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Topic: Tampa RV Super Show Jan 2026 (Read 4152 times) previous topic - next topic

Re: Tampa RV Super Show Jan 2026

Reply #20 –
Quote from: Rd –
Just looking at the pics, that cabinetry seems to resemble what newmar did to their cabinetry starting in 2025.  I think somewhere I heard you can still order the amish cabinetry as an option for a fee.  Though, even the Newmar's original Amish made cabinetry were showing signs of short cuts somewhere in late 20teens compared to their older models which were very well build cabinetries


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Likewise, I've a trailer in tow at all times, though, the 45 is nice, the shorter 38-40 seems to be much more practical.  specially given all the slides, the interior room is more than enough.    The 2014 Phenix 38 w/tag I was looking at last summer, seems to be a great length.  would be nice if FT would revisit the shorter models.  you are correct, newmar is making a killing with their new aire model.

One interesting tidbit about NA, they originally came on a freghtliner chassis.  The chassis was too tall for the NA.  Newmar cuts the chassis railing and lowers them, reweld and then place the body on the frame.  duno if the newer chassis are lower or if they perform the same process.

Last, it would be interesting if consumers would have a chance to view the freightliners hi-line chassis next to even a K3 spartan!!  Over the many recent years, any RV shows I've been too, never ever, find the 2 chassis present at the same time!!!!!  Its either freightliners hi-line chassis, or its the spartan K3.  If spartan is present, you'd only find freightliners lower model chassis.

I did not know about the height difference with the Freightliner chassis. You all are more experienced and savvy than I am but looking at the picture of the retractable step into to coach, I thought it looked like that first step into the cabin was larger than the Realm on the Spartan chassis. It may just be an illusion but it looks like a leap in and out.

Hopefully, someone at Foretravel has a market capture they are expecting but I'm with those who have said a 40' or smaller high end coach would be more interesting. A little shorter on the outside (which I understand would never work on the current chassis design) would get my attention. We never park at a modern US R/V resort. I've often thought I would never get an IH-45 or Realm into the places we like to go. I do like the unique floor plans they both offer but I confess, I have little idea of what their competitors plans are like.

I agree Michelle, I'd like to see Foretravel thrive. We all have a vested interest in its success I suppose.

Michael

Re: Tampa RV Super Show Jan 2026

Reply #21 –
Foretravel does not build a shorter coach then the 45' because it takes almost as much time to build a shorter coach then the 45, They sell all that they can build, thus  the profit margin is less.

During one of the Grandventions we were told that Foretravel is in way better financial shape since they did the deal with Blue Compass. Once a coach is finished Blue Compass pays Foretravel for the coach so they are not sitting on a lot of $$ in unsold inventory.

Re: Tampa RV Super Show Jan 2026

Reply #22 –
Quote from: Michelle –
One of the big differentiators for Foretravel in the past was their interiors - the quality of the materials and finishes and the clever use of space.  The first time we looked at one (in summer 2003), salesperson Karen Glasscock stood in the drawer under the sofa, then did a pullup hanging from the upper cabinets.

The other was stability on the road because of the lower height and outboard airbags. 

Shorter length coaches are much more appealing to us as well.  It's a shame the IC37 and Realm FS450 weren't positioned more as a smaller, high-end coach.  There's clearly a market if you bring the right product to it; just look at the New Aire.

Also check out Newmar Mountain Aire shorter coaches (38 to 41') .  Compared to New Aire upsized fluid tanks, Engine, trans.

Re: Tampa RV Super Show Jan 2026

Reply #23 –
Quote from: AC7880 –
Also check out Newmar Mountain Aire shorter coaches (38 to 41') .  Compared to New Aire upsized fluid tanks, Engine, trans.

Very little basement storage left because of the tag axle, plus they're rather tall.