Forest River R-Pod Honest Owner Review
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 21 янв 2019
- SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEW CHANNEL FOR TRAILER REVIEWS
/ @bigrockoutdoors1
RPod Buyers Guide:
• Forest River RPod Trav...
Note: The RPod has undergone major changes since I did this review. This is a 2017 model in the review and a lot of my complaints have been addressed since then. Subscribe for future Rpod videos including an overview of the 2020 and 2021 models and floorplans.
The ups and downs of R-Pod ownership over 2 years and many camping trips. Honest unbiased owner feedback.
UPDATE: I HAVE POSTED MY LANCE REVIEW HERE: • Lance Travel Trailers ...
---------------------------------
--Welcome to Big Rock Moto, a division of Big Rock Media.
Motorcycle content that is detailed, intelligent, and born out of my 20+ years of experience with over 30 different motorcycles. Detailed bike reviews, riding tutorials, and more.
--Please subscribe and HIT THE BELL.
--Please give videos a thumbs up.
--Please leave a comment. What kind of content do you want next?
--Support me on Patreon: / bigrockmedia
[Outdoors/Jeeps/RV Content is here: / @bigrockoutdoors1 ]
--Contact: info@bigrockmedia.net
--Facebook: / bigrockmedia1
--Twitter: / bigrockmedia1
--Instagram: / bigrockmoto
SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEW CHANNEL FOR NEW RV AND TRUCK VIDEOS ruclips.net/channel/UCLqsNZOMYcpAxLGy4DHAKrw
To each their own, we love our RPod 178! Tows like a dream behind our 2016 4Runner. We placed 3 inches of foam over the stock mattress and no discomfort on our old bones. Sure, these are not made for long term living, but it works for us up to a week out camping.
Tim, I have a 2015 4Runner and looking at getting one of these. Is the towing really a dream? Have you taken it through mountain passes? Thanks.
@@richardmiller1556 We towed our 178 on a 3,000 mile trip through British Columbia all the way up to Golden BC. The BC mountain inclines require a downshift going both ways, up and down. The ride inside the 4Runner is certainly more comfortable than riding inside a full size pickup!
Richard Miller towed our 178 for the last time through the Canadian Rockies in 2019. 3,000 miles and no problems encountered. Traded the 178 for a 191 so I could stretch my legs while sleeping on a longer bed. Our 4Runner tows the 191 with hardly any difficulty over the Oregon Cascades earlier this summer.
Exactly! We replaced mattress with a trailer made memory foam mattress, took out entire shower and made it cedar. Built in some dressers, carpeted. It’s all what you make it. Pulled out 2017 over 17,000 miles now, same stock tires! Just added solar panel “suitcase” for time in Arizona and it’s perfect!
This fellow has very strong communicative skills and does an excellent job here describing the R-Pod.
Thank you for your honest review. Regardless of how much it cost, it’s good for people to be informed. People can make better decisions based on honest reviews. I’ve always loved these trailers, but had never thought of all the things you pointed out. Thanks again.
I have never owned a travel trailer. I appreciate your in depth review. Thank you for not candy coating it.
You gave a very fair review and have noted many of the same issues that I have experienced with my 2016 Rpod 178. I thought about changing the tires to Goodyear endurance but my procrastination led to a tire failure last weekend on I5. I now have replaced both tires and consider myself fortunate that nothing really bad happened when changing the tire in rush hour traffic. BTW, when looking at the stock tires more closely they were manufactured two years before the trailer was manufactured.
Storage is really an issue with the 178 and anyone that has one will find ingenious ways to utilize every possible nook and still wish they had more. There is access under the dinette seats which we sealed off from the outside and use for dry food storage as well as pots and pans. We also have the Rdome which greatly increases the living space and we often cook in it as well.
Your comments regarding a single axel trailer are spot on plus I would add that there is some added security with two axels should one of your tires fail.
Lastly, I tow my Rpod with a 2016 Toyota Tacoma. Living in the Northwest we’ve got a lot of grades to climb and I find the Tacoma pushes hard to maintain close to the speed limit. I often pull over and let others go by as I myself hate to be stuck behind someone towing way under the speed limit. The Tacoma does great when on the flat or slight hills but expect high rpms and dropping down to a lower gear or two on significant grades.
I have the exact same model and tow with a half ton as well, I find it tows just fine and I live in the Canadian Rockies. I'll agree that the placement of the fresh water tank is a let down but it's a problem with only the 178 model. Other than that it's been an excellent trailer for us. A place to warm up when the weather is chilly and a safe place for Mommy and babies to sleep and use the potty in the middle of the night. We're still camping and spend 75% of the time outside, cooking included. Wire up two 6 volt batteries and you can spend a week off grid in this camper no problem.
Bradley J Boudens what’s the problem with the water tank?
This is one of the best and most informative videos I have seen. Thank you.
This is a very informative review, especially since I have been looking seriously at an R-pod. You have several good points on safety and design flaws. Thank you for your honesty! Best wishes on your new Lance!
"unless you have no standards of comfort" We are looking to upgrade our trailer and appreciate this look at the r-pod :) Thank you!
Caroline Parker that line made me chuckle.
very helpful !!!! thanks for taking the time. looking forward to seeing your Lance review !!!
In fairness, some of the issues with head space, the wet bath, and lack of storage space have all been greatly improved in more recent floorplans.
Excellent review. I am looking to buy a used r pod 171 this weekend and you have provided me with a lot of good info. Might just rethink my decision. Thanks
I liked the video. I always wondered what the R-Pod was like. You covered it very well. My wife and I have a 2006 class A diesel pusher. We carry 100 gallons of fresh water when are traveling and staying at Walmarts. Fortunately we have never had a away problem. I think I would have a heart attack if we did. I can't wait to see your new trailer. Be safe and happy camping.
Thanks! You gave me some great pros and cons on this model that really helped.
I appreciate the honest review. What one finds an issue, might not be a big deal for others, but it's a good reminder to take each point into consideration just in case you forget to think about it.
I immediately subscribed the minute you said Lance. I'm hoping you bought your Lance by now, and can't wait to hear your review. You were so honest about your Rpod, giving both pros and cons. We are also looking at Lance models, and would love to hear your list of pros and cons. Thank you!
ruclips.net/video/fD-1u-28Ryk/видео.html
Looked at these a few years ago. All your observations are mine also. I have a 2007 FR Salem, 20 ft box, 4000 lbs, full bath, big fridge, two axels, and tons of storage. Good quality. Wouldn't want anything smaller.
This is an accurate review and helpful, although I suspect the reviewer may have liked the 179 (rear kitchen model) a bit better than the 178 for his needs. (Just my humble opinion! 😊)
We have a 179 which has LOTS of interior storage and the rear kitchen has more counter space....in a great location, as you are out of the flow of traffic while preparing meals, plus really quick access to the outside. (And it is wonderful when the weather is not cooperating!) The 179 has the largest slide out of all the models (houses the dinette / refrigerator / microwave), which makes it one of the heavier RPods at about 2900 lbs dry weight. Spacewise, a very easy modification can be made for added floor space by removing the ottoman nearest the bed, and using wooden TV trays in place of the bulky table that easily store under the bed. Fresh water tank is located in front of the axel. For a cheaper trailer, we have really liked ours. A few small bugs to work out, like most trailers these days, but overall, we have had a great experience with it. (Would love a Lance, but a bit out of our price comfort zone 😊.) We did replace the cheapo China tires right away with Carlisle tires (similar to Goodyear Endurance tires, but less costly), and immediately replaced the matress with a Zinus 10 inch short queen which fits perfectly and is oh so comfortable...reasonably priced also. As this reviewer said, don't let this review scare you from considering an RPod...it is an accurate review. I am just saying, take into consideration which model suits your needs best before you take the plunge. The RPod forum on Facebook is super helpful with really great people at the ready to answer any newbie questions!
I’ve been looking for the perfect model, 179 is definitely what I’m getting. Bought it, just waiting for it 🎉 also like the kitchen in the back right by the door. Bed on other side is perfect ❤
I feel your review was basically accurate, but comparing it to the Lance 1685 is like comparing apples and tunafish. We have a 2016 R-pod 177 and really like it and it tows fine with a 2017 Kia Sorento V-6. We even feel comfortable on the Chinese mattress (I guess we have no standards of comfort) The R-pod has a dry weight just under 2500 pounds. The Lance has a dry weight just under 4000 pounds. That adds a lot to your fuel use and requires a vehicle with a much higher towing capacity. The R-pod costs about $17000 the Lance cost about $49000 and the 4 season model is more. So if you are OK with towing a lot more and spending a lot more, of course you will get a lot more. The sky is the limit.
apples have a skin and so does tuna fish.. there i compared apples to tuna fisg
Thanks james ...what would be a con for you ?
We made the move from pop-up (Santa Fe model) to a TT to get a bathroom and less "set-up" as we age. We have the Heartland Prowler 26BH. LOVE IT! We are towing with a Ram 1500 and the TT is dry 4,900 lbs. - light enough (any think a Hemi 5.7 will pull more, I caution against it. I've done the CAT scales and we are just right... tow weight - a whole 'nuther topic...).
Things we love - why we moved up:
- 2 axles. a must. Had a blow out with the pup. Not fun and damaged wheel well. ALSO had a burnt-out wheel/brake tat required an entire axle replacement.
- walk around queen bed - nice that it isn't against a wall (other than the headboard) for making the bed or not having to climb over each other.
- tons of interior storage (under sink in bathroom, pantry beside fridge, over fridge, under bench table seats, above/beside couch, under queen.
- decent outside storage (front under bed pass thru) door side under bunk storage
- power awning with LED lights and under unit lights
- full bath (non-wet)
- nice fridge! (the thing MAKES ICE - this has been the biggest step up for me. No ice runs. We can fill the chest with ice we make)
- NO slideouts (YES, I consider this a thingI love. Less to break - no worries of the seal, etc.)
Cons/concerns:
- the tires (are they the notorious "china bombs"?),
- no outside kitchen (wanted this, but those models were too heavy - so, a table and propane 1# tanks with a camp stove it is)
- top bunk access, (a pain to get to - but that's for young kids with the energy to climb)
- "cheap" interior (not a surprise - EVERY camper has this. They are built to be lightweight. We take measures for some things. The seats we covered with 'chair covers', I check the panels and pipe hookups often, etc.)
- simple design (not so much a con, understandable - BUT changing out the water-heater - that's gonna be hard, any need to deal with plumbing on the bath drain or spigot - space is TIGHT)
- 1 AC not ducted (again, simple design and keeping it lightweight)
- covered bottom (YES, this is a PRO. But like my NO slideouts is something I love. This insulation is good, but leaves me concerned with my ability to easily inspect connections and frame condition - like how well the tanks are in, etc.)
@11:00 you mention the water and sway - I wonder if anyone has designed a tank with baffles to keep it from causing sway issues with water weight? Now I want to check where my water tank is relative to the axle. But we do parks with hookups and have yet to tote any water with us... I would be concerned towing with water - the sway, but also tanks falling out...
Thank you for the honest review . Perfect .
Excellent point about the position of the fresh water tank. Makes you wonder....Another example of "you get what you pay for".
Thank you for an honest review. I am going this weekend to check one of these out.
This was so helpful! Thank you for taking the time to do this.
Excellent review for the person towing it. Internal storage is a show stopper, similar to most A-frames. The absence of a detailed sales pitch as other (read dealer) videos is refreshing.
All of the negatives he pointed out are why I have my 178...
We love our 171, no complaints. All depends on the people and their personal experiences. Do your research people, dont just listen to one :)
Do you find it has enough storage? I don't see any places for pots/pans, food, silverware or even clothing.
Minimal storage. It’s a minimal camper, not a house. I love ours!
The R-Pods are not made to live in or for weeks long camping (or for large families). We bought a 2017 177 because 1. it didn't break the bank 2. we didn't want to get a bigger truck 3. there are only 2 of us (well 2 humans and 2 65lb dogs) and 4. we are not retired, so our trips consist of a few days. Yes, there is virtually no storage, look on R-Pod forums or Pinterest, there are literally 1000's of different ideas for making your own storage and getting creative. If you have to make gourmet meals or take 20 different outfits, then, no, the R-Pod is not for you, we have no problem taking (and storing) everything we need for a week long camping trip. Yes, it does have a sway issue, get a weight distribution hitch (we got the Blue Ox, $600) . Yes, duh, it is small, if you don't want a small trailer why would you buy a small trailer? We also got the R-Dome ($800), that almost doubles the space. It basically adds a whole other room, it attaches to the trailer like an awning, but has sides that you can close up like a tent or leave open like a gazebo. When the kids and grandkids go with us, they sleep in it at night and then during the day we have a shaded 'family area' (or a roof for inclement weather). Bottom line, R-Pods are not 'luxury' trailers, which means they don't have 'luxury' price tags. They are for people who just like to get away for a few days but want more than a tent and outhouse.
KYM DARLING
Good comment, Rpod is good for a single person like myself, I don’t need a lot of space and it’s all about price.
Thanks we’ve looked at them and never noticed the storage problem thanks for pointing it out
I love your articulate, thoughtful and even handed review.
Yes, I was attracted to Lance when I inspected one that was a little smaller. You pointed up many issues I was wondering about, such as the single axles, the sloping rear and the a.c. sound level. These low-priced units appeal to our pocketbooks but they aren't worth the sacrifices. A sway-prone trailer would be a nightmare.
We just traded our 171 in for a NO BO. Our pod didn't have the pop out which I would recommend for those looking. Its small and the extra 5 sf doesn't sound like much but it is. The trade off after watching this video is storage. We had a lot more than the pop out model did.
My pros and cons
Pros:
Great price point and a good value! I had to fix a few things (crooked cab door, loose trim, etc.) I would definitely recommend trading out the mattress and removing the bath sink.
Being small, it's easy to pull (can pass slow traffic easily with a Tacoma), easy to store and you can get it into really tight places (we got it into several tent only sites). My water tank was up front (2016 model) and sway wasn't too bad though I did have to slow down in high wind.
It's really cozy for a small trailer. We had to hang out in it several times due to rain and didn't mind it.
One bonus to no pop out is we had way more storage space. I also pulled the oven out for more storage space since 90% of our camping was dry camping or off grid back roads.
The structure was well built. Ours had the lift and I was able to get it down some pretty crazy roads with no damage. I even jumped it once hitting a deep dip when pulling off for traffic. It bounced a good foot and a half off the ground and I expected broken shelves or other damage but nothing.
Cons:
It is small which can be a challenge. With no pop out, there is no walking by someone at the stove. 2 people is fine, 3 is not really practical but doable.
With 2 in the bed, one has to climb over the other for bathroom or if they're an early riser.
The bathroom is small. I'm under 6' and occasionally hit my head on the wall sitting down. We never really showered in it. I mostly used the outside shower or the campground shower when we stayed at them.
All in all, we loved it. Great little camper. I would highly recommend for someone looking for a small rugged little trailer for back country camping. If I did it over I would have opted for less extras like the AC, oven and TV that we never used. We seriously considered keeping it for our son and likely would have if we had space to store it available.
Great and fair review!
To each their own. I’ve owned my 178 for 6 years and I take it out several times per year. Many times, for several weeks straight. I just finished a 32 day trip. I love it! The size, the look and the weight are the very reasons I bought it. That being said, I usually camp alone. Perhaps a ‘family’ would want a larger size. In terms of storage, the ever-popular Lowes closet shelfs above the bed (& and in my case the dinette as well) make a HUGE difference!
Patti P - I did the Lowes shelf as well over the bed of our 178. How did you attach it to the walls above the dinette?
David DeVos I actually used a brackets, screwed into the wall. Many use suctions cups.
Thanks completely opened my eyes - storage is a Hugh problem.
Good review brief simple to the point waiting to here about the lance
We looked at these too and also hated how the shape took away from space. We ended up with a Scamp 16. Good review!
Awesome review, I believe that's about the best review I've ever heard,. I didn't take it as being negative or biased just honest.👍👍👍
I have to agree. I don't think of it as negative either... it's a very Realistic review of real world design and situations.
R-pod or not, you have presented a lot of things to consider when purchasing a trailer, which I and my wife are thinking about. By the way, I had that experience of a ‘wandering trailer’ once before when we rented a tent trailer unit. It was disconcerting to say the least.
This guy. Everything is 'too small', 'too small', however it's a good review. He should just get a 30' Airstream.
The fix for the wet bath issue you mention is a drain-thru mat in the shower pan. Kind of like the old safety mats, but with the focus on drainage & use of hydrophobic material so it just can't stay wet...
Thanks for a very honest review I loved it.
Great review. Love the honesty.
Thanks for the review, I was thinking of getting one but not now.
Thank You for a good realistic interview of this teardrop style TT. I feel that the quality in the NuCamp T@B's far exceeds that of this Forest River product, especially as to aesthetics and overall construction . Hope you enjoy the Lance. I feel they are much better made also.
Back in the ‘50s my dad had a Shasta he towed begins a 55 Ford wagon. We lived in Roswell, NM then and there were three kids. It was busy but we were happy. Better interior room, without the skide
It’s a $17,000 trailer what do you expect? In my opinion that’s pretty nice for that price
Hahha my thoughts exactly! 3 minutes in I'm like BRO - Buy a bigger trailer in the first place.
Thanks for your honest opinions on this unit. Storage would be a big issue for me with this unit, I can’t stand the sight of clutter.
Best R-Pod review yet.
Overall a decent review and probably timeless review of the R-pod. I own the same unit since 2015. Like him, I bought my unit when I owned a less capable vehicle (Toyota 4 Runner 6 cyl.) and was at the max what that vehicle could handle. So at that point the short comings of the RPod was totally acceptable since the alternative was a pop up (or something similar) with a cassette bath. Now that I have upgraded my towing vehicle it is only natural to consider something better. Good point why they located fresh water behind the axle but as others have said - obvious solution is to travel empty unless you are dry camping. I have been in some pretty severe wind here in Texas and noticed just a little sway. I don't have anti-sway bars. Never frightening and not convinced dual axles would make that much difference. If swaying became a problem I would get anti sway bars and hopefully this would do the trick. Lack of storage and wet bath are the biggest draw backs. We have added some netting storage above the bed. Basement storage is not bad. I agree the tear drop shape is dumb considering how much storage is lost. Other R-pod models have corrected this. The narrow box is more aerodynamic when towing with a mid-size vehicle. Never bothered us since we are short people and don't require a +6 foot bed and for taller people, I am sure the R-pod is a problem (also with the height). Adding a quality foam pad to the mattress improved comfort. I have owned other RVs and build quality is comparably better with aluminum/steel framing and composite sides. Material/aesthetics are also a cut above. I really like the layout of this model. While somewhat expensive for its size, I believe it is a very good value and if replacing it probably buy a larger r-pod.
All your points are excellent. My opinion on the R-Pod is more positive, looking back on it. And the newer models are a lot better. And when I think about how much more our Lance cost, I am not sure it was worth the difference. But you can't take the money with you when you die, so I guess it's OK. I do maintain that a dual axle is much better for stability though. I would have a hard time going back.
Great points - all worth considering!
Well spoken, very informative. Thanks.
interesting video. very informative, thanks. never thought about removing the bathroom sink in an rpod. good hack.
Pretty comprehensive. Thanks for the insight. Inside storage would be the major problem for me.
Excellent critical review of the R-Pod. ‘Guess you get what you pay for...I’m looking at the Oliver travel trailer and Lance-tough to choose between the two.
Really good review. Very informative. Thank you!
Excellent review. What's azdel? Never heard of it is insulation? But other than that question that's probably the most honest concise review I've ever heard. Good job man
New subscriber here . I just found your you tube channel and going to check out your other videos. I am looking to buy my first trailer for me and my wife . Good information on this R pod. I always think dual axle is much better in any type of trailer personally. Better control and if you have a blow out its abit safer too. I am doing as much research as I can on travel trailers before I buy.
I would like to see a review of your new lance trailer if possible. Your review was good, fair and honest. Thank you.
Here you go! ruclips.net/video/fD-1u-28Ryk/видео.html
HONEST (PAINFUL??) review; Fotest River are you listening? This is/was an exvrlent review!! 🙃😃👣
The wheels outside the box is a good design for stability.
Meh. Proper design is going to keep the majority of the wt. down low anyway; keeping the trailer narrow by not overhanging the tires loses too much space. LOTS cheaper to build it that way, but that's not reflected in the price, so skip it...
And by doing that it gives you more space inside..
Otherwise you’re have the huge wheels inside to build around
Small suggestion for those with a wet bath like these: get or make a duck board.
Very informative im crossing this model off my list to buy
If you are towing with an suv or a smaller truck hitch weight is a big issue. Hence the rear water tank. On a single axle set up leverage keeps the weight off the hitch. Also, when you get sway a touch of the trailer brakes will usually cure it. Plus, your f150 should have an anti sway system installed if you have a trailer package.
Great review. I was thinking on getting one but now I have a second thoughts. What unit did you buy?
Pretty comprehensive outline of issues of this model. I guess you need to know what you are buying which is hard to do!
Great overview true video. Thanks for posting.
Not a criticism, but more of a warning to others: Anyone who has towing experience in RVs KNOWS not to tow with a full tank. Not only does it throw off the balance, it also stresses the tank and fittings beyond the design specs. Should have gotten a 179 - lots of space, tows great, mattress OK. Enjoy your Lance, they are great trailers.
This is normal and it happens to a lot of RV owners. You learn what you like, don’t like and what’s important to you. You learned from it and now you’ll get what you want. The Lance’s are nice, yet you’ll still have some things you won’t like. It’s normal.
Were thinking about maybe looking at the new Rpod 195 coming out....but feel like you do, would rather have a Lance or an Outdoors RV!
We have the Rpod 189 & love it of course it has a dry bath
Thanks for the great info. We’re considering buying a camper for retirement. I’m 6-5, and thanks to your helpful video, I don’t think the r- pod is an option for us. Excellent review!
Refreshing and practical review. Thanks
Really good, honest review! I have an RP180 of the same vintage and I have to say it has a way better layout. Bathroom in back, wardrobe, fresh water tank in front. Still, it is a total POS as far as quality... pretty much everything has broken and needs constant attention. And if you are over 6' tall, you should look for another trailer. Thanks for such a thoughtful review.
I live in a r pod and you got to learn how to use it right like totes for storage in your truck or suv for me and my girl its just fine and enjoyable easy towing it with jeep cherokee there is no such thing as the perfect rv
How long have you been doing that and did you buy new?
For a first time buyer with a v-6 truck who was attracted to the aesthetics of the R-Pods, this was a VERY helpful review and a reality check on some of the features. Not an engineer and haven't analyzed the dynamics but your assessment seems reasonable: the wheels outside the box has the disadvantages of the wider base and none of the advantages, and given where the center of mass is I'm not sure how much the 1-ft clearance on each side adds to stability. Also point taken about the positioning of the fresh water tank. What made most of an impression is the cheap interior... I gotta say ICK. I would rather a more minimalist interior with higher quality materials. Not sure I could spend long time trips in this. Also you do not have to be OCD to dislike having stuff everywhere... you can be disorganized, like me. If you are a natural organizer you can probably find your own system. If you are like me, it will be chaos and you will spend 45 min looking for things every morning. All in all, thanks for the honest review. And to all of those who posted negative comments... I don't get it... this was a fair but honest review. Make your own video if you think this one is biased or lacking.
Thanks! And the newer rpods have improved some btw.
Great review!
"The mattress is terrible, and it's really not usable for most people, unless you have no standards of comfort." 🤣 lolol That made me laugh. My standards of comfort are relatively low, but all the other things would completely annoy me too!
Great honest review! I appreciate the many details you pointed out, thanks. 👍
Good review. Many RVers say sliders are problematic.
Thanks for a very informative video
Awesome and honest review! Thank you sir!👍
To say it simply that it's a piece of shit for 17K plus 3K in CA tax.
Thanks for you're honest review.
Good! A non-'sales' review....thanks
I absolutely love my 2015 178 HRE! I've pulled it almost 50,000 miles with 0 problems. Not sure why this relatively poor review but think he just needs a different camper.
I learn a lot. Thanks
Thanks for keeping it real, great information.
Thanks! I Wife and I are looking at R-Pods (used) and appreciate your advice!
Were you using a weight distribution hitch? Video of your new camper?
Very fair review. Both good and bad pointed out.
Good review, thanks for that. I inspected a 2017 R Pod 171 for my buddy, and it seems to be in good condition. It has no slide out , so it seems incredibly cramped to me, but he likes the fact that it is low weight (2500 lbs dry) , so his 2021 Tacoma can tow it with no difficulty. Did you have any leaks through the rear spoiler? ( I have heard that is one thing R Pods are notorious for).
"...unless you have no standards for comfort..."😂😂😂🤣🤣
Great review. You pointed out many issues very clearly and easy to understand. Good luck and safe travels with Lance!
Great review
I have an suv and am looking into the R Pods. You said you did not like the mattress. Is that something that can be replaced with a better one? Couldn't you fill the fresh water after you get to the campground to help with the problem of the weight on the back provided you are not boondocking?
Thanks for the review.
I also prefer dual axle on a 20' trailer. However, I don't think you need anti-sway/weight distribution if you are towing with at least a haft-ton truck, exception is if you overload the read-end in extreme case like the water tank or towing with a small truck/SUV.
I do agree that dual axle provides more stability on the highway, and if one tire is down, you can limp to the next exit to change it.
I agree that single axle tends to be very sensitive to turning in backing up.
I got a Forest River product as my starter 22.5' dual axle trailer (Salem Cruise Lite). Inexpensive but it was also glued and stapled together. Very poor quality. I would not buy that level of trailer again.
My 2015 model 179 has an exterior side panel separating from the wall at the front corner. The dealer says Forest River won't cover it as I bought it one year old and it is used. This is a manufacturing defect. Any advice?
Never have I used a weight distribution hitch for sway control. I've used it to distribute weight. I use a sway bar and never have had any problems with single axle trailers.
Great and very fair review. Thanks!
Were you using stabilizer bars on your hitch when you were towing? I was just wondering if that would make any difference with the control of the sway issue with this model?
I own the 17 ft Jayco Hummingbird. The Rpod and mine are pretty much the same. The 2 bars with chains on them that go on the hitch are "load levelers" and used for making the trailer and tow vehicle level when hitched together. What is needed to "stablize" the trailer against sway is an "anti-sway bar". While these do work to a certain extent, they aren't that helpful when in any high wind situations.
Now I know to ask where the fresh water tank is located. Thank you.