A motorhome for anyone looking for a versatile vehicle.
By Lazelle Jones
May 2022
The mantra for Roadtrek's Type B RV Play SRT might be: "Keep it simple and reliable." Therefore, the question arises: "How can these prices be the same?" That's because Play SRT doesn't come with factory options. Roadtrek equips the bus with the essentials, such as air conditioning, electric awning, microwave, etc. This unit is ready to go for campers to enjoy.
In fact, an original equipment option is offered. It is a portable berth that converts the cabin's two seats into a berth, comfortably accommodating a child or small adult. Otherwise, all features discussed in this review are factory-installed standard equipment.
The Roadtrek Play SRT RV's aft lounge converts to a queen bed or can be configured into two single beds if desired.
Roadtrek connects Play SRT ready to aftermarket add-ons like solar panels, audio-visual interiors and more.
Many of today's RV enthusiasts value having their vehicle look as understated as possible (i.e., not looking like a trailer), perhaps due to rules and regulations, restrictive HOAs, or city parking laws. 🇧🇷 That alone makes the Play SRT an attractive option. Some things were done to achieve this.
First, the exterior lines and trim are clean and tidy, much like a traditional MPV, and will draw little attention when the bus is parked in a garage. The total exterior length of this unit is just under 20 feet, allowing it to be parked in many residential driveways. The sedan-style windows are thick, automotive-style tinted black glass front to rear. The dark hue makes it difficult for passers-by to look inside and see that the vehicle is a trailer.
Exterior graphics are another indication that a unit can be a motorized RV. These are absent from the Play SRT; in fact, they are not offered. However, four exterior paint options are available.
Being a motor home does not detract from this unit's automotive usefulness. The Play SRT measures 19 feet 7 inches long with an overall width of 83 inches and an overall height of 9 feet 5 inches (including ceiling-mounted air conditioning). It's a convenient size for walking around town, taking the kids to a soccer game, etc. Plus, these smaller dimensions make it easy to drive and navigate, even in intermittent city traffic.
The Play SRT is based on the Ram ProMaster 3500 chassis, a platform that has become a workhorse in the commercial delivery world. Its 3.6-liter, 24-valve V-6 engine is more than enough to blend with traffic on the fast highway ramps. The engine develops 280 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque at 6,400 rpm as it propels the bus down the road.
To pass other vehicles on mountain roads, the engine is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. For towing, the Play SRT, which weighs 2,100 pounds, comes with a factory-installed Class IV hitch.
The Play SRT also works well as a passenger car; Includes a rear seat with three seat belts. As for cargo, a sliding door and two center-opening rear doors provide access to store and retrieve bulky items, whether you're camping or hauling extraordinarily large groceries home.
The Play SRT has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 9,350 pounds. Its occupancy and load capacity (OCCC) is 2,100 pounds. The freshwater capacity is 37 gallons, which is impressive for supporting off-grid primitive RV campgrounds. Roadtrek engineers achieved this volume by installing two gravity-fed freshwater tanks between them. A tank holds 20 gallons; the second, 17 gallons.
The rear serves as a living/dining room with a fold-out table.
The gray water and black water tanks hold 14 gallons and 8.5 gallons respectively. These tanks use a conventional purge configuration with detachable valves. The holding tanks can also be emptied with the standard 12 volt disposer. A propane tank holds just under 6 gallons and serves as the fuel source for the 16,000 Btu convection oven, two burner stove and instant on demand water heater.
If you look at the needs of those who like primitive RV camping, Roadtrek has covered them very well. An example is the electrical part of the bus. At its heart is a 400-watt AGM domestic battery system, a 3,000-watt true sine wave inverter, and a second 280-amp auxiliary alternator (under-hood alternator) powered by the engine. This under hood generator is specially designed for charging the battery at home. Anything that runs on 120 volt AC power is powered by these household batteries through the inverter. And that includes the 11,000 Btu roof top air conditioner.
When the batteries in the Play SRT house need to be recharged, the motor turns on and runs until it returns to the correct level. The motor is an efficient and silent power source for this. This charging function is particularly appreciated when, for example, staying overnight in a national park where emergency power generators for mobile homes have to be turned off at 10 pm. m. While everyone else struggles with high ambient temperatures, the Play SRT stays cool and warm inside because the air conditioner runs entirely on the house's batteries.
The batteries provide power through the 3000 watt inverter/converter as a source for the 120 volt outlets, microwave oven and air conditioner. An additional power source is available to use and charge the system when the vehicle is connected to a 30A grounded outlet.
Play SRT is not designed as a four season trainer. Unit is not equipped to keep storage tanks warm. However, winterizing the water system and enjoying the trailer while utilizing the travel stop facilities extends the true camping season for the trailer owner. A heater with increased capacity and good insulation ensure comfort in the cold season.
The roof air conditioner is directed directly to the rear of the bus, and the forced air heater is directed to the central area of the cabin. A single high-speed electric roof vent is installed to extract stale, hot or humid air from inside the bus. This includes venting cooking smells out of the kitchen, as well as removing moisture that can come from the permanently damp bathroom directly behind the driver's seat. The wet room has a marine bath, shower, vanity and light.
In the Play SRT, the ebb and flow of comfort and functionality creates an inviting and comfortable space on wheels. Look inside, which includes cherry colors as well as wall, flooring and upholstery surfaces combined in an interior package called California Gray. It's a visually appealing combination.
floor plan features
Life starts with the floor plan, furnishing and placing appointments. At the touch of a button, the forward-facing electric sofa, which extends horizontally at the rear of the bus, instantly transforms into a queen-size bedroom; It can also be set up as a twin bedroom. Queen size bed arrangement is possible by placing the folding table where needed and adding a pillow for support on top.
The wet room and the kitchen are separated by a central corridor, with the refrigerator placed discreetly at the foot of the sleeping area on the street side. At the foot of the roadside sleeping area, a half-length hanging wardrobe contains various items of clothing.
The kitchen includes a two-burner stove and stainless steel sink, both with lids.
The full kitchen includes a two burner stove as advertised. The hinged glass lid provides additional countertop space when the stove is not in use. The Solid Surface counter has a folding extension that folds away towards the end of the counter when not in use; it can be put into operation quickly by lifting and locking it.
At the rear of the vehicle, nature can be enjoyed through a stable partition that can be slid down; A zipper secures it to create a protected barrier at the back. Some practical storage pockets are sewn into the poly mesh design.
In addition to the closet, there are extensions and storage cabinets above and below the counter. Underneath the fridge is a drawer the size of pots and pans. The 700 watt microwave is located above the stove. Not only for aesthetic reasons, but also for reasons of maintenance and ease of cleaning, the vertical surfaces behind and next to the oven are coated in stainless steel.
Dinner can be enjoyed in the back of the trailer, where a movable pole houses the folding table. Or at the front of the cockpit, the two captain's chairs can be folded back and the pole and table mounted beside them. This configuration also allows you to use a laptop, sketch travel plans or enjoy a cup of tea or latte without interrupting another occupant who may be using the rear lounge.
For those who enjoy life in the backyard, the Play SRT comes equipped with an 11-foot electric hood and an outdoor rinse-off shower. The side sliding entrance door is equipped with a heavy-duty mosquito net.
Inside and out, running errands or driving, the Play SRT is worth considering for those interested in an entry-level Type B motorhome.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS | ROADTREK SRT GAME
MANUFACTURER
Roadtrek Inc., 20 Tyler St., Cambridge, ON N1T 0E4; www.roadtrek.com; (800) 762-3873, (519) 745-1160;www.roadtrek.com
MODEL
play first
FLOOR CONSTRUCTION PLANS
(1)
CHASSIS
RAM Pro Master 3500
MOTOR
3.6 liter V6, 24 valves; 280 horsepower, 260 pound-feet of torque at 6,400 rpm
STREAMING
9-Gang-Automatic
FINAL RELATIONSHIP
3,86 a 1
TIRE
LT225/75R16E
LENGTH BETWEEN THE AXIS
159 inches
BRAKES
disc, anti-lock braking system
DIRECTION
telescopic
GENERATOR
(1) 220 amps; (1) 280 amp engine driven generator under hood
BATTERIES
Chassis: 95 A, 800 A cca; Home: 400 amp AGM battery system
ELECTRICAL SERVICE
30 Amps
INVESTOR
Onda senoidal pura de 3000 watts
EXTERNAL LENGTH
19 feet 7 inches
EXTERNAL WIDTH
83 inches
EXTERNAL HEIGHT
9 ft 5 in (with air conditioning)
INTERNAL HEIGHT
6 feet 2 inches
GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT (GVWR)
9,350 pounds
COMBO BRUTE WEIGHT (GCWR)
11,450 pounds
CARGO AND OCCUPANT TRANSPORT CAPACITY (OCCC)
2100 pounds
FRESH WATER CAPACITY
37 gallons
SKILL TANK CAPACITIES
grey water- 14 gallons;black water- 8.5 gallons
FUEL CAPACITY
24 gallons
FUEL REQUIREMENTS
low octane gasoline
WATER HEATER
Propane gas, without tank, on request
HEATER
16,000 BTU forced air
AIR CONDITIONING
(1) 11.000 Btu
FRIDGE
5 cubic feet, 2 Wege (12 Volt DC, 120 Volt AC)
RESTROOM
Seemannsstil
WARRANTY
Coach— 2 years full/unlimited mileage;power train— 5 years/60,000 miles, limited;Chassis— 3 years/36,000 miles, limited
RETAIL PRICE SUGGESTED BY THE MANUFACTURER
130.060 $
REVISED PRICE
130.060 $
FAQs
How much does a Roadtrek play cost? ›
...
Specifications.
| Starting MSRP | $149,786 $177,786 |
|---|---|
| Base model | Ram ProMaster 3500 extended van Ram ProMaster 3500 extended van |
| Seating capacity | Four Four |
| Suggested List Price | Average Retail | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $53,742 | $20,950 |
| Options (Add) | ||
| Total Price | $53,742 | $20,950 |
The 2021 Chase is priced a bit higher than the Play, with an MSRP starting at $142,660. More information can be found on their website and in Roadtrek's video below. Introducing the all new 2021 Roadtrek CHASE from Roadtrek Inc. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device.
What is a Roadtrek play? ›The 2021 Roadtrek Play is built with first-time RVers in mind. The Play provides great twin bed sleeping with soft, plush, and supportive mattress comfort and adjustable headrest support. It can quickly convert to a king bed and has easily accessible underbed storage.
How many miles per gallon does a Roadtrek get? ›The Roadtrek SS Agile averages 18-22 MPG (7.7-9.4 km/L), earning a spot on this fuel-efficient Class B RV. This model is designed for those who enjoy spending time outdoors and being active, as it features plenty of storage space for gear.
Are Roadtreks still being made? ›Since 1990, Roadtrek has been recognized as a leading Class B motorhome brand, a status and honor that we continue to build on every day.
Do Class B RVs hold their value? ›Class A and Class B vehicles depreciate similarly, while Class C RVs depreciate more slowly and hold value slightly better. Travel trailers and fifth wheels also depreciate over time. The best way to manage RV depreciation is to keep your vehicle clean and well-maintained.
Are Roadtreks insulated? ›All of our new products have dual pane windows as well as having front window insulating screens to improve temperature loss.
Is a used camper a good investment? ›Buying a used RV that's still in good condition can save you real money. According to the website RVers Online, after factoring in depreciation, financing, maintenance and other costs, an RV that's three years old can cost about half the price of a new one. So how do you find a previously loved RV that's right for you?
How long will a Class B RV last? ›Class B motorhomes are the campervan types. Because they're just a bit bigger than a regular van (and sometimes they're the same size), they are cheaper and easier to operate. They should also be good for twenty years or 200,000 miles, but many can go longer if you take good care of them.
Where are Roadtreks built? ›
Roadtrek is North America's leading manufacturer of Class B motorhomes. The company does $96 million in business annually and employs a staff of 300 at its two production facilities in Kitchener, Ontario (Canada).
How much is a 2011 Roadtrek worth? ›| Suggested List Price | Average Retail | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $104,936 | $65,200 |
| Options (Add) | ||
| Total Price | $104,936 | $65,200 |
The Roadtrek Agile is the shortest Roadtrek built on the Mercedes chassis.
Who bought out Roadtrek? ›Formerly Roadtrek Motorhomes, the business was purchased in 2016 by German-based Erwin Hymer Group, one of the largest global players in the RV industry and manufacturers of the popular Hymer brand.
Which is better gas or diesel for RV? ›Diesel RVs do tend to perform better in the mountains than gas RVs. You'll be able to maintain speed on a climb without going heavy on the throttle, which is taxing on the engine. The better torque is also important if you're looking at larger RVs as they're heavier and require more torque to move and get up to speed.
How many miles does an RV engine last? ›Generally speaking, RV engines are built to last anywhere between 200,000-300,000 miles. Again, motorhomes with diesel engines can last much longer. Once your RV reaches 200,000 miles, though, you can expect to pay for some serious repairs.
How many miles do most RVs last? ›Owners who regularly use their RV or motorhome may expect a lifespan of around 200,000 miles. That being said, you could increase your RV or motorhome's lifespan up to 300,000 miles, on average, as long as the driving conditions are not unduly arduous and you maintain it in good condition.
Which Roadtrek has twin beds? ›For customers looking for a twin bed floorplan, the all-new 2021 Roadtrek Chase delivers just that and more.
How much is a new Roadtrek 190? ›The first production RV — Pierce-Arrow's Touring Landau — made its debut at Madison Square Garden in 1910. Although a few single-production RVs and campers existed before then, the Touring Landau is considered the moment when RVs entered mainstream culture.
What is the best brand of Class B RV? ›
- Thor Motor Coach Scope 18M Class B RV.
- Winnebago Solis 59PX Camper Van.
- Thor Motor Coach Sequence 20A-P Class B RV.
- Coachmen Galleria 24A 4×4 Class B RV.
- Winnebago Revel 44E 4×4 Class B RV.
- Winnebago Era Class B Motorhome.
- Thor Motor Coach Sanctuary 19PT Class B RV.
Forest River RVs
As the largest and highest-earning RV brand in the USA, Forest River specializes in all kinds of recreational vehicles, utility trailers, cargo trailers, buses, and more.
As 2022 draws to a close, RV prices are declining across all classes but one. Class B motorhomes are still very in high demand, perhaps in response to high fuel prices. As a result, prices for Class B motorhomes haven't seen the same decreases as other classes of RVs.
How do I keep my RV warm at night? ›- Reduce Heat Loss. There are lots of practical ways to reduce heat loss and trap heat inside. ...
- Insulate Your Walls. RV insulation is essential to keep your RV cool in the summer and warm in the cold weather. ...
- Insulate RV Windows. ...
- Use Your Heater.
- Choose a coastal or elevated spot. ...
- Park in the shade. ...
- Keep doors and windows open. ...
- Install a vent fan in the roof. ...
- Use powered fans to move air. ...
- Use reflective window shades. ...
- Avoid hanging out inside the van. ...
- Cook outside.
Living at home doesn't necessarily mean you have to be tethered to one place. For federal tax purposes, a boat or a recreational vehicle can be either your main or secondary residence, entitling you to take advantage of the same tax deductions as a homeowner of a typical house.
Is it smart to buy an RV now? ›There's no time like the present to start RVing, but this year isn't a great time to make an RV purchase. In addition to lower savings rates, elevated inflation, and higher interest rates, here are the five biggest reasons not to buy an RV in 2023.
Are used RV prices dropping? ›In October 2021, the average motorhome sold for $81,384; towables were sitting at $22,313. Motorized buyers, that works out to a 24.15% drop in prices.
Is it financially smart to live in an RV? ›It is financially smart to live in an RV. Living in an RV means living a lot smaller with a lot less stuff. You have less room for everything – clothes, toys, tools and more saving you a lot of money. Along with less space, you save on utilities and home-improvement projects if you own your home.
How many miles per gallon does a Class B RV get? ›Do you own a Class B van camper? You get the best fuel economy, with 18 – 25 average miles per gallon.
What are the most common problems with RVs? ›
- Water Intrusion. One of the most common problems that RV owners face as their vehicles get older is water leaking and intrusion. ...
- Appliance Operation. ...
- Power Management Issues. ...
- AC Not Cooling. ...
- Excessive Tire Wear.
Roadtrek travel vans have been the number one selling Class B camper since 1990. Advanced engineering, manufacturing and safety testing makes Roadtrek one of the most durable, reliable and safest travel van options that offers the comforts of an RV but the driving convenience of a conversion van.
Who owns Roadtrek motorhomes? ›Erwin Hymer North America, the parent company for Roadtrek, was placed in receivership earlier this month and consequently ceased operation including laying off over 800 employees.
Where are most RVs Made in USA? ›Today we all know Elkhart, Indiana as the RV Capital of the World. More than 80 percent of global RV production is based throughout the region. That means that if you see an RV rolling down the road anywhere in the world, chances are that it was built with the craftsmanship and dedication of Hoosiers.
Is it OK to buy an old RV? ›Is Buying an Older RV Worth It? If you want to save money on your RV purchase and don't mind the quirks that can come with older RVs, an old RV is definitely worth it. With research, planning, and proper RV inspection, you can get a great deal on a used RV that will last you for years to come.
Is there a Kelley Blue Book for used RVs? ›There is no Kelley Blue Book for RVs, but many use another website and database to help determine a used RV value. You have many factors and multiple data points to consider when pricing a used RV, but you can start with the vehicle NADA (National Automobile Dealers' Association) Guides by JD Power.
How many does a Roadtrek sleep? ›The Roadtrek sleeps up to four - with 1 or 2 single beds up front, and up to a king-size bed in the rear (depending on the model).
What is the easiest small RV to drive? ›Class B RVs are the easiest to drive because they feel like driving a van. In some cases, RVers have even felt they drive similar to a regular vehicle. Certainly, it won't feel like driving a family sedan, but it won't feel like driving a bus either.
What is the longest Roadtrek? ›The Popular 210, at 22 feet is the longest of the Popular series and is well matched to the Chev Express 3500 chassis. Since this chassis is likely at the end of its production life, it will be interesting to see what is down the road for Roadtrek and Chevrolet.
What is the most popular RV class? ›You may be wondering why we are listing the Class C motorhome before the Class B. That's because Class C motorhomes are more popular in the RV world. They can hold more people, and they can be found at a more affordable price point.
Which is Better Class B or Class C RV? ›
As a rule, class B motorhomes are better for boondocking because they're smaller and more agile. However, if you need water and power, a class C rig will have more of both, so you could stay untethered for longer periods.
What is a Super Class B RV? ›A super Class B RV is essentially the same vehicle as Class B+ RVs. The size capacity of a drivable RV begins with the chassis or the base. Class B+ RVs use a larger, heavy-duty chassis for a more spacious interior. The improved super van chassis is why these vehicles are also called super Class Bs.
Where is Roadtrek headquarters? ›Roadtrek Inc, is a manufacturer of Class B (Campervan) motorhomes, headquartered in Cambridge Ontario.
Did Jayco get bought out? ›In addition to the Jayco brand, Jayco acquired Entegra Coach in 2008, Starcraft RV in 1991, and Highland Ridge in 2014. Jayco currently manufactures about 50,000 RVs per year, and reached the 1 millionth manufactured RV milestone in April 2016. Jayco was acquired by Thor Industries in July 2016 for $576 million.
How much is a 1996 Roadtrek worth? ›| Suggested List Price | Average Retail | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $48,126 | $10,900 |
| Total Price | $48,126 | $10,900 |
| Suggested List Price | Average Retail | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $44,993 | $10,300 |
| Total Price | $44,993 | $10,300 |
| Suggested List Price | Average Retail | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $51,701 | $16,750 |
| Options (Add) | ||
| Total Price | $51,701 | $16,750 |
Towing – tongue weight* 1,000 lbs. (450 kg) Fuel type Gas Fuel capacity 117 L/31 U.S. gal.
How can I tell how much my RV is worth? ›- NADA RV Value website. This resource gives ranges for RV sale prices based on manufacturer, model and model year. ...
- RVTrader.com. ...
- Marketplaces like eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. ...
- Professional appraisal companies. ...
- Your local dealer.
Our verdict… Our experience tells us that, yes, it is worth buying an old motorhome – if you know about the potential pitfalls. You also need to be prepared to spend a bit on repairs, upgrades and any alterations you want to make (or do the jobs yourself).