[p]I have spent a fair amount of time researching my future toy hauler purchase (2017?, need to payoff other toys first), looking early never hurts. I am considering the Axxess 22 or 26 foot. My questions to all of you that own these are: [strong]1[/strong]. can you fit 2 Harley baggers in either [strong]2[/strong]. how much of an adventure is it towing with a 1/2 ton [strong]3[/strong]. how satisfied are you of this purchase [strong]4[/strong]. How comfortable is the bed and furniture? Livin lite would allow me to tow with a 1/2 ton, upgrading my TV is not an option since 3/4 T pickups will not fit in the garage. I am also planning on starting a thread on what a person needs to purchase prior to getting an RV/TT.[/p][p]
[/p][p]The Axxess is expensive compared to other options from the TH market, but I am assuming the extra $$ is worth not having materials that rot and rust. Has this purchase been worth the investment for you that own one?[/p][p]
[/p][p]Some background info: It will just be the wife and I, looking to use the TH as both RV and Hauler (sometimes hauling motorcycles, sometimes hauling nothing), we live in Northern MN (so is this a cold rv?), we do not have a shed to keep the TH stored in (would consider LT storage during winter months, not summer months).[/p][p]
[/p][p]I grew up RVing and I am looking forward to having a toy hauler to haul our bikes around and reconnect with the backroads and campgrounds. [/p][p]
[/p]
here are a couple opinions based on my experience with our 2013 vrv 18x8.5. i fit a rzr800s in it with room to spare and it is around 64" wide. you should be able to fit 2 full dress harleys in it, but it may help to face one backwards or stagger them (one closer up towards the kitchen). the key would be to get the 8.5' wide model as a 7' would be too narrow. towind with a half ton shouldnt be any problem. i tow with a 2500hd, but wouldnt hesitate to tow mine loaded with a half ton. even with the added crap on the tongue of ours, the tongue weight is minimal and doesnt even warrant a load distribution hitch (you can read alot of opinions here about using them)
as far as the bed is concerned, ours has the tipout and the couch. couch is way to small to sleep on and the tipout mattress is crap. we added a 2" memory foam topper and it made a world of difference. not sure if the happijack mattresses are any better
the axxess is nicer than our vrv, but even with that i feel they are a bit of a "starter kit". since they are so spartan, there are probably alot of things you will find that want to add/change/do to it" kit. for example, one battery and one propane tank just dont cut it when you boondock, so added a second of each was necessary, but were relatively cheap upgrades.
we got our vrv relatively cheap compared to other TH on the market at the time. if you look at the vrv models (instead of the axxess), you can get pretty much all of the same options (minus the shiny sides) for a cheaper price.
regardless, we really like ours and other than a few small items (fridge control panel died, had to replace shower valves, etc.) it has bee great and we are competely happy with it.
Thanks for the reply and this does help, keep'em coming in. The wife is just creeped out about sleeping with a tipout, and would be uncomfortable with it. There are vrv models without a tipout (I think). I'll need to research it. Lots to consider before buying, so I do appreciate your input.
i believe this is still true...you can get a vrv with 1, 2 or 0 tipouts. the ones without tipouts have 1 or 2 drop down bunks in the back (like the axxess)
Quote from: @hogtyd" source="/post/15767/thread" timestamp="1443997951[p]I have spent a fair amount of time researching my future toy hauler purchase (2017?, need to payoff other toys first), looking early never hurts. I am considering the Axxess 22 or 26 foot. My questions to all of you that own these are: [strong]1[/strong]. can you fit 2 Harley baggers in either. [font face="georgia" color="#e62119"]We haul recumbents, dogs, crates and miscellaneous so can't rightly speak to the Harley fit.[/font] [strong]2[/strong]. how much of an adventure is it towing with a 1/2 ton [font face="georgia" color="#e62619"]Our Ram Ecodiesel does the job...no problem [/font][strong]3[/strong]. how satisfied are you of this purchase [font color="#e62619" face="georgia"]We have been very impressed with our Axxess and with only one exception, (the fridge mal-funtion but replaced before taking possession) our 26' toy hauler has measured up in every way. Truthfully, we've been surprised to read all the legitimate complaints and issues others have experienced with their LLites on this forum, but knock on wood..er...aluminum, we have found the Axx to be nearly perfect so far. And for the price, well it should![/font] [strong]4[/strong]. How comfortable is the bed and furniture? [font face="georgia" color="#e62619"]Be sure you get the motorized (avoid the manual version) generous queen-sized 'Happy Jac' bed located in back. Sleeping on 'Jac' with cargo door open/screen pulled down lulled to sleep by sounds of crashing waves and a full moon is unlike any experience we've found in a regular trailer. And when not in use, simply press the switch and 'Happy Jac' rises to ceiling height (or anywhere in-between) leaving you with additional square footage for a cozy living area. You will find the bench seating for dining and the couch to all fold down into very comfortable oversized twin beds. Our Axx has the master bedroom in front with a real comfy and snuggly mattress, especially in cooler weather. We traded our last trailer in on the Axx because of the 'tip-outs' and you are smart to avoid them; they are a hassle with extra maintenance needed to extend canvas life and the chore of set-up and folding away to say little of the safety and privacy concerns our tip-outs imposed made it an easy decision to ditch them for solid walls and a back cargo door. Tip-outs can be costly to replace. [/font] Livin lite would allow me to tow with a 1/2 ton, upgrading my TV is not an option since 3/4 T pickups will not fit in the garage. I am also planning on starting a thread on what a person needs to purchase prior to getting an RV/TT.[/p][p]
[/p][p]The Axxess is expensive compared to other options from the TH market, but I am assuming the extra $$ is worth not having materials that rot and rust. Has this purchase been worth the investment for you that own one? [font color="#e62619" face="georgia"]Worth is relative, but we do find peace of mind about the 'no rot and rust' assertion. Moreover, we view the Axxess as an investment in our family...one that should last and bless the next generation. Not so much with the unit itself, but what it affords, like life lessons about slowing down, breathing deeply and experiencing the wonders of God's handiwork. Can't fix a price on these things.[/font][/p][p]
[/p][p]Some background info: It will just be the wife and I, looking to use the TH as both RV and Hauler (sometimes hauling motorcycles, sometimes hauling nothing), we live in Northern MN (so is this a cold rv?), [font color="#e62619" face="georgia"] YES!!! Aluminum flooring and not that much wall insulation render all LL products cold. That said, there are some hardy sorts on this very forum that do camp in 6 degree temps! Most folks put flooring of some sort down and much can be found on this forum about that. Throw rugs have worked fine for us, the heater has worked well...but then, we reside in Florida![/font] we do not have a shed to keep the TH stored in (would consider LT storage during winter months, not summer months).[/p][p]
[/p][p]I grew up RVing and I am looking forward to having a toy hauler to haul our bikes around and reconnect with the backroads and campgrounds. [font face="georgia" color="#e62619"]Word of caution when out on those backroads: while our shiny aluminum exterior always draws attention from other RVers, it also captures the attention of wildlife who either enjoy their reflection...or want to eliminate it. Our Axxess is named 'Woody' so named after a very territorial woodpecker who did leave his mark on our hauler just before leaving this world. Woodpeckers and turkey are one thing, bears or rhinos are another! Just say'n...if off-roading around bears or rhinos.
While not nearly so striking in appearance, IMHO, the Axxess also comes with a white exterior.
Enjoy the hunt! [/font][/p][p]
[/p]
[p]hogtyd,[/p][p]
[/p][p]We are in the market for a purchase time frame similar to yours. We are not looking for a toy hauler, but since aluminum cabinets aren't an option on the Camplite travel trailers, we've been considering a Quicksilver toy hauler. I have also looked at other alternative manufacturers since we don't care for the galley and bathroom layout of the Quicksilver. Some other options are in this thread: [a href="http://livinlite.proboards.com/thread/1518/rebadged-quicksilver-vrv"]http://livinlite.proboards.com/thread/1518/rebadged-quicksilver-vrv[/a] .[/p]
This dealer has 2015 LivinLite travel trailers on the lot with aluminum cabinets:
http://www.americanrvcompany.net/Livin-Lite-Trailers_c_179.html
https://www.americanrvcompany.net/assets/images/WebsiteGraphics/Aluminum-Cab-Doors.JPG
We looked at a VRV toy hauler yesterday, but will wait and see if we can order the toy hauler
set up how we want it next year. Shawn at LivinLite told us during our visit there last August
they had stopped special request builds during the move to Topeka, but might start special builds
again.
[quote source="/post/15850/thread" author="@gwbushhog" timestamp="1444198715"][quote source="/post/15767/thread" author="@hogtyd" timestamp="1443997951"][p]I have spent a fair amount of time researching my future toy hauler purchase (2017?, need to payoff other toys first), looking early never hurts. I am considering the Axxess 22 or 26 foot. My questions to all of you that own these are: [strong]1[/strong]. can you fit 2 Harley baggers in either. [font color="#e62119" face="georgia"]We haul recumbents, dogs, crates and miscellaneous so can't rightly speak to the Harley fit.[/font] [strong]2[/strong]. how much of an adventure is it towing with a 1/2 ton [font face="georgia" color="#e62619"]Our Ram Ecodiesel does the job...no problem [/font][strong]3[/strong]. how satisfied are you of this purchase [font face="georgia" color="#e62619"]We have been very impressed with our Axxess and with only one exception, (the fridge mal-funtion but replaced before taking possession) our 26' toy hauler has measured up in every way. Truthfully, we've been surprised to read all the legitimate complaints and issues others have experienced with their LLites on this forum, but knock on wood..er...aluminum, we have found the Axx to be nearly perfect so far. And for the price, well it should![/font] [strong]4[/strong]. How comfortable is the bed and furniture? [font color="#e62619" face="georgia"]Be sure you get the motorized (avoid the manual version) generous queen-sized 'Happy Jac' bed located in back. Sleeping on 'Jac' with cargo door open/screen pulled down lulled to sleep by sounds of crashing waves and a full moon is unlike any experience we've found in a regular trailer. And when not in use, simply press the switch and 'Happy Jac' rises to ceiling height (or anywhere in-between) leaving you with additional square footage for a cozy living area. You will find the bench seating for dining and the couch to all fold down into very comfortable oversized twin beds. Our Axx has the master bedroom in front with a real comfy and snuggly mattress, especially in cooler weather. We traded our last trailer in on the Axx because of the 'tip-outs' and you are smart to avoid them; they are a hassle with extra maintenance needed to extend canvas life and the chore of set-up and folding away to say little of the safety and privacy concerns our tip-outs imposed made it an easy decision to ditch them for solid walls and a back cargo door. Tip-outs can be costly to replace. [/font] Livin lite would allow me to tow with a 1/2 ton, upgrading my TV is not an option since 3/4 T pickups will not fit in the garage. I am also planning on starting a thread on what a person needs to purchase prior to getting an RV/TT.[/p][p]
[/p][p]The Axxess is expensive compared to other options from the TH market, but I am assuming the extra $$ is worth not having materials that rot and rust. Has this purchase been worth the investment for you that own one? [font face="georgia" color="#e62619"]Worth is relative, but we do find peace of mind about the 'no rot and rust' assertion. Moreover, we view the Axxess as an investment in our family...one that should last and bless the next generation. Not so much with the unit itself, but what it affords, like life lessons about slowing down, breathing deeply and experiencing the wonders of God's handiwork. Can't fix a price on these things.[/font][/p][p]
[/p][p]Some background info: It will just be the wife and I, looking to use the TH as both RV and Hauler (sometimes hauling motorcycles, sometimes hauling nothing), we live in Northern MN (so is this a cold rv?), [font face="georgia" color="#e62619"] YES!!! Aluminum flooring and not that much wall insulation render all LL products cold. That said, there are some hardy sorts on this very forum that do camp in 6 degree temps! Most folks put flooring of some sort down and much can be found on this forum about that. Throw rugs have worked fine for us, the heater has worked well...but then, we reside in Florida![/font] we do not have a shed to keep the TH stored in (would consider LT storage during winter months, not summer months).[/p][p]
[/p][p]I grew up RVing and I am looking forward to having a toy hauler to haul our bikes around and reconnect with the backroads and campgrounds. [font face="georgia" color="#e62619"]Word of caution when out on those backroads: while our shiny aluminum exterior always draws attention from other RVers, it also captures the attention of wildlife who either enjoy their reflection...or want to eliminate it. Our Axxess is named 'Woody' so named after a very territorial woodpecker who did leave his mark on our hauler just before leaving this world. Woodpeckers and turkey are one thing, bears or rhinos are another! Just say'n...if off-roading around bears or rhinos.
While not nearly so striking in appearance, IMHO, the Axxess also comes with a white exterior.
Enjoy the hunt! [/font][/p][p]
[/p][/quote][/quote]Gwbushog: I appreciate your sincere advice and response to all of the questions. Your ownership experience is absolutely what I was looking for. I have high but realistic expectations in purchasing an RV, so one thing we value is the MFTer and Sales Dealer being reputable and willing to accommodate and stand by their products. That is a tall order these days. BTW, I appreciate the following 2 threads as well.
I envy the toy haulers. Large open spaces have many possibilities like adding a small wood stove that can be removed when not needed or stowed for transport of toys.
I have the 22 ft. Axcess......I can easily put tow full bagger motorcycles in it.....without turning iether one around! I place two 2x6's underneath each bike to stabilize the bike. with a few straps, the bike is very stable! once I remove the bike(s) there is plenty of room. the queen size bed is very comfortable. the sofa and opposing benches each make for nice sleeping, too. there's plenty of room...I'm 6'3 and have no issues. even my non-camping wife likes the trailer! with my Ram 1500 with the diesel engine, it pulls great! I would buy it again!
Sorry haven't been around much. You might want to consider the Ignite Toy Hauler. There isn't much on them but they do exist. We got the 28 and LOVE it. While we are hauling dogs it's been perfect for us.
[quote source="/post/16944/thread" timestamp="1449165815" author="@tag9147"]Sorry haven't been around much. You might want to consider the Ignite Toy Hauler. There isn't much on them but they do exist. We got the 28 and LOVE it. While we are hauling dogs it's been perfect for us.
[/quote]We were impressed with the Ignite at the big RV show in Tampa this Spring 2015. Did yours come standard as deck-ready with wire cables and railing? We tried to identify the exterior wall material because it didn't seem to be aluminum; more a single piece rather than panels. We really liked the Ignite interior's warm feel.
It's hard to find info on these. The Tampa Show was the only place we've ever seen one. Mind telling where you found yours? Sure would love to see pics too!
Enjoy your new dog hauler! :P
We have a 2013 8.5 x 18 VRV and like it very much. All aluminum. Had to redo the battery ground but otherwise no issues. Use it to camp (haul a canoe and related stuff) and as a race car trailer (small Austin Healy Sprite).
We really like our 7x20 Bearcat. You give up a few things with the Bearcat vs. the VRV, but you gain a few as well...
The Bearcat has overlapping vertical seamed sides and exposed rivets, where the VRV is seamless, so not quite as clean of a look, but it comes standard with the offroad package, which is an option on the VRV. And there are more size options on the VRV (the Bearcat only has 7x20 and 7x18 sizes).
Other than that they are basically the same trailer. Same all aluminum construction, aluminum floor, cabinets, siding, single piece aluminum roof, etc. Floorplan, weight ratings, etc are the same as the comparable size VRV.
Ours is a little bit of an oddball, in that it was ordered by the dealer with the tip-out bunk, and almost every available option (entertainment package, TV, microwave/convection oven, A/C, etc), but no dinette or sofa. At first we thought this really odd, and nearly didn't buy it, but after consideration we decided it would actually work very well for us.
The big open floor space works great for hauling the motorcycles, and we just use an adjustable height folding table and two Big Joe Lumin beanbag chairs ( http://www.amazon.com/Big-Joe-Lumin-Chair-Black/dp/B008AE1D4K/ref=pd_sim_196_6?ie=UTF8&dpID=41wzPNdL8LL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=092QQAZG78QMAKMYVVA5 ).
We find these chairs more comfortable than the fold-out dinettes/sofas we've sat in...
We think the one we ended up with was the one touring around the shows in Indy and not the one that was in Tampa. The patio addition was an option that we had added on. Also misspoke on the length it is a 30.
Which turned out to be a nightmare for the factory they had to swap doors and do a bunch of mods to get it to work. Its pretty loaded to the max with options. We were not going to get the happy jac bed and sofa area but it came with both.
We were going to order one through the local dealer but the factory came back on this one that they had in stock, turned out to be bigger and more options for very similar in price since they wanted to move it.
We haven't done very much to yet, more of getting used to it and figuring out how everything works. Would really like to add some lighting to the bedroom, but have no idea on how to do something like that.
The kitchen has some under the counter LED's which would be ideal for the counter space in the bedroom.
It is in winter storage now but will see about posting some pictures.
For whatever it's worth I'll throw my two cents in. We purchased a 2014 Quicksilver, 28x8.5, FBR, in August 2015. We researched and shopped for three years before we drove over 800 miles one way to purchase our unit. Answers to your questions; 1) We tow with a Goldwing trike, my wife's, an ST1300, in the cargo area. I feel confident you'll be able to tow two baggers. As long as you buy the right size unit. 2) We tow with a Chevy Express 2500, 6L, 6 speed conversion van most of the time and a Silverado 1/2 ton, 6L, 6 speed pick-up. (It does have a heavy duty towing package). The only time we have issues is when its windy, which is expected. 3) When we started looking my wife was set on specific criteria for our next trailer/RV. We had a 34' motorhome and towed a trailer. She wanted a front bedroom and a decent size bathroom. I wanted light weight, so we could tow with a 1/2 ton, no rubber roof and no laminate!!! As you might guess we had significant issues with these in our previous RV's. WE absolutely love this thing. Yea we gave up a few amenities and made some compromises, but that's what you do if your determined to have certain things, as I indicated. 4) We adjusted the living area to suit our needs a little, We removed the dinning area seats, we use the table with fold up chairs and removed the fold down couch. We figured if we needed the sleeping area we could always use air mattresses. For additional seating we use camping chairs, nice ones not the typical camp fire type. We do have a queen tip out but need an air mattress to make it tolerable to actually sleep on it, other wise it's a sitting/reading area/lounge area. The factory pad is just to thin. One of the things we love about the front bedroom bed is it is an actual home full size queen. The factory mattress pretty well stinks, so we replaced it the first weekend with a full memory foam mattress, house type. As far as how we feel about our purchase, It is fantastic! Yes it does cost a little more than some others, but you get what you pay for. I can honestly say there are other manufactures out there that make some nice toy haulers. You just have to make sure they offer the main things your looking for. Our concerns were weight, empty and loaded, lamination, roof, layout, durability, looks and as picky as my wife and I were about what we wanted........we found it in Livin Lite! No question and most certainly no regrets.
I was going to buy the 26 ft. and my neighbor talked me out of it and I ended up buying a 22 ft. I really like it. At the time I had a dirt bike to take with me and now I have a RZR1000. It fits fine but the bed in the back has to be all the way up. So if you want to use the bed you have to unload the RZR and take the chance of someone steeling it. With the rzr in the trailer you can not lower the couch or dinette for a place to sleep. So in hind sight the 26 ft. with the bedroom in front would have been the better choice.
Lee