Outlet to plug in vacuum cleaner 🥴 Be nice if Alliance 24RK was like this! I still think it’s dumb to put stairs on driver side.
Agreed - cordless stick-vac charging.
Nice layout. I could probably get away with towing it with my half ton. But I probably wouldn't do to many longer trips or any major amount of hills.
Thx for watching Craig. Just make sure you keep an eye on the loaded hitch weight before setting out to ensure your safety!
If that floorplan had existed when I was shopping, I would absolutely have bought it. I would like a bar dinette in place of the booth dinette, at least as an option; They might have to abbreviate that door-side storage, but I'd like the "living room" space.
Awesome TY so much for sharing!
The keystone Cougar 23mle is 28 ft, has auto level, fully accessible with slide in and has a large pantry, solar panels, one or two and a slide out in the bed room for the wardrobe and is just over 7000 lbs.
It’s not an accident I called the 23MLE my personal favorite couples camping fifth wheel ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
This one is a champ, they nail it at GD. As it is a couple 5th wheel no need for a dedicated pantry. I'd like to know the success of this rig in the future. For me it checks all the boxes.
I have a feeling it'll be pretty popular overall
I’m not big on 5th wheels but, I really like this one.
Awesome!
Is Bish's going to be opening/buying any locations in the southeast?
Very possibly at some point. We'd like to get larger but we noticed we needed to improve the work we were doing from our existing stores and made the active decision to slow down our expansion
I'd REALLY like a store in/near florida/georgia area
Looks nice and Cracker Barrel friendly as well.
Questions: 1) what is the difference between the Schintek and the Slim slide? 2) Which is better? 3) While no manufacturer does the slide weight occupancy test, could you occupy this slide with the Slime track that it uses in road mode? Now for the ultimate question… 4) If one has never RV’d before, I know that you can rent all different types and styles off of the internet and in rare cases from an RV dealer. But do people actually rent a truck set up for fifth wheel in order to rent a 5th wheel? After all, how does one know what to buy if they don’t try them all out first?
I need to learn more about slim rack. Mfgs seem to feel better about them though
Brinkley tests bed slides but that’s it
That plug in the overhead cabnet could be used for some fancy string lights ,or perhaps a battery operated vacuum of some kind.
Ah! Smart. Rechargeable vac would be cool
Love the layout but for me and my personal preferences, I would prefer to see a bar under the tv rather than a dinette. I'd leave the storage cabinet at the end of the dinette and raise it a few inches and attach the bar to it making an L shaped dining/storage area. I'd also flip-flop the tv with the cabinet and have the tv swing out to be able to view it from the couch.
Man I'm 100% about those camp-side dining bars! Please keep that feedback coming. The more MFGs see it the more likely we are to get them.
Don't ever feel like you're being repetitive or annoying. That's how we get them to listen!
This is a fantastic rv ! A couple of coat hooks up by the door, is there storage in the dinette seats ?? Hi from 🇨🇦
I'm unsure on the front bench having storage. I see there are heat vents coming out of it so at least part of it is occupied by "stuff." There may still be some space there but I cannot recall after seeing so many rvs
A local team member could check and send you a photo as needed however!
Love the length. Would really like a table set up rather than booth. Also would like more solar & storage so ac could be run for pups when rig is parked when traveling on the road. Swing down tv would save the neck big time. Josh, great job as usual. Phoned Bish trying to locate this little animal. What kind of king pin hitch does it have?
No special pinbox. That kind of solar is going to be possible but aftermarket and likely pretty spendy
Now, that is a very cool floorplan, with the travel access making it a game changer. The dinnette is on the proper side, which is rare. It's worth getting over the Imagine to steer clear of the hideous cabinets. Some obvious cheap choices though, like the bargain basement countertops and comically small oven.
It is something built with a lower budget in mind. Sometimes accommodations like that happen as a result
We like this camper! I see on East to West website they have a model very similar to this this, do you know if they are going to get one out for us to see. It's a Tandara 22rk. Thanks for what you do, and hopefully you have time to check into this, I know you are on the run alot.
Yeah I’ve put in some miles!