Size Range: 21 to 40 feet GVWR Weight: 8,000 to 16,000 lbs. Hitch Weight: 1,200 to 3,500 lbs. Slide-Outs: 1 to 4 Market Segment Share: 18% Price Range: $18,000 to $150,000+
Given the rising cost of gasoline in 2008 and in particular diesel fuel, fifth wheels, and other travel trailers are rapidly increasing in market share. RV manufacturers have responded to this shift in consumer demand by increasing the luxury appointments in many of their 5th wheel models, as the emphasis shifts away from larger Class A motorhomes.
Fifth wheel towable trailers are similar to larger travel trailers, but they have an extension on the front of the unit that extends over the tow vehicle and a horizontal plate that looks like a wheel (hence the name "fifth wheel") that rests on the tow vehicle for support. This hitch arrangement requires special equipment on the tow vehicle. Typically, full-size pickup trucks serve as tow vehicles for fifth wheels and are outfitted with a fifth wheel receiver. The hitch arrangement makes towing easier by placing the trailer load in the center of the tow vehicle distributing the weight to all of the truck tires instead of behind it.
A fifth wheel trailer is equipped and outfitted with the same amenities as the conventional travel trailer and in some cases a deluxe motor home. The fifth wheel trailer can be unhitched at your destination so that you can use you tow vehicle for running local errands and sightseeing.
Fifth Wheel Ratings & Reviews
Purchasing a Fifth Wheel is a big investment and those that do their research before they buy will be able to make wise and informed decisions. There is no other RV resource available today that combines fair and balanced ratings with money saving buying tips.
Don't spend months or even years trying to figure out who's who in the RV industry. Don't spin your wheels driving from one RV dealer to the next only to hear the salesperson say, "This fifth wheel is the best built". Don't be misled get the facts with fair and balanced reviews and comprehensive rating charts.
We Rate Over 25 Different Fifth Wheel Manufacturers in our 2008-2009 RV Comparison Guide:
Our Guarantee, if you're not completely satisfied with our book, simply return it within 30 days for a 100% refund.
New & Used RV Models - from 1995 to 2010
Our staff has spoken with RV owners, attended various RV shows and interviewed most of the RV manufacturers in North America. We have also collected data from RV websites, forums/blogs, customer survey polls and RV related organizations.
In addition to this, we have also gathered valuable insight from our best-selling publication, “RV Comparison Guide”. We receive customer feedback on a regular basis and we are able to put this information into our ratings.
