imotorhome emagazine issue 37 - 16 november 2013
DESCRIPTION
Australia & New Zealand's only dedicated motorhome magazine – published twice monthly and available by free subscription from www.imotorhome.com.auTRANSCRIPT
iMotorhome mag
azin
e
because getting there is half the fun...
Issue 37 : November 16 2013
Day tripping in Sunliner’s Holiday G53…
Giant Tablet Comparo!Just in time for your Xmas wish list…
Maintenance Tips…Malcolm gets you ready for the Holiday season!
HolidayTime
Win!$50 Caltex
Fuel Card!
What’s not to love about the Horizon Motorhomes range. Inspired layouts with excellent living, sleeping and storage spaces. Choose from six Horizon models, all passionately built by master craftsman using only the finest fixtures and fittings.
• Mercedes Benz and Fiat Ducato as base vehicles with options of two or four wheel drive
• Flexible sleeping layouts for singles, couples and friends• Stunning well equipped kitchens, bathrooms with showers
h o r i z o n m o t o r h o m e s . c o m . a u
LOVE YOUR FREEDOM.LOVE YOUR HORIZON.
SOLD EX
CLUSIVELY
BY
BALLINA CAMPER
VAN & MOTO
RHOME CEN
TRE
ballina
campers
.com.au
02 6681 155
5
Horizon New ad Wanderer 297x210mm.indd 1 21/08/13 6:17 PM
It’s said a change is as good as a holiday. I prefer a holiday, but every so often decide to
make a change just for change’s sake. There is also the argument that, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Were that realistic we’d all still be driving Model T Fords. It’s in our nature to seek to improve and develop things. Usually.
Some months back I was driving home from Sydney late on a Friday afternoon, listening to Richard Glover’s ‘Thank God It’s Friday’ program on ABC 702. Mrs iMotorhome describes AM stations as “Old mans’ radio” as I now regularly channel surf between the ABC’s Radio
National, News Radio and ABC Sydney. They match my grey hair, but I’ve digressed.
Richard was talking about how he’d worn the same hair style since university and how one night his wife remarked he needed “A Clooney.” This he did, just a few days later, and he said he felt like a new man (insert usual joke here). It got me thinking about my hairstyle, which I’d worn since marrying nearly 15 years ago, and that maybe it was time again for a change. In that time two of my best mates have had the same hair style; styles they have worn since their teenage years and
which they will probably take to their graves.
So I got a Clooney.
It’s been a big change and has taken some time to adjust to, but I have to say I like it. Now. So what does this have to do with motorhoming?
Last week I was driving down the freeway, heading home on a Friday afternoon and listening to you-know-what. Some distance ahead I saw an old motorhome in the left lane, seemingly struggling along up the long, gradual incline as cars rounded it up in turn. I didn’t pay it much more attention until it was my turn to pass – and I saw it was
On my mind
5 Melrose Drive, Wodonga www.awrvworld.com.au 6024 4222
SPRING SALE NOW ON
View stock online 24/7
NEW Avan Applause – Double & Single beds available
NEW Avan Cruiseliner – Light weight & no canvas
Holden Colorado – Turbo Diesel 4x4 $26,950 Drive Away - XVX593
Family Flair Caravan 2 to 6 berth available, Unlimited kms
Hayman 2 to 6 berth available, Unlimited kms
Murana 2-6 berth available, Unlimited kms
NEW Sunliner Pinto – Electric drop down bed
NEW Avan Aspire 563 – Light weight, shower / toilet
Holden Cruze – CD, Petrol, Auto $14,450 Drive Away - YMM918
PRE-OWNED Talvor Hayman – Slide out
NEW Royal Flair Enhance – Single axle with full ensuite
Mercedes Benz Sprinter – Turbo diesel, Auto $26,950 Drive Away - WRW145
PRE-OWNED Winnebago Diversion – Low kms
NEW Royal Flair Designer Series – Simplicity suspension
AW12
3847
7
MOTORHOMES CARAVANS CARS/4WD RENTALS
Nissan Triton$23,850 Drive Away - XPN184
5 Melrose Drive, Wodonga www.awrvworld.com.au 6024 4222
SPRING SALE NOW ON
View stock online 24/7
NEW Avan Applause – Double & Single beds available
NEW Avan Cruiseliner – Light weight & no canvas
Holden Colorado – Turbo Diesel 4x4 $26,950 Drive Away - XVX593
Family Flair Caravan 2 to 6 berth available, Unlimited kms
Hayman 2 to 6 berth available, Unlimited kms
Murana 2-6 berth available, Unlimited kms
NEW Sunliner Pinto – Electric drop down bed
NEW Avan Aspire 563 – Light weight, shower / toilet
Holden Cruze – CD, Petrol, Auto $14,450 Drive Away - YMM918
PRE-OWNED Talvor Hayman – Slide out
NEW Royal Flair Enhance – Single axle with full ensuite
Mercedes Benz Sprinter – Turbo diesel, Auto $26,950 Drive Away - WRW145
PRE-OWNED Winnebago Diversion – Low kms
NEW Royal Flair Designer Series – Simplicity suspension
AW12
3847
7
MOTORHOMES CARAVANS CARS/4WD RENTALS
Nissan Triton$23,850 Drive Away - XPN184
RENTALSCARAVANSMOTORHOMES
NEW AVAN APPLAUSE Double & single beds available
NEW SUNLINER PINTO Electric drop down bed
PRE-OWNED WINNEBAGO Diversion – low kms
NEW AVAN CRUISELINER Lightweight – no canvas
NEW AVAN ASPIRE 563 Lightweight – shower/toilet
NEW ROYAL FLAIR ENHANCE Single axle with full ensuite
FAMILY FLAIR CARAVAN 2 to 6 berth available – unlimited kms
HAYMAN 2 to 6 berth available – unlimited kms
MURANA 2 to 6 berth available – unlimited kms
Continued...
GEORGE CLOONEY’S HAIRCUT…
What’s not to love about the Horizon Motorhomes range. Inspired layouts with excellent living, sleeping and storage spaces. Choose from six Horizon models, all passionately built by master craftsman using only the finest fixtures and fittings.
• Mercedes Benz and Fiat Ducato as base vehicles with options of two or four wheel drive
• Flexible sleeping layouts for singles, couples and friends• Stunning well equipped kitchens, bathrooms with showers
h o r i z o n m o t o r h o m e s . c o m . a u
LOVE YOUR FREEDOM.LOVE YOUR HORIZON.
SOLD EX
CLUSIVELY
BY
BALLINA CAMPER
VAN & MOTO
RHOME CEN
TRE
ballina
campers
.com.au
02 6681 155
5
Horizon New ad Wanderer 297x210mm.indd 1 21/08/13 6:17 PM
3
Richard RobertsonPublisher & Managing Editor
Malcolm StreetConsulting Editor
Agnes Nielsen-ConnollyDesign & Production Manager
©2013 iMotorhome. All rights reserved. Published by iMotorhome. ABN 34 142 547 719. PO Box 1738, Bowral. NSW. 2576. Contact us on 0414 604 368 or Email: [email protected]
an Avida Esperance. At most it could only have been about 10 months old, but from a distance behind it looked 20-plus years old. Why? because the design ain’t broke, apparently.
A few days later I passed a mid-2000’s Trakka Sandpiper and thought how old fashioned it looked compared to the Company’s current Trakkaway range. Some companies
innovate, push boundaries and move this industry forward; others change the paint schemes on their Model Ts.
There is comfort and security in the familiar. I understand that. But change – perhaps evolution is a better term – is what drives things forward. We grow old when we stop moving with the times. So do companies. If this industry is to attract new
customers from the wider RV marketplace and beyond it has to move with – even ahead of – the times. From model design to marketing a lot of this industry needs a Clooney. It would be better, however, if they could invent a whole new haircut…
Richard
A long-time freelance RV, motoring and travel writer, Richard is a dedicated, long-term motorhome enthusiast.
He has held senior editorial positions with some of the best know recreational vehicle magazines in Australia. Richard also has a passion for lifestyle-enhancing technology, which is why he is the driving force behind the new iMotorhome eMagazine.
Unquestionably Australia and New Zealand’s best known RV journalist, Malcolm is a fixture at CMCA rallies and RV shows and is now in his second decade as a specialist RV writer.
If it’s available on either side of the Tasman, Malcolm has probably driven it, slept in it, reported on it, knows how it’s made and can tell you just how good it really is.
Agnes is an experienced and talented graphic designer with extensive experience across a wide range of disciplines, including travel and advertising.
Designing and producing iMotorhome issues since June 2012, Agnes does much of the behind-the scenes work to ensure every issue looks great and is easy to read.
...Continued
On my mind...On my mind
The iMotorhome Team
Almost fooled you!
4
Paradise Motor Homes www.paradisemotorhomes.com.au 245 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters, Queensland, 4216ph (07) 5597 4400 - email [email protected] Paradise Motor Homes products are protected by registered designs, patents and copyrights ™ © 2013
Australia’s Best Quality Motorhomes
Enjoy the prestige of owning Australia’s best quality motorhome
• Outstanding value for money, competitively priced from $158,000.
• Unrivalled Safety including rollover protection, auto-locking cabinetry and superior appliance mounting systems.
• Industry’s longest & most comprehensive motorhome warranty.
• Built for Australian conditions.
• Models available with or without slide-outs.• Superior finish with stylish new contoured exterior. • Patented moulded bins for maximum storage capacity.• Outstanding road handling & ride comfort.• Genuine island queen beds and huge wardrobes. • Spacious rear ensuites with separate toilet & shower. • Market leading layouts & lifestyle features.• Full living area slide-outs providing superior living space. • Proven reliability of Paradise’s patented slide-outs.
Relax in Paradise
INSIDE INSIDE
10NEWSWhat’s happening in the RV world
14 TESTEDRoamin’ Holiday – Playing with Sunliner’s Holiday G53 for a day…
30
37
MAINTENANCE
CLASSIFIEDS
Self Service – Part 1 of Malcolm’s look at DIY motorhome servicing
This week’s featured iMotorhome Classifieds
3George Clooney’s haircut…ON MY MIND
7Have your say for a chance to win a $50 Caltex fuel card!
ON YOUR MIND
COOK-UP
SHOW CALENDAR
64
66Yum Zinger! – A balsamic chicken recipe to surprise and delight
What’s coming up, plus our show calendar
MOBILE TECH39Tablet Prescription – 12 tablets devices compared, just in time for Xmas!
59 ROADSIDE EATSOh The Hokey Pokey! – Polly’s homemade ice cream …
6
On your mind
Roamin’ Holiday – Playing with Sunliner’s Holiday G53 for a day…
Self Service – Part 1 of Malcolm’s look at DIY motorhome servicing
This week’s featured iMotorhome Classifieds
Have your say for a chance to win a $50 Caltex fuel card!
Yum Zinger! – A balsamic chicken recipe to surprise and delight
What’s coming up, plus our show calendar
Tablet Prescription – 12 tablets devices compared, just in time for Xmas!
Hi Richard, there is some confusions about the front suspension of Fiat Ducatos. There are a lot of complaints that the front suspensions bottom when the tyre hits a pothole. I have made such remarks also, on Facebook.
I bought my Fiat Ducato/Winnebago Campervan in April from Sydney RV, Penrith.
I did not check the tyres’ pressure until a few months later as the petrol stations do not cater for such high air pressure required for the campervan.
I believe that the campervan/motorhome traders over inflated the tyres of Fiat Ducato owing to confused information/ignorance. After a few outings, with the bumpy front suspensions, I noticed that the centre of the tyres’ tread was more worn out than the edges. This kind of wear is normally caused by over-inflation.
There are two contradictory stickers affixed to the two door
pillars. On the driver’s side it shows 80 PSI in English and on the passenger’s side it shows 65 PSI for front and 72.5 PSI for rear tyres, in Italian and French. On the tyre itself it shows a maximum pressure of 76 PSI.
According to my knowledge, the tyre pressure should be proportional to the weight it carries. After reducing the front tyres pressure to 65 PSI there were less bottoming of the front suspensions. A smoother ride!
I would appreciate it if you could investigate how much pressure the motorhome/campervan industries are pumping into the tyres of the Fiat Ducato.
Regards, Jacques via email
Hi Jacques, I forwarded your question to two motorhome manufacturers and Fiat themselves.
Manufacturer One said, “It all depends if its a van or a cab/chassis. The van
recommended is Front 65 psi and rear 73 psi. The single-axle chassis is 80 psi all round. The same tyres are used on all models, which are the Michelin Agilis 225/75 16CP. These are designed to be inflated to 80 psi. If the tyres state 76 psi maximum, these mustn’t be original equipment.”
Manufacturer Two replied, “On the vans we run 58 psi all round and advise that 75 psi is a maximum.”
Fiat has said nothing (as expected).
If you weigh your vehicle and work out the axle loads you’ll get a good starting point and can adjust the pressures accordingly. As you said, over-inflation wears out the tyres’ centre. Conversely, under-inflation wears the edges (first) and increases heat buildup that can even lead to catastrophic tyre failure. A $50 Caltex fuel card for your letter!
It’s only fitting that since Ed has his say in On My Mind, you should be able to have yours too. If you have anything to say – or ask – just drop a line to [email protected] and we’ll share it with
our readers. We’ll also reward the most interesting, useful or thoughtful letter each issue with a $50 Caltex fuel card to help you on your way.
ROADSIDE EATSOh The Hokey Pokey! – Polly’s homemade ice cream …
7
w On your mind
Hi Richard, Re Colin last issue and his Fiat tyres, I would like to know what weight he has on his front and rear axles and what pressure he uses in his Mickey Thompson tyres.
Bob via email.
Hi Bob, Colin tells me he’s running 45 front and 50 rear and is planning to take his motorhome across his coal weigh bridge to see what the individual axle loads are. When I hear back I’ll let everyone know.
The Wirraway 260 SLWith i t ’s Fu l l Length S l ideout Room & Apar tment
Sty led Layout !
From WIRRAWAY, “Australia’s Most Innovative Motorhomes”
Wirraway is a dedicated family owned business striving for Motorhome excellence.Our Motorhomes are our passion! Every Wirraway Motorhome is handbuilt and designed by
experienced motorhomers who know the importance of making life easier on the road.New to our Range is the brilliant ‘live like a movie star’ Wirraway 260 SL,
the latest in our 260 series; our EuroStyle 260 with it’s European styled interiorand “The Motorhome of the Year”, the Wirraway 260.
Wirraway Motorhomes feature opulence, style and all the legendary design,electrical and construction innovations that are unique to all Wirraways.
Each Wirraway Model is unique! - All are a Must See!View Our New Website to view All Models, Download Brochures &Virtual RealityTours
For details contact: Rob Tonkin - Wirraway Motorhomes, 6 Hynes Court, Mildura Vic 3500Phone / Fax: (03) 50 230 230 - New Email: [email protected] & New Website: www.wirraway.com.au
On The Road Wirraway 260SL Slideout Motorhome - 2012 © Rex Willmer
8
w
Hi Richard. Hope you enjoyed NZ as much as I did. I caught some massive snapper off the North Island’s Bay of Plenty. Can anyone tell me where I can buy a security screen door for a Winnebago Birdsville? I tried
Roamsafe and Winnebago but they want two arms and three legs for them.
Eric via email.
Thanks Eric, we had a great time in NZ and can’t wait to go
back. Excellent news on your snapper, too. Re the security door, let’s see if any readers can help. Any suggestions out there?
Hi Richard, my wife and I really enjoy receiving the magazine – keep them coming. When we are on the road I always take 20 copies of your Promotional Flyer, which I found under the Resources section of the iMotorhome website.
Whether you are stopped for a cuppa or an overnight stay,
handing out the flyers is a great way to start a conversation with other motorhomers, particularly when you tell them the mag is online and it is free! Its a real icebreaker.
Cheers, Alan via email.
What a good man! Thanks Alan, that’s a great idea and
really appreciated. I’ve just redesigned the main menus at the top of our homepage, to help make the magazine easier to find, and I’m working on a refer-a-friend page to help everyone share the love. keep up the good work!
On your mind
The Wirraway 260 SLWith i t ’s Fu l l Length S l ideout Room & Apar tment
Sty led Layout !
From WIRRAWAY, “Australia’s Most Innovative Motorhomes”
Wirraway is a dedicated family owned business striving for Motorhome excellence.Our Motorhomes are our passion! Every Wirraway Motorhome is handbuilt and designed by
experienced motorhomers who know the importance of making life easier on the road.New to our Range is the brilliant ‘live like a movie star’ Wirraway 260 SL,
the latest in our 260 series; our EuroStyle 260 with it’s European styled interiorand “The Motorhome of the Year”, the Wirraway 260.
Wirraway Motorhomes feature opulence, style and all the legendary design,electrical and construction innovations that are unique to all Wirraways.
Each Wirraway Model is unique! - All are a Must See!View Our New Website to view All Models, Download Brochures &Virtual RealityTours
For details contact: Rob Tonkin - Wirraway Motorhomes, 6 Hynes Court, Mildura Vic 3500Phone / Fax: (03) 50 230 230 - New Email: [email protected] & New Website: www.wirraway.com.au
On The Road Wirraway 260SL Slideout Motorhome - 2012 © Rex Willmer
Dear Richard, I know that seniors aren't always welcome, but the "Bendigo Caravan & Camping Show" beats everything. According to the ad on page 60 of the magazine, charges are as follows:
• Adults: $10 • Seniors: $68
Does the seniors fee include a nurse?
Cheers, Hans via email.
Yes Hans, aged care is certainly expensive these days. Careless typist are cheap as chips, however, and I’ve sacked myself – and our proofreader – for the oops…
9
Y PLUG AND PLAY? Z
Y STOP PRESS – HORIZON’S NEW BANKSIA Z
Y SWEET DREAMS – FOR A LIMITED TIME! Z
H ere’s a special limited-time offer for readers of iMotorhome eMagazine.
Between Nov 17-26 get a whopping
30% discount on new Duvalays, the terrific luxury sleeping system we’ve been testing recently (see Issue 34).
Just $187.25 each, including delivery Australia-wide (exc remote locations)
Applies to 2.5 cm x 66 cm Duvalays in Plum, Navy or Cappuccino
Saves $71.70 on retail price and postage!
To order simply call (08) 9336 7714 or email [email protected] and mention iMotorhome.
News
Y DISCOVERER MOVES Z
Y MORE TASSIE BLUES Z
According to a recent story in the Hobart Mercury, Tasmanian grey nomads
are turning to Victoria to store and buy their motor homes and caravans because of stamp duty costs and the expense of travelling on the Spirit of Tasmania.
The growing trend is hurting the local industry, Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia national consumer representative Ken Kipping says.
It was giving the cost of getting to and from the state a bad name and was limiting the short-trip opportunities for regional tourism operators, he said.
But operators of the Spirit of Tasmania said work was being done to offer cheaper rates for grey nomads.
Mr Kipping said it was difficult to put an exact figure on the number of Tasmania's grey nomads leaving their vans on the mainland, but word was travelling fast and they were no longer doing short trips around the state during the year.
"[Grey nomads] don't have the vehicle on-site to go away for short trips ... so that is another blow for Tasmania," Mr Kipping said.
A Spirit of Tasmania spokesman said yesterday members of CMCA and the Caravan, RV and Accommodation Industry of Australia both received 5 per cent discounts. Ocean recliner fares had been slashed by 50 per cent for May to September.
Fares for motor homes and caravans on the Spirit vary
according to size.
A medium-sized 4WD towing a 7m caravan would cost about $464 to transport from Devonport to Melbourne in September, without accommodation.
A and K Caravans and Motorhomes owner Allan Gath said a further issue was the cost of stamp duty in Tasmania.
"They purchase on the mainland where they can save money on the stamp duty and keep it registered in that state without losing their third-party insurance," he said.
Mr Gath said he had met finance minister Scott Bacon to discuss the issue and would meet Opposition Leader Will Hodgman later this year.
10
Y PLUG AND PLAY? Z
Y STOP PRESS – HORIZON’S NEW BANKSIA Z
Y SWEET DREAMS – FOR A LIMITED TIME! Z
Could this lead to an all-electric motorhome? In California, a small fleet
of these battery-powered SST-e buses have been created in a collaboration between school bus manufacturer Trans Tech Bus and Motiv Power Systems.
The SST-e is built around the
existing Ford E450 truck chassis, utilising Motiv's electric Powertrain Control System. That system is said to be compatible with a wide variety of chassis and battery types, meaning that few modifications are required to the stock chassis, and that better-performing batteries can be swapped in as technology advances.
Although little is available in the way of specs, the buses will have a range of 130 or 160 km, depending on whether they're equipped with four or five battery packs – any one of those packs can be replaced without having to
replace all the others. The batteries can be charged to 50 per cent capacity in less than an hour, while a full charge takes eight hours. They utilise a 3-phase fast charging system that "requires minimal building modifications and no expensive charging stations."
The Type A bus can carry up to 32 students, or 24 students and one wheelchair. Given the technology is basically bolt-on and that it is being fitted to Ford’s popular (if outgoing) E-Series cab-chassis, perhaps an all-electric motorhome isn’t too far away – in America, at least.
News
Y DISCOVERER MOVES Z
Discoverer Campers has moved into new premises at 12 Miall Way, Albion Park
Rail, NSW. 2527. Discoverer makes a range of Toyota HiAce and VW T5-based campervans and also carries
a range of used campervans and motorhomes. To find out more visit discoverercampers.com.au or call Brenden Samuels on (02) 4256 8111.
Just as we were finishing up this issue, Horizon Motorhomes’ CEO Clayton Kearney
mentioned the following in an email:
“We now have a Banksia +2. This is a Banksia with the double seat in the rear with belts. The kitchen is slightly smaller than the standard Banksia and incorporates a combo sink/stove.”
The Banksia is one of Horizon’s most popular models and has featured twice in iMotorhome, in Issues 7 and 20. There’s nothing on their website at present, so for further information contact via email [email protected] or call (02) 6681 1555.
Y MORE TASSIE BLUES Z
11
f SHORT SITED f
Free camping in Coffs Harbour for self-contained recreational vehicles,
especially the vexed question of camping on the Jetty Foreshores was on the agenda for a Nov 14 meeting of Coffs Harbour City Council.
Council staff and State Government representatives have confirmed councillors have no authority to permit free camping by RVs on the Jetty Foreshores.
Councillors must now choose from five alternative options to
deal with free camping for RVs in the Coffs Harbour LGA.The alternative favoured by staff is to enforce the existing regulation, which forbids free camping on council-controlled reserves and allows for moving people on or fining them.
News
Slide On Campers
Trailblazers Slide On Campers are Australian designed and built for our conditions. With all the features of a luxury motorhome, a slide on can be easily removed to free up your vehicle. Touring holidays, fishing trips with the tinny behind and 4WD adventures in the outback are more fun with a versatile, manoeuvrable slide on, they even make great demountable site offices. With a range of models to choose from,
all campers are built to order to enable you to choose from a range of features and options including appliances, interior finishes and fabrics.
222 Governor RoadBraeside VIC 3195Ph: 03 9588 0077
Buy Factory Direct and SAVE
New aerodynamic shapeImproved fuel efficiency
Café dining optionQueen bed and robes L shape kitchen option Hideaway bathroom option Shower & toilet combo Full bathroom option
. Our lightweight construction suits many one tonne vehicles, including
Mazda, Landcruiser, Ford Ranger single, extra and twin cab utes and light trucks.
Subscription, advertising & editorial enquiries Ph 02 9695 7749 or [email protected]
Issue 01 February 2013 1
Let the good times roll
La Dolce VitaRestoRing a classic 1969 Viscount
01 | February 2013
timetoroam.com.au
Pos
t App
rove
d
255003/00558
Caravan, Camper + rv reviews | Camping with JaCk thompson | snakes + pets
Australia’s most accessible Caravan/RV & Travel magazine. 20,000 copies per issue – estimated readership = 45,000 & growing.
Available nationally at over 600 outlets including Caravan/Holiday parks & Visitor Information centres.
‘Delivered to the places where people have time to relax and read’. Also available at Caravan & RV Dealerships & Accessory stores.
PLUS the ‘live’ eMagazine read by over 3,000 per issue. Visit www.timetoroam.com.au for the current and recent editions.
Y LONG SIGHTED ZThe Morpeth Business Association, in the NSW Hunter Valley, wants to utilise the old bowling club site on Edward Street as an eco tourism park complete with an interpretive centre to showcase the village’s colonial history.
“We know there’s a need for a tourist park not just in Maitland but for the Lower Hunter,” Morpeth tourist operator and association member Trevor Richards said. “Maitland City Council has identified the need on numerous occasions for at least the
past decade.”
The Morpeth Business Association has approached the site’s owner Beresfield Bowling Club and will develop a business proposal for staged development over seven years.
Y AUSSIE HELPERS WANTED Z
12
News
Slide On Campers
Trailblazers Slide On Campers are Australian designed and built for our conditions. With all the features of a luxury motorhome, a slide on can be easily removed to free up your vehicle. Touring holidays, fishing trips with the tinny behind and 4WD adventures in the outback are more fun with a versatile, manoeuvrable slide on, they even make great demountable site offices. With a range of models to choose from,
all campers are built to order to enable you to choose from a range of features and options including appliances, interior finishes and fabrics.
222 Governor RoadBraeside VIC 3195Ph: 03 9588 0077
Buy Factory Direct and SAVE
New aerodynamic shapeImproved fuel efficiency
Café dining optionQueen bed and robes L shape kitchen option Hideaway bathroom option Shower & toilet combo Full bathroom option
. Our lightweight construction suits many one tonne vehicles, including
Mazda, Landcruiser, Ford Ranger single, extra and twin cab utes and light trucks.
Y LONG SIGHTED Z
Y AUSSIE HELPERS WANTED Z
Brian and Nerida Egan established Aussie Helpers in 2002 to help fight poverty
and lift the spirits of those severely affected by drought in the Outback.
From what they saw around them and what they heard from people in the bush, they felt no organisation
was doing anything significant to help families suffering the full effects of the worst drought in living history.
Brian, a veteran of the Indonesian Confrontation and the Vietnam War in the 1960s and who lost his own farm in the 1990s from a combination of drought and personal depression, is no stranger to hard times.
Aussie Helpers has some 40 volunteers and mainly work via the ‘Bush Telegraph’ to find farming families who are in desperate need of assistance. Aussie Helpers work around three words: Care, share,
respect. This simply means they care about people in need and will share whatever assistance they have available free of charge and will give the recipients the utmost respect and confidentiality.
Aussie Helpers raises all its own funding and is not aligned to any charity or religious association. Each Aussie Helper is an unpaid volunteer who is helping make a real difference to the lives of real people. Visit www.aussiehelpers.org.au for more information and to see how you can become involved.
13
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
HolidayRoamin'
Review and images by Richard Robertson.
Sunliner’s snappy Holiday G53 is stylish C-Class motorhome ideal for roaming…
14
In October last year Malcolm Street reviewed a Sunliner Holiday G53 on an Iveco
chassis and came away a little underwhelmed. He summed up by saying, “In a way the Sunliner Holiday looks a little downmarket from the usual Sunliner products.”
Sunliner’s Holiday range comes in 11 base layouts and more than 100 floorplan options. Lengths range from 7.3 to 8.2 m and depending on your choice a range of base vehicles are offered (although not every vehicle for every layout): Ford’s Transit, Fiat’s Ducato, Iveco’s Daily and Mercedes’ Sprinter.
Two finish levels are also
offered – Classic and Modern – with the latter being the finish of Malcolm’s test vehicle. Modern equates to cool and minimalist and is aimed at a younger market, while Classic is warmer, more ‘traditional’ and suits most of us oldies better. But wait, there’s more! Both Classic and Modern finishes are offered with an optional First Class pack that adds a range of options like leather upholstery, designer fabrics and much more. On top of that you can also choose three equipment specification levels for each vehicle. Confused? You’re not alone…
As near as I can make out the subject of this review is a
Classic-finished, specification-three, Holiday G53 on Fiat’s popular Ducato cab-chassis. It’s 7.3 m long, 3.4 m tall and in may ways appears chalk-and-cheese with Malcolm’s test vehicle. Apart from looking better from the outside (in my opinion), it looked and felt quite plush inside, with curved overhead cabinetry and warm timber tones.
The Specification Three pack ads niceties like cabin floor carpet, an upgraded 56 cm (22 in) LED TV/DVD, a second 100-amp house battery, 135 watt solar panel, ceramic Thetford toilet, Truma gas/electric hot water system, upgraded Air Command Ibis airconditioner, 1000 watt sine-
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
Sunliner’s Holiday G53 looks more like a B-class motorhome than a C-class, due to its streamlined over-cab bed area. Colour-matched bumpers and cab side-steps add a touch of style.
15
wave inverter, diesel heater, electric awning (although not in this case), electric step, 9 kg gas bottles, external speakers and an illuminated entry door grab handle.
Fiat Thoughts…
The Ducato is purpose built as a motorhome base vehicle and is
available as a complete Factory cab-chassis (as used here) or a cab-only, to which an aftermarket ALKO chassis is bolted on. Each has its advantages and the most noticeable difference is a lower floor and entry step height for the ALKO option, but it’s dearer (I believe). The Fiat Factory cab-chassis requires fitment of an under-body entry step but helps keep the price down, and both benefit from the Ducato’s wider track and significantly greater standard fuel capacity, compared to its rivals.
The test G53 featured Fiat’s 180 Multijet engine, which is a 3.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel that produces 115 kW (180 hp) and 400 Nm. It drives the front wheels through 6-speed automated manual transmission (AMT), which is essentially a manual gearbox with an external computer control module that handles the clutch and gear changes for you. In Fiat speak it’s called “Comfort-Matic” and is marketed by motorhome manufacturers as an automatic.
Front suspension is independent while at the rear conventional leaf springs and a simple beam axle take care of the load. Being front-wheel drive there is no long driveshaft or big/heavy rear differential, so this not only makes the vehicle lighter, it helps keep the Factory chassis height as low as possible and prides extra room for motorhome manufactures to fit water tanks and other under-floor items.
Inside, the Ducato is very much a drivers’ machine and the cab styling and ergonomics are a far cry from some of its competitors. Remote central locking, power steering, electric windows and side mirrors, a trip computer, cab airconditioning, cruise control and a sophisticated sound system with integrated Bluetooth are all standard – along with a removable TomTom satnav system. On the safety front dual front
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53 16
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control and range of other electric aides are all on hand to look after you.
Depending on your driving style and touring speeds you
could realistically expect to see 10-12 L/100 km (28-23 mpg) fuel consumption for the Holiday G53 – not bad for a motorhome with a gross weight of 4490 kg. With a standard 120 L fuel tank it
makes for easy long distance cruising, with the added ability of often being able to wait for better fuel prices in cities or larger towns.
As expected the Ducato/Holiday combination drives nicely, with plenty of power from the biggest engine in the Fiat range and easy, confident handling. Visibility is good, the vehicle rides well and interior noise levels are low, especially when cruising, thanks to the Ducato’s top gear that sees the engine turning about 2000 rpm at freeway speeds.
Body Beautiful
Rather than reinvent the wheel I’ve mostly borrowed from
Swivelling cab seats are comfy and best for after hours reading.
17
Malcolm’s test for this section: For the body, Sunliner use one-piece walls and a roof that uses a bonded Duplo foam-core structure that is designed to give insulation and strength, whilst keeping weight in check. Those familiar with Sunliner motorhomes will immediately recognise the characteristic fibreglass mouldings at the rear, as well as the driver’s cab side-steps.
Sunliner uses Seitz hopper windows to full advantage, whilst staying with the convenience of a Camec triple-lock security door. An item of interest here is the door and forward window. Given their proximity, it’s not possible to have both the door and window fully open at the same time, but what Sunliner has done is fitted a simple hook-and-eye, such that the door is held open at 90 degrees to the motorhome body. Now this might sound like the bleeding obvious, but it’s surprising the number of Recreational Vehicle manufacturers that don’t provide this simple arrangement!
External body fittings consist of the nearside-wall-fitted Dometic wind-out awning and external wall light above the door, whilst the roof features a few items like a windup TV antenna and airconditioner. External storage, apart from the Thetford toilet cassette compartment and the gas
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
Whichever way you look at it the Holiday G53 is a good looking motorhome.
Under-bed storage is also accessed via only external locker door.
18
As expected the Ducato/Holiday combination drives nicely, with plenty of power from the biggest engine in the Fiat range.
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
Whichever way you look at it the Holiday G53 is a good looking motorhome.
Under-bed storage is also accessed via only external locker door.
19
cylinder bin, consists of the under-bed area that can be accessed from both the offside door and from the inside, by lifting the bed. It’s certainly a convenient arrangement, but can be a problem in very dusty conditions. Hoses and the like should certainly be kept in drip-proof containers, while under the bed are the batteries, battery charger, inverter and hot water system, all of which are really only accessible from inside.
Out of sight under the rear are corner stabilisers which are a standard Sunliner feature. Whilst most caravans have them, most motorhomes do not. They’re not essential, but it’s surprising how much rock n’ roll a heavy footed person going out the door can create, not to mention anything else!
All that built into the Holiday gives it a tare weight of 3640 kg. Given the Holiday’s gross vehicle mass (GVM) of 4490 kg, it certainly leaves a more-than-adequate payload capacity.
Step Inside…
The Holiday G53 is a four seat/four berth motorhome probably
best suited to couples and maybe an occasional grandchild (or two). The entry door is about halfway along the kerb side of the vehicle and when you step inside the kitchen is immediately to your left, while opposite is the
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
Dinette is generous and forward-facing seats are seatbelt equipped.
TV aerial is a real stretch for anyone under about 5’ 6”.
20
dinette. Up front, both cab seats swivel and there is a secondary bed in the smallish over-cab roof moulding.
Turning right from the entry door a tall central unit houses the fridge and microwave and serves as something of a divider for the main bedroom, which has an east-west bed mounted off the driver’s side
wall and a walk-around space at the foot that leads to the full-width rear bathroom.
All main switches and electrical controls are grouped above the entry door, along with the standard Radio/CD sound system (and TV aerial winder in the ceiling). Whilst this is certainly convenient it can be a stretch for shorter people,
especially the TV aerial winder. LED lighting seems to be the predominant lighting type.
What’s Cooking?
Wedged between the entry door and front cab is the main part
of the rather compact kitchen. Well equipped, it lacks any bench space other than glass lid over the cooker or the sink’s draining board. Fortunately, the dinette is immediately behind you when working in the kitchen and it would need to be used for any substantial food preparation. The fridge and microwave are also across the aisle, between the dinette and bedroom.
Standard appliances comprise a Thetford 3-burner gas cooker with grill and oven, rangehood, single-bowl stainless steel sink with drainer and flick-mixer tap, two-door
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
TV mount is best positioned for bedtime viewing
Above entry-door controls are neatly grouped, but again a stretch for some.
21
175 L fridge/freezer and a microwave. There’s decent kitchen storage space, with three drawers beneath the sink and one below the cooker, plus the usual run of overhead cupboards.
Of particular interest to Mrs iMotorhome was the cooker’s large wok burner. Located by itself on the left side of the cooktop, it’s a nice inclusion for those fond of fast-and-furious Asian-style cooking.
Drinks and Dinner
Sundowners for six is certainly doable, but with four people sitting
at the cafe-style dinette and two in the swivelled cab seats, the arrangement would be a bit awkward. Still, the dinette has seat belts for two, and four people travelling together could spread themselves out a bit, especially as the cab seats make comfortable after-hours reading chairs.
The dinette itself is quite spacious and the table is a good size, while right beside it is a large picture window for making the most of the view. Indeed, the whole vehicle has a spacious and airy feel thanks largely to generous window sizing. Storage space
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
Small kitchen has no bench space.
Cooks will need to use the dinette table for meal preparation.
Kitchen drawer space is good.
22
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
is good too, with space under the seats as well as three overhead cupboards.
Scrub-a-Dub!
One part of the Holiday G53’s open and airy feel is no doubt due to
the unusual bathroom design. Situated full-width across the rear, the bathroom has a novel/unusual/interesting two-panel “moving wall” arrangement instead of a normal door. Let me explain (or just look at the photos)…
The sizeable shower cubicle is in the driver’s side rear corner of the Holiday and between it and the bedroom is a fixed timber-finish panel. Beside it is a sliding door the same size and finish that can be left retracted for maximum ‘openness,’ which allows you to look out the window in the bathroom’s rear wall, or slid shut to close off two thirds of the bathroom. The final piece of the puzzle is a concertina fabric door that extends from a kerbside-wall recess and joins up with the sliding solid panel, to provide total privacy.
The trouble is I’m not sure it’s all more than a rather complex gimmick. You see the toilet pedestal is in the opposite corner to the shower cubicle, and in full view when any of the doors are open. So to use the loo you need to close everything up. Which could get a bit tedious on a regular basis. On the other
23
hand, it does open up the vehicle during the day and certainly ads to a feeing of spaciousness. Horses for courses, I guess.
Otherwise, the bathroom is nicely appointed, with a small hand basin and cupboard unit beneath the bathroom window and a mirrored medicine cabinet above it. The shower cubicle has a three-panel sliding glass door, while inside is a height-adjustable domestic style chrome shower and tap unit. There is also a cup and toothbrush holder above the sink, between the window and shower door, and a large wall mirror above the toilet cistern.
Bed Time…
Let me quote Malcolm again. “In the rear the east-west bed, with its
head against the offside wall, takes up a fair bit of space. Featuring a posture slat bed-base with inner spring mattress, the bed measures 1.75 m x 1.37 m (5 ft 9 in x 4 ft 6 in) unextended and 1.98 m (6 ft 6 in) extended. Although the longer length will be adequate for most people, it does cut down the walkway space considerably, while large windows on both sides ensure good cross flow ventilation.”
“Up front ,the Luton bed, measuring 1.93 m x 0.97 m (6 ft 4 in x 3 ft 2 in) is certainly only for smaller couples or
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
Loo is in full view unless all bathroom doors are closed.
With bed extended, getting past is a squeeze.
24
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
a single sleeper as it’s not particularly wide, but does offer a large general storage area. To give easier internal access to and from the front seats, the Luton bed can be lifted up out of the way if not needed.”
The main bed lifts to access storage, as mentioned earlier, while above the main bed head is a pair cupboards above the window, and unlike Malcolm’s test vehicle from last year, this one has
bed reading lights (as well as dinette reading lights). Between the entry door and the foot of the main bed is a tall wardrobe unit that helps provide a modicum of privacy from guests prying eyes. The wardrobe has a swivel TV mount on it and television viewing appears best done from bed, although it could be seen from the dinette as well. Unfortunately, no TV was fitted to the test vehicle, so I couldn’t check it out.
Our test vehicle had a bare mattress and we took our Duvalay’s along to show how it would look made up. The trouble was the mattress sat on a metal base, which it dutifully slide off at every corner and other opportunity.
In Conclusion
Mrs iMotorhome and I found the Sunliner Holiday G53 quite
appealing. It’s a modern, good looking motorhome that provides decent living space,
Over-cab bed area is small and best suited to kids.
East-west main bed has reading lights and a bed-head shelf.
25
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
and in Specification Level Three comes with most of the goodies you could ask for.
The bed is best suited to shorter folks who could leave it unextended, but I’d just leave it fully made up and
squeeze past as required. The bathroom wall/door arrangement is a matter for personal taste, but overall this is a well appointed motorhome that could certainly keep a couple happily touring for years.
Finish aside, I think Fiat’s Ducato is a better choice than the Iveco for most people as it’s more car like, comfortable and just plain nicer to drive. Fancy a roamin’ Holiday? Best check it out…
House batteries, inverter and hot water are all under the bed.
Bed lifts easily for internal access. Bed extension frame simply slides out.
Curved cupboard doors are Euro chic.
26
The Sunliner Holiday G53 is an appealing, modern motorhome with decent living space and plenty of equipment.
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53
Curved cupboard doors are Euro chic.
27
Specifications
• Easydriving• Carlicence• Wellequipped• Nicefinish• Spaciousfeel• Looksgood
Pros
Cons• Smallkitchen• Bedextensionfiddly• Limitedexternalstorage
Manufacturer Sunliner Motorhomes
Model Holiday G53
Base Vehicle Fiat Ducato X250
Engine 3.0-litre turbo-diesel
Power 115 kW @ 3500 rpm
Torque 400 Nm @ 1700 rpm
Gearbox 6-speed AMT
Brakes ABS Disc
Tare Weight 3640 kg
Gross Vehicle Mass 4490 kg
Licence Car
Approved Seating 4
External Length 7.30 m (23 ft 9 in)
External Width 2.47 m (8 ft 1 in)
External Height 3.4 m (11 ft 1 in)
Internal Height 2.13 m (7 ft)
Rear Bed Size 1.75 m x 1.37 m (5 ft 9 in x 4 ft 6 in)
Rear Bed extended 1.98 m (6 ft 6 in)
Luton Bed 1.93 m x 0.97m ( 6 ft 4 in x 3 ft 2 in)
Cooktop Thetford Triplex
Fridge Dometic RM 7851 175-litre
Microwave Yes
Lighting 12 V LED
Batteries 2 x 100 amp hour
Gas 2 x 9.0 kg
Heater Diesel
Solar Panels 1 x 135 W
Air Conditioner Air Command Ibis
Hot Water Heater Truma gas/electric 14-litre
Toilet Thetford ceramic, cassette
Shower Separate cubicle
Fresh Water Tank 120-litre
Grey Water Tank 55-litre
Price driveaway $147,700 VIC
ContactAlbury Wodonga RV World
5 Melrose Drive,Wodonga. VIC. 3690. Ph: 02 6024 4222E: [email protected]: www.awrvworld.com.au
Click for Google Maps
Day Test: Sunliner Holiday G53 28
Maintenance: Self Service – Part 1
self service
By Malcolm Street
Although maintenance and servicing is best left to the professionals, there are things you can still do yourself…
30
It's a fact that technology has changed much about motorhome servicing
requirements – on several counts actually. One is that service intervals are greatly extended over what they were even 20 years ago and the other is that RV servicing has become much more high tech. Indeed in some cases, for the base vehicle there are only a handful of specialised service centres.
All motorhomes need regular maintenance, including ones that sit on the driveway for extended periods. Indeed brakes, wheel bearings, seals, electrical connections and tyres can all become a problem if rarely used. I know
someone who recently bought a motorhome that had sat still for the best part of two years and was then faced with a brake repair bill of nearly $5000! Age and use catches up with everything (and all of us!), however with some care and attention, getting years of stress free travel from your motorhome should not be a problem.
Whilst servicing a motorhome probably daunts many people and in some cases should not be done by home mechanics, it is still helpful to have an understanding of what is required so you can have a knowledgeable discussion with the service person. If you are planning on doing things
yourself, then it’s always good to know exactly what you are doing and have the right tools for doing it. Like cars – compare say a 1964 EH Holden to a 2013 Commodore – RVs have moved the same way, particularly items like electrical systems, and a mistake could be expensive.
Basic Maintenance
Don’t be scared off by the above, because there are plenty of
things that can be done like simply keeping everything neat and clean; making sure all the lights (either globe or LED) are working and checking tyre pressures. For instance, giving your motorhome a regular wash also means a simple
Maintenance: Self Service – Part 1
There’s not a lot an owner can do under the bonnet these days, however fluid checks (oil, water, power steeringand brakes) are easy but essential.
self service
31
inspection can be done at the same time and it’s often these times when you notice something is wrong.
The following items that should all be on your motorhome service list. Whilst some should certainly be carried out by professionals, many can be done with a few simple tools.
1: Wash and clean on a regular basis – a relatively simple job, but it does give your motorhome something of a general inspection at the same time. Don't forgot to have a look at all the rubber seals, mostly those around external bin doors, but also window rubbers and joints between body panels.
2: General service – including oil, brakes, wheels, tyres and other moving parts. Most of these items are safety features and don’t like neglect! Should be done on an annual basis (at least) or before any long trip. Don't forget to include things like the spare wheel: tyres degrade even when doing nothing, especially of exposed to sunlight. Speaking of tyres, be sure to know the recommended air pressures for them, from the vehicle manufacturer, and the maximum pressures allowed by the tyre manufacturer (printed on the sidewall).
Maintenance: Self Service – Part 1
Professional service is a worthwhile investment.
Keeping your engine bay clean is more than just good housekeeping.
When filling oil be sure to use a funnel to avoid spills. A clean one is even better.
32
3: Fix leaks (water and dust) – often a problem in older motorhomes and better if found sooner than later. Regular internal inspections with a torch, especially in places like the Luton peak, external bins and the back of overhead lockers are the clue and repairs should be done ASAP.
4: On-road electrical systems – including head, brake and clearance lights. These are safety features and should be checked before every trip.
5: House electrical systems – includes all 240 and 12-volt fittings and appliances. Whilst non-functioning items
can simply be annoying, items like Residual Current Devices (RCDs) aka ‘Safety Switches’ are a personal safety item. Important: 240 V repairs must always be left to licensed electricians. Don't forget to ‘Tag and Test’ all power leads, too.
6: Power systems – on a more sophisticated level, batteries, inverters, generators and solar panels have their own maintenance requirements. Manufacturers’ instructions should be followed, especially in relation to batteries left standing for lengthy periods.
Certainly, batteries should be charged-up on a weekly basis. Solar panels need cleaning regularly to work most efficiently.
Maintenance: Self Service – Part 1
Roadside breakdowns are always inconvenient…
Any electrical work can be daunting, but 240 V work requires a licensed professional.
33
7: Gas systems – except for changing gas cylinders and using soapy water for leak checking, repairs must always be left to licensed professionals.
8: Water systems – leaks are usually obvious but slow ones can cause problems if not dealt with. Be wary of any puddles that appear under your vehicle and also watch for leaks inside from behind panels, inside cupboards, etc.
9: Cassette toilet – there a few simple maintenance items that can be done to avoid any unpleasant problems. Check your owner’s manual. These should be done annually or before a lengthy trip.
10: Hot water service – this should be checked for leaks and manufacturer’s instructions followed regarding sacrificial anodes in certain brands. If your system is both gas and electric it’s especially important to have all wiring, connections and fittings checked annually. Look for signs of corrosion, too.
Undoubtedly there are other items that should be added to the above list but these should keep you busy enough! Next issue we’ll look at what you should carry in your toolbox. You do have a toolbox, don’t you?
Maintenance: Self Service – Part 1
Always carry at least basic tools. We’ll discuss them next issue.
Check you bathroom carefully for leaks, especially around joins and connectors.
34
Whilst servicing a motorhome probably daunts many people, it is still helpful to have an understanding of what is required so you can have a knowledgeable discussion with the service person.
Maintenance: Self Service – Part 1 35
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Visit www.imotorhome.com.au today
iMotorhome Classifieds are for private sellers and dealers alike, and are now FREE for private sellers!
•Motorhomes and campervans only
•unlimited words
•Up to 12 photos per ad
•New slideshow feature!
•Unlimited edits and updates
•Selected ads appear in iMotorhome eMagazine
•Advertise until sold
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because getting there is half the fun...
Classifieds: Snapshots
iMotorhome Featured Classifieds37
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•Worldwide coverage
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Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
TABLETPRESCRIPTION
A dozen tablets that could make your digital life easier…
From Gizmag
39
T here are plenty of tablets out there to choose from, and with the
Festive Season upon us it’s a good time to start dropping hints about which one might make the ideal Christmas gift. Tell them it’s medicinal!
Agony of choice…We had to narrow our list down somehow, so we went with what we consider to be the highest profile tablets of the moment. If you stroll into your local electronics or retail
store, these are the models you're most likely to see.
Are they also the best tablets? Many are, others maybe less so. But for the sake of simplicity, we had to cut it off somewhere, so "high-profile" it is.
We also left out hybrid tablet PCs that run full desktop operating systems, like the Surface Pro and Lenovo Yoga. Their software, internal guts, and prices basically make them laptops trapped
in tablets' bodies, so we left them out of this round.
We divided our picks into two groups. The large 22 cm (8.9 inch) and larger tablets:
• Apple iPad Air
• Amazon Kindle Fire HDX 8.9 inch
• Microsoft Surface 2
• Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 10.1
• Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 (2014 Edition)
Size
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison 40
Size
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
And the smaller 20 cm (8.0 inch) and below tablets:
• Apple iPad mini with Retina Display
• Apple iPad mini (1st generation)
• Amazon Kindle Fire HDX
• Google/Asus Nexus 7 (2013)
• Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 (8 inch)
• Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 (7inch)
• Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0
For each category, you'll see two visuals: one showing the five big boys, and another with the seven little guys. The images sit smack dab on top of each other, so you can easily ogle all twelve at once.
Got it? Good. Without further ado, we present to you our 2013 Tablet Comparison Guide.
SizeQuite a variety here. We have everything ranging from Microsoft's honkin' big Surface 2 to Samsung's teeny Galaxy Tab 3 7". How big of a difference is it? Well, the Tab 3 only gives you 46 per cent as much surface area as the Surface. All the other tablets lie somewhere in between.
We'll get to displays in a minute, but it's worth noting that the screens of the three iPads and the 8-inch Galaxy
41
Tab take up the highest percentage of their front faces. Other tablets, like the Kindle Fires and the Surface 2, have much more space devoted to their bezels.
WeightAmong the big tablets, the
Kindle Fire HDX 8.9 is the lightest, but remember that it also has a 27 per cent smaller screen than the feathery iPad Air. The Surface 2, despite being a hair lighter than the 1st-gen Surface RT, is by far the heaviest in this group.
The Nexus 7 is the lightest in this bunch, but the small tablets are all in the same general weight class. That's a win for the 8-in tablets, as they all give you significantly more screen real estate than the 7-in slates do (more on that in a minute).
Weight
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison 42
BuildPlastic shows up the most, but it's also generally going to give you the cheapest feel. Only the Surface and the iPads use metallic build materials.
The two Kindle Fires and the Nexus 7 all lack physical navigation buttons. So you'll sacrifice a portion of their screens, in exchange for virtual buttons.
Also worth noting: the Surface 2 is the only tablet in this group that gives you a kickstand. It helps to use it as a faux laptop, when paired with one of Microsoft's keyboard covers.
Build
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison 43
ColoursHere are your colour options, with 8 of the 12 tablets giving you some choice in the matter.
DisplayIf you're wondering about those percentages above,
that's a quick reference to show you the relative size of each screen (with the biggest screen, the Surface 2, marking 100 per cent). These stats are based on screen area, not the misleading diagonal measurements that
manufacturers use.
When is a 7.9-inch screen bigger than an 8-inch screen? When they have different aspect ratios, that's when. The iPad mini's 4:3 aspect ratio gives you 4 per cent
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
Colours
44
more screen area than the Galaxy Note 8.0's 16:10 screen.
Speaking of aspect ratios, the iPads' 4:3 is easily the best for portrait mode use, and is also good for landscape.
The 16:10 tablets can work decently for portrait mode, but are more oblong. The Surface's 16:9 screen is, more or less, strictly landscape. Use it in portrait, and you'll feel like you're reading a long scroll of parchment.
The majority of the tablets in this group have razor-sharp, high resolution displays (which you'd call "Retina" if you were Apple). The exceptions? Four Samsung tablets and the 1st-gen iPad mini, which all have much lower resolution.
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
Display
45
StylusSamsung's Galaxy Notes are the only slates in this group that are centred around stylus input. They also include some software features that take advantage of the S Pen, including quick note-jotting from anywhere,
screen annotating, and scrolling through web pages by hovering your pen over the screen.
You can buy third-party styluses that are compatible with the other tablets, but they don't have the system-wide
software integration that the Notes' S Pens do.
SoftwareEach platform has its own fans, but when it comes to apps, the iPad still rules this roost. Apple's most recent stats (from October) boast
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
Stylus
46
of more than 475,000 total tablet-optimised apps in the App Store. A recent report estimated that Google Play's count of tablet apps is "in the low tens of thousands."
Curiously, the Surface's Windows Store has over 120,000 apps. It must be
loaded with lots of useless filler apps, though, because our experience paints a very different picture. Despite those stats, we're confident in declaring its app selection the weakest in this group.
Of course you can also run scaled-up smartphone apps
on all the Android tablets. You can get away with that on smaller tablets like the Nexus 7, but the bigger the screen gets, the more ridiculous those stretched-out apps will look. Expect lots of blank space and unattractive layouts.
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
Software
47
Bundled office appsApple is throwing in its iWork suite of office apps (Pages, Numbers, and Keynote) with every new iPad purchase.
Microsoft also includes the RT version of Office, which looks and behaves almost exactly like the desktop version, with the Surface 2. Not to miss out
on the fun, Amazon is tacking on a third-party office app called OfficeSuite Pro 7 with Fire HDX purchases.
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
Office Apps
48
Storage The two new iPads offer the most storage options, but everything else (apart from last
year's iPad mini) is available in multiple flash storage tiers.
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
Storage
49
Wireless The Surface 2 is the only tablet in this bunch that isn't sold in a cellular version, but
that will supposedly come sometime in 2014.
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
Wirelss
50
Processor There shouldn't be too much concern about performance anywhere in this group, but expect the 7-in Galaxy Tab to be the most questionable. The
1st-gen iPad mini is no speed demon either, but the two new iPads are about as fast as it gets right now.
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
Processor
51
RAM RAM ranges from a mere 512 MB in the first iPad mini, all the way up to 3 GB in the 2014 Galaxy Note 10.1.
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
RAM
52
Battery We haven't put all of these tablets through our standard battery test, so the above visuals show their capacities (at least where they're known).
From where we stand now, we'd say the iPad Air and Kindle Fire HDX 8.9 are the ones to beat here.
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
Battery
53
Cameras Who's up for some awkward tablet photography? Everything but the 7-in Kindle
Fire HDX includes a rear camera.
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
Cameras
54
On-device customer serviceWe'll throw Amazon a bone here, and highlight the Kindle Fire HDX's "Mayday" button.
If you want help using your device, tap the button, and an Amazon rep will pop onto your screen to lend a hand. It's kinda like one-way video chat: you can see the Amazon rep,
but they can only hear you. They can, however, see your screen, draw on your screen, and even control your device, if you're into that kind of thing.
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
On-Device Customer Service
55
Release cycleThe original iPad mini is the only 2012 holdout on this list (Apple kept it around for a second year at a lower price). Most of the other tablets just launched within the last few months, so there isn't too much to worry about here.
The Galaxy Note 8.0 has been around since April, so it's possible we'll see its follow-up in around five months.
The iPad mini with Retina Display hasn't yet released at the time of publication. But you should expect it around
the end of November, possibly in extremely short supply.
Starting pricesAnd it all leads up to this. All prices shown are in US$ for the US market, but show the relative pricing and probably what you can
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
Release Cycle
56
find them for online and have shipped to Australia. Good deals are available in Australia from man of the major online discount electronics specialist, like JB HiFi, and eBay.
As you can see, prices are
all over the place. Apple has never been known for budget pricing, and the iPads are no exception. That includes a US$70 hike for the 2nd-gen iPad mini over what the original went for last year. In exchange, the 1st-gen model got a $30 price drop.
Apple's high margins leave room for Amazon and Google to price their tablets pretty aggressively. You could easily argue that the two Kindle Fires and the Nexus 7 give you the most hardware bang for your buck. They all have razor-sharp screens, fast
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison
Price - in US Dollars
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performance, and modest price tags. Just remember that the base prices for Amazon's tablets include advertising on the lockscreen. You'll need to fork over an extra $15 to turn those ads off.
Wrap-up
So there you have it, your most high-profile tablets of the 2013
holiday shopping season. The iPad is still the most popular tablet, and we think the iPad Air is the best full-sized
tablet you can buy today. But Samsung's tablets are growing in popularity, and Kindle Fire and Nexus tablets always provide that great value.
The odd man out is the Surface 2: it's improved over its predecessor, but its app selection isn't great and its supposed productivity advantage is dampened by the fact that it doesn't run desktop apps (you'll need to check out the Surface Pro 2 for that). Plus you'll
have to fork over an extra US$120 or so to get one of Microsoft's keyboard covers, an integral part of the Surface experience.
We can say there aren't any tablets in this group that we'd avoid like the plague. The hardest sell might be the 7-in Galaxy Tab 3 – not because it's a terrible tablet, but because you can get a much better device, the Nexus 7, for very little more. Merry Christmas!
Mobile Tech: Tablet Comparison 58
Road-Side Eats: Poppy's Ice Cream Van
Poppy’s home made ice creams are to diet for…
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Road-Side Eats: Poppy's Ice Cream Van
Forget about doing a silly dance for no particular reason, Poppy’s ice
cream van on the waterfront at Kaikoura, about 180 km north of Christchurch on State Highway 1, is worth doing a song and dance about all on its own.
Mrs iMotorhome and I chanced upon Poppy’s last week, on the first day of our New Zealand motorhome relocation adventure. Several friends had told us to be sure to visit Kaikoura – a town renowned for its spectacular seaside setting, backed by towering snowcapped mountains – but none could
have known about Poppy’s: It had only been open three weeks.
Poppy (named by her grandkids) and new husband Bruce set up the little roadside van following their recent marriage, to give her a little business of her own in her newly adopted home town. Poppy is ex-Christchurch and had lost her closest work colleague in the catastrophic earthquake of February 2011. A long-term single mum, ‘Poppy’ found love (Bruce) on the Internet following the ‘quake and has taken to her new life like, um, a kid to ice cream. With husband Bruce
standing nearby for support, Poppy mixes her own creations and serves them to, what I predict, will be a rapidly growing clientele.
After agonising over the choices we settled on Poppy’s version of a New Zealand favourite: Hokey Pokey, made with crushed-up Crunchie chocolate bars. Oh, the Hokey Pokey!
It a toss up though. Mrs iM was strongly leaning towards the passionfruit ice cream, made with Poppy's own passionfruit curd. Real fruit smoothies, plus milkshakes, are also on offer and although the menu list is relatively small
Bruce, Poppy and Mrs iM beside Poppy’s portable seaside ice cream emporium.
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Road-Side Eats: Poppy's Ice Cream Van
you really can’t go wrong. Ice cream runs to about NZ$3.50, from memory, for a single serve in waffle cone.
The setting helps, too, I’m sure. Just 10 metres from the water’s edge, Poppy provides a couple of small white tables
and chairs so you can sit back and admire the stunning scenery. Sitting in the warmth of the spring afternoon sunshine, eating probably the best ice cream ever and gazing across the bay at the snow capped Seaward
Kaikoura mountains, which almost rise from the water’s edge, is an experience I’ll long remember.
Seaside Kaikoura – the name literally means ‘meal of crayfish’ – has a population around 2500, a year-round
Nothing like taking over the shop!
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average temperature of 15º C and is a popular centre for whale watching and all-things seafood and water sports. Poppy’s is at the southern end
of town, on the Esplanade as you head towards the peninsular and the site of the original whaling station. We visited on a postcard day
and it was perfect. If you’re passing by be sure to drop in and, if you can, stay a while. So many ice creams, so little time. Oh, the Hokey Pokey…
Road-Side Eats: Poppy's Ice Cream Van
Views are to die for, ice cream is to diet for. What a combination!
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Road-Side Eats: Poppy's Ice Cream Van
Even George Clooney can’t resist Poppy’s homemade ice creams…
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Bringing the flavoursome zing of balsamic vinegar to the humble chicken breast…
Cook-up: Chicken Breast Balsamic
Yum Zinger!
by Jess Ciampa
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You’ll need...
Cook-up: Chicken Breast Balsamic
by Jess Ciampa
Chicken Breast Balsamic
Hints • I have also cooked this by pan frying
it with the lid on.
• While the cooked chicken is resting for 5 minutes make a glaze. With the marinade left in the pan you can add a knob of butter and make a glaze to put over the chicken!
• Be sure to stop at roadside stalls for the best, freshest and often the cheapest fruit and vegetables.
• 1/4cupbalsamicvinegar
• 1tablespoonoliveoil
• 11/2teaspoonsdriedoregano
• 2garliccloves,minced
• 1teaspoonsalt(adjusttotaste)
• 1/2teaspoonblackpepper(adjusttotaste)
• 2x200gramsboneless,skinlesschickenbreasthalves
• Cookingspray
Then...In a small bowl, put vinegar, oil, oregano, garlic, salt and pepper and mix until combined.
Put chicken in a ziploc bag. Pour vinegar mixture in bag with chicken, seal bag and spread marinade over chicken.
Refrigerate minimum of 30 minutes (overnight is best).
Preheat your oven or Webber to about 200º C.
Spray small baking dish with cooking spray.
Put chicken in prepared baking dish and pour marinade over
Cover and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked thoroughly. Let sit for 5 minutes and then serve. Garnish to taste and serve with a fresh salad
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Next Issue
Know of a local or regional show coming up that attracts and promotes motorhomes, campervans and the great RV lifestyle in general?
Drop us a line at [email protected] and we’ll happily promote it in this calendar.
Malcolm will bring us his insights into the Trakkaway 770,
Trakka’s largest single rear-axle motorhome, which he recently spent a week in at the CMCA rally in Narrabri.
Mrs iMotorhome will share her heavily crayfish-centric NZ travel diary and Mr iMotorhome will bring you the lowdown on doing your own NZ rental relocation.
We’ve got a three week break until the next issue on December 7th, so until then be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter
for breaking news, comments and a laugh or three. See you then!
HOLIDAY TIME…
Click for Google Maps
November 22-24
Bendigo Caravan & Camping Show
Bendigo Racecourse, Heinz St, Ascot. VIC.• Open 9:00-5:00 daily
(4:00 Sunday)• Parking: Available• Adults: $10• Seniors: $6• Kids: Free U 15
with adult
22-24NOV
7-9FEB
19-23FEB
http://www.leisurefest.com.au/visitor.html
February 07-09
Newcastle Caravan, Camping & Holiday Expo
Newcastle Entertainment Centre and Showground• Open 9:00-5:00 daily
(4:00 Sunday)• Parking: Free• Adults: $10• Seniors: $6• Kids: Free U 16 with
adult
Click for Google Maps
http://newcastle.supershow.com.au/Default.aspx
22-24NOV
7-9FEB
19-23FEB
February 19-23
Adelaide Caravan & Camping Show
Adelaide Showground. • Open 10:00-6:00 daily• Parking: Free• Adults: $13• Seniors: $10• Kids: Free U 15 with
adult
http://www.caravanandcampingsa.com.au/page.asp?parentid=257
22-24NOV
7-9FEB
19-23FEB
Click for Google Maps
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