We have "Lighter GERMAN Style Van" (Geist)

 

Why?

Because of better fitout without the cheapest possible components being used, quality workmanship that doesn't require  the warranty crew following us around.  

The ability to tow with a smaller (if need be) vehicle which makes the larger tow vehicle more responsive and fuel effiecient.  

The need NOT to use a Weight Distribution Hitch and have all the attending hook up dramas.  

The built in ducted heating system as standard.

The double glazed windows and superior insilation, MOST suitable for Australian conditions.

Tasteful upholstery design and high quality foam.

Suspension that is "now" not from a horse and cart.

Superior roadholding and wind cheating aerodynamics.

Is that enough reasons for our choice?

We have friends with the Jurgen, suggest you look at the practicallity of the layout?  

More than two people in the van and someone is sitting on the double bed,also only enough room for two people at table.

They are still a very, very nice van.

Good luck with your choice, but do have a look at other brands, i.e. Adria, Geist (pnly secondhand) Bailey, Swift.

KenM

 

PS:- Be ready for ll the "knockers" Dare to be different.

 

old saying the best van is the one that suits YOU not some one else

I'm not familiar with either of the brands mentioned so I'm not in a position to comment on the specifics. On a more general note, light weight does not necessarily mean less strength if it is engineered properly, something that aircraft designers know all too well.

I also believe that over-engineering is a poor substitute for good engineering.

hi sumo we  have had a geist since 2008 and it does and has everthing we expect from a light weight van, we have done many klms over the years and once around australia with only 2 tyre blowouts, we started with the larger 21ft then last year went to the 16.5ft. we love it. but it is what suits you and what you intend to do with it. we have had knockers over the years but you can,t knock it untill you try it. goodluck with whatever you end up with and enjoy. regards greyghosts  hey landfall where are you headed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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-- Edited by greyghosts on Thursday 22nd of November 2012 11:24:13 AM

-- Edited by greyghosts on Thursday 22nd of November 2012 11:25:47 AM

Thanks everybody it looks like its going to be a jurgens at this stage cause they are modified to suit australian conditions and are assembelled here and they seem to have more under floor support than my expanda so thanks again all.

Hi Duh,

I agree that is a fair write up on the Geist, although I haven't personally seen a Geist with an Al-Ko chassis?

The chassis are made by BPW especially for the Australian Geists.  When the importer collapsed, the Geists that where in Germany ready to be exported to here were onsold to the UK and marketed as "heavy duty" vans.  All sold very quickly.

We have had our Geist since 2006, have done many thousands of km's with regular trips from tasmania to Queensland each year, usually for about three months. Last year we went up via Adelaide, Bourke, etc.  Have had no real issues with the van and the journalist is right when he states that they tow better than any other van.

Greyghosts hi, we are coming over the northern island again next May for five months, heading to Mapleton, Qld.

Cheers

Ken