Tim Schwab - The Bedford Tribune https://bedfordohio.org News you can use from Bedford, Ohio Thu, 13 Mar 2025 15:05:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://bedfordohio.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/cropped-icon2-32x32.png Tim Schwab - The Bedford Tribune https://bedfordohio.org 32 32 149275078 Towable RVs: Hitching Up for Adventure https://bedfordohio.org/lifestyle/towable-rvs-hitching-up-for-adventure/ Sat, 15 Mar 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://bedfordohio.org/?p=14361 So, you’ve decided to dive into the world of RVing, but you’re not sold on the idea of a motorized home on wheels. Maybe you already have a perfectly good […]

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So, you’ve decided to dive into the world of RVing, but you’re not sold on the idea of a motorized home on wheels. Maybe you already have a perfectly good truck or SUV sitting in your driveway, itching for an adventure. Enter towable RVs—the versatile, often more affordable alternative to motorhomes.

Types of Towable RVs

Towable RVs come in two main flavors: rear hitch trailers and fifth wheels.

Rear hitch trailers, also called travel trailers, are the most common. They attach to a standard hitch on the back of your vehicle, making them easy to hook up and go. They come in every shape and size, from tiny teardrops barely big enough to hold a sleeping bag to 40-foot luxury suites with multiple slide-outs. The beauty of a travel trailer is its variety and accessibility. If you have a decent tow vehicle, there’s probably a trailer out there that’ll work for you.

Fifth wheels, on the other hand, are the big boys of the towable world. Instead of hitching to the bumper, they attach to a specialized hitch in the bed of a pickup truck. This setup provides better stability on the road, especially for larger rigs, and allows for spacious, multi-level floor plans. If you like the idea of a separate bedroom, more storage, and smoother towing, a fifth wheel might be the way to go—assuming you have a truck beefy enough to handle it.

Why Choose a Towable RV?

So why choose a towable RV over a motorhome? For one, the cost. Towables tend to be more budget-friendly, both upfront and in the long run. There’s no engine, transmission, or other expensive mechanical bits to maintain—just your tow vehicle, which you likely already own. And speaking of tow vehicles, that’s another perk. Once you reach your destination, you can unhitch and use your vehicle for local exploring, rather than hauling your entire home to the grocery store.

hitch towable
Tim Schwab hitch towable

Challenges of Towable RVs

Of course, it’s not all sunshine and campfires. Backing up a travel trailer is an art form that takes patience, nerves of steel, and maybe a little swearing. Fifth wheels handle better in that regard, but they require a dedicated truck bed, which means you lose some cargo space. And while motorhomes let you hop in and drive, towables require setup time—hitching, leveling, and making sure everything is secure before you hit the road.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing between a travel trailer and a fifth wheel comes down to your needs and towing capacity. If you want something lightweight and easy to store, a travel trailer is your best bet. If you’re looking for more space, better road stability, and don’t mind losing some space in the bed of your pickup, the fifth wheel option might be your dream rig.

No matter which way you go, a towable RV gives you freedom, flexibility, and the ability to unhook and roam.

What’s Next?

Now that we’ve covered the “what,” it’s time to talk about the “how.” In the next article, we’ll dive into the buying process—how to find the right RV, what to look for, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Because let’s face it, picking the perfect RV is like choosing any other vehicle: you want to take your time, ask the right questions, and make sure you’re not filled with any regrets.

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The RV World: How Do I Secure My Investment from Theft? https://bedfordohio.org/lifestyle/the-rv-world-how-do-i-secure-my-investment-from-theft/ Sat, 01 Feb 2025 15:00:00 +0000 https://bedfordohio.org/?p=13880 The Safest Place for Your RV Although RV theft can happen anywhere, in my experience, the safest place for your RV is a campground. Campers share a sense of fellowship—like […]

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The Safest Place for Your RV

Although RV theft can happen anywhere, in my experience, the safest place for your RV is a campground. Campers share a sense of fellowship—like a nomadic neighborhood watch—that encourages people to look out for one another. That said, RV theft does happen, and the trick is to create enough obstacles to leave a would-be thief frustrated, sweaty, and empty-handed.

Security Measures for Motorized RVs

Motorized RVs—Class A, B, B+, and C—often come with built-in theft deterrents from the manufacturer of the cab and chassis. However, some owners choose to upgrade their security game.

One popular option is replacing the standard coach door lock with a keyless entry system that requires a PIN. It’s like giving your RV its own secret handshake. Others go a step further by upgrading the locks on exterior storage compartments. And if you’re feeling nostalgic, you can even throw on one of those clunky but effective steering wheel locks from the 1970s.

Erica Schmidt | The Bedford Tribune

Theft Prevention for Towable RVs

Towable RVs, on the other hand, are more tempting targets for thieves since they’re easier to hitch and haul away. The key to preventing this is to lock down every possible towing mechanism.

Start by securing the trailer ball receptacle with a lock designed to block a trailer ball from connecting. Don’t forget to lock the coupler latch and securely fasten the safety chains to the trailer tongue with a sturdy lock. The more layers of inconvenience, the better!

Erica Schmidt | The Bedford Tribune

Going the Extra Mile for Security

While some owners go to extremes—like chaining their towable to a tree, removing a wheel, or slapping on a wheel boot—basic precautions will deter most would-be thieves. Let’s just hope they’re as lazy as they are dishonest.

Erica Schmidt | The Bedford Tribune

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The RV World: Class B+ Motorhomes https://bedfordohio.org/lifestyle/the-rv-world-class-b-motorhomes/ Sat, 25 Jan 2025 15:00:00 +0000 https://bedfordohio.org/?p=13787 The Class B+ motorhome is, as the name suggests, a hybrid between the Class B and Class C motorhomes. (Calling it a “C-” seemed a bit harsh, don’t you think?) […]

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The Class B+ motorhome is, as the name suggests, a hybrid between the Class B and Class C motorhomes. (Calling it a “C-” seemed a bit harsh, don’t you think?)

Built for Durability

The key distinction of the Class B+ is its construction on a cutaway chassis. This means the complete cab portion and rear frame are sent to the manufacturer, who builds the motorhome on that foundation—similar to the process for Class C motorhomes. This approach provides a sturdier structure, better suited for heavy-duty applications.

Spacious Yet Compact

One standout feature of the Class B+ is its extra width compared to the Class B, offering more interior living space while still maintaining a manageable size. It’s powered by a smaller van-style configuration, which helps keep fuel costs reasonable.

The expanded, boxy rear section behind the cab is where the magic happens. This area offers more room for those who want a bigger kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area—not to mention additional storage. Holding tanks are also larger in this class, which is a win for anyone who dreads frequent dump station visits.

Towing Capacity: Bring Your Toys Along

Towing is another highlight of the Class B+. Depending on the chassis and engine configuration, towing capacity typically ranges from 3,500 to 7,500 pounds. This makes it perfect for bringing along your trailered boat, motorcycle, ATV, or other toys.

The Downsides: Price and Space Limitations

As appealing as the Class B+ sounds, it’s not without its drawbacks.

Cost Considerations
The average price of a Class B+ ranges from $100,000 to $300,000, depending on the manufacturer and optional features. While it offers more storage than a Class B, it doesn’t match the spaciousness of a Class C motorhome. Exterior compartments are also smaller, which could be a downside for those who like to bring along a lot of gear.

Storage Challenges
Another potential downside is the lack of a bunk above the cab—a feature often found in Class C motorhomes. That overhead space is prime real estate, not just for sleeping but for storing all sorts of items. Without it, the Class B+ can feel less versatile.

Ideal for Couples or Solo Travelers

In short, the Class B+ is ideal for two people and maybe a Chihuahua. But if you have kids, a Great Dane, or a Costco-sized love of bulk items, you might find it a bit cramped.

Stay Tuned: Towable RVs Up Next

Next time, we’ll dive into the world of towable RVs and explore their unique benefits and drawbacks. Stay tuned!

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The RV World: Class B Motorhome https://bedfordohio.org/lifestyle/the-rv-world-class-b-motorhome/ Sat, 11 Jan 2025 15:00:00 +0000 https://bedfordohio.org/?p=13534 What is a Class B Motorhome? The Class B is the smallest motorhome on the market. Picture a Chevy, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, or Dodge cargo van stuffed to the brim with […]

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What is a Class B Motorhome?

The Class B is the smallest motorhome on the market. Picture a Chevy, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, or Dodge cargo van stuffed to the brim with household amenities: kitchenettes, small bathrooms (often wet baths, which is a compact space that contains the toilet and shower in one area), sleeping areas, and basic appliances. Measuring between 18 and 24 feet long, these compact RVs are the easiest to drive and park, making them ideal for RV newbies and urban explorers alike. Some adventurous souls even use them as daily drivers, proving that versatility is key.

Fuel Efficiency: The Class B Advantage

The Class B also boasts the best fuel mileage in the motorhome world—15 to 20 miles per gallon! Compare that to the gas-guzzling Class C and Class A rigs, which only dream of 8 to 12 mpg (on a downhill slope with a tailwind).

Downsizing for the Class B Lifestyle

That said, embracing the Class B lifestyle means embracing minimalism. The living quarters are tiny. Kitchens? Small. Bathrooms? Smaller. Holding tanks for fresh, gray, and black water? Let’s just say you’ll get very familiar with campground dump stations. This cozy class is perfect for one person—or two, if you’re exceptionally close.

The Price of Compact Luxury

Now, about the price tag. Despite their petite size, Class Bs pack a heavyweight punch to your wallet. Why? Because motorhome manufacturers first buy a complete van and then engineer all the RV features into it. The result? A price range that’ll make your eyes water: $80,000 to $200,000.

Is the Class B Right for You?

Still, if you’re ready to downsize without sacrificing mobility and adventure, the Class B might just be your perfect travel companion!

Next Up: The Class B+

Must-Have RV Accessories: Surge Protector

Let’s be clear: RVs are not just vehicles—they’re electrical minefields on wheels. With smart TVs, monitoring systems, self-leveling gadgets, and air conditioners more temperamental than your Uncle Bob, protecting those circuits is vital.

Picture this: you’re halfway through streaming your favorite show, sipping coffee from your electric maker, when ZAP—a power surge fries your electronics. Goodbye, fridge. Farewell, air conditioner. Adieu, sanity.

A surge protector is your best friend here. Not only does it guard against surges, but it also keeps an eye on low voltage, shutting things down if the campground’s power supply decides to take a nap. Sure, it costs a bit, but it’s cheaper than a new RV wiring job—or a lifetime of cold sandwiches.

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The RV World: The Super C https://bedfordohio.org/lifestyle/the-rv-world-the-super-c/ Sat, 26 Oct 2024 14:00:00 +0000 https://bedfordohio.org/?p=12190 What Makes a Super C Super? So, what’s so super about a Super C? Alex Johnson from Blissful Camper describes it as “a home on the road with muscles.” These […]

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What Makes a Super C Super?

So, what’s so super about a Super C? Alex Johnson from Blissful Camper describes it as “a home on the road with muscles.” These motorhomes have the same silhouette as the Class C we talked about in the last installment of “The RV World,” yet are designed using a commercial chassis. Think Freightliner, International, Volvo, or heavy-duty versions of Ford, Chevrolet, and my personal favorite, Dodge Ram. In short, they’re big. “Super” big! Picture the trucks linemen use to reach power lines, dump trucks, car transporters, or box trucks that block your view at traffic lights.

Built for Durability and Comfort

These large chassis are designed for longevity, strength, and payload. They are all pulled along by a big diesel engine with a heavy-duty transmission. Manufacturers use real wood cabinetry and domestic kitchen appliances. Bathrooms are upgraded with bigger showers, porcelain toilets, and large cabinets. Bedrooms have queen or king walk-around beds and huge flat-screen smart TVs. The average fresh water holding tank holds 80 to 100 gallons, while grey and black water tanks hold 40 to 65 gallons. You’ll have more than enough space, both inside and in the bays below, thanks to that gargantuan chassis.

A Smooth Ride Experience

Although I have never had the opportunity to drive a Super C, or a regular C for that matter, I learned that they ride better than a Class A. Owners say the massive weight, between 18,000 to 33,000 pounds, and beefier suspension are the reason for the smooth glide down the interstate. The extra heft also helps keep this big boy planted to the road even in higher winds. Additionally, that big diesel will pull you over any mountain in your path.

The Cost of Super C Luxury

Of course, all this superness comes with a price tag that might have you working weekends. Depending on the manufacturer and the options you choose, a Super C can run anywhere from $150,000 to $600,000. But for those who own them, the extra durability and capability are worth every penny. With my lottery winnings, I will buy the Dynamax 28SS with a four-wheel drive Dodge Ram chassis and a roof full of solar panels. It is the smallest Super C at 31ft and known as the “Swiss Army Knife” of motorhomes. With its low-key black paint job and off-grid options, it’s designed to get you out of town and keep you out of sight—an introvert’s dream on wheels!

Coming Up Next: The Class B

Next up, we’ll look at the Class B. Spoiler alert: it’s the runt of the litter.

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The RV World: Class C Motorhomes https://bedfordohio.org/lifestyle/the-rv-world-class-c-m/ Sat, 28 Sep 2024 14:00:00 +0000 https://bedfordohio.org/?p=11930 Welcome back, my friends. The next size level is the Class C motorhome.I bet you were expecting a Class B motorhome story. Yes, I know my alphabet, but in this […]

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Welcome back, my friends. The next size level is the Class C motorhome.
I bet you were expecting a Class B motorhome story. Yes, I know my alphabet, but in this case, B comes after C in the motorhome world, so let us proceed with the C. It is smaller than the Class A and has a pick-up truck front end with an overhang that extends over the roof much like a U-Haul with windows and a fancy paint job.

Manufacturers order cab and chassis from Ford and Chevrolet and build a house on the back. (Dodge Ram is used by one company, but we will learn about that beast later.) The length of this class is between 23 and 33 feet long and a few inches lower in height than the Class A motorhome that we learned about in our last “The RV World” article.

The retail cost of the 2025 Class C is between $100,000 to $180,000; however, “retail” is another word for “you’ve got to be kidding me pal, sharpen your pencil and let’s have a little talk.” In future articles, we will learn more about negotiating the price of your RV.

Driving and Living in a Class C Motorhome

Because you are driving a pick-up truck, the Class C is easier to drive, especially for a first-time RVer. You still have a house behind you that must be accounted for, but you are not driving a bus. Fuel mileage is a little better than the Class A at 12 to 15 mpg. That’s on level road with no wind at 55 mph, which is never.

Some campgrounds have RV length restrictions, and because the Class C is shorter, you have a wider range of site options. My favorite difference is the overhead bunk that extends over the cab. Most have a sliding window or a covered vent on the roof, perfect for hearing the sounds of the night forest. I would sleep in the bunk every night. The overhead bunk is also a great place for additional storage.

The Class C has a truck or van chassis, so if you need repairs or maintenance, you have more options. You just need a Ford or Chevy dealership. The “house” part will require a motorhome dealer or a trip to the manufacturer.

Downsides to Consider

You may find some downsides to this class of motorhome. They are smaller, so the living space is more limited; you won’t be able to replicate a ballroom like you could in a Class A. The storage space in a Class C is significantly less, so if you have a family, this class may not suit your needs.

The fresh water, grey water, and black water tanks are smaller than the Class A, so you will have to refill fresh water and empty your tanks more often. The towing capacity is less with a Class C, so if you are going to tow a large trailer or full-size car, you may be over your tow rating. A small car will be fine to attach to the back of a Class C.

The next potential bummer is the ride. The Class A has the advantage here because of the more elevated driving position and chassis upgrades. From my research, I have learned that the Class C ride is not as smooth, and you may feel more of the bumps in the road.

Coming Up: The Super C Motorhome

Next article, we will explore the Super C—the perfect answer for the undecided.

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The RV World: Class A Motorhomes https://bedfordohio.org/lifestyle/the-rv-world-class-a-motorhomes/ Sat, 07 Sep 2024 14:00:00 +0000 https://bedfordohio.org/?p=11639 Welcome back, fellow wanderers! If you’re considering diving into the world of motorhomes, let’s talk about the big kahuna of the RV world: the Class A motorhome. Class “A” motorhomes […]

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Welcome back, fellow wanderers! If you’re considering diving into the world of motorhomes, let’s talk about the big kahuna of the RV world: the Class A motorhome. Class “A” motorhomes are the largest type of motorized RV. They range from twenty-six to forty-five feet from bumper to bumper at an MSRP of approximately one hundred and fifty thousand dollars to well over one million. They are a giant shoe-box on wheels in which you fill with money. The trick is to add the smallest amount possible before you secure the lid and drive it off the lot. In a future article I will share some tips making your purchase less painful. You will still need anesthesia but recovery is possible.

These rolling condos are the top choice for those who crave space, luxury, and the thrill of piloting a vehicle that’s longer than a city bus to which you need a CDL with special attachment to operate. More on knowing what you are doing later.

First, let’s get into the nitty-gritty details. Class A motorhomes. I’ve had the pleasure of owning two Class A motorhomes over the years, a 27-footer and a 33-footer. Both offered a ride so smooth you’d think you were gliding on air, not rolling down the highway. The view from the massive windshield? Absolutely unbeatable.

The convenience of having easy access to the back of the coach by sliding out of a front seat, with plenty of room between the front seats to set up a little mobile picnic. Sandwiches and slurppies while gliding down the interstate- Yes, please!

But before you rush out to buy your dream RV, let’s talk about the downsides. Learning to drive one of these behemoths is like mastering a new sport. You’ve got to watch the wind, be hyper-aware of height restrictions on roads and at filling stations, and always keep an eye out for low-hanging tree limbs. These RVs are tall, and you don’t want to turn your fancy rig into a convertible by mistake! If this is your first purchase of a Class A motorhome you must have instruction! Any dealership worth its marquee will offer some training. Find a large parking lot where you and your new rig have some space and practice. YouTube is your best friend.  

On the plus side, Class A motorhomes offer a ton of room and storage space, larger holding tanks, and fuel capacity that’ll keep you on the road longer between stops. Many models also come with slide-outs that expand your living space, making it feel more like a rolling condo than a vehicle. However, the size can be a double-edged sword—some campgrounds may restrict access based on length, so plan ahead.

Another decision you’ll need to make is whether to go diesel or gas. Diesel engines typically offer more power and better fuel efficiency, but they come with a higher price tag. Gas models are more affordable but may not perform as well under heavy loads. It’s all about what suits your needs and budget.

Class A motorhomes are a wonderful choice and worth your research. I hinted on the advantages and pitfalls in this installment of The RV World but there is so much to learn about the Class A. But wait! There’s more! In the next installment we will learn about the Class C motorhome.

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The RV World: An Introduction https://bedfordohio.org/lifestyle/the-rv-world-an-introduction/ Sat, 17 Aug 2024 14:00:00 +0000 https://bedfordohio.org/?p=11401 Ever dreamed of taking a vacation without the dread of airport security, hotel check-ins, or eating someone else’s very expensive food? Welcome to the RV life, where your front yard […]

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Ever dreamed of taking a vacation without the dread of airport security, hotel check-ins, or eating someone else’s very expensive food? Welcome to the RV life, where your front yard can be the Grand Canyon, Pikes Peak, a park near Orlando, or a slow-moving river in West Tennessee. You are the maker of your own reality. View the windshield as a movie screen, and you are the producer, director, and star of your own production. Allow me to explain this to you.

There are three different forms of RV lifestyle. Those who have one parked in the driveway for use a few weeks of the year, those who consider it a part-time home and spend several months living on wheels, and those who live in their RV full-time without the benefit of a “bricks and sticks” home base. I have been a member of the first category and have owned two different motorhomes in the past thirty years, logged hundreds of miles from coast to coast, and loved every minute of it. Although currently “motorhomeless”, I still find the lifestyle fascinating and keep up with the latest good, bad, and ugly of this marvelous answer to incurable wanderlust.

This column is dedicated to you. You who have a nearly unhealthy need for adventure and need a four-wheeled prescription to ease your symptoms.

There are nine types of recreational vehicles to choose from: three drivable, five towable, and one that slides into the back of a pickup truck. Finding the correct choice is daunting and each type of RV has its pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your travel style, budget, and the experiences you seek. Over the next few columns, we’ll delve deeper into each category, sharing tips, tricks, and stories from the road.

So let’s fasten our seatbelts fellow wanderlusters, and get ready to embark on an epic journey. The open road awaits, and your adventure is just beginning!

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