New 21rbs

[BFoust]

Considering a new 21RBS. I know theses units have changed over the years. Really like the Lance, but I can save at least $8k by getting Camp Lite..thoughts?

[DavidM]

I believe that most of the changes that Thor has made to LLs are more irritating than substantial. I can't compare a LL to the Lance. Here are some of the changes and my thoughts:

New rubber roof, vs old aluminum- Well, aluminum is solid and tree branches won't gouge or rip it like rubber. But it does need to be recaulked periodically unlike the rubber. So aside from the weight growth of rubber, I think it is a wash.

Composite floor vs aluminum- Even though some complain about the springiness of the new floor, I think this is a total plus. No chance of water leaking through the old aluminum planks and the insulation is much, much better.

New wood face cabinets vs old Azdel- Except for being heavier I think that this is purely aesthetics. Wood faced cabinets will not rot unless the inside is kept at 100% humidity for a long, long time.

General build quality- Yes I think that the new Thor factory is sloppier than the old LL factory. Most issues can be fixed at the dealer before acceptance. Check the frame welds carefully as there was a rash of bad welds in the recent past.

So, all in all, I think the LL is still a good product.

David

[Merlin]

To amplify one of DavidM's points; make sure you research dealers and buy at a good one. A good dealer who carefully goes through the camper both before you come and then when you pick it up is invaluable and worth a long drive. There are big differences in dealers and good ones are worth extra cost and drive time. What part of the country are you in?

[Capt J-rod]

I agree with what has been said. Any trailer needs care and maintenance. Rubber roofs are not maintenance free. They too get re caulked. The big difference is what lies beneath. There is still no wood waiting to rot. The floor doesn't seem to be a huge deal breaker. Fears of de-lamination are kinda gone now that the process has been figured out. I guess the thing that has to be done is compare it to the alternatives.... I still think a camp lite is the best bang for your buck. If you plan on keeping it then I think it is still the way to go. Need proof? Go look in my barn. You'll see a 21 camp lite ready to roll. As others said, make sure you get the right dealer.

[BFoust]

I live near Charlotte NC.  Thanks for your responses. What do you guys think about the new suspension? No more torsion axles

[MitchB]

I was at a dealer last weekend and asked him the very same question regarding the axles, his response was that the torsion axles were probably a bit smoother as far as ride goes but other than that he didn't see it is a particularly good or bad change.

[Capt J-rod]

I was unaware of an axle change. I assume that they are still using dexter axles of some sort. I have trailers on leaf springs and trailers with torsion. I don't see a noticeable difference. Maybe some squeaks or clunks, but nothing to fear. I think its been mentioned, but make sure you get a good dealer in the purchase process. Every manufacturer has issues, it's how well you get service and who does the repairs that ultimately matters. I personally went the used route, but I have no fears in repairs or maintenance on my RV. If you are mechanically inclined, a used rig is a great opportunity in the camp lite world. They are scarce, but they do show up here and there.

[MrSmith]

 I have a 2017 21 RBS with the fiberglass and styrofoam floor which I already have screws pulling out of, and the TPO roof that you can't even walk on to do maintenance. Very narrow aluminum cabinet doors in the kitchen in the bathroom can't even fit a pot in without having to turn it sideways without the lid to get it in the cabinet . In late spring of 2018 I'm trading it in on a Lance 1985 which I almost bought and disappointed that I did not get it.  The Lance is 1 foot wide or 8 feet wide the slide is 3 feet wide has a lot more room, the bathroom has more room. If you get the convertible couch to a queen size bed. Come to think of it now the extra $8000 for the Lance is well worth the money to get the winter package electric jacks walk on roof three propane tanks etc. etc. .  Mr Smith
PS Oh and who heard of a 21 footer with only 26 gallon water tank.