We respect everyone's opinion and welcome the comments. We like the Travato too because it does have some great features! Everyone is correct in stating that the Gemini can be a Class C or a Class B+. We're not trying to pull one over on anyone, as all of you know the label B+ is an RV marketing spin. ;) Thanks for watching! -Kara
It feels like you are trying to "pull one over" because you are posing as "being objective" while pointing out "your baby's" strengths and demeaning the Travato at every other turn, like standing to block out the Travato nameplate at the beginning. This is an advertisement very strongly pretending to be something else in the beginning.
I would argue that, from the point of view of the consumer looking for factual differences between options, the moniker C- would be much more accurate. That would, unfortunately, be a marketing disaster!
Good Video .. I wish you guys would have went over total cost of ownership for both. Example, What was the total miles and mpg used? What is the cost to service the gas compared to the diesel RV?
I've owned, BOTH, the Thor Gemini and the Roadtrek Zion. The Zion has some features that are nice: 2nd alternator used with an inverter to produce 110 VAC (rather than using a noisy generator)...and...remote start. BUT..I prefer the extra space, the Gemini provides. It seems, at least to me, the Ford suspension and the Turbo Diesel engine provide for a bit more power and a smoother ride.
Just a shout out that I likely the review/ad wrapped around an actual trip. Easier to visualize how it will look on the road, campsite or parking lot. I know it’s more work than a static walk around sales lot pitch, but worth it in motivating me to consider the product. Hope to see more.
Thanks Todd. It was a lot of work and some very, very long days, but we had a great time on the trip. We learned quite a bit about both vehicles as we drove through all kinds of weather and terrain. Glad you got something out of the video and thanks for taking the time to write. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. - Steve.
I have been in a Thor Gemini and they are sooo nice. I would have chose this model but have kids so it was a bit too small but otherwise it is a beautiful coach. Great tour of both RV's, thank you!
"It's not that the B Van is a bad choice, you just happen to have a better choice - the B+ from Thor Motor Coach." - those is fight'n words! All joking aside, your Gemini looks pretty good for what it is, but you shouldn't knock the B-Van for what it isn't. This pretty blue planet is big enough for the both of us, and for travelers to explore they way that suits them best.
@@lisay5450 I would advise you to check large Dealer franchises like Camping World...at the end of the year. You can search for NEW vehicles, all over the country, that are selling at BIG discounts. Those discounts are available in order to clear their lots for the winter AND make room for next year's models.
It is not a fair comparison. To compare a class B van with a B+ (which is a C- the cab over area) is like comparing apples to oranges. Two totally different vehicles. Still... the Gemini looks pretty sweet.
To me, my class B drives more like a car. The Class C and B+ RV's I've driven...you can feel the additional weight and height when you turn corners. I don't like the Ford gasoline engine on the Thor. Too loud and too under powered. I like the Mercedes Diesel a lot better. Some have said the Ford Diesel and chassis is a lot better ride also... but I've haven't driven one so I can't make a comparison.
Thanks. Video very well done. However, what is the price? One of the guys says, "...since they come in at the same price level." I have been to your website, and cannot find a price. Thanks.
The Travato is best used for 1-2 people IMO Maybe with a baby or a small pet; might be able to withstand guests for a day or 2 in the separate sleeping area. Storage is a definite challenge. The Murphy bed and rear access is excellent I would avoid sliders; don't trust their long term reliability
At least this slider isn’t required for camping, that is, you can leave it in and still manage. I like that. I would only use it in a clean environment and not like in the desert with blowing dirt and sand.
You didn’t go over much storage on the Gemini, just the one with the ice chest. And you didn’t go over electric system or really show the kitchen very well. You didn’t say if there are upgrades available. I’ll look for some other videos because the Gemini looks really good.
Steve Matthews according to the link it says "optional sleeping space" not required. The class B page says " called campervan, ... drives like family van." The Gemini drives like a U-hual.
Section 1-E. Motorhome. A “Motorhome” is a recreation vehicle unit built on a self-propelled motor vehicle chassis. The basic product types, as defined by the Board of Directors, are “Type A”, “Type B” and “Type C”. www.rvia.org/UniPop.cfm?v=2&OID=11549&CC=832
I LIKE the Promaster cockpit...window...and operation. I have a Roadtrek Zion. About the only B+ RV I know of with the Promaster front end and chassis is the Winnebago Trend.
Your comparison is invalid, because most people will have a preference for how they will use their rig and that preference will dictate whether they purchase a class B or a class C, no such animal as a B+. Just a tag the manufacturers came up with to differentiate their smaller class C built on a sprinter chasis Why did you decide to chose a gas class c (sprinter chasis) instead of a diesel powered rig. They do make both you know....
Of it's just you or a two people you can live in the b+ full time while still being able to take it to stores and in town whithout it being a hasle once you get a class c or class a you need a tow vehicle
I own the Compass 23TR great little unit, easy to drive parks just about anywhere. Its small enough that it can be used for day trips. Easy on fuel, between 14 & 16 MPG. The little Diesel Easley pulls a 6% grade. Very happy with it.
I for one really appreciate seeing this comparison ...this type of 'B+' is what I thought I might want for my needs compared to the true B van...Thanks a ton for doing a comparison ...B+ is for my needs but I totally see if one might have different needs and would go for the B van....Again thanks for the comparison....
The B market is booming because they are the most practical for 2 people or empty nesters with a grand kid . Parkway legal , maneuvering easily, decent mileage. Unlike camper vans , all the creature comforts , lets you leave pet in a climate controlled environment. Am looking at a Travato as the one to buy.
Hi Michael, you're right. B is booming. I personally like them as well, whether it's a B or a small Class C that's around 25-27 feet. Very maneuverable. ;) Thanks for watching! -Kara
I'm still deciding whether I'd go for a Class B or a small Class C or B+ although at this stage I'm leaning towards class B+ under 23ft. I used to think I'd go for a caravan and tow vehicle set-up but after experiencing the hassles of towing, I'd rather have a motorhome and then an e-bike for short distance travel. A much more convenient, healthy set-up IMO.
Regardless of whether its a B+ or a C-, a true class B is far less obtrusive when 'urban camping'. People are a lot less likely to notice if you overnite at a Wal-Mart or equivalent. Also, if you have to take a ferry the smaller class B's are under the length cutoff for a price break in most places. It really depends on how you are going to use them.
I think most class B vans (including Travato, used here for comparison) will have a hard time disguising as a normal commercial van. People easily identify them as an RV. Maybe if you start with a van with no windows and do your own custom build, then yes, you can stealth camp in an urban environment.
Check out We Are the Russos on you tube. The live full time in a camper van. The also had a husky that travels with them. Their videos would be great selling points for the B.
This is not a comparison of difference between B and B+. It is just an advertisement for a specific Thor product. Clearly there is a market for that as well, but why the misleading video title?
Helllo! Airstream is one of our sister companies under the Thor Industries umbrella. With the major difference in price point, the Atlas is going to have a few more bells and whistles. The MSRP on a 2019 Gemini on a Sprinter Chassis is $122,850. From what I am finding on line, the cost of a 2018 Atlas is about 100K more, coming in around $218,000. That is not too far off from our entry level diesel pusher, the Palazzo. Hope this helps - Steve
The I-5 is solid. It's does well with gas mileage and they are great to drive. The Transit has been around 50 years in various configurations. It's only come to the U.S. since 2013. My recommendation would be to go to your local dealer and spend some time test driving one so you can come to your own conclusions. Thanks - Steve
I think they fairly compared both vehicles. The smaller B van is great for people who want to spend one or two nights "out in the wild". But...after that...the B becomes pretty cramped. Also, if one or both of those people have any disabilities (walking and/or standing) and want to use their camper for more extended stays... the B+ is a better choice. Also...many of the B+ vans I've seen on the market are WAY cheaper than most B vans I've looked at. Strange...but TRUE!
@@ThorMotorCoach I now own a Thor Gemini TK (similar to the model layout in the video). The Ford Transit front end has a lot of power even more so than my Roadtrek Zion. And I think the ride is even a bit more smooth although BOTH vehicles are very comfortable to ride in. I like the larger amount of room in my Gemini although the Ford cockpit is a bit more cramped than what I had in the Zion. All and all...I'm VERY happy with my new purchase.
The reason B vans are more expensive is that they start with a cargo van and need to install everything within the confines of the van shell. In Class B+ (C) you start with a platform and simply put prefabricated walls with most of the stuff preinstalled even before the vehicle drives onto the factory floor. There is much more labor involved in upfitting class B van, hence higher price.
@@Netscorer Correct...but STILL one gets more room in a B+ at a lower price...AND...One can park a B+ in a supermarket packing place almost as easily as a B.
I PREFER the Ford Transit over the Mercedes. A LOT of "get up and go" at stop lights and, in my opinion, a smoother ride. Another PLUS: Cheaper to maintain with lower part costs.
*Spoiler Alert* The video is titled "What's the difference". The difference is size. The guys prefer size. This is a poorly titled video that turns into a biased and badly/borderline lazily educated review. That said, both RV's look nice and deserve better representation in their own right.
Hi Kieron, thanks for writing. Size is one of the differences we touch on yes. But we also talk about the differences the chassis, horsepower, towing, amenities, seating and sleeping options, front wheel drive vs rear wheel drive. The title is exactly what the video is, talking about and showing the differences. That's one of the great things about the RV industry there's something out there for everyone. - Steve
Hi Tony. Calling it a C is correct. We also call it a B+ and a Recreational Utility Vehicle. The Gemini and the Travato we compared it with both have a very similar MSRP. We want to give people in the market for a B van another option for essentially the same money. Thanks for writing - Steve
It all depends what your necessities are .. they are completely different vehicles I go for B vans better because parking is low and space a B van can get in more places rather the other camper also having a slide more things that break ..
I found this confusing, the boys would sit and talk back and forth and reference mine is this mine is that, but I was never sure which vehicle was the Ford vs. Ram, B vs. B+. Just an FYI
Hi LaTasha. Our Class B+ line up is not prepped for a washer and dryer. You can find all the specs and floor plans here. www.thormotorcoach.com/motorhomes/Class-B-Motorhomes/ Thanks for watching - Steve
I believe the Compass is a good value but I can’t get past all the exterior swoosh paint / graphics - Tiffin has that available on their class C but it’s a much more expensive vehicle. Less graphics would cost less and improve this B+
Hi. Our Gemini and Compass run from 23'- 6" to 26'. You can check them out here. www.thormotorcoach.com/motorhomes/recreational-utility-vehicles/ Thanks for the question. - Steve
Or, you can drive your own car, stay at a $200.00 a night motel, eat out, get better mileage with no monthly storage fee for the coach nor insurance costs and not worry about sewage, water storage, two sets of dishes, etc. Just saying. I do like the Thor however. Would love one for my fly fishing trips.
We are family of 12 and would like to travel together. We can easily in a van. We expect an RV to be able to sleep at least half or 6 of it. $100,000++ and none of them hardly do that. I wonder why they don’t spend time and energy to make an all rounder?!
Back in the day they could. My 1987 Suncrest by RR Coachworks slept 8. 2 on the back RV queen, 2 on the dinette that folded to a full bed, 2 on the jackknife sofa that was a full bed and you could put 2 kids up on the pull down bunk over the driver section, and that is a class A 30 feet. For a sleep over birthday party when I was 16 that RV slept 6 girls across the back queen bed. So if you get cozy you can fit more. My 1991 Itasca mini Spirit does 6, 2 on the overhead bunk, 2 on the dinette and 2 on the rear twin beds. There are options, both of these RV's are 30 feet so they aren't huge monsters...I'll admit the Itasca is on a van chassis and is a "easier" drive, the big ol Class A handles like a bus and you sit over the driver steer tire so you feel EVERY bump in the road. Both will tow a car, I've towed a full sized 10 ft extended bed pickup that was the extended cab behind the Class A, never noticed it, usually towed a sedan behind, have towed a minivan behind as well. Have not towed with the Itasca. There are options out there, you may just not get to buy "new". Also, less stuff to break on the "olders" but you need to be RV saavy and mechanically inclined to be driving one, even a new one can and will leave you high and dry sometimes.
Was made fun of camping with our motorhome by tent campers. What do you mean we are not roughing it, watching TV on a 12" screen, listening to music on six inch speakers, TV dinners in our microwave, and only have a 12,000 BTU air conditioner, now this is roughing it. If you buy one of these things, have to add screens all over all those vents or the mosquitoes will feast on you.
Hello. The Gemini is very easy to drive and park. It may not be as small and maneuverable as the B-Van, but you can most certainly park it in store lots and even on the street, you'll just take up two spaces. During the filming of the video we stopped for lunch and parked it in a fast food lot. Thanks for watching. - Steve
The Promaster (3500) works well for a couple and their doggie that are basically gypsies. The model we have is a bit better laid out than the one you folks are testing. The one time handling was less than acceptable was heading west through Sask with a big north wind blowing. I use a Garmin for nav. The TomTom is OK but I hate sharing the screen. We have gone over 50,000 KM.
For you to suggest these two RV's are basically the same price is baloney The class B+ is $30,000 more! Thats 30% more! That is no where near the same price!
Hi. We made the comparison to show people. for about the same money, what you can get in an R.U.V. B-vans are perfectly fine and excellent for certain situations. It boils down to what people what and how they are going to use it. Thanks for watching - Steve.
Head to our website and build your own to find the right price for you. www.thormotorcoach.com/motorhomes/class-b-motorhomes/. Thanks for watching Loretta! -KT
Looks like great fun, sitting in a folding chair in the middle of the field under the canopy of your Class B motorhome, or is that a B+? Maybe with luck you will see an ant walk by, how exciting. Saw a woman scream when a six inch grass snake crawled by, almost had a heart attack.
I'd rather have the ProMaster,21ft gets me in any parking space legally,24ft Thor your Illegally parking in a standard parking space & also front wheel drive & the turning radius on the ProMaster is completely more efficient=ProMaster hands down! Oh yeah & slide outs are the #1 prone problems for RVs as far as maintenance leaks are concerned.
There is no such thing as a class B+ coach. There are only class A, B and C. Class B+ is nothing more than salesman talk. Don't believe me? Talk to the DMV in your state and they will explain it to you.
He's (lin juan) is not alone: Thor needs to up their quality (materials, construction, workmanship, etc.) big-time. Some potential RV buyers stay away from ANY Thor product (even their nice-looking but questionable-quality small Class As) due to their poor reputation in those areas. And I haven't even mentioned their customer service/care/support AFTER the sale if the unit has problems needing fixing. People looking for a rig like this (B+ or small Class C) would probably go Pleasure-Way instead (better reputation all around). Looking forward to Thor taking these issues seriously and producing a better-built product sooner vs. later, -- BR
Hi Bill, thanks for commenting and letting us know your concerns. If you currently have a motorhome built by us, please reach out to Customer Service at 877-855-2867. We take every owner's concern seriously. I'm sorry whoever you talked to has made you feel any other way. Sincerely, Kara
Thank you, Kara, but it's not "someone" (as in ONE person) it's a number of people/owners. Really, I'm not the kind of person that would go by what only ONE person said and write-off a RV brand or dealer (that wouldn't be fair to maker/dealer), I'd look further to get a consensus of as many reviews/ratings I could find. Still, all one needs to do is research RV brands, and I've seen enough negative reviews in the past about most RV makers (including your maybe most serious competitor, the Forest River conglomerate) to turn me off. Frankly though, MOST RV makers (except Class Bs, which seem to be the better-made RV segment of them all, not perfect, but still noticeably better than most class 5th wheels, TTs and many Class As) produce "stuff" I couldn't be interested in. I'm willing to pay more money (lots more, even though I'm not "rich" by any metric!) for quality, not junk. AND a RV brand (and DEALER!) that takes no-weasel-word-warranty care of its customers -- or pass the buck between dealer and maker, with the owner like a ping-pong ball caught in the middle, while his/her RV is sitting on a dealer's lot for weeks/months getting NOTHING done/repaired on it, especially warranty work! So I really need to be seeing mostly positive owner reviews (vs. negative) about Thor -- the product itself (materials used and workmanship) AND customer care/support AFTER the sale if (actually, WHEN) there are issues -- the two critical areas people evaluate before purchasing any RV brand (regardless of what class we're talking about)...BOTH have to have high ratings, not just one. For me, they both rate 50-50 in importance, meaning 50% +50% = 100%. I don't expect a perfect rating (100%!) but at least 80% and above, preferably 90%. MOST RV makers are rated WAY too low, not even close to that so for me, no deal. It's like apartment hunting at a site like "apartmentratings" -- I want to see MOSTLY high ratings (again, 80% or better, preferably 90% or better, including rating the management/staff) by residents of those properties, but DO expect some low ones in the mix (too many low ratings I look elsewhere to live). Again, "perfect" ratings (100% recommended) are not real-life so I don't expect them in apartment hunting, customer/owner product reviews on products on Amazon, Walmart, Home Depot -- whatever -- OR RV buying! ;-) Also, I'd like to see RV makers put pressure on "questionable" dealers that don't take care of customers, too. Few RV makers will do that and the customer feels abandoned by the brand, so that HURTS brand recognition (so it's in the brand's interest to keep their dealers in line). And since (TMK) there are no Lemon Laws re: RVs (as there are for vehicles), the right choice of RV maker AND one of their dealers is even MORE important. I'm glad you said Thor takes such customer "feedback" seriously, but most RV makers don't, and it really hurts sales. Te Internet can be good or bad for companies, as potential customers can research them easily & instantly (unlike the "old days" BEFORE we had the Internet). If for no other reason (meaning, looking out for their bottom-line if they don't REALLY care about customers) companies need to mind what's being said about them online -- and FIX whatever they discover is a genuine problem. When (if) Thor gets consistently high ratings in both areas -- product quality and customer care/support -- I'll reconsider... Regards, -- BR
P.S. BTW, while I'm here, how about Thor making a 4-Season and 4x4 (or AWD) motorhome? THOSE are becoming more popular but almost all RV makers aren't meeting the challenge or demand. One Class B maker is getting real close to that presently (but NOT a Canadian B/B+ maker, as one would expect, as THEY are behind the times), but I expect more RV brands WILL be making that kind of RV -- I'm sure SALES will be brisk for them. I think a small/compact 4-Season/4x4 or AWD Class A like Thor makes would be a first in that A segment, and have zero competition sales-wise. More of us are wanting to use our RVs ALL YEAR LONG, not just 3-Season. AND, we don't want to be limited to pavement/campgrounds, either. No, I don't expect to be doing serious off-roading (like those VERY expensive 4x4 "Overlanding" vehicles), but at least mild "off-pavement" boon-docking would be nice. So please, ENOUGH of the very pretty/feature-rich RVs BUT with unheated water/holding tanks, plumbing exposed under the floor (so it can easily FREEZE), WAY too low road clearance and only 2WD RVs. And MORE SOLAR (for boon-docking), too, not the measly amount on RVs now. WAY more -- and lithium batteries, too. Word. ;-) -- BR
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
We respect everyone's opinion and welcome the comments. We like the Travato too because it does have some great features! Everyone is correct in stating that the Gemini can be a Class C or a Class B+. We're not trying to pull one over on anyone, as all of you know the label B+ is an RV marketing spin. ;) Thanks for watching! -Kara
And maybe we NEED a B+ designation to be "institutionalized" because the differences between a B...a B+...and a C are MAJOR!
It feels like you are trying to "pull one over" because you are posing as "being objective" while pointing out "your baby's" strengths and demeaning the Travato at every other turn, like standing to block out the Travato nameplate at the beginning. This is an advertisement very strongly pretending to be something else in the beginning.
I would argue that, from the point of view of the consumer looking for factual differences between options, the moniker C- would be much more accurate.
That would, unfortunately, be a marketing disaster!
Good Video .. I wish you guys would have went over total cost of ownership for both. Example, What was the total miles and mpg used? What is the cost to service the gas compared to the diesel RV?
I've owned, BOTH, the Thor Gemini and the Roadtrek Zion. The Zion has some features that are nice: 2nd alternator used with an inverter to produce 110 VAC (rather than using a noisy generator)...and...remote start. BUT..I prefer the extra space, the Gemini provides. It seems, at least to me, the Ford suspension and the Turbo Diesel engine provide for a bit more power and a smoother ride.
Just a shout out that I likely the review/ad wrapped around an actual trip. Easier to visualize how it will look on the road, campsite or parking lot. I know it’s more work than a static walk around sales lot pitch, but worth it in motivating me to consider the product. Hope to see more.
Thanks Todd. It was a lot of work and some very, very long days, but we had a great time on the trip. We learned quite a bit about both vehicles as we drove through all kinds of weather and terrain. Glad you got something out of the video and thanks for taking the time to write. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. - Steve.
I have been in a Thor Gemini and they are sooo nice. I would have chose this model but have kids so it was a bit too small but otherwise it is a beautiful coach. Great tour of both RV's, thank you!
Great video. Felt like I took a informed road trip with you all.
"It's not that the B Van is a bad choice, you just happen to have a better choice - the B+ from Thor Motor Coach." - those is fight'n words! All joking aside, your Gemini looks pretty good for what it is, but you shouldn't knock the B-Van for what it isn't. This pretty blue planet is big enough for the both of us, and for travelers to explore they way that suits them best.
Obviously a Gemini Thor Motor Coach Infomercial.
Hi Paul, technically yes. LOL. But we wanted to provide information to the consumer for both. Thanks for watching! -KT
Thor Motor Coach question is...how much is that model???
Lisa, here is a link to all the current Gemini floor plans and the MSRP. www.thormotorcoach.com/gemini/floor-plans/ Thanks for watching. - Steve
@@lisay5450 I would advise you to check large Dealer franchises like Camping World...at the end of the year. You can search for NEW vehicles, all over the country, that are selling at BIG discounts. Those discounts are available in order to clear their lots for the winter AND make room for next year's models.
@@badguy1481 i actually bought a TT for cash...not financing anything in these crazy times and just enjoying living debt free for a while 😃
It is not a fair comparison. To compare a class B van with a B+ (which is a C- the cab over area) is like comparing apples to oranges. Two totally different vehicles. Still... the Gemini looks pretty sweet.
It is a sweet ride. Thanks for watching.
Agreed, a nice ad for Thor. These 2 coaches are for 2 different types of RV use.
they were " Comparing the Differences " so people could choose what they would like the best without buying what they wouldn't be happy with
To me, my class B drives more like a car. The Class C and B+ RV's I've driven...you can feel the additional weight and height when you turn corners. I don't like the Ford gasoline engine on the Thor. Too loud and too under powered. I like the Mercedes Diesel a lot better. Some have said the Ford Diesel and chassis is a lot better ride also... but I've haven't driven one so I can't make a comparison.
great point
This is not a real comparison. It is however an add for Thor Coach to say how wonderful they are.
Thanks. Video very well done. However, what is the price? One of the guys says, "...since they come in at the same price level." I have been to your website, and cannot find a price. Thanks.
they tell while they are scanning your card :)
Not exactly a review. Different vehicles. Different chassis. No slide outs. Biased from the get go.
Fred Willard’s son was excellent.
The Travato is best used for 1-2 people IMO
Maybe with a baby or a small pet; might be able to withstand guests for a day or 2 in the separate sleeping area.
Storage is a definite challenge.
The Murphy bed and rear access is excellent
I would avoid sliders; don't trust their long term reliability
At least this slider isn’t required for camping, that is, you can leave it in and still manage. I like that. I would only use it in a clean environment and not like in the desert with blowing dirt and sand.
what model is shown on frame 2:30 ?
What mpg does each average? THank you.
You didn’t go over much storage on the Gemini, just the one with the ice chest. And you didn’t go over electric system or really show the kitchen very well. You didn’t say if there are upgrades available. I’ll look for some other videos because the Gemini looks really good.
The bed set up took like 17 seconds longer. Was that music really necessary?
Doesn't Viagra take longer than 17 seconds to "deploy"?
unfortunately there is no such classification as a B+, it is a class C. The Travato is much more nimble and is a true B van
Thanks Brian for watching. Like others have said, there are slight differences between B, B+ and C. I respect your preference. :) Happy traveling! -KT
A B+ is just a made up marketing term. B+ sounds better than C-. According to the RVIA, B+ doesn't exist.
Too funny...correcting the builder...lol. The video is correct. Per RVIA, to be a Class C is has over cab sleeping
see www.rvia.org/?esid=TypeCMHs
Steve Matthews according to the link it says "optional sleeping space" not required. The class B page says " called campervan, ... drives like family van." The Gemini drives like a U-hual.
Section 1-E. Motorhome. A “Motorhome” is a recreation vehicle unit built on a self-propelled motor vehicle
chassis. The basic product types, as defined by the Board of Directors, are “Type A”, “Type B” and “Type C”.
www.rvia.org/UniPop.cfm?v=2&OID=11549&CC=832
I LIKE the Promaster cockpit...window...and operation. I have a Roadtrek Zion. About the only B+ RV I know of with the Promaster front end and chassis is the Winnebago Trend.
Your comparison is invalid, because most people will have a preference for how they will use their rig and that preference will dictate whether they purchase a class B or a class C, no such animal as a B+. Just a tag the manufacturers came up with to differentiate their smaller class C built on a sprinter chasis Why did you decide to chose a gas class c (sprinter chasis) instead of a diesel powered rig. They do make both you know....
Of it's just you or a two people you can live in the b+ full time while still being able to take it to stores and in town whithout it being a hasle once you get a class c or class a you need a tow vehicle
I own the Compass 23TR great little unit, easy to drive parks just about anywhere. Its small enough that it can be used for day trips. Easy on fuel, between 14 & 16 MPG. The little Diesel Easley pulls a 6% grade. Very happy with it.
I for one really appreciate seeing this comparison ...this type of 'B+' is what I thought I might want for my needs compared to the true B van...Thanks a ton for doing a comparison ...B+ is for my needs but I totally see if one might have different needs and would go for the B van....Again thanks for the comparison....
Thanks for watching. We're glad you enjoyed it and found it helpful.
Nice comparison. I prefer the more purebred class b.
Thanks for watching! We hope you enjoy and respect your preference. ;) -KT
Are the B plus Gemini vans legal for all parkways like a B motor coach?
13:45 yeah baby!
But seriously, Thanks for this vid. Its informative and it made me feel like ive experienced rving already!
drag queen 6
The B market is booming because they are the most practical for 2 people or empty nesters with a grand kid . Parkway legal , maneuvering easily, decent mileage. Unlike camper vans , all the creature comforts , lets you leave pet in a climate controlled environment. Am looking at a Travato as the one to buy.
Hi Michael, you're right. B is booming. I personally like them as well, whether it's a B or a small Class C that's around 25-27 feet. Very maneuverable. ;) Thanks for watching! -Kara
I'm still deciding whether I'd go for a Class B or a small Class C or B+ although at this stage I'm leaning towards class B+ under 23ft. I used to think I'd go for a caravan and tow vehicle set-up but after experiencing the hassles of towing, I'd rather have a motorhome and then an e-bike for short distance travel. A much more convenient, healthy set-up IMO.
Regardless of whether its a B+ or a C-, a true class B is far less obtrusive when 'urban camping'. People are a lot less likely to notice if you overnite at a Wal-Mart or equivalent. Also, if you have to take a ferry the smaller class B's are under the length cutoff for a price break in most places. It really depends on how you are going to use them.
I think most class B vans (including Travato, used here for comparison) will have a hard time disguising as a normal commercial van. People easily identify them as an RV. Maybe if you start with a van with no windows and do your own custom build, then yes, you can stealth camp in an urban environment.
Nice video, I really liked the Gemini
I agree!! Get your facts straight ~ It's a class B and C NOT two Bs!! I like the Travado better.
It's a B and a B+. B+ typically don't have a bed over the cab as a C does.
Check out We Are the Russos on you tube. The live full time in a camper van. The also had a husky that travels with them. Their videos would be great selling points for the B.
This is not a comparison of difference between B and B+. It is just an advertisement for a specific Thor product. Clearly there is a market for that as well, but why the misleading video title?
I'm interested in this RV. Please what is the price?
Great video, Steve it's great to see John on video again. Yes, he's a company exec, but just seems like a everyday guy. Thanks
Would the Gemini hold up to comparison to the 2018 Airstream Atlas?
Helllo! Airstream is one of our sister companies under the Thor Industries umbrella. With the major difference in price point, the Atlas is going to have a few more bells and whistles. The MSRP on a 2019 Gemini on a Sprinter Chassis is $122,850. From what I am finding on line, the cost of a 2018 Atlas is about 100K more, coming in around $218,000. That is not too far off from our entry level diesel pusher, the Palazzo. Hope this helps - Steve
How reliable are the motors?
The I-5 is solid. It's does well with gas mileage and they are great to drive. The Transit has been around 50 years in various configurations. It's only come to the U.S. since 2013. My recommendation would be to go to your local dealer and spend some time test driving one so you can come to your own conclusions. Thanks - Steve
I think they fairly compared both vehicles. The smaller B van is great for people who want to spend one or two nights "out in the wild". But...after that...the B becomes pretty cramped. Also, if one or both of those people have any disabilities (walking and/or standing) and want to use their camper for more extended stays... the B+ is a better choice. Also...many of the B+ vans I've seen on the market are WAY cheaper than most B vans I've looked at. Strange...but TRUE!
BADGUY 1 Thanks for watching and taking the time to write the feedback. - Steve
@@ThorMotorCoach I now own a Thor Gemini TK (similar to the model layout in the video). The Ford Transit front end has a lot of power even more so than my Roadtrek Zion. And I think the ride is even a bit more smooth although BOTH vehicles are very comfortable to ride in. I like the larger amount of room in my Gemini although the Ford cockpit is a bit more cramped than what I had in the Zion. All and all...I'm VERY happy with my new purchase.
The reason B vans are more expensive is that they start with a cargo van and need to install everything within the confines of the van shell. In Class B+ (C) you start with a platform and simply put prefabricated walls with most of the stuff preinstalled even before the vehicle drives onto the factory floor. There is much more labor involved in upfitting class B van, hence higher price.
@@Netscorer Correct...but STILL one gets more room in a B+ at a lower price...AND...One can park a B+ in a supermarket packing place almost as easily as a B.
Great video! Very informative! 👍👍👍
I PREFER the Ford Transit over the Mercedes. A LOT of "get up and go" at stop lights and, in my opinion, a smoother ride. Another PLUS: Cheaper to maintain with lower part costs.
Guys, can you tow a 2 door jeep wrangler on the Transit with that 5000lbs hitch?
*Spoiler Alert*
The video is titled "What's the difference". The difference is size. The guys prefer size. This is a poorly titled video that turns into a biased and badly/borderline lazily educated review.
That said, both RV's look nice and deserve better representation in their own right.
Hi Kieron, thanks for writing. Size is one of the differences we touch on yes. But we also talk about the differences the chassis, horsepower, towing, amenities, seating and sleeping options, front wheel drive vs rear wheel drive. The title is exactly what the video is, talking about and showing the differences. That's one of the great things about the RV industry there's something out there for everyone. - Steve
The Gemini would look amazing without the swirly-swoop paint job.
I tried to search and Gemini is a class "C" not "B. It cost over $110,000.
Hi Tony. Calling it a C is correct. We also call it a B+ and a Recreational Utility Vehicle. The Gemini and the Travato we compared it with both have a very similar MSRP. We want to give people in the market for a B van another option for essentially the same money. Thanks for writing - Steve
It all depends what your necessities are .. they are completely different vehicles I go for B vans better because parking is low and space a B van can get in more places rather the other camper also having a slide more things that break ..
WHY DID YOU USE LOW, LOW CONTRAST BETWEEN THE WORDS AND THE BACKGROUND?
IF YOU WANT VIEWERS TO BE ABLE TO READ THE INFO THEN YOU MAKE IT READABLE!!
I found this confusing, the boys would sit and talk back and forth and reference mine is this mine is that, but I was never sure which vehicle was the Ford vs. Ram, B vs. B+. Just an FYI
IQ is so important
Pls, utubers, stop and think about whether the background music is really adding to the value of your content. Answered: Very seldom.
Why is not just called a Class C?
Where is the washer and dryer connection?
Hi LaTasha. Our Class B+ line up is not prepped for a washer and dryer. You can find all the specs and floor plans here. www.thormotorcoach.com/motorhomes/Class-B-Motorhomes/ Thanks for watching - Steve
You should have matched the Gemini to a Navion.
Nice video and graphics but the sound sucks. Come on Thor.
Admit it....this was one giant Transit advertisement.
I don't know which is which as far as a Ford or the other
I believe the Compass is a good value but I can’t get past all the exterior swoosh paint / graphics - Tiffin has that available on their class C but it’s a much more expensive vehicle. Less graphics would cost less and improve this B+
Tom, Thanks for the feedback. - Steve
is there 25 to 30 foot class B+
Hi. Our Gemini and Compass run from 23'- 6" to 26'. You can check them out here. www.thormotorcoach.com/motorhomes/recreational-utility-vehicles/ Thanks for the question. - Steve
Or, you can drive your own car, stay at a $200.00 a night motel, eat out, get better mileage with no monthly storage fee for the coach nor insurance costs and not worry about sewage, water storage, two sets of dishes, etc. Just saying. I do like the Thor however. Would love one for my fly fishing trips.
If you'r bringing kids and or dogs along motels are not a better choice.
We are family of 12 and would like to travel together. We can easily in a van. We expect an RV to be able to sleep at least half or 6 of it. $100,000++ and none of them hardly do that. I wonder why they don’t spend time and energy to make an all rounder?!
Back in the day they could. My 1987 Suncrest by RR Coachworks slept 8. 2 on the back RV queen, 2 on the dinette that folded to a full bed, 2 on the jackknife sofa that was a full bed and you could put 2 kids up on the pull down bunk over the driver section, and that is a class A 30 feet. For a sleep over birthday party when I was 16 that RV slept 6 girls across the back queen bed. So if you get cozy you can fit more. My 1991 Itasca mini Spirit does 6, 2 on the overhead bunk, 2 on the dinette and 2 on the rear twin beds. There are options, both of these RV's are 30 feet so they aren't huge monsters...I'll admit the Itasca is on a van chassis and is a "easier" drive, the big ol Class A handles like a bus and you sit over the driver steer tire so you feel EVERY bump in the road. Both will tow a car, I've towed a full sized 10 ft extended bed pickup that was the extended cab behind the Class A, never noticed it, usually towed a sedan behind, have towed a minivan behind as well. Have not towed with the Itasca. There are options out there, you may just not get to buy "new". Also, less stuff to break on the "olders" but you need to be RV saavy and mechanically inclined to be driving one, even a new one can and will leave you high and dry sometimes.
Was made fun of camping with our motorhome by tent campers. What do you mean we are not roughing it, watching TV on a 12" screen, listening to music on six inch speakers, TV dinners in our microwave, and only have a 12,000 BTU air conditioner, now this is roughing it.
If you buy one of these things, have to add screens all over all those vents or the mosquitoes will feast on you.
You are trying to compare a class B van with a class C truck cab motor home. Only the RV manufacturers and RV sales
Great video 👍
what about ease of parking
Hello. The Gemini is very easy to drive and park. It may not be as small and maneuverable as the B-Van, but you can most certainly park it in store lots and even on the street, you'll just take up two spaces. During the filming of the video we stopped for lunch and parked it in a fast food lot. Thanks for watching. - Steve
The Promaster (3500) works well for a couple and their doggie that are basically gypsies. The model we have is a bit better laid out than the one you folks are testing. The one time handling was less than acceptable was heading west through Sask with a big north wind blowing. I use a Garmin for nav. The TomTom is OK but I hate sharing the screen.
We have gone over 50,000 KM.
For you to suggest these two RV's are basically the same price is baloney The class B+ is $30,000 more! Thats 30% more! That is no where near the same price!
parking at work? i don't think so!
Still a class C RV. Cutaway chassis.
C. B. B+. It's all good in our book. ;) Thanks for checking us out Rick! -KT
Why are you comparing a van to an RV.? Its like comparing a class C motor couch to your Gemini.
Hi. We made the comparison to show people. for about the same money, what you can get in an R.U.V. B-vans are perfectly fine and excellent for certain situations. It boils down to what people what and how they are going to use it. Thanks for watching - Steve.
Call the RV class b+. Motor homes are classified as A B C not B+
Love it thank you this help us out
how much??
Head to our website and build your own to find the right price for you. www.thormotorcoach.com/motorhomes/class-b-motorhomes/. Thanks for watching Loretta! -KT
@ 1:32, you missed a belt loop. ruined the whole video for me.
My teenaged daughters told me that's what all the cool kids were doing these days. - Steve
The Ford is not 7 1/2 feet high, it's over 10' (with AC). You had me worried there for a minute!
Hi Steve. You're right. At :53 seconds we show the specs of the Gemini being 10'8" with the A.C. Thanks for watching. - Steve
Why the left right audio?
>> I left due to the music. Need videos that are are a bit more serious when it comes to dropping over 100k on a vehicle.
Looks like great fun, sitting in a folding chair in the middle of the field under the canopy of your Class B motorhome, or is that a B+? Maybe with luck you will see an ant walk by, how exciting. Saw a woman scream when a six inch grass snake crawled by, almost had a heart attack.
This is a nice Ford commercial.
You get cops called on your B plus as you can’t park most places.
The audio splitting on this video was painful
OK, OK I'm sold on the Gemini. Are u happy now.
I'd rather have the ProMaster,21ft gets me in any parking space legally,24ft Thor your Illegally parking in a standard parking space & also front wheel drive & the turning radius on the ProMaster is completely more efficient=ProMaster hands down! Oh yeah & slide outs are the #1 prone problems for RVs as far as maintenance leaks are concerned.
Wow this guy really ragged on the B van. It didn’t have a chance.
One guy has normal audio the other you can hardly hear him...... lol Such a pro video but you couldn't afford 2 mics? lol Facepalm...
Diesel is ALWAYS better in a camper.
Distracting music
Self (own product) advertising masquerading as a product review. Fundamental bias and dishonesty displayed right out front.
its not dishonest if its obvious...
Leisure travel serenity tradesmen
There is no such thing as a class B+ coach. There are only class A, B and C. Class B+ is nothing more than salesman talk. Don't believe me? Talk to the DMV in your state and they will explain it to you.
4:14????????? LOLOL
Not crazy about Thor motor coaches.
Sorry to hear that. Hopefully one day we can change your mind! Thanks for watching though! -KT
He's (lin juan) is not alone: Thor needs to up their quality (materials, construction, workmanship, etc.) big-time. Some potential RV buyers stay away from ANY Thor product (even their nice-looking but questionable-quality small Class As) due to their poor reputation in those areas. And I haven't even mentioned their customer service/care/support AFTER the sale if the unit has problems needing fixing. People looking for a rig like this (B+ or small Class C) would probably go Pleasure-Way instead (better reputation all around).
Looking forward to Thor taking these issues seriously and producing a better-built product sooner vs. later,
-- BR
Hi Bill, thanks for commenting and letting us know your concerns. If you currently have a motorhome built by us, please reach out to Customer Service at 877-855-2867. We take every owner's concern seriously. I'm sorry whoever you talked to has made you feel any other way. Sincerely, Kara
Thank you, Kara, but it's not "someone" (as in ONE person) it's a number of people/owners. Really, I'm not the kind of person that would go by what only ONE person said and write-off a RV brand or dealer (that wouldn't be fair to maker/dealer), I'd look further to get a consensus of as many reviews/ratings I could find. Still, all one needs to do is research RV brands, and I've seen enough negative reviews in the past about most RV makers (including your maybe most serious competitor, the Forest River conglomerate) to turn me off.
Frankly though, MOST RV makers (except Class Bs, which seem to be the better-made RV segment of them all, not perfect, but still noticeably better than most class 5th wheels, TTs and many Class As) produce "stuff" I couldn't be interested in. I'm willing to pay more money (lots more, even though I'm not "rich" by any metric!) for quality, not junk. AND a RV brand (and DEALER!) that takes no-weasel-word-warranty care of its customers -- or pass the buck between dealer and maker, with the owner like a ping-pong ball caught in the middle, while his/her RV is sitting on a dealer's lot for weeks/months getting NOTHING done/repaired on it, especially warranty work!
So I really need to be seeing mostly positive owner reviews (vs. negative) about Thor -- the product itself (materials used and workmanship) AND customer care/support AFTER the sale if (actually, WHEN) there are issues -- the two critical areas people evaluate before purchasing any RV brand (regardless of what class we're talking about)...BOTH have to have high ratings, not just one.
For me, they both rate 50-50 in importance, meaning 50% +50% = 100%. I don't expect a perfect rating (100%!) but at least 80% and above, preferably 90%. MOST RV makers are rated WAY too low, not even close to that so for me, no deal. It's like apartment hunting at a site like "apartmentratings" -- I want to see MOSTLY high ratings (again, 80% or better, preferably 90% or better, including rating the management/staff) by residents of those properties, but DO expect some low ones in the mix (too many low ratings I look elsewhere to live). Again, "perfect" ratings (100% recommended) are not real-life so I don't expect them in apartment hunting, customer/owner product reviews on products on Amazon, Walmart, Home Depot -- whatever -- OR RV buying! ;-)
Also, I'd like to see RV makers put pressure on "questionable" dealers that don't take care of customers, too. Few RV makers will do that and the customer feels abandoned by the brand, so that HURTS brand recognition (so it's in the brand's interest to keep their dealers in line). And since (TMK) there are no Lemon Laws re: RVs (as there are for vehicles), the right choice of RV maker AND one of their dealers is even MORE important.
I'm glad you said Thor takes such customer "feedback" seriously, but most RV makers don't, and it really hurts sales. Te Internet can be good or bad for companies, as potential customers can research them easily & instantly (unlike the "old days" BEFORE we had the Internet). If for no other reason (meaning, looking out for their bottom-line if they don't REALLY care about customers) companies need to mind what's being said about them online -- and FIX whatever they discover is a genuine problem.
When (if) Thor gets consistently high ratings in both areas -- product quality and customer care/support -- I'll reconsider...
Regards,
-- BR
P.S. BTW, while I'm here, how about Thor making a 4-Season and 4x4 (or AWD) motorhome? THOSE are becoming more popular but almost all RV makers aren't meeting the challenge or demand. One Class B maker is getting real close to that presently (but NOT a Canadian B/B+ maker, as one would expect, as THEY are behind the times), but I expect more RV brands WILL be making that kind of RV -- I'm sure SALES will be brisk for them. I think a small/compact 4-Season/4x4 or AWD Class A like Thor makes would be a first in that A segment, and have zero competition sales-wise.
More of us are wanting to use our RVs ALL YEAR LONG, not just 3-Season. AND, we don't want to be limited to pavement/campgrounds, either. No, I don't expect to be doing serious off-roading (like those VERY expensive 4x4 "Overlanding" vehicles), but at least mild "off-pavement" boon-docking would be nice. So please, ENOUGH of the very pretty/feature-rich RVs BUT with unheated water/holding tanks, plumbing exposed under the floor (so it can easily FREEZE), WAY too low road clearance and only 2WD RVs. And MORE SOLAR (for boon-docking), too, not the measly amount on RVs now. WAY more -- and lithium batteries, too.
Word. ;-)
-- BR
B
B+....for +$100k
“28 gallons of black water” as if logging that much poo around with you is a good thing. Yuck.
Try boondocking for a week in a Travato with it's small black tank and then let us know if you still prefer not having an option of 28 gallon black.
Pretty much. Junkie really.