iMotorhome eMagazine Issue 26 - June 1 2013 by iMotorhome Magazine

iMotorhome

26: June 1 2013

magazine

Issue

Win!

because getting there is half the fun...

$50 Caltex Fuel Card!

Wanderland

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to hit the road just because the weatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s turned chilly... Nexxo t687

Strange name for a great motorhome!

Tyred and Emotional? Getting to grips with tyre jargon...

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On my mind

WINTER OF YOUR DISCONTENT?

elcome to winter 2013 style: warm, sunny and oh, I’m probably speaking far too soon. Many of you will be reading this from a comfortable chair somewhere up north and to you I say half your luck, but for many winter means parking up and staying home. But why? In this issue Malcolm Street takes a look at the pros and cons of winter touring. Being something of a contrarian myself I get what he’s talking about and the lure of crowd-free campsites, rugging up for walks and sitting back with a good drink and watching the (cold) world go by is very appealing.

If you’re time and/or money poor and can’t migrate north with the crowd, be sure to try a few short breaks this winter. You might just find them addictive – as long as you’re prepared.

case of a “Houston, we have a problem” moment. It’s been a challenging and often frustrating experience but the new site looks good and has much more to offer.

Speaking of being prepared, we came perilously close to launching our much-vaunted new website in time for this issue. Some last minute technical issue (of course!) meant we could only have launched the day before this issue came out, so we’re holding back until after the weekend and will launch in time for the Brisbane show. We also want the security of the technical boffins on call in

The central feature is the classified ads, which are open to private sellers and dealers. Initially just for campervans and motorhomes we’ll be expanding this soon to include other recreational vehicles plus general items and including a free section for private items under a certain value. Because we’re starting from scratch we’ve reduced the cost to $25, which is half price, for ads placed in June and July. All ads Continued...

• Campervans • Motorhomes • Caravans • Hobby Haulers

• Camper Trailers • Off-Road Caravans • Pop-top Caravans • Hard-top Caravans • Campervans • Motorhomes

5 Melrose Dr, Wodonga 3690 • Ph: 02 6024 4222 • awrvworld.com.au

Onmy my mind... mind On

...Continued

runs until sold, so if you’ve got a vehicle to sell please give us a go! Another major feature is that the website is what they call Progressive: changing layout according to the device and screen size you’re viewing it on. Traditional websites have needed separate ‘normal’ and ‘mobile’ sites, which require different design, programming

and content, but a progressive site is a true one-size-fits-all solution. If you have an iPad, for example, how it displays in the upright position is very different to how it displays on its side. Try it, it’s pretty cool. It also means you can view the site properly on a smartphone. Gotta love technology, when it works... The new website will always be a work-in-progress and plans

are already in place for some powerful new features, but in the mean time your feedback would be appreciated – warts and all – along with your patience during the transition period. See you next issue – or maybe in Brisbane?

d r a h c i R

The iMotorhome Team

Richard Robertson

Malcolm Street

Agnes Nielsen-Connolly

Publisher & Managing Editor

Consulting Editor

Design & Production Manager

A long-time freelance RV, motoring and travel writer, Richard is a dedicated, longterm motorhome enthusiast.

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.

Agnes is an experienced and talented graphic designer with extensive experience across a wide range of disciplines, including travel and advertising.

richard@imotorhome.com.au

He has held senior editorial positions with some of the best know recreational vehicle magazines in Australia. Richard also has a passion for lifestyleenhancing technology, which is why he is the driving force behind the new iMotorhome eMagazine.

malcolm@imotorhome.com.au

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@imotorhome.com.au

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.

Trakkaway 700

INSIDE EDISNI

3 ON MY MIND Winter wonderings

7 ON YOUR MIND Have your say for a chance to win a $50 Caltex fuel card!

12 NEWS

News from the RV world and beyond

16 TESTED

Just in the Nexxo time – Malcolm checks out a stylish European beauty

30 TRAVEL 17

Winter Wanderland – Get out and about this winter!

40 TECHNICAL 21 Tyred and Emotional – Tyre symbols deciphered

46 MOBILE TECH 23

Camera Plus! – The must-have camera app for iPhones and iPads

52 NEXT ISSUE What’s coming up, plus our show calendar

On your mind

7 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 letters@imotorhome. com.au and we’ll share it with

Hi Richard. Here are a couple of photos of an approach I take to pegging down the matting outside my motorhome. Instead of tent pegs I use motor vehicle engine valves that can be obtained from any engine rebuilder/car wrecker – usually for free! They are easy to install and remove and do not damage your matting like tent pegs. Additionally there is less chance of you stubbing a toe on them. Alan via email Hi Alan, what an inspired idea! Old engine valves are also easier to hit (important for older eyes!), with less chance of your hammer slipping off, too. Go straight to the top of the class and collect this issue’s $50 Caltex fuel card for your effort.

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.

On your mind Thank you for the interesting and very informative review of the Melaleuca. My wife and I have had a Frontline VW T5 for the last 2 years and while it is perfect for the warmer months, we do struggle a bit in the colder months and are considering a slightly bigger vehicle, thus the interest in the Melaleuca. Whilst you were comfortable with the 2.3-litre motor, if you were buying a Melaleuca would you order the 2.3 or the 3.0 litre engine? (we currently have the 103 kW TDI engine in the VW, which we find satisfactory). Secondly, I note the foam cushions are 4 inches rather than 6 inches in the Frontline. Do you have any view on the inner sprung mattress versus foam? ( we would have the 2/3 bed, 1/3 seat arrangement). Would also appreciate any other comments which may occur to you, given you spent some time in this vehicle.

Hi Richard, just been reading your issue No 22 with the article on the generator box and I was thinking you may wish to publish an article on all my modifications to my A’Van and the tilting drive-up carrier on the back for my Honda scooter. Although our motorhome is now nearly 5 years old and has covered 74,000 km the

8 Finally, if we go ahead, I would like to sell the Frontline through iMotorhome classifieds. Can you advise when the site will be up and running and how do I place an advertisement? Sorry to burden you with all these queries when you are obviously very busy and thank you for a wonderful publication. Thanks, Andre via email. Thanks for your email Andre, it's no burden: Always happy to help where I can and glad you enjoy the magazine! Re the Melaleuca, if money is no object then opt for the bigger engine, but it's certainly not a necessary upgrade. I could happily live with the smaller engine, which also seems to have a significant fuel economy edge on its bigger brother.

option and Horizon will supply any combination of lounge/bed layout and cushioning you need. Other thoughts? The front table pole mount in the floor could be located a few inches further aft, while the small front table itself could retain its current shape but be a little longer. I'd certainly fit a Webasto diesel-fired heater and a reversing camera. Short it might be but rear vision is difficult to judge when maneuvering in tight spaces. Regarding the classifieds, our new website should be running by the time you read this so just click on Marketplace, then Classifieds and Place an Ad. I hope these answers help, but if you have any further questions please don't hesitate to ask.

As for the foam cushioning, I'd be specifying the innerspring

model has not changed in that time. Current ones just have a different upholstery colour and decals. All the mods were made and fitted by myself, including the carrier. Bit of boasting, but I thought I'd ask. And I wouldn't swap it for quids, in a similar price range of course! Regards, Bill, via email.

Hey Bill that sounds like a great idea. Please send me some pics as I’d be very interested to see what you’ve done – as would our readers, I believe.

LOVE YOUR FREEDOM. LOVE YOUR HORIZON.

Embrace your freedom in luxury and style with Horizon Motorhomes. Established in 1995, our motorhomes are built in, not bolted on, and use Mercedes Benz and Fiat Ducato as base vehicles with the option of two or four wheel drive. A choice of six models with a huge selection of tailorable features allows you to personalise your motorhome to your travelling needs. Our quality interiors offer clever layouts to maximize storage and convenience, and our entire range is easy to drive and simple to park. Experience the difference. Test drive a Horizon Motorhome today.

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10 magazine

iMotorhome

because getting there is half the fun...

Launching this week iMotorhome Classifieds are for private sellers and dealers, with a great introductory offer... • Motorhomes & Campervans only • Unlimited words • 12 Photos plus Slideshow • Unlimited edits and updates • Latest ads featured in iMotorhome Magazine • Advertise until sold • Introductory offer for June and July: $25 – that’s 50% off!

Coming soon to www.imotorhome.com.au

On your mind / News

G’day Richard. Just spent a magic four days at Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast with the surf pounding below us. Recently we have been spending an extended weekend once a month at the Mooloolaba Esplanade campground which has only 40 sites. I spoke to a number of motorhome owners who had never heard of your mag. It occurs to me that it would be useful to have something

like a printable flyer on your website to hand to people to encourage them to go online and take a look. Old technology I know! Cheers, Alan via email. Thanks Alan, sounds like you’re having a great time. Mooloolaba Esplanade campground sounds excellent, as is your idea for a printable flyer on our new website. So it’s done! Just go to the Resources menu

11 and look for the Promo Flyer sub-menu. You can print it off or email out and any help in spreading the word about iMotorhome is greatly appreciated. I’d give you the $50 award for this issue on the strength of that, except you’ve already won it for your tent peg idea! Please keep your great ideas rolling in and come on everyone else, what great tips and ideas do you have that could earn you an easy $50?

^ NYNGAN NO LONGER RV FRIENDLY ] to Nyngan seem very slim.”

n a disappointing move reported on the Free Choice Camping Facebook page this week that will adversely affect the whole of the small community of Nyngan in Western NSW is withdrawing its RV Friendly status. A report in the local newspaper quoted Council, saying, “Following representation from the owners of the two Nyngan

Caravan Parks, Council has decided to withdraw from being an RV Friendly Town.” “Part of the criteria to be recognised in this scheme was to provide free parking for motorhomes, campervans and caravans at the showground. Originally we entered into this arrangement to hopefully attract a major motor home rally here, but the chances of this event coming

“The facility for motorhome owners will remain at the Teamsters Rest Area in Pangee Street, however we do not wish to provide an arrangement that potentially takes business from the local park owners.” It’s interesting to note the town only acquired RV Friendly status to attract a CMCA rally. You are encouraged to contact Nyngan Council by email at admin@ bogan.nsw.gov.au to voice your concerns about how the town might effectively be boycotted by RVers as a result of this short sighted decision.

News

12 i GUESS AND WIN! i its capabilities and just what it can and can’t do. I want to prove this 4WD Motorhome can go anywhere a Landcruiser towing a van can go, and more.”

ast issue we revealed Horizon Motorhomes’ boss Clayton Kearney is taking his new model 4WD Waratah on a family odyssey from Ballina to Broome and back, departing on 22 June. An enthusiastic Clayton said, “We’re going to test this vehicle ourselves to see

Now we can reveal that Mr and Mrs iMotorhome will be a part of that journey; picking up the Waratah in Alice Springs and returning it to Ballina via points west. The plan for us is to drive the Plenty and Donohue Highways, east from the Alice to Boulia in Western Queensland and then drop down to Birdsville before heading back to Ballina via St George.

You can share in the fun by guessing how many kilometres the round-trip journey will cover. The prize is a state-of-the-art GPS unit and to enter you need to fill in the form at the Horizon motorhomes’ stand at this week’s Brisbane show. Our departure date is locked in for 21 July and the week-long adventure promises to be great fun – weather permitting of course. Stay tuned for updates and of course you’ll be able to follow the journey on Facebook and Twitter, and via our new website’s Blog.

The Wirraway 260 SL

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News

[ KIWI WISDOM \ Freedom camping in Dunedin WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

t come n move

away ng

and Apollo Car Rentals on a campaign to entice independent Australian travellers to Dunedin for the Cadbury Chocolate Carnival in July. Tourism Dunedin chief executive Hamish Saxton said that Dunedin benefited from its reputation as a ‘motorhome-friendly’ destination. “Independent travellers and those enjoying New Zealand by motorhome are always welcome in the Dunedin region, as it's a destination that's so well suited to the independent traveller. They tend to have more time on their hands and explore more of the destination,” he said.

30am or

www.dunedin.govt.nz

n interesting report from May 30th’s issue of the Otago Daily Times, as featured on the Free Choice Camping Facebook page. Freedom campers and other independent travellers are being enticed to Dunedin. On average, they spend $195 a day and stay longer than most other visitors. This week submissions opened on the Dunedin City Council's draft ‘responsible camping,’ policy, which will ease restrictions on freedom camping. Simultaneously, Tourism Dunedin has collaborated with Cadbury

Tourism Dunedin was also involved with other regional tourism operators in a marketing campaign aimed at encouraging young Australians to take road trips in the South Island. He said the majority of visitors to Dunedin were classed “free and independent travellers”, which excluded those taking part in tours, on cruise ships or on any other package offer. Almost all rented transport and drove themselves around Otago and further afield. They tended to be young and spent money on adventure and wildlife activities. “The key to all of this is responsibility. Some of the

motorhome companies have really embraced the notion of freedom camping by ensuring that the on-board facilities for being self-contained are continually improved and that's fantastic,” Mr Saxton said. Otago Peninsula Community Board chairman John Bellamy said the council's draft camping policy would be a hot topic of conversation at the board's meeting on Thursday. For 20 years, he had watched freedom campers use the Macandrew Bay car park. He said they rarely caused problems. “The only people I know who are not keen on freedom campers are camping ground proprietors,” Mr Bellamy said. The community board was only concerned about rubbish and toilet waste being disposed of cleanly and respectfully. For years, the board had lobbied council to instal a toilet at the end of Seal Point Rd, as people were forced to ''do their business'' in the dunes if they could not last the three-hour return trip, Mr Bellamy said.

News

14 5 RVM AUSTRALIA AUDITS 5

ccording to a press release from RVM Australia – formerly the RVMAA and the self-proclaimed industry peak body behind Australian RV manufacturing standards and compliance – it’s new compliance audit program is progressing well. It reads, “At the official launch last month of our Association's new recreational vehicle manufacturing accreditation program (RVMAP) by the Federal Minister for Road Safety, the Hon Catherine King MP, a number of key announcements were made. The most notable concerned the implementation of RVMAP by the end of April.” “I am very pleased to advise that the first round of physical inspections/ compliance audits commenced at

the end of April and, to date, we have completed audits involving some 23% of our manufacturer members. In addition to conducting an audit of a manufacturer's finished vehicle, our technical advisor takes the opportunity to fully apprise members about RVMAP and, in particular, outline their obligations and responsibilities between audits.” “The most common issues highlighted during the audit process so far concern weights, safety chains and external lighting.” “When a member undergoes an audit and is deemed to have satisfactorily fulfilled the requirements of the RVMAP audit process, they will be issued with an RVM Australia accreditation certificate that will remain current

until the date of their next audit (i.e. initially six months time). Those members that are required to rectify certain matters identified during the audit process are given ten working days to do so before they receive their certificate. Importantly, there will be no more excuses for manufacturer members not being audited in accordance with their audit cycle because RVMAP has been specifically designed to ensure that every member is audited within one month either side of their next audit falling due.” “I should emphasise that RVM Australia has committed to complete an audit of all manufacturer members, regardless of their geographical location, by late August/early September.” “Finally, I am confident that RVMAP is a significantly improved audit/ compliance program compared to our former compliance offering, and it will enable RVM Australia as the peak body for Australia's manufacturing industry to reinforce with the Federal Government our credentials to assist in better managing the importation of RVs into Australia.”

News

15 q TRAKKA TURNS 40 q reason for the timing of the article was to coincide with Trakka’s 40th anniversary.

urther to last issue’s Met Your Maker feature on Trakka, in the rush to get to print we forgot to mention the

Congratulations to Sally and Dave Berry on a remarkable achievement, helped in no small part by a loyal team of long term employees like Martin Poate, Michael Lord and David Wallis.

It’s a terrific achievement and a testament to the quality and integrity of the Trakka products – and the people behind them.

d WHAT A GAS PEN d

e received information on this interesting and apparently must-have accessory in the UK, from Laurie – the “Techie member of the Free Choice Camping threesome” – who is currently holidaying there and in Europe. According to Dometic’s UK website: “Reliable gas supply is a must for camping enthusiasts wishing to enjoy independence in remote areas away from the campsite, and also for many other

motorhome and caravan activities. Therefore, it is always important to know how many litres of gas are on board. The Dometic GasCheck GC 100 is an easy and lightweight tool to check the fill level of gas bottles. Weighing just 25 grams, the practical device can tell in just a few seconds how full – or empty – a gas bottle is.” “The GasChecker is easy to use: simply press the probe horizontally to various points on the bottle wall and watch the indicator light.

Before using the GasChecker, ensure the tip of the pen and the gas bottle surface are both clean and free from dirt (you can use any normal wet wipe). Green light means there is gas at the point where the measurement is taken; red light means there is none. The fill level indicator is based on ultrasonic technology and can be used for all commonly available steel and aluminium bottles filled with propane or butane with a diameter of 200 to 350 mm.” We’re not sure if we’ll see it in Australia but for more information click here. Thanks Laurie!

Day Test: B端rstner Nexxo t687

Just in the

NEXXO Time The clever B端rstner is truly in a class of its own...

Review and images by Malcolm Street

Day Test: Bürstner Nexxo t687

Golden moment: Burstner’s Nexxo t687 in it’s striking colour scheme gets a reprieve from the Kiwi rain.

ürstner are a well known German manufacturer of both caravans and motorhome. Part of the Hymer group, the manufacturer’s vehicles are quite common in Europe but have, until recently, had a minimal presence in New Zealand and even less in Australia. In the latter case, only Bürstner caravans were commercially (ie not privately) available. However, in more recent times in New Zealand, a company by the name of Smart Motor Homes, under the direction of Terry Tuohy and Michael Becker, is importing a number of Bürstner motorhomes – and

not only for private buyers: Anyone wishing to try before they buy can hire one from Wilderness Motorhomes. When I contacted Terry Tuohy about a possible review he told me that a Nexxo t687 was readily available and since I have not really had a good look over a Bürstner motorhome at all it seemed like a good idea at the time. I only make that latter comment because I had limited days on which to take the Nexxo motorhome and of course, it was raining... The first thing I noticed about my review Nexxo was the external colour – a very classy

looking metallic gold, otherwise known as Champagne in Bürstner speak. I should note that for anyone who likes the traditional white, then that is also available. The second thing I noticed was that the Nexxo is based on very familiar vehicle, a Fiat Ducato. Now before I go much further, there’s something else I should mention. In both Australia and New Zealand, motorhomes are loosely defined into three classes and I mean loosely. A-class refers to motorhomes that are fully built up from the chassis; ie the motorhome manufacturer uses the chassis only and

Day Test: Bürstner Nexxo t687

Easily maneuverable, the Nexxo is well suited to seeing the sights in towns as well as the open countryside.

fully builds the body. B-class refers to motorhomes that are built on a cab-chassis but don’t have a luton peak, ie nose cone that is large enough to accommodate a small double bed. C-class is simply a B-class with a luton peak. Savvy? If not don’t get stressed because as I said the definitions are quite loose. However, just to complicate things, Bürstner don’t use that system at all. Instead, A-class are referred to as Integrated models, B-class as Semi-Integrated and C-class as Alcove. Then there are a couple of others as well – Grand Panorama which is an A-class but with a very large

front window, plus an aptly named Compact, which is sort of a thinned down B-class, sorry Semi-Integrated. So the Nexxo t687 is a SemiIntegrated/B-class motorhome, but however it’s defined it’s a very stylish looking motorhome.

The Vehicle

s I mentioned the Nexxo is built on a Fiat Ducato, but in this case not with the 180 multijet, which is the most powerful (132 kW, 400 Nm) 3.0-litre turbo diesel in the Ducato range, but the smallest:

Day Test: Bürstner Nexxo t687

The motorhomes stand up really well in the rental situation. They are light weight but really sturdy. the 130 multijet with 96 kW of power and 320 Nm of torque. It comes with a standard Fiat chassis and weighs in with a tare weight of 2850 kg and a GVM of 3650 kg, giving a more than reasonable load carrying capacity. The sleek looking body structure is a mixture of fibreglass mouldings and

aluminium walls and roof. According to Michael Becker, “The walls are vacuum composite with an outer skin of aluminium, foam in the middle and lined inside with ply. There is no framing in the walls apart from where required and these parts are then timber. Required means where, for example, internal furniture needs to

fastened to. Furniture is light weight ply and the doors are honeycomb construction to keep them light.” “The motorhomes stand up really well in the rental situation. They are light weight yet still very sturdy!” The Bürstner’s windows are (mostly) large double glazed

Despite the door being on the ‘wrong’ side, Malcolm found it easy to adapt to during his short test.

Day Test: Bürstner Nexxo t687

Rear boot is a good size and accessible from the driver’s side and rear. and tinted acrylic windows. All top hinged so they can be left open in the rain. Undoubtedly the odd feature about this motorhome at least as far as NZ is concerned, is that the door is on the “wrong” side. Although, it’s a right hand drive vehicle, apparently the British market (for which most of these motorhomes are destined) isn’t large enough to have its own nearside door production line. Bürstner aren’t the only European manufacturer in this category, I’ve been in several before and it’s not as difficult to get used to as it might sound and is certainly less annoying that a caravan with the door on the “wrong” side; mostly because a motorhome is more easily maneuverable.

Day Test: Bürstner Nexxo t687

Custom fabric finish looks good while wood dash highlights add a touch of style. One of the surprises in this Nexxo is that is has a large rear boot, accessible from both the rear and the offside – the nearside being used for a gas cylinder bin. Naturally any motorhome out of Europe comes with a heater (air conditioners are optional), in this case a Truma gas fired unit, which also heats the water. On the Road ell, the Fiat Ducato used as a base vehicle for any motorhome certainly handles very well and this one is no exception. The 2.3-litre engine is mated to Fiat’s six speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), which responds quite well, except

Day Test: Bürstner Nexxo t687

Clever table extension swivels out from underneath and the dinette can seat five. as typical with many an AMT gearbox, sometimes being hesitant in the lower ranges. There’s no doubt that the 96 kW/320 Nm engine will move the Nexxo along but in the hills and dales of NZ, especially if a bit of load is being carried, I’d definitely prefer at least the mid range 150 mutijet 2.3 litre (109 kW/350 Nm) unit, if not the larger 3.0 litre/132 kW engine. Living Inside tepping inside the Nexxo t687 reveals a compact but efficiently put together layout. The front area is devoted to relaxing and dining, the mid area is bathroom (nearside) and kitchen (offside to the rear of the entry door) with the rear area being the bedroom, complete with island bed. I

S Table removes as do individual lights, which can then be moved where needed.

Day Test: Bürstner Nexxo t687

If there’s a weak point in the Nexxo it’s the typically (European) small sized kitchen bench areas. have to say I like the interior décor colours, described as “Madeira” in the Bürstner catalogue, which results in a nice, bright interior. In the electric lighting department, the halogen light fittings look a bit like old fashioned track lighting but the individual light fittings are, in fact, cleverly designed to unclip and move around to where more lighting is needed. Lounging Around p front there is seating for five people, which sounds amazing

in something this size and to be truthful, would be a tad cramped. However, the quite flexible layout has been achieved by having both driver’s cab seats swivel around, a two seat lounge behind the passenger seat with table in between and a fifth sideways-facing seat that sits between the driver’s seat and entry door. The other tricky little feature is the table, which can be removed if not needed, but also has a second table underneath that can be swivelled out and giving a moderate dining capacity for

Kitchen bench space is almost nonexistent.

five people! A very neat idea I have to say and typically European in its use of space. Time to Eat ow it certainly depends on how you cook but if there’s a week point in this Nexxo, then it’s the typically small sized kitchen bench areas. Just long enough to have a three burner hob and round stainless steel sink sans drainer, it also has enough underbench area for the 104-litre three way fridge and three drawers. A microwave oven is an option and I am

Day Test: Bürstner Nexxo t687

Party trick: Bathroom back wall and loo hinge open to access the shower! guessing fits into one of the two Although the walk around overhead lockers. space isn’t too squashy, the top of the wheel arches do After Hours intrude slightly. In addition to iven this is a 7 m / 23ft the bed head of overhead motorhome, one of lockers and side wardrobes, the surprises is that the underbed area has been a 1.95 m/6 ft 5 in island bed neatly compartmented up, so has been fitted in. It’s been that the front part is accessible done by the compromise of by roller shutter doors without having a relatively small kitchen. lifting the bed and the rear area

is accessible from the exterior bin doors. In the bathroom is another surprise: When the bathroom door is opened, what is seen is a Thetford cassette toilet to the right and a well setup vanity unit to the left but no shower facilities. Don’t Germans shower when travelling? They certainly do! The curved rear

Day Test: Bürstner Nexxo t687

Island bed takes up most of the bedroom.

Underbed storage is neatly compartmented. wall of the vanity unit is hinged and when swung across, reveals and shower cubicle with both the vanity unit and cassette protected from shower water. A very clever space saving idea and much better than a plastic shower curtain, that’s for sure!

Neat electrical control panel above side entry door.

What we Think t’s difficult not to be impressed by the Bürstner Nexxo t687, nor the price even if a larger motor is included. Typically European in design, there is a very effective use of interior space without a millimetre being wasted. Also typical are features like the smallish kitchen, which some

cooks may have to learn to live with. Ditto the entry door on the driver’s side, which some might find awkward, but having tried out several motorhomes with doors on the “wrong side” I really didn’t find it a problem. I’d be suggesting though that if there’s any doubt, then try a week’s rental from Smart Wilderness Motorhomes to see how you like it.

Day Test: Bürstner Nexxo t687

Narrow body and low roof are great for exploring. PS: Any Australian looking at this and doing a little currency conversion might think the Nexxo looks a good deal, which it is. However, although Bürstner motorhomes are readily available in NZ, I’m not quite sure when that might happen across the Tasman. Compliance on several fronts is always an issue, although from what I understand, it’s not so much the motorhome components, as the Fiat Ducato. Apparently there’s a special manufacturing line in the Fiat factory just for Australia. Or something like that...

Day Test: Bürstner Nexxo t687

It’s difficult not to be impressed by the BÜrstner Nexxo t687. Typically European, there is a very effective use of interior space without a millimetre being wasted.

Day Test: Bürstner Nexxo t687

Specifications Manufacturer

Bürstner

Model

Nexxo t687

Base Vehicle

Fiat Ducato 130 Multijet

Engine

2.3-litre turbo-diesel

Power

96 kW @ 3600 rpm

Torque

320 Nm @1800 rpm

Gearbox

6-speed Automated Manual

Brakes

ABS Disc

Tare Weight

2850 kg

Gross Vehicle Mass

3650 kg

Towing

1700 kg

Licence

Standard NZ Driver

Approved Seating

External Length

6.89 m (22 ft 7 in)

External Width

2.3 m (7 ft 7 in)

External Height

2.75 m (9 ft)

Internal Height

1.95 m (6 ft 5 in)

Rear Bed Size

1.95 m x 1.46 m (6 ft 5 in x 4 ft 9 in)

Cooktop

3 burner

Fridge

Dometic RM7401 104-litre 3-way

Microwave

Optional

Lighting

12V LED and halogen

Batteries

2 x 90 AH

Gas

2 x 9.0 kg

Heater

Truma Combi Gas 4 heater with electric element

Solar Panels

Optional

Air Conditioner

Optional

Hot Water Heater

10-litre (Truma Combi)

Toilet

Thetford cassette

Shower

Flexible hose, variable height

Fresh Water Tank

120-litre

Grey Water Tank

90-litre

Price (on-road, NZ)

NZ$125,000.00

Pros • External looks • Bathroom design • Large external storage bin, also accessible from inside • Front dining/lounge layout • Double layer swivelling table • Island bed • Internal lighting

Cons • Entry door on the driver’s side • Smallish kitchen • Smallest and least powerful of the Ducato engine

Contact Sales Smart Motor Homes 99 Bawden Road, Dairy Flat, Albany, 0792, New Zealand

Click for Google Maps

Ph: 09 447 1087 E: terrytuohy@smartmotorhomes.co.nz W: smartmotorhomes.co.nz Rental Wilderness Motorhomes Ph: 0508 945 337 (in NZ) Ph: +64 (9) 2555 300 (outside NZ) W: www.wilderness.co.nz

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Travel: Winter Touring

Why stay home or just head north when the final autumn leaves have fallen? Words and Images by Malcolm Street

Travel: Winter Touring

New Zealand offer postcard touring opportunities and winter-friendly rental vehicles.

s I write this, the last of the autumn leaves are dropping here in Sydney and the first days of winter are rapidly approaching. It’s time to break out the fleecy jackets and clean out the filters on the gas heaters and for those of us in the winter sports fraternity it’s also a time to get the snow skis out for a bit of a tune and wax. For many motorhomers, the onset of winter is also a time to park up and spend several months at home. Of course there are those who continue to travel. In Australia, those members of the Grey Wave who have not already done so will be heading north to the Top End for a few months of warmer weather. Things are different in NZ of course, where cooler weather is more common and those

still desiring to travel will be lightly ‘winterising’ their motorhomes. I use the word lightly in conjunction with winterising because in the northern hemisphere, it takes on a whole new meaning and involves draining tanks, closing off plumbing and using wax in diesel fuel. Winter Wanderings or those who have not given much thought to winter travel in either country, can I urge you to give it some consideration? In the past I have spent many a happy motorhome holiday touring New Zealand during August and September. Mostly in conjunction with snow ski trips I should point out, which is why they have been in winter, but there’s still plenty to see and do even with shorter winter

days. In NZ, there’s nothing quite like a visit to one of the North Island thermal pool areas on a cold winter’s day. I’ve also spend a very cold Christmas/New Year time in Britain in a Bedford CF campervan. It did have a very good gas-fired, air-blown heater that was only a problem when the gas ‘froze’ overnight (I know its sounds odd but LPG can freeze). On a different level and another winter trip – this time around Canada’s Vancouver Island – a 30 ft A-class motorhome with every comfort known to man was much appreciated. A distinct advantage for anyone renting a motorhome is that off-season rates are very good. Anyone not familiar with motorhome travel or who

Travel: Winter Touring

If you’re heading for the snow you’ll need to carry chains. Although 4WDs aren’t required to carry them in NSW they’re still an excellent idea.

Travel: Winter Touring has not motorhomed for some years might not realise just how well insulated and well equipped the average motorhome is. Many a window fitted these days is double glazed, which helps keep the heat in, while just about every motorhome also has at least a basic bathroom – so there’s no need for a midnight dash to the loo in freezing weather. A real winner in cold conditions is the time honoured New Zealand Back layout: A club lounge or dinette in the rear of the motorhome, surrounded by windows. It’s quite easy to sit back in warm dry comfort and just take in the wintery views, whilst enjoying a bowl of hot soup or a hot toddy. Don’t

tell the caravan fraternity this but one of the advantages of winter travel in a motorhome is that minimal time has to be spent doing outside chores and there’s certainly no need to get cold for hitching and unhitching purposes!

country in NSW, Victoria and Tasmania where it can get very cold at night. I think in particular of the New England region of NSW and many inland areas that are quite desert like: warm during the day but cold at night.

Blowing Hot and Cold f course there are some differences between motorhomes built in Australia and New Zealand – the main one being that whilst air conditioners are generally standard and heaters optional in Australia, it’s the other way around in New Zealand. Whilst many in Australia have not, until recent times, thought too much about heaters, there are many places apart from the mountain

Apart from the humble fan heater, which works very well in the confined space of a motorhome (although only when plugged into a mains supply), there have been some terrific advances in central heating systems for RVs that do not require an external power source.

In particular, companies like Webasto and Eberspacher (Dometic to you and I) make

The New Zealand Back layout: Wrap-around rear windows provide great viewing!

Travel: Winter Touring

In the snowfields a motorhome can be a convenient between-runs refuge for winter sports enthusiasts, or a warm and cosy base for day visitors. good diesel-fired heaters - and I speak from experience with both. They take a few minutes to warm up but are very effective and can be left on a low idle overnight. A bonus is that a bathroom with a heating duct makes a very good drying room for wet clothing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I speak again from experience here when using a motorhome for a skiing holiday. I have not seen one in use but I know that the Eberspacher heater, at least, can be fitted with a device that allows it to be remotely turned on using your mobile phone! With these heaters, if the motorhome is diesel powered then a second fuel supply is not needed: The heater runs directly off the fuel tank. There are LP gas-fired heaters too

and companies like Truma make a combo unit that not only acts as a space heater but supplies hot water as well. Reverse cycle air conditioners will act as a heater, but once the temperature drops below

a certain level they cease to function as a heater. Caravan amenities blocks have become more civilised too and at least one of my favourites, in a ski area, is centrally heated â&#x20AC;&#x201C; no cold draughty showers!

Cutaway showing heating ducts and outlets in a typical European motorhome.

Travel: Winter Touring

Don’t forget to have fun!

Alpine Adventures enerally speaking and apart from considering heating, in both Australia and New Zealand there is very little else to think about for winter travel. That

is, unless you are considering visiting the Alpine areas in southern NSW/Victoria or any of the mountain regions in New Zealand. In this case, there are a couple of other issues. For extended stays

Practice fitting chains before you need to do it for real.

in areas where temperatures get below freezing on a regular basis it would be good to insulate in some way any exposed water piping, mostly found underneath your motorhome. Batteries – both starter and house – can lose their capacity in extended cold conditions, so make sure they are in tip- top condition. In days of old, anti-freeze in the radiator was a consideration, but most modern engine coolants will cope with short stays in freezing conditions. Again, however, if considering extended stays have a quick squiz though your vehicle’s handbook to make sure. Finally, if driving above the snow line then snow chains are going to be needed or at least

Travel: Winter Touring

carried. If you do have snow chains make sure you practise with them in dry conditions. There’s nothing worse than trying to figure out how to fit snow chains in cold, wet and slushy mud! I know most of our readers are never going to have the delight (!) of fitting snow chains, but the sometimes maligned front-wheel drive Fiat Ducato is a real winner here. In terms of fitting chains it’s one of the easiest because you can turn the wheel to get access to the back of the tyre, while having chains on your driving and steering wheels is a real bonus. Dual rear wheeled motorhomes are the most difficult to fit chains to. Although rear-wheel drive is normally okay, I’ve been in a motorhome on an NZ mountain which was struggling because chained wheels simply skittered all over the road. The problem (I think) was that the cab chassis had been (legally)

Blizzard in America: Our winter driving conditions are much kinder! de-rated for driver’s licence purposes and was carrying considerably less weight than it was designed for, thus giving minimal traction to the driving wheels. As a footnote to all this, earlier this year I had a holiday in winter time Colorado (USA) and had the interesting experience of driving through a serious snow storm. The only

Free camping above the snow line? It’s possible but use common sense.

vehicles requiring snow chains were large prime movers and everyone else just powered on through with their winter-tyrefitted vehicles! I realise many of you are never going to be visiting the alpine regions and so won’t be fussing about items like snow chains, but my point really is that in winter time in Australia and

Travel: Winter Touring

Australia and New Zealand provide countless opportunities to escape the crowds and you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to head to the snowfields to enjoy winter touring.

Travel: Winter Touring

Deck chairs in the snow? Why not – a sunny day can be enjoyed wherever you are!

New Zealand there really is no reason for parking your motorhome or campervan up. Get out there! There are plenty of places to visit, experiences to be had and warm cafes to be found – plus of course the comfort of your warm and comfortable motorhome when the world outside is too chilly.

NZ’s dramatic mountain scenery is inspiring and there are plenty of red hot rental bargains available this time of year.

Technical: Tyred Not Emotional

Deciphering the mystical world of tyre sidewall markings... Courtesy of the Caravan Council of Australia

Technical: Tyred Not Emotional

Knowing which tyres are right for your vehicle is vitally important.

ed up with being bamboozled by the hieroglyphics on your tyres’ sidewalls? You’re not alone. The trouble is, knowing what the markings mean and how they relate to your car, motorhome, trailer or whatever can have vital safety benefits, while ignoring them can lead to peril. All tyre and rim combinations – for both motor vehicles and towables – must be as per the Tyre & Rim Association Manual, which you can find at www.tyreandrim.org.au. It might be stating the obvious, but tyres have a critical influence on vehicle stability, handling and safety. It is most important, therefore, that every vehicle has the correct tyre/rim selection. It is reasonable to believe the vehicle manufacturer has professionally engineered

its unit and determined the optimum type and sizes of the rims and tyres fitted as standard. This would especially include determining tyre loadings – under both empty and fully-laden conditions – and determining the correct inflation pressures. If you have any questions regarding tyres and rims, especially when buying replacements, always ask an experienced and reputable tyre supplier for their advice. Acceptable Approval Markings: Made in Australia

(U.S.) DOT

(Europe) E-Mark

Speed Rating: VSB-1 specifies a minimum Speed Rating of at least “L”, which relates to a speed of 120 km/h. The speed rating symbol is shown on the tyre sidewall, and may also be stated in words. (In the photo, the Speed Rating is “W”, which shows an extremely safe 270 km/h.)

Technical: Tyred Not Emotional

Load carrying capacity is critical in a motorhome tyre. Make sure you know your axle weights when shopping for replacement tyres. Load Rating: The Load Rating is probably the most important consideration when selecting a suitable tyre for any vehicle. The tyre must be able to safely withstand the maximum load that it may reasonably be expected to be subjected to. (In the photo, the Load Rating is 99. The load rating symbol is shown on the tyre sidewall, and may also be stated in words.)

Manufacturing Date: The 4-number code on the sidewall, for example 2710, means the tyre was made in the 27th week of 2010. Other symbols may show the mould number, in case a re-call of faulty tyres is needed.

Note: US-made tyres use a different marking system. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a typical example:

Typical Tyre Size Example:

30 x 9.5 R 15 LT US Tyre Size Deciphered: 30 = Diameter in inches 9.5 = Tread width in inches

LT 235/85 R 16

R = Radial

Tyre Size Deciphered

15 = Rim diameter in inches

LT = Light Truck

235 = Tread width in mm

Other Markings:

85 = Aspect Ratio (ratio of sidewall height to tread width)

P = Passenger Car

R = Radial

TWI = Tread Wear Indicator

16 = Rim diameter in inches

C = Commercial

Technical: Tyred Not Emotional

Tread serves different purposes and not all tread styles are suitable for motorhome applications. When in doubt check with an expert. T – T – T Ratings: Treadwear: Indication of the wear-resistance of the tyre: 100 - 500 is typical.

Traction: Indication of the “stick-to-the-road” ability of the tyre: A is a typical code.

Technical: Tyred Not Emotional Temperature: Indication of the ability of the tyre to withstand heat: B & A are typical.

The most important information on tyres…

Tyre Pressures: The T&RA Manual states the Tread-Wear Indicators: Tyres permissible sizes for rim and tyre combinations. It also are required to be embossed with a number TWI or Δ marks provides the vital information – for each tyre size – for around the edge of the tread. the recommended inflation These show where there is pressure for various tyre a moulded 3mm-high strip across the bottom of the tread loadings. grooves. Tyres are not to be used if the tread is worn down to the level of the strips.

Uni-directional Tyres: Some tyres are designed to be used in one direction only, and are marked accordingly on the side-walls.

44 A good, reliable gauge is a great investment! Tyre Temperatures The best way to obtain the maximum tyre life is to ensure that there is even wear right across the tread. The best way to obtain this is to use a pyrometer, or thermometer, to check that the temperature – after a lengthy drive – is consistent across the tread. Perhaps, not surprisingly, correct tyre pressures for the particular tyre loading, will result in obtaining even temperatures.

Tyre & Rim Terminology Maintaining the correct inflation pressure is most important for obtaining the optimum stability and handling of the vehicle, the best possible traction, and These units are now quite the maximum tyre reliability affordable. A good, reliable and durability. pyrometer is also a great The same inflation pressure investment! should not be used for both To find out more about a the empty and fully laden whole range of engineering conditions. topics affecting recreational Rather than just guess or use vehicles in general visit the a trial-and-error method (such caravancouncil.com.au. as the so-called 4-psi change), recommendations should be obtained from the tyre supplier, for temporarily altering the pressure when travelling on extreme off-road conditions, such as tracks with deep mud or sand, or with sharp rocks.

Technical: Tyred Not Emotional

Vehicles like this all-wheel drive Trakkadu need tyres capable of city and off-road driving; a compromise worth spending good money on to achieve the right results.

Mobile Tech: Camera+

CAMERA - PLUS!

Camera+ is an amazing iPhone and iPad app that everyone should own...

Mobile Tech: Camera+

Being able to set focus and exposure points separately (above) is an amazingly powerful feature, while a self-time (right) of up to 30 seconds is very handy.

often use my iPhone 4S’s camera to snap quick images and as a back-up for more serious shoots. In fact on occasions it’s been my only camera – like when I visited McLaren Vale for the day and forgot to take my DSLR. Featuring eight megapixels resolution its greatest drawback is its fixed lens,

but if you can get close enough (and resist the urge to use the zoom facility too much because it’s digital and reduces quality as the zoom goes up) you can get some great shots. I also use my iPad’s five megapixel camera quite often and although it feels and looks a bit odd holding it up to take a snap, the screen acts as a huge

viewfinder and I find it quite satisfying. The Camera+ app started out as an iPhone-only application, but now has a separate iPad version. Both cost $0.99 at the moment and it’s about the best $1.98 you can spend to enhance your photography if you own both devices. Don’t skimp and try to use the

Mobile Tech: Camera+

48 Original pic (left) is looks much better when Clarity filter is applied (below).

iPhone version on the iPad, though, as the iPad version has a range of features not available for the iPhone and makes great use of the iPad’s larger screen and increased computing power. Features in Common ou use Camera+ in place of your iPhone/ iPad’s normal camera and although you can import

photos from your camera roll or Photostream for digital enhancement, using Camera+ in the first place gives you access to some terrific extra features.

out the bright detail, or vise versa? With Camera+ you just tap the focus box where you want it and an exposure ring will appear, which you can then drag anywhere on the image until the light balance Undoubtedly the best feature is just right. Then just press is the ability to set the the shutter button and you’re focus and exposure points in business. It’s incredibly separately, if desired. Have you powerful and is worth buying ever pointed the camera at a for this single feature alone. dark scene and had it wash But wait, there’s more...

Mobile Tech: Camera+

Various special effects are provided so you can jazz up your pics if desired.

You can set the Flash to On/ Off/Auto or Torch mode; the latter providing constant light so you can set the focus and exposure points for best results. You can zoom up to six times magnification, set a Stabilizer mode to reduce hand shake, set a timer for 5/15/30 seconds or set Burst mode, which takes very fast pics, although at reduced quality.

Other handy features you can toggle on or off include a grid so you can align your photos properly, an horizon level so you can see if you’re holding the camera level, geo tagging to keep track of where the photos were taken, three quality settings and so on. Once you’ve taken your happy snaps the fun really begins!

Images are stored in the app’s own lightbox instead of your camera roll (although you can change that) and you can optionally access an iCloud lightbox that will share the app’s images across all your devices (be sure you have enough iCloud storage for that, though). Select an image in the lightbox and you can edit, share, save

Mobile Tech: Camera+

You also get a choice of borders to make your holiday snaps even more special.

(to your camera roll) or get info (time, place, size, etc). The edit menu is the most fun and offers a great range of options. You can enhance the basic image with clarity, auto, flash, backlight, darken, cloudy, shade, fluorescent, sunset, night, portrait, beach, scenery, concert and food filters, plus add text. You can also rotate of flip the image, crop it and add FX effects or

custom borders: the latter two of which are far too involved to list here. Once done you can save the enhanced image to your camera roll or choose to share it via email, a text message, create a web link or post across a range of social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter.

iPad Extras ll the above abilities aside, Camera+ iPad app users get a range of extra processing/ enhancement features, including the ability to import photos from Facebook and Flickr â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so you can make your old social media pics look even better.

Other features include brush on effects, layer effects and

Mobile Tech: Camera+

51 Enhanced, styled, bordered and captioned: our ordinary holiday snap is now quite memorable!

Details: Camera+ Price: $0.99c each Platform: iPhone/iPad Recommended for Android: Pro HDR, round $1.99.

advanced image adjustments. With the brush on effects you can now brush on (or off) selected parts of your photo and you can set the brush size, softness and intensity for each effect you’re applying. You can also pinch to zoom your photo to get better precision when applying the effects. The iPad version also allows you to apply multiple effects as

layered effects on the photo. You can adjust the intensity of each layer and drag and drop the layers to change their ordering. This is a big plus compared to the iPhone version where you need to apply each effect one at a time. The iPad version also offers a live preview, but it’s only applied when you have lifted your finger from the slider.

Camera+ is a must-have app for all iPhone and iPad users but I’m sorry to say it isn’t available for Android. What is, I’m told, is Pro HDR for about $1.99 and it basically does what Camera+ does plus a bit more. In either case, get a hold of a copy and enjoy. You know you want to...

Next Issue

ESPERANCE – AT LAST! of what is Avida’s top-selling model range.

alcolm has finally managed to get his hands on a new Avida Esperance and he’ll be bringing you his thoughts and impressions on one version

JUL

June 5-11 26-28

JUL

5-7

JUN

5-11

The Queensland Caravan, Camping & Touring Holiday Show (June 5 - 11) will have been and gone and we’ll bring you a roundup of what’s new, what’s hot and maybe what’s not. This is the final Big City Show for 2013 and doubtless you’ll hear cheers from those exhibitors who have already worked at the Newcastle, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney shows.

July 5-7

JUL

26-28

JUL

5-7

There’ll be more apps – a double weather special – plus the return of our Roadside Eats and a sprinkling of other stories to keep you informed, interested and maybe even amused. Until then please follow us on and Twitter Facebook for breaking news, comments and a bit of fun. Keep safe!

JUN

5-11July

26-28

JUL

26-28

Queensland Caravan, Camping & Touring Holiday Show

Lismore Caravan, Camping & Marine Show

Gold Coast Midyear Caravan, Camping, Boating & Fishing Expo

RNA Showgrounds, 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills, Brisbane • Open daily 10:00-6:00 (closes 4:00 last day) • Parking limited, take the train • Adults $18 • Seniors $12 • Kids Free

Lismore Showground, Alexandra Parade, Lismore, NSW. • Open 09:00-4:00 daily • Free parking • Adults $12 • Seniors $11 • Kids U14 Free with adult

Parklands, Southport, Gold Coast. QLD. 4215. • Open daily 9:00-5:00 (closes Sunday 4:00) • Parking free • Adults $10 • Seniors $8 • Kids free with adult

www.caravanqld.com.au/showsevents/caravancamping--touring-holiday-show/show-details.aspx Click for Google Maps

http://www.lismore4wdshow.com.au/index.php Click for Google Maps

http://australianevents.com.au/index.php/ midyear-caravan-camping-boating-fishing-expo Click for Google Maps

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 info@imotorhome.com.au and we’ll happily promote it in this calendar.

JUL

5-7