*I SCREWED UP AGAIN!* Old habits sometimes die hard. I referred to that solar package as "190w" about a billion times. For the 2023 models it's been nudged to 200w!! Sorry about that. Doing my best here :) _-Uncle Josh, the RV Nerd_
We love our 21 2509s. I like the pass through storage, corner vanity, fold up doors on the overhead cabinets in the slide out, and the removal of carpet. I’d love to see a retractable headrest on the sofa and move the outdoor fridge to the rear so the stove and grill are next to each other. Make those changes and it’s perfect!
Ty for saying something!! I am trying to not stop my videos dead to show everything and just keep them rolling where possible I felt like this was enough to give folks the general idea
The bunk area would make a great pet area. Upper bunk could be cat bed area while below is food and litter area. Cargo door makes emptying the cat pan easier. Absolutely love the peninsula kitchen. U-shaped dinette is the best.
Or just plant it in the ceiling with a drop down bracket. Last place I'd watch from is an uncomfortable dinette. Rather have recliners - neck breakers are deal breakers. Bristro table & chairs would make it road mode functional. No hookup for water on outside kitchen? Still think generators should be standard. 😂
So refreshing to see aluminum construction, multiple seating areas, a porcelain toilet, standard solar and an attached ladder in a family bunkhouse trailer👍👍👍
Enjoy the videos! Love the great detail and personality you add to them. Added bonus, I don’t fall asleep to your videos (enter mis piggy karate chop lol). Currently have the geopro 19fd. Looking at upgrading to the mini lite. But I’m holding in hopes for a few more details. I do prefer the orange lettering over the grayscale. More “pop”, less original. Kinda makes it feel special in a park filled with trailers. Also agree with the tie downs on the floor in that passthrough as I have e-bikes I take camping. Another mentioned moving fridge to the rear to keep the stove near the griddle. I like that, or bumper grill / griddle would be nice. Rock wood makes decent product. I feel like they’re only minor steps away from the design crew taking a year long vacation. For me, the keyless keypad entry I would miss. So many times I’d like to lock it with my keys inside and not worrying about my hidden spare. So convenient. Slam latches throughout. Worried about my doors bowing away. Especially the long ones on the mini lites. And the outside LED nose “flair” light. If they could make that color changing for mood lighting, that would be pretty sweet. The last one that will probably never happen do to size, would be auto levelers. But that’s just being picky lol. Thanks again for the video Josh! Keep up the great work!!
Would be an AMAZING floor plan for us if they just added a few inches to the rv length to make the murphy bed accessable in travel mode. So close! Still very nice.
We have a 2018 2509s and have gotten a lot of enjoyment out of it with 4-6 full-size people and a dog. The size is really nice for getting in/out of just about anywhere. It’s what I would consider ideal size/weight for a 1/2 ton pickup. Yes, the hitch is a little heavy. I attribute that to a little extra “Rockwood Beefiness” and an engineer really thinking about axle placement. I’ll take a heavy hitch (more weight forward) over a light hitch ANY DAY. For my part (let’s consider that a smaller part than the better-half’s part), the only complaint is the size of the shower. The height doesn’t bother me so much (I’m 6’1”), but not every XXL shirt fits me. I’d like to see the shower be more like 30” deep. Many of the tweaks that Rockwood has made to this model, in the last 5 years, are smart adjustments to an already smart model. We’ve started considering the possibilities of replacing this camper. If we could change anything about what we have, it would be a permanent bed, a permanent foldout couch along with the u-dinette and a larger shower. Unfortunately, this will most likely mean a larger/heavier/expensiver trailer. To be honest…with all the tweaks since 2018, we might consider another 2509s or Flagstaff equivalent.
Great upgrades ! We love our “sister to the 2509” 1st 2507 TT 2021 we are retired and are using it a lot since acquire it June 2021. Have had many compliments on it. Wife calls the large outside kitchen my “man kitchen”. Only wish the two wardrobe cabinets on either side of the Murphy bed were easier to access. The two counters in front of them should be half the length. Upgraded to a full size Queen Wilderness mattress this year, a must do.
I really like these. The no bunk version was really high on my list before, but the cargo door might change that. I can't wait to see the no bunk version.
Thanks for commenting on using the slide when it's closed. Even though you don't know the answer, mentioning it at least helps watchers to contemplate and ask the question.
I just saw on the website it now shows a theater seat option which makes this the ultimate bunk house imo! This was the main reason the Wife and I were bypassing the bunk house, didn’t want the prehistoric dinette. Thumbs up on the vid👍👍
I have a 2020 2509s, love all the upgrades on the 2023!! The only thing I would like to see and not really a big deal, but a bathroom window that opens.
Just an FYI - Same link posted for both the Rockwood and the Flagstaff. Found your channel this weekend and have watched roughly 74 of your videos since. Appreciate all you do!
We love our 2022 2509s, and the 2023 changes look great. Additional improvements we’d like to see: • Lighter colour awning. Who thought black was a good idea? You can feel the heat radiating while under it. • Lighter weight bedroom curtains. The current ones are very heavy. The screws keep pulling out of the ceiling during travels. • Slam latches on all cargo doors • Make the oven optional. We'd rather have storage, which we use the oven for now. • Lose the front window. The window can leak, crack, and adds weight. We have never opened that curtain as the bed is up during the day. Thanks Josh!
People complain about both awning colors. My 2019 2509s has a nasty dirty white awning. Would love a darker color. Bedroom curtain. Some wider screws can fix that. My 2019 2509s was built in April 2018 and I ordered it without the oven. The storage is nice. Guessing they wanted to standardize it since they had to make 2 different countertops and cabinets.
Solid review again! Given I have a 1/2 ton, the wife and I are stuck between this unit or the Alliance Delta 251BH for our first camper. If it were you, would you pick one over the other for a family of 4 first camper?
We have had our 2022 2509s since last September and absolutely love it so far. The new cargo door would definitely be nice since we carry 4 bikes-2 on a bike rack on the rear hitch and 2 that we have to load through the door. The optional solar/inverter upgrade would be nice too. We love the murphy bed when it's down but when up it blocks that awesome front window, significantly darkening the interior. Someone mentioned longer drawers under the dinette which is a great idea. There's about a foot of space behind those drawers that is very difficult to reach from the outside for anyone with less than a 4 foot long arm. Also, the A/C units should come standard with one of those styrofoam ducting blocks that help route the air into the ducts. We are in Texas and they help tremendously. Oh, and every once in a while you might want to make sure the plumbing under the kitchen sink is nice and snug especially when you just got done doing dishes and have a gallon and a half of water to drain.
My wife and I were not really looking for a bunk model but this might have changed our minds. We love the 2514S because of the duel doors for loading/unloading and those emergency pit stops but unfortunately it is not available. We are going to a fall RV show next weekend and hope we will be able to do a comparison of this and the sister model 2507S. Rockstaff keeps checking off the boxes for what we are looking for in our 1st camper.
There's actually someone in one of the Rockwood MiniLite Facebook groups who did that. It fits but it does show above the Murphy bed platform when it's in the upright position. We'll probably do that in ours when we get it.
Like like like! Excellent execution. Dig the colors and the cargo door! I wish the entertainment wasn't so much of an after thought...perhaps that means I need to go up in size a bit. Overall I very much like this unit!
Great trailer. I too don’t like the tv not having some sort of storage space behind it. Also, I prefer a shower instead of a tub. I know that’s subjective.
Cool video. I would say the Blackstone bumper griddle mount if possible on the back bumper. Take out the griddle in the outside kitchen and replace with a small sink. Just a thought.
That cargo door might be handy for gaining access to the kitchen and bathroom if there is nothing in there to impede you, especially for drunken Uncle Gary who is used to crawling around on all fours!!! LOL
My guess, is that FR fig's that if you're traveling with kiddos (bunk beds), they MIGHT be to young for a shower, thus, the tub/shower combo. Y'all Be Safe!
I noticed the air conditioner vent over the top bunk. Awesome!!! I have a similar layout to this in the keystone Passport which doesn’t have the air conditioner vent over the bunk. That top bunk get very hot. Also love the access to the bathroom in travel mode. Our passport bathroom door opens the other direction and leaves no access to bathroom on travel mode.
We absolutely love our 2021 2509S. Even with the “upgrades”, we feel that ours is nearly perfect. We carry a 4250W inverter generator on a custom made rack in the accessory rear hitch. That new cargo door would be useless to us. We tilt the lower bunk up and carry our chairs, extra tp and paper towels, etc. To us, with all of the storage bays and quality build, this exceeds Airstream.
That’s starting wattage, Josh. I think running is 3500W. But yes, it honestly never fails us. Having said that - we wouldn’t try to run certain things like the microwave or a hair dryer. But, it’s an inverter, so clean power. 😊
Close but still not what we want. I love the cargo door if it fits 2 -10ft kayaks. I don't need either bunk but would rather have the full outside kitchen of the Rockwood 2507S with the lift-up door in their place. I think that would fit. I agree no tub shower! We would also select the 67" theater seating so one can use the bed and the other still recline and read.
Hey Josh! In some of your video reviews you sometimes say that you have yet to find "the perfect RV" my wife and I agree(d) with you 110% UNTIL..... -----> This Rockwood 2509S. For us though, IT. IS. PERFECT!👍 👍😊 in every way... There's only ONE THING that I would add. Not to be picky here, but I would add a FORD F250!!!😝 😝 😝 something I'm currently working on! Thank you again for ALL the effort you put into sharing all this valuable information with us! It is greatly appreciated! 🇺🇸Admiral Uncle Josh 🇺🇸 The "Bob Vila" of the RV Universe! 🌍🌏🌎🌕🌓☀️
I think they're working on making that available to more and more models. It's a slow process though as it requires rewiring each model individually So I believe they're focusing first on their most popular models and going backwards from there
Been enjoying my 22' 2509s very much, glad I got mine before they added the rear door. Seems this is becoming the Industry standard now ,should be an option IMO. My little kids sleep in those bunks, door there decreases security and just becomes an area for air leaks both hot and cold. The carpet less is a nice addition and the slam latches on the outdoor kitchen door are great, that's one thing I wish mine had on all the exterior storage doors. Interesting they changed up the bathroom cabinet and vanity to a corner setup.
We took out our top bunk and put in a shelf for clothes. If Rockwood could make both bunks flip all the way over on a piano hinge, it would have endless versatility!!!
🤔does the S stand for in the model Super or Solar or some one is gonna be happy to on it. It’s nice looking inside and outside. The TV location gives a different thought of TV dinners. Josh stay safe & dry, hope y’all had a fantastic Labor Day weekend
5 years ago, I watched my first RV Nerd video, the 2017 Rockwood 2509s. I fell in love with Rockwood the 3509s and and RV's. I live in East Texas and dreamed of takin a road trip north one day to Hayletts to buy one from you and bring it home. I could afford one back then but never could get my ducks in a row. They were about 23k back then. Now days, I finally got my cargo door and no carpet but COVID prices killed my dreams. Maybe in another 5 years, I will be able to afford a used 2023 model. Lol 🤞🤞🤞
Uncle Josh………this is the same layout as our Coachmen Freedom Express 238BHS with some changes. Here`s what Iike over our 238BHS : Cabinets over the dinette, rear cargo door and folding lower bed, ladder for the top bunk, drawers under the dinette bench, larger exhaust fan in the bathroom, rear trailer receiver for bike rack, standard Goodyear tires, pop up power strip location. Dislikes : No outside sink, standard axle spacing, smaller bathroom cabinets and missing shelf, window in bathroom, main kitchen cabinet / drawer layout, spare tire on rear bumper, sink inserts do not match counter top, harder to access bedside cabinets, camp queen size bed, slide out floor does not match main floor, control panel location Great video review once again Uncle Josh!!!!!
We have a 2019 and we love it but I wish they had a pull out nozzle on the kitchen faucet, I wish they had cabinet or shelf option instead of the TV (because we took ours out because we never use it), and above all else I wish the upper bunk would fold in half for storage or be easily removable so if you are only using the bottom bunk it would be out of the way.
I’d change the free standing table to a fixed one with the latch release up/down functionality as well as extend the countertop in the bathroom like Grand Design does.
I LOVE the shower/tub DON'T change it! I also LOVE the access door for ebikes or MORE storage. I LOVE that they upgraded the solar system so someone like me in the SOUTH can go off grid. The ONLY thing they didn't figure out is to put the FIREPLACE in this unit.😎❤❤
I'd probably order the optional hide a bed sofa for the slide out. That'd take care of my problem getting around with the slide in. We eat on our sofa at home anyway. Lol Great video
I wonder what the max load is on those double bunks and also the ladder. I can’t seem to find that info in the brochure. Any chance you would know Unkie Josh? Thanks in advance and as always thanks for the outstanding work. 💯🤙
Personally this is the camper I want, however, for some reason I have never understood why the underseat storage in the “U dinette” doesn’t have full length drawers. Who is really reaching in from the outside door to those angles both left and right? Make the drawer’s longer and square up the space IMHO. Great updates though..love it. By the way…link seems broken for pricing…🤷🏻♂️
I use totes to run the width of the storage accessed from the outside door. I use 3 totes and it works great. The storage under the right side of my dinette actually runs the depth of the slide (not a drawer) and the drawer on the left does not, but if the drawer was as long as the depth of the slide that would be a really long drawer. Totes make everything better.
In terms of Rockwood I think they rely on the outdoor cargo door to access what the drawers don’t reach Also consider the kind of hardware require to support heavy loaded full length extension drawers..
That’s about the nicest looking Murphy bed ever, and it even has footrests! But it blocks the window during the day, like most Murphys. Crap a ladder!!! 🤣🤣 The only thing I could come up with to change is the kitchen counter extension. I’d like to see it the same level as the main counter. I’ve seen it done on some other brands. I think it’s more useful that way.
I dig it! I really want this for our next camper, but it would be nice if they could just bite the bullet, and put in powered front and rear stabilizers.
Hey, Josh! Is the outside fridge on an outlet that's inverted? Love your videos, so informative! We're totally going to buy this camper and there are only 3 year 2023s in our state that we can find! Your videos have given us the opportunity to see it without seeing it. Thanks! Gotta catch 'em all here in UT, 😉
@@JoshtheRVNerd Probably true but I do hope RV manufacturers keep the carpet option open 😊😊 just wondering why everyone was moving so hard against carpet, I wouldn't even mind Having something. Like that marine woven material as long as it soft warm & cozy on my feet😊😊👍👍👍👍👍 you're doing a great job Josh👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍😊😊
Great review pointing out the minor (yet major) changes Rockwood made. If I were to go Murphy bed bunkhouse, it would be this floorplan style. Although, I’m one of those gargantuan humans you speak of and I’m pretty well done with the camp queens. Yet another thing I appreciate is that you linked the Freedom Express that features a true queen and has practically the same floorplan save for some unique aspects for each camper. Thank you!
@@JoshtheRVNerd It’s a lot of work to put all that there! It’s a feature not many others do and it is actually really helpful. Even though I wasn’t totally sold on the Rockwood, your choices gave me the Freedom Express option that would be suitable. That’s just good sales insight right there! And I do know you’re not doing it just for sales, you seem pretty genuine about getting us the info we need whether it benefits Bish’s or not. It’s what keeps me coming back to watch many of your videos!
If I was exclusively a park camper, this would be my choice (or maybe the 2513S), but since I live out west and prefer to get off-pavement, I'd rather go with the Ember 221MDB (or better yet, a 221MSL 😉). If Ember made the 221's with this interior (and the slide storage access doors), it would be the PERFECT unit! The rear cargo door and expanded solar are great additions. I also like the simulated theater seats and the kitchen layout and appliances. I'm not a big fan of dinettes, but this U-dinette is probably the best option especially since there is also the other sofa seating area. However, the inability to close the slide with the bed down is a real bummer. Also, I wish Rockstaff would get rid of the small "porthole" windows on each side of the bed (on all their Mini/Micro Lite models) and use much larger viewing windows. Finally, I'm not a fan of the new grayscale exterior graphics. The former orange highlights really made the graphics pop. I'm afraid these new graphic colors are going to make these RVs look dated much quicker. Also, both inventory links are for the Rockwood 2509S...you put the same link for the Flagstaff 25BRDS as the Rockwood.
Another awesome video! And love the new updates! And may I say, in ‘road mode’, I would rather use the new updated cargo door to get in to use the bathroom at a travel stop!! Haha would make people do a double take! 🤪 #rvnerdherd
Josh, we are getting a sequoia with 7k towing, would it be safe to take this into the nc mountains if we only put 800 lbs on it? Thanks for all you do!!!
AC-only, BUT they are now getting better about wiring that fridge's outlet to the inverter for travel use. I am not sure if they've yet accomplished that on this specific model, though
Josh i really like your videos and very informative i really like this camper the floor plan is awesome is this as good as a jayco and does it have Tankless water heater on demand hot water like the jayco
We just bought a 21 Coleman Lantern at Camping World in Lakewood Nj last year always did pop up camping but I definitely like that Rockwood Mini Lite 2205 my wife and i really like it! Thank you for replying back we love how you keep it real
Ok…this is probably a dumb question, but here goes: is it possible to order this unit without a top bunk, or possibly a half bunk up top? Sometimes things aren’t accomplished simply because they aren’t asked.
Factory won't alter their plan but we can assist with simply removing that top bunk And you're right -- there's no harm in asking. Sometimes it sparks the right fires!
How does the Rockwood 2509S compare to the Jayco 199MBS? Which has better quality in your opinion? I do know that I like the bed layout better in the Rockwood. Other insight as to comparing the Jayco and Rockwood?
They're kind of apples and oranges. Single axle narrow body w/corner bed vs dual axle standard body w/north-south bed.. Overall though I feel Rockwood wins the debate of fit and finish. Pound for Pound I personally feel Rockwood is about the best overall brand out there currently I have bleed Jayco blue for a while. But Rockwood is a brand that even makes other builders go "whoa..."
OPTION: You could, I guess, use the rear cargo door to access the bathroom, kitchen and bunks in transit, without placing possible pressure on the slide-in flooring. Maybe Rockwood should option a small folding step-up in/on the rear bumper to accommodate this action. Glad to hear the solar upgrade package is now available in this trailer.
I see so many RVs I cannot recall exact switch positions. I am not sure if it's in the pass-thru or somewhere like color-matched against the diamond plate
I'm still waiting for Rockwood to come out with that floor plan similar to the Imagine 17mke or Surveyor 203rkle with the fantastic counter space. That would be fantastic in a Mini Lite. So glad they got rid of the orange. I never was a fan of that color choice. Orange with our red truck. Yikes!😄
"Best" is really subject to what goals you're looking to accomplish. But these are a few of my favorites: ► Trailer: bit.ly/3oOFmGh ► Fifth Wheel: bit.ly/3RSkXMG
Not being able to use the bed with the slide closed is the dealbreaker on this one. The L counter making other travel access is annoying, but still workable. The “incliner” sofas look awesome.
You always want to verify the specific truck's capacities. There are SOME half-tons that are actually very limited in capacity and not suited for this RV. But.. most tow pkg half-tons will handle it
*I SCREWED UP AGAIN!*
Old habits sometimes die hard. I referred to that solar package as "190w" about a billion times. For the 2023 models it's been nudged to 200w!!
Sorry about that. Doing my best here :)
_-Uncle Josh, the RV Nerd_
We love our 21 2509s. I like the pass through storage, corner vanity, fold up doors on the overhead cabinets in the slide out, and the removal of carpet. I’d love to see a retractable headrest on the sofa and move the outdoor fridge to the rear so the stove and grill are next to each other. Make those changes and it’s perfect!
5:06 - this sequence showing all the flexibility and converting to a bed - 10/10! So helpful
Ty for saying something!! I am trying to not stop my videos dead to show everything and just keep them rolling where possible
I felt like this was enough to give folks the general idea
The bunk area would make a great pet area. Upper bunk could be cat bed area while below is food and litter area. Cargo door makes emptying the cat pan easier. Absolutely love the peninsula kitchen. U-shaped dinette is the best.
I wish it had overhead cabinets where the TV is. Then TV could be on the side of the cabinet near the door with a swing out bracket.
Yes!! Or even a deeper cabinet with storage behind the tv, like some of the bigger rv's. Can't have too much storage.
Totally agree. Deeper cabinet with tv in front and storage behind would work too.
Or just plant it in the ceiling with a drop down bracket.
Last place I'd watch from is an uncomfortable dinette.
Rather have recliners - neck breakers are deal breakers.
Bristro table & chairs would make it road mode functional.
No hookup for water on outside kitchen?
Still think generators should be standard. 😂
Put them in!
Thanks for sharing Josh, I really like this trailer. I'm happy they added the rear door :)
So refreshing to see aluminum construction, multiple seating areas, a porcelain toilet, standard solar and an attached ladder in a family bunkhouse trailer👍👍👍
They did it, THEY FREAKING DID IT!!! they keep adding and making it better with the rear door!!!!!
YEEEEEEP :)
Kids could just use the new rear cargo door to easily access the bathroom. Really a nice addition.
Enjoy the videos! Love the great detail and personality you add to them. Added bonus, I don’t fall asleep to your videos (enter mis piggy karate chop lol). Currently have the geopro 19fd. Looking at upgrading to the mini lite. But I’m holding in hopes for a few more details. I do prefer the orange lettering over the grayscale. More “pop”, less original. Kinda makes it feel special in a park filled with trailers. Also agree with the tie downs on the floor in that passthrough as I have e-bikes I take camping. Another mentioned moving fridge to the rear to keep the stove near the griddle. I like that, or bumper grill / griddle would be nice. Rock wood makes decent product. I feel like they’re only minor steps away from the design crew taking a year long vacation. For me, the keyless keypad entry I would miss. So many times I’d like to lock it with my keys inside and not worrying about my hidden spare. So convenient. Slam latches throughout. Worried about my doors bowing away. Especially the long ones on the mini lites. And the outside LED nose “flair” light. If they could make that color changing for mood lighting, that would be pretty sweet. The last one that will probably never happen do to size, would be auto levelers. But that’s just being picky lol. Thanks again for the video Josh! Keep up the great work!!
Thank you for watching! Enjoy your FD!!
Just picked ours up! So excited! Thanks for the awesome reviews
We just bought this exact unit and drove it off the lot last Saturday! We love it! Thanks Bish's!
Our pleasure! I'd love it if you dropped us a quick review at g.page/r/CdPcitNVx2nDEAg/review in return for the efforts!
Would be an AMAZING floor plan for us if they just added a few inches to the rv length to make the murphy bed accessable in travel mode. So close! Still very nice.
We have a 2018 2509s and have gotten a lot of enjoyment out of it with 4-6 full-size people and a dog. The size is really nice for getting in/out of just about anywhere. It’s what I would consider ideal size/weight for a 1/2 ton pickup. Yes, the hitch is a little heavy. I attribute that to a little extra “Rockwood Beefiness” and an engineer really thinking about axle placement. I’ll take a heavy hitch (more weight forward) over a light hitch ANY DAY. For my part (let’s consider that a smaller part than the better-half’s part), the only complaint is the size of the shower. The height doesn’t bother me so much (I’m 6’1”), but not every XXL shirt fits me. I’d like to see the shower be more like 30” deep. Many of the tweaks that Rockwood has made to this model, in the last 5 years, are smart adjustments to an already smart model.
We’ve started considering the possibilities of replacing this camper. If we could change anything about what we have, it would be a permanent bed, a permanent foldout couch along with the u-dinette and a larger shower. Unfortunately, this will most likely mean a larger/heavier/expensiver trailer. To be honest…with all the tweaks since 2018, we might consider another 2509s or Flagstaff equivalent.
Ty for all info here. Love hearing from actual owners
Rear cargo door = STANDING OVATION!!!!
Great upgrades ! We love our “sister to the 2509” 1st 2507 TT 2021 we are retired and are using it a lot since acquire it June 2021. Have had many compliments on it. Wife calls the large outside kitchen my “man kitchen”. Only wish the two wardrobe cabinets on either side of the Murphy bed were easier to access. The two counters in front of them should be half the length. Upgraded to a full size Queen Wilderness mattress this year, a must do.
Ty Billy!!
I like the improvements. Rockstaff is still my favorites. I’ve had my eye on this model for a while.
they're always so hard to beat
I really like these. The no bunk version was really high on my list before, but the cargo door might change that. I can't wait to see the no bunk version.
I use my bunks with cargo door exclusively for storage.
Thanks for commenting on using the slide when it's closed. Even though you don't know the answer, mentioning it at least helps watchers to contemplate and ask the question.
That's exactly the goal! TY
Really appreciate your reviews and knowledge
My pleasure! Hope they're beneficial for you :)
What a BEAUTY with Super Duty on just about everything on this Big Little Rig. Thanks for the show Josh, will in Florida
Thx again Will!
The only thing I see that I'd like changed is the shub, I prefer a walk in shower with a more secure surround shower glass.
Ty
I just saw on the website it now shows a theater seat option which makes this the ultimate bunk house imo! This was the main reason the Wife and I were bypassing the bunk house, didn’t want the prehistoric dinette. Thumbs up on the vid👍👍
Yeah theater's been available here but not commonly requested for a few years now.
Since it's a floor-flush slide you have different options available
@@JoshtheRVNerd Thats great! I have a 21 and 22 brochure that makes no mention of that option, thanks for the info!
Another great video Josh! 👍🏾With the added rear cargo door, there’s a second way to get to the bathroom on the road..as long as its not packed full.
True...
I've crawled thru smaller to get into RVs before!
I have a 2020 2509s, love all the upgrades on the 2023!! The only thing I would like to see and not really a big deal, but a bathroom window that opens.
TY Shauna! So far it seems like this has been almost exclusively positively received!
Just an FYI - Same link posted for both the Rockwood and the Flagstaff. Found your channel this weekend and have watched roughly 74 of your videos since. Appreciate all you do!
We love our 2022 2509s, and the 2023 changes look great. Additional improvements we’d like to see:
• Lighter colour awning. Who thought black was a good idea? You can feel the heat radiating while under it.
• Lighter weight bedroom curtains. The current ones are very heavy. The screws keep pulling out of the ceiling during travels.
• Slam latches on all cargo doors
• Make the oven optional. We'd rather have storage, which we use the oven for now.
• Lose the front window. The window can leak, crack, and adds weight. We have never opened that curtain as the bed is up during the day.
Thanks Josh!
Very nice layout and checks off all my boxes. Regarding a bunk ladder, whose your proctologist?
These are awesome insights from an actual owner. Ty for sharing!!
People complain about both awning colors. My 2019 2509s has a nasty dirty white awning. Would love a darker color.
Bedroom curtain. Some wider screws can fix that.
My 2019 2509s was built in April 2018 and I ordered it without the oven. The storage is nice. Guessing they wanted to standardize it since they had to make 2 different countertops and cabinets.
I agree, the windshield is pointless in the murphy bed models.
Slam latches for sure, I really wish my 22' 2509s had those. My locks are such a pain to lock and unlock.
Solid review again! Given I have a 1/2 ton, the wife and I are stuck between this unit or the Alliance Delta 251BH for our first camper. If it were you, would you pick one over the other for a family of 4 first camper?
Hard to directly compare them in my eyes
There’s about 5ft more rv in that delta
We have had our 2022 2509s since last September and absolutely love it so far. The new cargo door would definitely be nice since we carry 4 bikes-2 on a bike rack on the rear hitch and 2 that we have to load through the door. The optional solar/inverter upgrade would be nice too. We love the murphy bed when it's down but when up it blocks that awesome front window, significantly darkening the interior. Someone mentioned longer drawers under the dinette which is a great idea. There's about a foot of space behind those drawers that is very difficult to reach from the outside for anyone with less than a 4 foot long arm. Also, the A/C units should come standard with one of those styrofoam ducting blocks that help route the air into the ducts. We are in Texas and they help tremendously. Oh, and every once in a while you might want to make sure the plumbing under the kitchen sink is nice and snug especially when you just got done doing dishes and have a gallon and a half of water to drain.
The solar and inverter package is included, yours should have it.
Unless you're talking about the $11k Mastervolt package.
Go Rockstaff can't wait to see the 2507s.
My wife and I were not really looking for a bunk model but this might have changed our minds. We love the 2514S because of the duel doors for loading/unloading and those emergency pit stops but unfortunately it is not available. We are going to a fall RV show next weekend and hope we will be able to do a comparison of this and the sister model 2507S. Rockstaff keeps checking off the boxes for what we are looking for in our 1st camper.
I was bummed when I found out the 2514S was being retired already. Loved that one
Would love this with a full length queen bed. Think one could fit if the mattress was replaced?
There's actually someone in one of the Rockwood MiniLite Facebook groups who did that. It fits but it does show above the Murphy bed platform when it's in the upright position. We'll probably do that in ours when we get it.
Try this one m.ruclips.net/video/c7g4yT0PJRM/видео.html
I like the lighter tone and actual fabric!
Josh - store your camper slide in or out and why? Thanks for all the videos! Love them!
In. Less exposure
It generally doesn’t matter
But I prefer less surface area exposed to weather
Like like like! Excellent execution. Dig the colors and the cargo door! I wish the entertainment wasn't so much of an after thought...perhaps that means I need to go up in size a bit. Overall I very much like this unit!
Great trailer. I too don’t like the tv not having some sort of storage space behind it. Also, I prefer a shower instead of a tub. I know that’s subjective.
Cool video. I would say the Blackstone bumper griddle mount if possible on the back bumper. Take out the griddle in the outside kitchen and replace with a small sink. Just a thought.
Cool idea
That cargo door might be handy for gaining access to the kitchen and bathroom if there is nothing in there to impede you, especially for drunken Uncle Gary who is used to crawling around on all fours!!! LOL
Gary’s doggy door lol
Finally a plywood floor!
They’ve been plywood flooring since about 2015 or 2016
The one change would be to use a shower stall instead of tiny bathtub
My guess, is that FR fig's that if you're traveling with kiddos (bunk beds), they MIGHT be to young for a shower, thus, the tub/shower combo.
Y'all Be Safe!
I noticed the air conditioner vent over the top bunk. Awesome!!! I have a similar layout to this in the keystone Passport which doesn’t have the air conditioner vent over the bunk. That top bunk get very hot. Also love the access to the bathroom in travel mode. Our passport bathroom door opens the other direction and leaves no access to bathroom on travel mode.
Good eye, James! :)
We absolutely love our 2021 2509S. Even with the “upgrades”, we feel that ours is nearly perfect. We carry a 4250W inverter generator on a custom made rack in the accessory rear hitch. That new cargo door would be useless to us. We tilt the lower bunk up and carry our chairs, extra tp and paper towels, etc. To us, with all of the storage bays and quality build, this exceeds Airstream.
Wow, that’s a solid size generator. I’m guessing you could run anything you want on the rig anytime?
That’s starting wattage, Josh. I think running is 3500W. But yes, it honestly never fails us. Having said that - we wouldn’t try to run certain things like the microwave or a hair dryer. But, it’s an inverter, so clean power. 😊
Bravo on the Murphy bed set up! Our Murphy bed makes your back slightly arched because the foot of the bed isn’t supported well.
Close but still not what we want. I love the cargo door if it fits 2 -10ft kayaks. I don't need either bunk but would rather have the full outside kitchen of the Rockwood 2507S with the lift-up door in their place. I think that would fit. I agree no tub shower! We would also select the 67" theater seating so one can use the bed and the other still recline and read.
That’s what I like about this one a can totally be a functional couples rv
Hey Josh! In some of your video reviews you sometimes say that you have yet to find "the perfect RV" my wife and I agree(d) with you 110% UNTIL..... -----> This Rockwood 2509S. For us though,
IT. IS. PERFECT!👍 👍😊 in every way...
There's only ONE THING that I would add. Not to be picky here, but I would add a FORD F250!!!😝 😝 😝
something I'm currently working on!
Thank you again for ALL the effort you put into sharing all this valuable information with us! It is greatly appreciated!
🇺🇸Admiral Uncle Josh 🇺🇸
The "Bob Vila" of the RV Universe! 🌍🌏🌎🌕🌓☀️
Wow!! High praise
13:54 STILL LAUGHING!
Great video JTRVN. 😆
😁
Favorite model trailer so far! Love it. Yes, there are items I would like changed. But with the max solar, this one is closest to perfect so far.
I think they're working on making that available to more and more models. It's a slow process though as it requires rewiring each model individually
So I believe they're focusing first on their most popular models and going backwards from there
Would love to know some insight as to what items you would like changed?!
Thanks Josh. Can't wait to see 2205s and power package.
You and me both!
Been enjoying my 22' 2509s very much, glad I got mine before they added the rear door. Seems this is becoming the Industry standard now ,should be an option IMO. My little kids sleep in those bunks, door there decreases security and just becomes an area for air leaks both hot and cold. The carpet less is a nice addition and the slam latches on the outdoor kitchen door are great, that's one thing I wish mine had on all the exterior storage doors. Interesting they changed up the bathroom cabinet and vanity to a corner setup.
It’s a slam latch door which means good insulation. Won’t be a problem. As far as security, i understand.
Bunk space would be great to convert to laundry room/ closet for couples rv
EXCELLENT IDEA! 🙂❤
We took out our top bunk and put in a shelf for clothes. If Rockwood could make both bunks flip all the way over on a piano hinge, it would have endless versatility!!!
I'm becoming more and more interested in the solar revolution. I really like this camper
It's definitely happening
🤔does the S stand for in the model Super or Solar or some one is gonna be happy to on it. It’s nice looking inside and outside. The TV location gives a different thought of TV dinners. Josh stay safe & dry, hope y’all had a fantastic Labor Day weekend
Slide most likely. Those letters mean different things at different times
5 years ago, I watched my first RV Nerd video, the 2017 Rockwood 2509s. I fell in love with Rockwood the 3509s and and RV's. I live in East Texas and dreamed of takin a road trip north one day to Hayletts to buy one from you and bring it home. I could afford one back then but never could get my ducks in a row. They were about 23k back then. Now days, I finally got my cargo door and no carpet but COVID prices killed my dreams. Maybe in another 5 years, I will be able to afford a used 2023 model. Lol 🤞🤞🤞
TY so much for joining and hanging out for so long. _Five years?_ wow!
Uncle Josh………this is the same layout as our Coachmen Freedom Express 238BHS with some changes. Here`s what Iike over our 238BHS : Cabinets over the dinette, rear cargo door and folding lower bed, ladder for the top bunk, drawers under the dinette bench, larger exhaust fan in the bathroom, rear trailer receiver for bike rack, standard Goodyear tires, pop up power strip location.
Dislikes : No outside sink, standard axle spacing, smaller bathroom cabinets and missing shelf, window in bathroom, main kitchen cabinet / drawer layout, spare tire on rear bumper, sink inserts do not match counter top, harder to access bedside cabinets, camp queen size bed, slide out floor does not match main floor, control panel location
Great video review once again Uncle Josh!!!!!
Found out there is no VD player for this. Can you connect a portable DVD player to the TV? Is there a radio? Where are the speaker locations?
Yeah tv has some hdmi plugs
Now the freedom express models need a cargo door!
Yes 🙌🏻
We have a 2019 and we love it but I wish they had a pull out nozzle on the kitchen faucet, I wish they had cabinet or shelf option instead of the TV (because we took ours out because we never use it), and above all else I wish the upper bunk would fold in half for storage or be easily removable so if you are only using the bottom bunk it would be out of the way.
Ty! Love input from owners
I’d change the free standing table to a fixed one with the latch release up/down functionality as well as extend the countertop in the bathroom like Grand Design does.
Add one more solar panel and lithium set up and it’s perfect!perfection!
Both are possible!’
Josh, you can use that back door to get to bathroom while traveling easier than walking over the slide
Crawling over the counter or crawling under the bunk
Either way..
I LOVE the shower/tub DON'T change it! I also LOVE the access door for ebikes or MORE storage.
I LOVE that they upgraded the solar system so someone like me in the SOUTH can go off grid. The ONLY thing they didn't figure out is to put the FIREPLACE in this unit.😎❤❤
Fireplace could be neat but.. where would you put it?
@@JoshtheRVNerd yes I know so that means gotta either do without or go up in model.
I'd probably order the optional hide a bed sofa for the slide out. That'd take care of my problem getting around with the slide in. We eat on our sofa at home anyway. Lol
Great video
Fair enough!
I wonder what the max load is on those double bunks and also the ladder. I can’t seem to find that info in the brochure. Any chance you would know Unkie Josh? Thanks in advance and as always thanks for the outstanding work. 💯🤙
I think rockwood is something like 600lb bunk ratings but our local teams can verify. I see too many to have them all memorized
Makes sense. I’ll call in. Thanks for the response. @@JoshtheRVNerd
Personally this is the camper I want, however, for some reason I have never understood why the underseat storage in the “U dinette” doesn’t have full length drawers. Who is really reaching in from the outside door to those angles both left and right? Make the drawer’s longer and square up the space IMHO. Great updates though..love it. By the way…link seems broken for pricing…🤷🏻♂️
I use totes to run the width of the storage accessed from the outside door. I use 3 totes and it works great. The storage under the right side of my dinette actually runs the depth of the slide (not a drawer) and the drawer on the left does not, but if the drawer was as long as the depth of the slide that would be a really long drawer. Totes make everything better.
In terms of Rockwood I think they rely on the outdoor cargo door to access what the drawers don’t reach
Also consider the kind of hardware require to support heavy loaded full length extension drawers..
Love this one
Any similar floorplans with no bunkhouse. Need the big dinette for big guy sleeping.
That’s about the nicest looking Murphy bed ever, and it even has footrests! But it blocks the window during the day, like most Murphys.
Crap a ladder!!! 🤣🤣
The only thing I could come up with to change is the kitchen counter extension. I’d like to see it the same level as the main counter. I’ve seen it done on some other brands. I think it’s more useful that way.
Hey Josh
The Forrest River website says the solar panel is 200W, did they keep them at 190W?
Thanks for the video!
I mis-spoke out of old habits. It's 200w now.
I dig it! I really want this for our next camper, but it would be nice if they could just bite the bullet, and put in powered front and rear stabilizers.
Power jacks have been available on these for servers seasons
Holy Batman! Crappin’ A Ladder 💩🪜😂🤣
Rockwood is one of a few manufacturers that hasn't come up with a crazy excuse to eliminate ladders👍
Hey, Josh! Is the outside fridge on an outlet that's inverted? Love your videos, so informative! We're totally going to buy this camper and there are only 3 year 2023s in our state that we can find! Your videos have given us the opportunity to see it without seeing it. Thanks! Gotta catch 'em all here in UT, 😉
I am not sure as I'm not able to see the outlet back there. I don't believe it was but Rockwood has been getting better about that.
Can these be ordered without the oven option, cooktop, and convection microwave?
They cannot. MFG has all of that standardized into their processes. We could remove them, but they won't leave items out
Cute little mini lite😊😊👍👍👍👍👍 but what's the beef with a tiny bit of carpet? 😊😊 my tootsies need the warmth of that tiny bit of carpet.
Overall people are moving against carpet it seems
@@JoshtheRVNerd
Probably true but I do hope RV manufacturers keep the carpet option open 😊😊 just wondering why everyone was moving so hard against carpet, I wouldn't even mind
Having something. Like that marine woven material as long as it soft warm & cozy on my feet😊😊👍👍👍👍👍 you're doing a great job Josh👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍😊😊
Great review pointing out the minor (yet major) changes Rockwood made. If I were to go Murphy bed bunkhouse, it would be this floorplan style. Although, I’m one of those gargantuan humans you speak of and I’m pretty well done with the camp queens.
Yet another thing I appreciate is that you linked the Freedom Express that features a true queen and has practically the same floorplan save for some unique aspects for each camper.
Thank you!
I am actually just glad to know people do sometimes read all the stuff I put down there in the description field! Sometimes I wonder!
@@JoshtheRVNerd It’s a lot of work to put all that there! It’s a feature not many others do and it is actually really helpful. Even though I wasn’t totally sold on the Rockwood, your choices gave me the Freedom Express option that would be suitable.
That’s just good sales insight right there! And I do know you’re not doing it just for sales, you seem pretty genuine about getting us the info we need whether it benefits Bish’s or not. It’s what keeps me coming back to watch many of your videos!
If I was exclusively a park camper, this would be my choice (or maybe the 2513S), but since I live out west and prefer to get off-pavement, I'd rather go with the Ember 221MDB (or better yet, a 221MSL 😉). If Ember made the 221's with this interior (and the slide storage access doors), it would be the PERFECT unit!
The rear cargo door and expanded solar are great additions. I also like the simulated theater seats and the kitchen layout and appliances. I'm not a big fan of dinettes, but this U-dinette is probably the best option especially since there is also the other sofa seating area. However, the inability to close the slide with the bed down is a real bummer. Also, I wish Rockstaff would get rid of the small "porthole" windows on each side of the bed (on all their Mini/Micro Lite models) and use much larger viewing windows. Finally, I'm not a fan of the new grayscale exterior graphics. The former orange highlights really made the graphics pop. I'm afraid these new graphic colors are going to make these RVs look dated much quicker.
Also, both inventory links are for the Rockwood 2509S...you put the same link for the Flagstaff 25BRDS as the Rockwood.
I actually wondered how people would feel about the decals. Greyscale was exactly my word for it as well.
I liked the orange personally
Nice i like it
Another awesome video! And love the new updates! And may I say, in ‘road mode’, I would rather use the new updated cargo door to get in to use the bathroom at a travel stop!! Haha would make people do a double take! 🤪 #rvnerdherd
Tell them uncle Gary sent you
Me as well, especially for the kids
Josh, we are getting a sequoia with 7k towing, would it be safe to take this into the nc mountains if we only put 800 lbs on it? Thanks for all you do!!!
Legally safe? Yes
Comfortable? Probably not
Ok, that does it, I’m
Getting a tundra!!!
Links to your website for these don't seem to work? They get you to your website but neither brings up a link to a trailer.
Link is working. We're simply sold out currently so there's no result to show
@@JoshtheRVNerd
Ok... Makes sense.
This looks similar to my Winnie 2801bhs right down to the cargo door. But this has better stuff inside and surely is an easier tow.
What is the part number for the fridge in this model?
Apologies I don’t have part numbers for individual items in RV’s
Does anyone know if the outdoor fridge runs on 12v or is it AC only?
AC-only, BUT they are now getting better about wiring that fridge's outlet to the inverter for travel use. I am not sure if they've yet accomplished that on this specific model, though
@@JoshtheRVNerd Thanks for the info sir!
Josh i really like your videos and very informative i really like this camper the floor plan is awesome is this as good as a jayco and does it have Tankless water heater on demand hot water like the jayco
Every brand has its ups and down. I'd personally put rockwood up against about anyone
We just bought a 21 Coleman Lantern at Camping World in Lakewood Nj last year always did pop up camping but I definitely like that Rockwood Mini Lite 2205 my wife and i really like it! Thank you for replying back we love how you keep it real
This thing kills it. I love the Freedom Express 238 but this one's hard to walk away from
If I was just given a choice between the two, then I really don't know which one I'd go with
So did the azdel start with the 2023’s ??
No. I don’t remember exactly when but I know it was a year or two prior.
Can the service dept change which side the bathroom door hinge are on?
Potentially but there will always be the notch in one side of the framework where the door handle used to be
Is there a version of this floor plan without the Bunkbeds & slide?
Without bunks you get this one: bit.ly/3n6a7oU
But they don't offer one without slides currently.
Ok…this is probably a dumb question, but here goes: is it possible to order this unit without a top bunk, or possibly a half bunk up top? Sometimes things aren’t accomplished simply because they aren’t asked.
Factory won't alter their plan but we can assist with simply removing that top bunk
And you're right -- there's no harm in asking. Sometimes it sparks the right fires!
How does the Rockwood 2509S compare to the Jayco 199MBS? Which has better quality in your opinion? I do know that I like the bed layout better in the Rockwood. Other insight as to comparing the Jayco and Rockwood?
They're kind of apples and oranges. Single axle narrow body w/corner bed vs dual axle standard body w/north-south bed..
Overall though I feel Rockwood wins the debate of fit and finish. Pound for Pound I personally feel Rockwood is about the best overall brand out there currently
I have bleed Jayco blue for a while. But Rockwood is a brand that even makes other builders go "whoa..."
OPTION: You could, I guess, use the rear cargo door to access the bathroom, kitchen and bunks in transit, without placing possible pressure on the slide-in flooring. Maybe Rockwood should option a small folding step-up in/on the rear bumper to accommodate this action. Glad to hear the solar upgrade package is now available in this trailer.
Possible for people who are pretty spry
Hey Josh, where is the switch for the front cap courtesy light?
I see so many RVs I cannot recall exact switch positions. I am not sure if it's in the pass-thru or somewhere like color-matched against the diamond plate
I'm still waiting for Rockwood to come out with that floor plan similar to the Imagine 17mke or Surveyor 203rkle with the fantastic counter space. That would be fantastic in a Mini Lite. So glad they got rid of the orange. I never was a fan of that color choice. Orange with our red truck. Yikes!😄
Oh man.. I never even thought about them making that. It would be amazing
Just sent the a copy of your message lol
WOW, what is making the hitch so heavy when it is dry weight? Cant be Murphy or slide as that is in many lighter hitch rockwood s. Is it the kitchen?
It's probably the correct tongue weight. Many brands seem to skip weighing the propane tanks and a battery. That's 150 lbs right there
Josh,
What’s the best rockwood couples camper? Both trailer and 5th wheel.
"Best" is really subject to what goals you're looking to accomplish.
But these are a few of my favorites:
► Trailer: bit.ly/3oOFmGh
► Fifth Wheel: bit.ly/3RSkXMG
How big is the rear cargo door opening?
Apologies I am not provided specs for things like that. Our local folks at www.bishs.com/contact-us can hand measure out for you
One thing to change, add a foot and make the bunks longer. 2nd thing, if possible give it the 2507S outdoor kitchen.
The 2507S kitchen wouldn’t allow a full size bottom bunk. And a single bunk would block the cargo door. Camp kitchens are tricky like that
Does anyone know how much weight each bunk can support?
I'm operating from memory here but I believe it's 300lbs each
@@JoshtheRVNerd Thanks! You're the rv nerd we need but not the one we deserve.
They should move the slide back so the Murphy bed can be opened with the slide in
Not being able to use the bed with the slide closed is the dealbreaker on this one. The L counter making other travel access is annoying, but still workable. The “incliner” sofas look awesome.
As always I love your down-to-earth grounded input. TY for helping catch my little misses as well where I flub up
Any issues with towing with a half ton truck?
You always want to verify the specific truck's capacities. There are SOME half-tons that are actually very limited in capacity and not suited for this RV.
But.. most tow pkg half-tons will handle it