I discuss my selection process and how it led to my choice, the Zion SRT. What is important to understand is the process, your result may be different as you will process for YOU!
Thank you for your insights. I, too, will be a solo traveler and like what I am seeing about modern Class B's. (Especially having these solar & Lithium Ion batteries for A/C all night. Came back from Vietnam promising myself I was never going to try and sleep while sweating.) Thanks for your Army time. I did 2 years 9 months and 6 hours ... 1968 - 1971.
Donald, thank you for visiting and commenting. Also, thank you for your service! I was in from 71 to 73. I still have the same Van and a still loving it... My only regret (and I think I mentioned it) is that now that I have a girlfriend I could have used a regular Zion as opposed to the shorter SRT. We are making it work and are ready to embark on our 3rd short (4 day) adventure in the SRT. IN September, we will be on the road for over a week from Mich to Buffalo and back home to Savannah.
Pat,I have no intention to buy any van, but I like to listen to your explanations and opinions. You are such a natural speaker , so relaxed . It was a pleasure to watch and listen. Take care of yourself, which I know you will. In these uncertain, stay-at-home times ,like you. I luckily have my hobbies and interests. I stay in touch with fam. and friends by email, facebook and telefoon and don't feel lonely. Will be on the look-out for more of your vdeos....
Very valuable info, thanks. I'm looking for a used Roadtrek but this video is helpful. Besides age & service we also have in common some philosophy. Seeing old friends is priceless as we lose so many these days. As you say making new ones is great also.
I've had my Roadtrek 170 since 2014 it's been a great vehicle but I'm seriously thinking of upgrading to the SRT. I like the larger refrigerator, pantry and more of a real bathroom in the SRT. Only problem is, it won't fit in my garage so I'd have to deal with the city to let me build a car port to the property line. Our lots are only 40' wide, 34' usable for construction so 2 cars and a van make it pretty tight especially turning in from the alley. Take care!
I really like the SRT for me and my way of travel. The refrigerator and pantry were big pluses for me. I cannot get in garage either so I park in the driveway. I had a Ram pickup and a jeep plus the Van but sold the truck. They all 3 did fit in teh drive but barely! Thanks for watching.
Roadtrek certaintly grows on you. Just like you said, RT is not for everyone, but I love my RT, especially my coach power system using underhood generator.
Thank you for watching and the comment. I have a dog and wanted Lithium, Solar and the UHG. I probably spend a third of my time boondocking and the electric package makes a big difference. Which model do you have??
Outstanding video, loaded with lots of good info. We have never owned an RV and have been considering a Travato, a Roadtrek or a Countrymen Beyond. My wife and I are retired and in your age group. Thanks for the great guidance. We live about an hour and a half away from SunshineState RVs, so it is good that you were so happy with their service. Be well, be safe. George in FL
Thanks for watching and the nice comments... glad that you found some value. I drive 4 hours for service from sunshine state and they are the best. I could have bought closer but chose them for their reputation.
Great minds think alike!! As you know, I too have a Zion SRT. I full timed in mine for almost a year with no problem. Mine was purchased through Fretz RV in PA. They no longer sell Roadtrek. In hinsite, I should have used Sunshine State RV in FL. I have since used them for excellent service!! Great video Pat!! You sold me!!
I of course know... and I learned alot from you! You actually helped sell me and it was so great to get to meet you up in Maine and spend a couple days... Hope when this Apocolypse ends, we can steer the same path somewhere! Was not aware Fretz no longer sells them... Thanks for that info!
Fretz is selling Roadtrek made by Rapido. They recently sent me brochures for the Zion, Zion SRT, and the new models (Play, Chase, and Slumber) which are all on the RAM Promaster chassis. Rapido is gradually reestablishing the brand and they are very similar in design to the Hymer versions that were popular 2015-19. I have no business connection to Fretz or Rapido. I just happened to read your comment after viewing this UA-cam video.
That's my dilemma, even the Revel looks like it's low clearance. Sometimes you don't know what the forest roads are like, but thanks for the heads up on the suspension. Happy Trails!
Thank you for visiting the channel. I have seen some videos on the new models this year and I love the new electronic control and monitoring panels. Big improvement in my mind, it is called Firelight or something like that. Good luck on your quest!
I really enjoyed your commentary. I just purchased a 2021 Roadtrek Zion SRT today. Even without getting out on the road yet, just by listening to you, I know I bought the right RV. Thanks for all your insight.
Dear Van Venture, thank you so much for your powerful information about SRT. how can I get wifi. i just bought one and pick up next Monday. i belive i do not have UHG and if use car housing generator with car stay how dangerous for poising air into inside car?
@@weiguojiang4388 thanks for visiting and the questions. As far as the generator, I myself would not be concerned. Just keep all in good running order. So many units have them. Wifi - I still struggle with that. There are several services that provide wifi such as Nomad (cellular) and Hughesnet (satellite). I find them too pricey for my needs. Alot depends on what you need it for. If you have to work remote I believe you need a service. I need some for my radio gear (use Verizon mifi) and it has a cap where throttled but still runs my radio gear. For TV (DO not watch much while traveling) I will use the antenna or the mobile hotspot from my phone.
Thanks for this info. This Roadtrek Zion SRT wasn't even on my radar, but just recently it was suggested. So now I'm trying to get up to speed. Your video has been very helpful. I'm sure I'll have questions as I get more into my "research."
@@vanventure4985 Thanks so much. So I do have a couple of questions. About how much is insurance on a RV in this price range? I've never owned one so don't have a clue. Not that it matters, but I live in rural North Carolina. And the other question is, according to the most recent online brochures, it looks like the black tank is only 8.5 gallons. I mean, I know my water-saving house toilet flushes with 1.5 gallons each. So perhaps RVs work differently, but not to get into my toilet habits...but if the Roadtrek takes 1.5 gallons per flush I'm going to need to be dumping that tank a bunch - like every day! Am I missing something in how these things work? Thanks and I appreciate your help.
@@TheCountryLifewithColumbusMark Hope all is well... It is very hard to talk about Insurance as the rates depend on so many variables, your location, driving record, how much coverage and who you insure through. I have seen people talking anywhere from 700 to a 1000. Suggestion, find a dealer ad with a Vin number, contact your ins co and tell them we need a quote on that Vin. It will get you close. Water.. Toilet is completely different... Unlike home, where you need water to flush down a pipe system to a sewer or septic, the RV typically is just a valve that lets contents drop vertical into the tank. There is a small amount in the bowl, waste is collected and when you flush valve opens and waste drops through with a small amount of water unless you hold it open. It usually only takes a few seconds to empty the bowl. I read somewhere that it uses 2 qts or less each use... I am clearly on the less. The other aspect to conserve is use the facilities of places as you travel, rest areas, campgrounds, restaurants etc.
@@vanventure4985 Thanks again for taking all your time on me. Great idea about grabbing a vin and just using that for a quote. And I appreciate your explanation of how the toilet works. I hadn't even thought of that. I guess it's like a train or plane? And that does make sense to never pass up an easy chance for someone else's bathroom! So I hate to keep asking questions as I'm sure I can figure this stuff out, but just one more (ha). Some vans have a black tank flush connection but I didn't see that on the SRT. So how to you go about flushing out the tank? Okay, that's it.
@@TheCountryLifewithColumbusMark not a problem at all... glad to help where I can.. No, the Zions do NOT have a flush. Camco, among others, sell a wand fir flushing... connect it to your hose and put through the bowl opening into the tank. There are directional nozzles on the other end that when powered with water rotate the wand end with pressured water jets that rinse the insides of your black tank.
dear Van, thank you for your very helping information and i will confidence after watching your video and i bought year 2021 Zion with no spare tire and do you have spare tire and is it coming with car? i thought dealer keep my spare tire for themself, thank you
Great review thanks! Not that you have many hills where you are, but how does the engine feel going up inclines on the highway with your usual full load? Are you straining at 70 MPH?
Tom, thanks and a good question. I was concerned about that but have been pleasantly surprised. I have been through the smokies, into WV and Pittsburgh. It does quite well there and does not feel like it is straining. Having said that, I would not want to have to accelerate from a dead stop. It does strain some on a steep one if you try to accelerate to pass, but does quite well to maintain speed.
Hello Sam, thanks for watching and the question. Like anything else, depends on how you drive. I am reasonably conservative. I have gotten 18+ on trips but more the norm is 17 to 18. If you run the engine (for underhood Gen to charge batteries for example for air or electric heat) it will cut into that Mileage Heat of Texas, running a lot of air, I likely drop down around 16 to 16 1/2. Hope that helps!
@@VBardin it could be lots of things.. driving style... in town with lights.. up hilly terrain.. into the wind.. gas additives and air filter.. I get 15.5 to 16 in and around town as a daily driver..
Ann, the suspension is clearly a weak point with the ride on any promaster without aftermarket. I have been on dirt, gravel and fields without major issue but i doubt it would fair well with ruts. Many add aftermarket sumo springs to the rear and some do both. I am considering that. The other issue with the Zion (and likely any van on a stock promaster) is the low ground clearance.
So far, I have only taken mine to my dealer who also does my Jeep and Ram truck. Many other owners have used Jiffy Lube but do suggest you call first to be sure their bay will physically handle it!
Thank you for your insights. I, too, will be a solo traveler and like what I am seeing about modern Class B's. (Especially having these solar & Lithium Ion batteries for A/C all night. Came back from Vietnam promising myself I was never going to try and sleep while sweating.) Thanks for your Army time. I did 2 years 9 months and 6 hours ... 1968 - 1971.
Donald, thank you for visiting and commenting. Also, thank you for your service! I was in from 71 to 73. I still have the same Van and a still loving it... My only regret (and I think I mentioned it) is that now that I have a girlfriend I could have used a regular Zion as opposed to the shorter SRT. We are making it work and are ready to embark on our 3rd short (4 day) adventure in the SRT. IN September, we will be on the road for over a week from Mich to Buffalo and back home to Savannah.
Pat,I have no intention to buy any van, but I like to listen to your explanations and opinions. You are such a natural speaker , so relaxed . It was a pleasure to watch and listen. Take care of yourself, which I know you will. In these uncertain, stay-at-home times ,like you. I luckily have my hobbies and interests. I stay in touch with fam. and friends by email, facebook and telefoon and don't feel lonely. Will be on the look-out for more of your vdeos....
Willy... I enjoy your comments and opinions.. thanks for taking the time to watch my videos...
We’re still several years away from purchasing, but I really appreciate the info you provide in your videos. Priceless.
Well, take your time... when you find the right one, you will "feel" it! Thanks for following along!
Very valuable info, thanks. I'm looking for a used Roadtrek but this video is helpful. Besides age & service we also have in common some philosophy. Seeing old friends is priceless as we lose so many these days. As you say making new ones is great also.
Thanks for the comments.. wish you luck in your search!
I've had my Roadtrek 170 since 2014 it's been a great vehicle but I'm seriously thinking of upgrading to the SRT. I like the larger refrigerator, pantry and more of a real bathroom in the SRT. Only problem is, it won't fit in my garage so I'd have to deal with the city to let me build a car port to the property line. Our lots are only 40' wide, 34' usable for construction so 2 cars and a van make it pretty tight especially turning in from the alley. Take care!
I really like the SRT for me and my way of travel. The refrigerator and pantry were big pluses for me. I cannot get in garage either so I park in the driveway. I had a Ram pickup and a jeep plus the Van but sold the truck. They all 3 did fit in teh drive but barely! Thanks for watching.
Excellent video. Thanks for the detail on the process to select the right one
Glad that you enjoyed, thank you for taking the time to watch!
Roadtrek certaintly grows on you. Just like you said, RT is not for everyone, but I love my RT, especially my coach power system using underhood generator.
Thank you for watching and the comment. I have a dog and wanted Lithium, Solar and the UHG. I probably spend a third of my time boondocking and the electric package makes a big difference. Which model do you have??
I'm so sorry for your loss and thank you for your service Sir. Also, I appreciate your details information on the Zion SRT's.
Thank you for the kind words. We appreciate you taking your valuable time to visit our channel.
Outstanding video, loaded with lots of good info. We have never owned an RV and have been considering a Travato, a Roadtrek or a Countrymen Beyond. My wife and I are retired and in your age group. Thanks for the great guidance. We live about an hour and a half away from SunshineState RVs, so it is good that you were so happy with their service. Be well, be safe. George in FL
Thanks for watching and the nice comments... glad that you found some value. I drive 4 hours for service from sunshine state and they are the best. I could have bought closer but chose them for their reputation.
Great minds think alike!! As you know, I too have a Zion SRT. I full timed in mine for almost a year with no problem. Mine was purchased through Fretz RV in PA. They no longer sell Roadtrek. In hinsite, I should have used Sunshine State RV in FL. I have since used them for excellent service!! Great video Pat!! You sold me!!
I of course know... and I learned alot from you! You actually helped sell me and it was so great to get to meet you up in Maine and spend a couple days... Hope when this Apocolypse ends, we can steer the same path somewhere! Was not aware Fretz no longer sells them... Thanks for that info!
Fretz is selling Roadtrek made by Rapido. They recently sent me brochures for the Zion, Zion SRT, and the new models (Play, Chase, and Slumber) which are all on the RAM Promaster chassis. Rapido is gradually reestablishing the brand and they are very similar in design to the Hymer versions that were popular 2015-19. I have no business connection to Fretz or Rapido. I just happened to read your comment after viewing this UA-cam video.
@@robertcoren7318 Yes, I did see they returned to selling Roadtrek. I would still buy from Sunshine State RV.
That's my dilemma, even the Revel looks like it's low clearance. Sometimes you don't know what the forest roads are like, but thanks for the heads up on the suspension. Happy Trails!
You are very welcome... thanks for visiting and asking a question!
I am so jealous! I want one so badly! Lucky you!
Thanks for visiting... yes, I am very fortunate.
Thank you for your wisdom in these videos. This Class B is the one I'm most interested in so appreciate you!
Thank you for visiting the channel. I have seen some videos on the new models this year and I love the new electronic control and monitoring panels. Big improvement in my mind, it is called Firelight or something like that.
Good luck on your quest!
@@vanventure4985 Thank you!
You’re a wise man. A lot to think about.
I do not know about wise but thx! Appreciate you visiting the channel.
I really enjoyed your commentary. I just purchased a 2021 Roadtrek Zion SRT today. Even without getting out on the road yet, just by listening to you, I know I bought the right RV. Thanks for all your insight.
Congrats on the purchase. Wishing you much enjoyment. Where are you located!
@@vanventure4985 Toronto, Canada
Dear Van Venture, thank you so much for your powerful information about SRT. how can I get wifi. i just bought one and pick up next Monday. i belive i do not have UHG and if use car housing generator with car stay how dangerous for poising air into inside car?
@@ardenmcnabb1177 dear Arden, i just bought one with $125000 for everything and is i paying too much? thank you for sharing
@@weiguojiang4388 thanks for visiting and the questions. As far as the generator, I myself would not be concerned. Just keep all in good running order. So many units have them.
Wifi - I still struggle with that. There are several services that provide wifi such as Nomad (cellular) and Hughesnet (satellite). I find them too pricey for my needs. Alot depends on what you need it for. If you have to work remote I believe you need a service.
I need some for my radio gear (use Verizon mifi) and it has a cap where throttled but still runs my radio gear.
For TV (DO not watch much while traveling) I will use the antenna or the mobile hotspot from my phone.
Great video
Kevin, thank you for the kind words and I appreciate you spending your time visiting my channel.
Thanks for this info. This Roadtrek Zion SRT wasn't even on my radar, but just recently it was suggested. So now I'm trying to get up to speed. Your video has been very helpful. I'm sure I'll have questions as I get more into my "research."
Thank you for viewing and the kind words. I try very to answer all questions promptly so feel free to ask any later as they appear. Thank You!
@@vanventure4985 Thanks so much. So I do have a couple of questions. About how much is insurance on a RV in this price range? I've never owned one so don't have a clue. Not that it matters, but I live in rural North Carolina. And the other question is, according to the most recent online brochures, it looks like the black tank is only 8.5 gallons. I mean, I know my water-saving house toilet flushes with 1.5 gallons each. So perhaps RVs work differently, but not to get into my toilet habits...but if the Roadtrek takes 1.5 gallons per flush I'm going to need to be dumping that tank a bunch - like every day! Am I missing something in how these things work? Thanks and I appreciate your help.
@@TheCountryLifewithColumbusMark Hope all is well... It is very hard to talk about Insurance as the rates depend on so many variables, your location, driving record, how much coverage and who you insure through. I have seen people talking anywhere from 700 to a 1000. Suggestion, find a dealer ad with a Vin number, contact your ins co and tell them we need a quote on that Vin. It will get you close.
Water.. Toilet is completely different... Unlike home, where you need water to flush down a pipe system to a sewer or septic, the RV typically is just a valve that lets contents drop vertical into the tank. There is a small amount in the bowl, waste is collected and when you flush valve opens and waste drops through with a small amount of water unless you hold it open. It usually only takes a few seconds to empty the bowl. I read somewhere that it uses 2 qts or less each use... I am clearly on the less. The other aspect to conserve is use the facilities of places as you travel, rest areas, campgrounds, restaurants etc.
@@vanventure4985 Thanks again for taking all your time on me. Great idea about grabbing a vin and just using that for a quote. And I appreciate your explanation of how the toilet works. I hadn't even thought of that. I guess it's like a train or plane? And that does make sense to never pass up an easy chance for someone else's bathroom!
So I hate to keep asking questions as I'm sure I can figure this stuff out, but just one more (ha). Some vans have a black tank flush connection but I didn't see that on the SRT. So how to you go about flushing out the tank?
Okay, that's it.
@@TheCountryLifewithColumbusMark not a problem at all... glad to help where I can..
No, the Zions do NOT have a flush. Camco, among others, sell a wand fir flushing... connect it to your hose and put through the bowl opening into the tank. There are directional nozzles on the other end that when powered with water rotate the wand end with pressured water jets that rinse the insides of your black tank.
Sorry for the loss of your wife. Nice video.
Thank you Jennifer... appreciate you checking in ..
Helpful. Thanks.
Thank you for visiting the channel and glad you found it of use to you!
dear Van, thank you for your very helping information and i will confidence after watching your video and i bought year 2021 Zion with no spare tire and do you have spare tire and is it coming with car? i thought dealer keep my spare tire for themself, thank you
Great review thanks! Not that you have many hills where you are, but how does the engine feel going up inclines on the highway with your usual full load? Are you straining at 70 MPH?
Tom, thanks and a good question. I was concerned about that but have been pleasantly surprised. I have been through the smokies, into WV and Pittsburgh. It does quite well there and does not feel like it is straining. Having said that, I would not want to have to accelerate from a dead stop. It does strain some on a steep one if you try to accelerate to pass, but does quite well to maintain speed.
i bought 2021 Zion with no spare tire and spare tire is optional or standed ?
Thanks for the great review. Can you tell me what’s the gas millage in the Zion SRT?
Hello Sam, thanks for watching and the question. Like anything else, depends on how you drive. I am reasonably conservative. I have gotten 18+ on trips but more the norm is 17 to 18. If you run the engine (for underhood Gen to charge batteries for example for air or electric heat) it will cut into that Mileage Heat of Texas, running a lot of air, I likely drop down around 16 to 16 1/2. Hope that helps!
@@vanventure4985 Mine used to get that mileage, but now only 15. Can't figure out why as all the tanks & most of the van are now empty.
@@VBardin it could be lots of things.. driving style... in town with lights.. up hilly terrain.. into the wind.. gas additives and air filter.. I get 15.5 to 16 in and around town as a daily driver..
How is the suspension when you are on forest service roads? The ones that are usually gravel with some ruts. Thanks in advance
Ann, the suspension is clearly a weak point with the ride on any promaster without aftermarket. I have been on dirt, gravel and fields without major issue but i doubt it would fair well with ruts.
Many add aftermarket sumo springs to the rear and some do both. I am considering that. The other issue with the Zion (and likely any van on a stock promaster) is the low ground clearance.
Do I have to go to the dealer for oil change , tires? Would I be able to take it to jiffy lube?
So far, I have only taken mine to my dealer who also does my Jeep and Ram truck. Many other owners have used Jiffy Lube but do suggest you call first to be sure their bay will physically handle it!
Do you have Ecotrek and Voltstart?
Yes, I have both John. I have a dog with me and when I left the Van and could not take her, I wanted to be sure she was safe with AC etc inside..