iMotorhome Magazine – Dec/Jan 2020/21

iMotorhome magazine Dec/Jan 2020/21

Mighty

CONQUEROR HAS SUNCAMPER’S SHERWOOD 4X4 GONE ROGUE? DRIVEN - IVECO DAILY I PROJECT POLLY UNDER PRESSURE DIY CUPBOARD RAILS I CB RADIO AERIAL GAIN EXPLAINED

ON MY MIND

So This is Christmas…

“So this is Christmas and what have you done?

Another year older, a new one just begun”

sort of thing big magazines could only dream about (and probably never believe), and it reinforces the genuinely personal relationship Mrs iM and I have with many of you. It’s a real source of encouragement and motivation for keeping this thing going, and we thank you all…

Where to even begin to wrap-up 2020? This time last year, who would have thought the world would be as it is, 12 months on? At that stage we were grappling with the beginnings of the bushfires, followed by the smoke, Finally, the combination of travel restrictions due to fear and devastation of our worst-ever fire season. domestic and international border closures, plus taking There were days we expected to lose the house and a razor-gang approach to business and personal what’s important in life took on a new perspective. expenditure, has meant we actually end 2020 in a stronger financial position then we began it. Talk about Then Covid-19 arrived and the world shut down. a silver lining, who would’ve thought?

Australia and New Zealand again became islands in the truest sense of the word and we all wondered what Unfortunately, the extra jobs and the necessary reorganisation of our time has meant much of what I the hell was going to happen. planned to achieve in the second half of this year with videos, the website and social media haven’t happened, Understandably, magazine advertising tanked and but there’s always 2021. It’s still a strange/brave new Mrs iM was stood down at the end of March from world out there that’s taking some adjusting to. her 30-plus year flying career, and remains so, with no decision on her August application for voluntary As we go to press all east coast borders are reopening redundancy. Talk about death by a thousand cuts.

Quick off the mark, she secured a job with Woolworths and Australia, unlike most of the rest of the world, is beginning to feel normal again. Our friends across the and is now in her ninth month as a customer service team member with, as you’d expect, supervisor status. Tasman have also done well and I’m looking forward to the day, sooner than later, when the oft-mooted travel bubble opens and we can all enjoy the benefits.

Then came the announcement of the Federal Perhaps Auckland’s Covi Show in 2021 will be the first Government’s Job Keeper program. It has been a genuine lifesaver and will continue to be so for both of such event we can attend and if so, it will be the first us until the end of March next year. The magazine also since Covi 2020. Again I ask, who would have thought? benefited significantly from the Federal Government’s TThis is our annual combined December/January welcome and unexpected, tax-free business support issue and that means it’s time for a break. We’ll be package. A core of loyal advertisers – Australian back on 1 February, but watch for the 2020 Roadtest Motorhomes and Caravans, Ballina Campers/Horizon Yearbook in January, which hopefully will keep you Motorhomes, Suncamper Motorhomes, Trakka, going. Although we planned to escape for the first two Northcoach RV and Wirraway Motorhomes – have weeks of December, the reality of this strange new stood by us and for that receive our sincerest thanks. world intervened and while Mrs iM’s working hard Please consider them first for your next RV, parts, behind the Woollies’ register and service desk, I’ll be accessories or whatever – they’ve been central to doing an RV delivery to Adelaide and another round of keeping our lights on and deserve all our support. billboard truck driving. For the final time this year time I ask, who would’ve thought?

Combined with Job Keeper and various ad-hoc work, from advertising agency copywriting to driving a mobile Thank you for your support and encouragement billboard (see page 42), plus the generous support of readers, we’ve not only kept the wolf from the door, but throughout the year and for the year ahead. Mrs iM and I wish you and your family the happiest and safest sent him into exile.

Festive Season possible, and nothing but the best for the New Year.

Speaking of reader support, I know there are some of you I have missed personally thanking, either due to not having contact details or my forgetful memory, although not too many I hope. One in particular stands out in my mind: A handwritten card of genuine thanks for the magazine, plus a generous cheque. It’s the

Mr & Mrs iM!

TRAVEL NEWS

JABIRU AWD Off the Beaten Track

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iMotorhome Magazine iMotorhome Magazineis free, independent and published monthly.

Download issues HERE or read online HERE Publisher/Editor

Richard Robertson (+61) 0414 604 368 richard@imotorhome.com.au

Published by iMotorhome Pty Ltd PO Box 1738, Bowral. NSW 2776. Australia.

ABN: 34 142 547 719 T: +614 14 604 368 E: info@imotorhome.com.au W: www.imotorhome.com.au

Technical

© 2020 iMotorhome Pty Ltd.

Allan Whiting (+61) 0410 677 966 allan@imotorhome.com.au

Contributors

Robert ‘Bobby’ Watson Warren McCullough

All content of iMotorhome Magazine and website is copyright and cannot be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the Publisher.

While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of content, no responsibility is accepted for any inconvenience and/ or loss arising from reading and/or acting upon information contained within iMotorhome+Caravan magazine, in the app or on the website.

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Press the Paypal button to make a one-off or recurring contribution

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CONTENTS

2 7 13 23 42 49

57

ON MY MIND So this is Christmas?

61

LETTERS Got something to say? Share it with everyone...

63

NEWS A glimpse at what’s happening in the wide world of RVing

66

TESTED Mighty Conqueror – Has Suncamper’s Sherwood gone rogue?

77

DRIVEN Daily Driver – Daily driving an Iveco Daily around Sydney

PROJECT POLLY Under Pressure – Polly gets two tyre pressure monitoring systems!

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TECH Gas Detectors – Stay safe with quality LPG and CO detectors

TECH Less Gain More Pain? – Explaining CB aerial gain in plain language

DIY Cupboard Rails – Stop your clothes from auto-ejecting!

LIFESTYLE Training Wheels – Indoor bike trainers can open up a new world

RV FRIENDLY Three more country towns supporting our great way of life!

LETTERS

A-Class Acts Hi Richard, just had a glance through the magazine and as always, very informative. I have now given up on importing a motorhome however if I was, either Roller Team Pegaso 740 or Mobilvetta k yacht which are both A-class. Also, both are 7.4 metres long and design is Italian, as is manufacture, and both have the entrance door on the correct side for Australia. They also have a massive garage under a double bed. We saw a couple when in Morocco last year and took a few photos as I had never heard of them, both from Trigano stable. There is a great video of the Mobilvetta on the web from German dealer Busan Autohaus.

It goes for 51 minutes in German, but you can get a good idea of what is being spoken shows what can be done. When looking to kill time it’s well worth a look.

Cheers and long may your magazine continue.

Tim. Good to hear from you and interesting about the Pegaso and K Yacht. I checked it out in NZ at the 2019 Covi Show and thought it looked good. As you’ll note, Mrs iM seemed pretty impressed too! Price at the time was NZ$174,990 – a $5K show discount – including on-roads and satellite TV. Dream on...

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LETTERS

Slip Slide-Out Away motorhome is that you can depart hastily during the night if trouble arises, but if time has to be spent raising any supports, retracting the slide-out, and securing possessions within it, that advantage is diminished.

Dear Richard, you anticipated responses to your comments about slide-outs. Well here goes: It seems to me that slide-outs add weight, cost, wear and tear issues, and provide another major expensive complicated thing to go wrong when a long way from home. Some slide-outs in motorhomes contain east/ west beds, with the bathroom at the far end of the motorhome. That configuration usually has a set of cupboards (with TV) on the wall at the foot of the bed, so when the slide-out is retracted, you can’t get past the bed into the bathroom. I have found that I need access to the bathroom, shower cubicle (doubles as storage area and clothes line), and cupboards when stopped along my journey, but never need to use the bed during the day. I don’t fancy having to remove my shoes and slither over a queen bed on my belly in a $200,000+ motorhome to get to the bathroom when parked in a day rest area or supermarket car park.

When the slide-out in this configuration is retracted, you can’t stand at the end of the bed to use the gas lift mechanism to access the under-bed storage. If I need to get money out of the safe located under the bed, I would have to extend the slide-out in the supermarket car park in order to use the gas lift.

Some slide-outs contain a dinette on a raised platform.

I imagine myself tripping up or losing my footing on the edge of such a slide-out. In a non slide-out motorhome, you can simply glide into your seat. Slide-outs might provide more internal space, but if I need to swing a cat I can always take it outside. Most of my time is spent outside anyway – cooking on a BBQ, socialising, exploring wherever I have camped and attending festivals and events, so a big space in the middle of my motorhome is unnecessary.

When I camp at some festivals, I can pack up quickly each morning (I don’t put out my awning very often) and use my motorhome to drive to venues around the town. A slide-out would slow that process down, especially if I encounter a glitch. How much power does the slide-out mechanism consume? Further concerns follow: 1. I was told of a motorhome slide-out which slid out while the driver was executing a turn at a roundabout or traffic lights. This caused a lot of damage requiring repairs.

I wonder if vigorous hanky panky is possible on a bed which extends through an external wall of the motorhome? An extended slide-out always looks unbalanced to me, and sometimes in need of propping up.If this is done, it is another chore on arrival (usually in inclement weather) and would add to the departure tasks (usually in mud). One of the advantages of a

2. After enduring several sleepless hours in their bucking motorhome during a storm in the night, my camp neighbours in showgrounds were frightened that

When too many slide-outs are never enough...

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NEWS

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LETTERS their slide-out would be caught in a strong wind gust and cause the motorhome to topple sideways or incur some other damage. They retracted the slide-out, but this impeded access to the bathroom by the occupant on one side of the bed during the long turbulent night.

3. When I inspected a motorhome that was parked in a front yard, the owner could not extend the slide-out to provide access to the rear of the motorhome, due to the vehicle being parked next to a tree. The same issue could arise if parked in a garage. How can you pack the bathroom cupboards prior to departure if the slide-out can’t be slid out in a garage or carport? Does all the bathroom unloading and cleaning after a trip have to occur in the home driveway in the weather, so the slide-out can be extended?

4. Do motorhomes with slide-outs need bigger camp sites or are they parked in closer proximity to fellow campers if parked in designated sites?

5. I have been told that slide-outs can leak, causing water damage and mould.

6. Even during mild weather, the awning over the top of the slide-out could flap annoyingly through the night, and provide further potential need for repairs.

squeak and creak during the night (even in the absence of the hanky panky mentioned above)?

9. Does the slide-out mechanism need maintenance and lubrication? If so, there is potential for overspray and contamination of nearby items, e.g. the floor, bedspread, etc. Lubricant seems to attracts dust.

10. Does the external slide-out framework create a small amount of wind resistance that could result in irritating whistling while zipping along the highway?

11. Any external lockers underneath the slide-out would become inaccessible when the slide-out is extended.

12. Damage or problems with a slide-out can cause significant delays while waiting for parts and repairs in rural areas, let alone mechanical attention in an isolated free camp.

13. I don’t like the idea of fiddly bits and sharp nooks and crannies which would need careful attention while cleaning. I rest my case.

Kind regards, Simplicity Sam

Dear Simplicity Sam, thank you for your considered 7. Does the slide-out framework allow dust, insects, and considerable discourse on the potential pitfalls sound, heat and cold to enter, in contrast to a wellrelating to slide-outs! You raise some very interesting insulated motorhome without a slide-out? If the top half points and provide much food for thought. It appears of my body is sleeping in a slide-out, will it miss the we are of similar mind on much relating to this subject cosy insulation and protected ceiling that is offered by and I’m certain our readers will also appreciate a seamless motorhome shell without a slide-out? your thoughts. I hope you are travelling well in your obviously non-slide-out-equipped motorhome and look 8. A motorhome builder told me that slide-outs can forward to hearing about your adventures – and your rattle when the vehicle is in motion. Do they also replies to readers’ comments. Stand by…

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LETTERS TESTED

AKUNA Get away from it all in style

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LETTERS

Knaus Converts Hi Richard. We are enjoying reading your publication iMotorhome and we enjoyed especially your take on the Knaus Motorhomes. Yes, it is true, that these motorhomes fly underneath the radar and considering all the extras (including a second drop-down bed which hides above the lounge) are included in these motorhomes they are even good value for money.

We are the proud owners of a Knaus Skywave which we bought and picked up in Melbourne in January.

We fell in love with the layout and that was the end of decision-making for us.

Coming from a background of a 2002 Trakka Torino for us, this motorhome is huge. It is comfy and it ticks all the boxes. It has a surprisingly good turning circle but quite a long overhang. Maybe you’ll get the chance to review one and that would be interesting?

Thanks Ruth and Geoff, and glad you enjoy the magazine! Thanks also for your thoughts on the Knaus and congratulations on the purchase. Good to hear you’re enjoying it and that it ticks all the boxes. I can also understand how it must seem palatial, coming from a van like our Polly. We can’t wait to ‘move up’, but that is still a few years away. Perhaps you’d like to write a Reader’s Report at some stage? I’m sure people would be very interested to hear why you chose it and how it’s going? Re testing one, like all new vehicles, the manufacturer/distributor and dealers are reluctant to allow us to drive stock vehicles in case of damage, plus the added kilometres. Still, we live in hope. Anyway, thanks again for your email and safe travels…

Cheers and thanks for a very interesting magazine, Ruth & Geoff

Story Opportunity?

Hi Richard. Steve here, my wife Michel and I are members of the CMCA and learnt about you guys through the CMCA news letter. What a great magazine you guys put out. Keep up the great work, we look forward to reading future issues. Do you call for readers to send in articles for your magazine?

We have a 2015 VW Transporter 4Motion LWB campervan, that was supplied and fitted out new for us

by Campervans Australia at Albion Park, NSW. They did a really good job and have the best after sales service. It might be worth a story on them sometime as they are only a small company. Once again, thanks for the great magazine.

Kindest Regards to all, Steve & Michel Thanks Steve and Michel, good to hear from you and glad you found us via the CMCA. I'm also glad you like what we're doing and certainly appreciate your support. Yes, I'm very happy to have reader’s submit articles as I know other readers always enjoy them. Do you have an owner review of your VW Transporter in mind? It's good to know you're happy with it and also with Campervans Australia. I remember stopping in there many years ago, but must be well overdue for a revisit as I've only heard good things about them.

Thanks for the heads up, I'll make sure I do.

Caveat Emptor G'day Richard, thought you'd be interested in our recent experience buying a brand-new motorhome.

No names, no pack-drill, but we ordered an extra solar panel to be fitted by the dealer. On the due date we went to collect the vehicle to find that when the house battery was installed by them the cables were not terminated correctly and most parted company with the battery when pulled. On arrival home I decided to look at the solar installation to see if the same “tradesman” had been on the roof. Oh that was strange, they must have fitted an invisible new panel! You guessed it, they had fitted our solar panel to other motorhome being delivered the same day. So a drive back, lost time and almost $100 in toll charges later, it was installed.

I thought this would be a good warning to other excited buyers picking up their new purchase: Check everything is installed.

Cheers, ‘Disappointed’ Dear Disappointed, thanks for sharing your story as a warning, I don't really believe your name does justice to your frustration or disappointment levels, and I hope you were suitably compensated for the inconvenience and out-of-pocket expenses. I know dealers have been busy with a flood of new orders since the initial state border openings, but that's simply unacceptable. Thanks for the warning, I know our readers will take heed.

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NEWS

Dick Smith Buys a Sherwood Suncamper Motorhomes says former Australian of the Year, Dick Smith, has put his money where his mouth is and commissioned them to build a Sherwood E-Series 4x4 motorhome.

“I hired a Suncamper Sherwood 4x4 to take to Cape York and back. I enjoyed it that much I decided to buy one for myself,” Dick said.

Suncamper's Managing Director, Keith Harrison, says he thanks Dick Smith for supporting Australians and Australian businesses, and can't wait to hear more about his adventures.

Keith also said that at a time when support is crucial for local manufacturing it's a great vote of confidence in small business to have an iconic figure like Dick Smith invest in Suncamper's products.

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NEWS

New Books Cooking Exploring Eden Media says it's excited to be launching three new books in the first half of 2021 and says if you've got big plans for new year’s adventures, it has you covered. The book are:

cold plunge pools, cascading waterfalls and ancient rocky gorges of Karijini National Park, or marvelling over the impossibly pink salt lake that is Hutt Lagoon.

Fire To Fork (May/Jun) Johnny James and Other Verses (Jan) The publisher says if you haven't come across Harry Since moving to a remote Kimberley cattle station, red Fisher's larrikin style of campfire cooking, you're in for dirt has coloured Dave Murrell's blood and filled his life a real treat. If he weren't such a nice guy he'd be that with adventure, this book is a collection. annoying friend you don't like inviting around for a meal because you’d feel your own cooking is never good Often with humour and sometimes full of emotion, enough. Fortunately, Harry loves sharing his passion Dave combines his own recollections of Outback for good and hearty campfire grub. Through a superlife with stories of white colonisation, Aboriginal popular series of YouTube videos, Harry has been displacement and tight-knit community bonds. Dave sharing the recipes and rationale to his favourite meals shines light on the immeasurable good of his remote so every day travellers can do better than sausages community as well as the darkness that lurks on the and bread every night at camp. Featuring more than edges of its history.

60 awesome meals that will turn you into that annoying friend who is the better camp cook than anyone else, 100 Things To See On Australia’s Coral Coast (Apr/May) Harry's first cookbook is due out in the first half of Western Australia stunning Coral Coast spans 1100 2021. km. From the Pinnacles in the south up to Exmouth and Karijini in the north, it's a diverse region with no To find out more about all of these books and others end of things to see and do. This book builds on the in its collection, including preordering, visit Exploring publisher’s library of 100 Things To See travel guides Eden Media's website HERE. and includes gems like driving through fields of colour in wildflower country and finding your way to the icy-

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DIY

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NEWS

Townsville Booking System Aladdin’s Cave

In December, Townsville City Council is planning to launch a newallegedly booking uncovered system for an its Aladdin's free camping Police have cave of sites. new system will allow and Coast. stolenThe property at a caravan parkresidents on the Gold travellers to book a spot at any of the council’s free camping locations in the Northern Beaches area.

It happened after officers from Mudgeeraba identified Townsville Mayor Jennie Hill said the booking system a vehicle of interest that was thought to have been would ensure campers wereoffences doing the right thing involved in recent property in Robina andand being respectful to led fellow Broadbeach.

That to acampers. search warrant being executed at the Mudgeeraba caravan park, where "The free camping in oursite Northern Beaches numerous tools andlocations construction equipment were are very popular and a booking system will ensure found. Police also allegedly located two syringes and a campers are moving plastic water pipe. on when they should be, giving others a chance to stay there,” she said. But eventually, thisman booking system will expand include A 45-year-old and 23-year-old woman,to both all of Mudgeeraba, Council’s bookable venues and from were charged withspaces”. two counts of entering with intent, one count of stealing, one count "We know there are some travellers who aren't able to of possessing tainted property, one count of receiving book online and this a concern raised during the tainted property, onewas count of wilful damage and three consultation period.

So, Council will also be accepting counts of drug possession. phone bookings for these sites through the Customer Service Centre”. To find out more and access the new system, click HERE.

Daintree Campers Fined STOP PRESS!

Douglas Shire Council in Far North Queensland has taken to social mediatowarning against freedom Just as we were going press, the following update camping.

In a Facebook the authority was received regardingpost, the legal battle astells outlined in travellers to stay in one of itssection: "Lovely caravan parks", Sorry State in our Letters adding "There is no free camping in the Douglas Shire and penalties apply”. recently $266 Your in “Good morning to allCouncil our friends and issued supporters. fines to 13 illegal campers. donations are being well spent.

“Excellent news: Following further hearings, provisional orders have been handed down until such time as a full hearing is held, which could be some time, due to the current circumstances.

“The Orders: Everybody gets their land and buildings back and all are to be given quiet enjoyment of their sites, no more threats or bullying or blocking friends from visiting. To keep good faith, we will be paying appropriate fees, which will be determined by an independent expert. I will keep you posted when we get details.

Bye for now, Rich”.

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NEWS

Consumers Win Legal Fight In a significant win for consumers, the ABC has reported that hundreds of thousands of dollars in compensation will be paid to a group of Grey Nomads and retirees after a Queensland motorhome dealer was found responsible for causing them financial loss.

Last December an investigation by the ABC’s 7:30 program exposed allegations against John Jeffreys, the former director of the Motorhome Conversion Company, including that some customers were owed money relating to their vehicles. The company, based in Logan, south of Brisbane, went into liquidation in

July 2019 with debts of $3.6 million to unsecured creditors. The Queensland Office of Fair Trading (OFT) is awarding $700,000 to a total of 9 motorhome owners. While the investigation is a civil matter, Mr Jefferys reportedly could end up in criminal court.

The OFT runs a claim fund that helps consumers recover losses from motor dealers if they can prove, on balance of probability, that a breach of the law has occurred. The ABC says it can reveal the OFT investigated the claims and found in favour of the nine consumers. However, six other claims were found not to be valid.

Jayco Cleared in Court Australia's biggest manufacture of RVs, Jayco, has been cleared by the Federal Court of "Unconscionable" conduct by refusing to replace faulty caravans.

However, the court said the company had breached Australian Consumer Law (ACL) in its dealings with one disgruntled caravan buyer. While agreeing Jayco made false or misleading representation, the court ruled the purchaser was only entitled to a repair, despite his rights under the law to receive a refund or replacement.

After finding Jayco had made false or misleading representations to one consumer, Justice Wheelahan dismissed the remainder of the a ACCC’s case, finding Jayco did not make false or misleading representation to the three other consumers, or act unconscionably towards all four. He agreed that the caravans were not of acceptable quality and that defects in three of them were major, including water leaks when it rained or multiple roof collapses.

Commenting on the judgement, ACCC Chairman Rod The Australian Competition and Consumer Sims said the action had been taken because it was Commission (ACCC) launched the court action in concerned consumers were being denied remedies 2017, accusing Jayco of "Unconscionable conduct" available under Australian Consumer Law for products when dealing with unhappy customers. It alleged four that clearly had defects. Mr Sims also said the ACCC owners were refused refunds or replacements between would "Carefully consider the judgement". The full 2013 and 2015 for their defective caravans. It also judgement can be accessed HERE. claimed Jayco did this despite knowing the caravans were defective and not functioning properly, even after repeated repair attempts.

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NEWS

Rack Report Time prevented a rundown in this issue on our recent trip to the Tumbarumba to Rosewood rail trail, which was also the first real test of the new GripSport GS2+ bike rack we bought and reported on in the November issue. Suffice to say the rack acquitted itself perfectly over a rushed 750 km, 2-day trip round-trip, while carrying Mrs iM’s 27-kg e-bike and my 18-kg tourer.

Installing the rack, connecting lights and mounting the bikes takes about 15 minutes without rushing, while getting the bikes off or putting them back on is just a few minutes either way. For security, we installed a Hayman-Reece key-locked pin through the towbar and ran a long cable with combination lock through both bikes and the rack. When travelling, the rack remained rock-solid and even though at every stop the tiedowns were checked for tension, no adjustment was necessary.

The Gripsport GS2+ is one of a range of high-quality and fully-engineered, Australian-made bike racks

Not all bike racks are created equal.

available direct or through a dealer network. You can find full details and pricing on the whole GripSport product range HERE.

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NEWS

CMCA Roadside Assistance Launched After initial delays, the CMCA says it’s pleased to announce that it has partnered with Allianz Global Assistance (AGA) to provide roadside assistance to CMCA members. Annual roadside assistance membership can be purchased for $180 via the CMCA website, or members can contact Allianz Global Assistance directly on one 800 731912.

Members are urged to read the full terms and conditions and should compare the offering with their current roadside assistance program before switching.

CMCA Rally Relocation The CMCA has just announced its 35th National Rally, scheduled to be held in Gympie, Queensland, in midOctober 2021, has been relocated to the New South Wales town of Bingara. The club sights difficulties and uncertainties with other users at the Gympie site along

with new Covid-19 restrictions on the number of people permitted in buildings and rooms. The move to Bingara has been given the go-ahead, with dates and full details to be confirmed in due course. The CMCA says it thanks Gympie Regional Council for its assistance and notes that the difficulties we are not their fault. Jo Tremain is the rally manager for Bingara and her team will soon be calling for volunteers.

In other news, the CMCA says its RV park in Ingham, Queensland, has now closed for the wet season, but is expected to reopen in April. With the exception of the club’s Charleville Bush Camp RV Park, which closed early in November due to extreme heat and weather conditions, all other parks remain open. However, it says it's important to note that due to circumstances beyond the Club’s control, parks might close at short notice. It also notes the unpredictability of COVID-19 might also have an affect on its parks operations.

The CMCA’s 23rd National Rally in 2008 at Bingara, NSW.

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NEWS

Avida Giving Back Avida says it is running a national promotion with Triple M radio to give back to a worthy Australian essential worker who has gone above and beyond.

The promotion, also in association with Naturebee and The Man Shake, gives you the opportunity to nominate someone as a Bona-Fide Legend.

Avida is providing a 10-day motorhome holiday plus $1000 spending money to the lucky winner, who could be anyone from a nurse to a truck driver, firefighter or supermarket checkout-person who has done it tough and gone above and beyond in 2020. To find out more and submit your nomination, click HERE.

Relocation Bargains Now most borders are open there are rental relocation bargains to be had, even though international tourism is basically on hold. Popular website imoova has been advertising relocations like 5 days to get from Sydney to Hobart for $1/day plus $150 towards fuel and the ferry crossing for the vehicle and driver. Other offers include Darwin to Alice Springs, Brisbane or Sydney for $1/day plus $100 fuel money, and Perth to Adelaide, Melbourne or Sydney for $1/day and $150 towards fuel. It also has a range or car relocations for $5/day, plus relocations in NZ, Canada, USA, UK and Europe.

Find out more HERE.

Wallabadah Freecamp Reopens Liverpool Plains Shire Council has reopened it's popular free camping area on the New England Highway at Wallabadah, but with strict Covid-safe conditions. Travellers will have to register by scanning the QR code and practice strict social distancing.

Council says the trial will determine the logistical requirements of maintaining Covid safety and will help determine the process of re-opening other facilities in the Shire.

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TESTED

Mighty

CONQUEROR

by Richard Robertson

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TESTED

“There are now five Sherwoods, but the (original) E-Series is still the most popular. ..”

N

ot many motorhome manufacturers have iconic models that define them. Sydney-based Suncamper, however, does and it’s the Sherwood, which first rolled out of the factory when Adam got his licence and took Eve travelling (you know, after the ‘apple’ incident).

Toyota’s HiLux, in two or four-wheel drive. Despite producing a wide range of models, the Sherwood is still Suncamper’s number-one best seller and that proves it’s a sound design.

Ideal for solo travellers and well-organised couples, the original Sherwood – now called the E-Series – has Sherwoods are ‘baby’ C-class motorhomes, meaning an east-west bed over the cab, a rear dinette for two they’re small and have a purpose-built body with an to take advantage of the wrap-around windows, a over-cab bed that rides on a separate cab-chassis. mid-positioned kitchen and a (basic) bathroom. Fully In the Sherwood’s case that has almost always been self-contained yet legally able to park in a single car 24

TESTED

space, the Sherwood must have the longest continuous production history of any motorhome in Australia. It also has a hugely loyal following and has been proven time and again in the toughest conditions across the country.

There are now five Sherwood series – E, L, R, S and T – offering various combinations of queen or single beds, wet or dry bathrooms, dinette layouts, seating and sleeping capacities, but the E-Series is still the most popular. Perhaps like Smith’s Chips, the original really is best?

Building on that popularity, Suncamper has upped the visual and capability ante with the tough-looking Conqueror: A rugged bells-andwhistles Sherwood with attitude, ability and appeal…

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TESTED

Oh What a Feeling!

A

s mentioned, Sherwoods have almost always ridden on Toyotas and the Conqueror is the first to ride on the latest generation of the SR 4x4 HiLux. Toyota has needed to play catch up with the 2020 model HiLux due to increasingly stiff competition from the likes of the Ford Ranger and new Mazda BT50. For starters, it has increased the gross vehicle mass (GVM) to 3050 kg. Suncamper increases this on its ‘standard’ 4x4 Sherwoods to 3500 kg, but the Conqueror raises it to 3620 kg. Fully engineercertified, all GVM increases are accomplished through substantial suspension upgrades by specialist company, Pedders.

Even with all its bells and whistles the Conqueror has a ‘wet’ tare weight of 3140 kg, leaving a payload of 480 kg on the current 3620 kg GVM. The HiLux has a 5850 kg gross combination mass (GCM), meaning it can tow 2230 kg at the Conqueror’s upgraded GVM. However, Suncamper has fitted a 1500 kg-rated towbar, which should be more than enough for most users and provides an increased margin of safety. Suspension improvements aside, the Conqueror rolls on great looking 17-inch alloys shod with chunky Maxis Razar 265/70R 17 mud terrain tyres.

The extra water tank is in place of the original spare wheel.

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TESTED

To keep ahead of the game, Toyota has upped the output of its 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel to 150 kW and 500 Nm. However, it still ‘only’ drives through a 6-speed automatic transmission. Ford’s Ranger has a 10-speed option, so 6 is beginning to look a little passé. Apart from the GVM upgrade, Suncamper has also replaced the standard 80-litre fuel tank with a 140-litre long-ranger.

The latest Hilux also benefits from Toyotas Safety Sense system, which builds on its recently attained five-star ANCAP safety rating. Safety Sense includes high-speed active (adaptive) cruise control, a precollision safety system with pedestrian and daylight cyclist detection, lane departure alert and road sign assist, plus the usual traction control, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, etc. Add to that seven airbags and it's as far removed from an early HiLux as you can imaging. Thank goodness…

27

TESTED

Inside, Toyota has added a new sound system, a touchscreen infotainment system with eight-inch display, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Many features can be operated from the multi-function steering wheel, although it's disappointing to see it isn’t leather trimmed. To all that, Suncamper has added a tyre pressure monitoring system with a separate dash-top digital display, a GME UHF CB radio, reversing camera and a Hema GPS HX1 navigation system with on and off-road maps.

Toyota image for illustrative purposes.

28

TESTED

Oh What a Features List!

M

ore than simply a styling exercise, the Conqueror adds a wide range of features, many of which aren’t obvious, to enhance usability, utility and liveability (and possibly other words ending in ‘ity’).

Externally, the Conqueror gets a good looking Rival alloy front bumper. Not only ADR compliant for the airbags, it incorporates an underbody bash plate, two rated recovery points, is winch compatible and lighter than the original. Other upgrade and enhancement items comprise a 30-inch LED light bar on the bumper, a snorkel, bonnet scoop with protective Raptor-brand paint, a Toyota TRD grill, headlight surrounds, wideangle and extendable towing mirrors, and front wheelarch flares.

29

TESTED

The bodywork also picks up roof-mounted brush bars, which at the front carry a 60-inch LED (flood) light bar plus 4 LED spotlights, switched in pairs, that have a 1.8 km range. No Conqueror driver is ever going to be afraid of the dark!

There are also roof racks suitable for surfboards and/ or kayaks. Another notable feature is protection from the scrub thanks to that hard wearing Raptor paint and also some aluminium protection plate. Meanwhile, an Anderson plug is provided that’s suitable for charging a tow vehicle, external accessories or for plugging-in a solar blanket, etc. Speaking of solar, up on the roof are 405-watts of solar panels, although the optional air-conditioner reduces that to 270 W via the removal of one of the panels. On the topic of power, the Conqueror come standard with a 120 amp-hour lithium house battery and 2000-watt sinewave inverter, plus dual USB charging points and a 12 V power outlet.

30

TESTED At the rear it's difficult to miss the Conqueror’s two massive spare wheels (locked on), which provide extra safety in remote areas, plus there's a neat roof ladder with four small, fold-up steps. That pretty much takes care of the obvious external extras, but here are some you mightn't or won't have noticed…

The Conqueror gets larger panoramic windows – specifically on the passenger side – than the standard E-Series. It also gets a large storage locker in the kerb-side rear corner with access under the lounge/dinette that’s suitable for a barbecue and longer items like fishing rods, while next to is a gas bayonet. Two electric entry steps and a black, threemetre wind-out awning are fitted, ditto the latest style security screen door which, unfortunately, doesn’t match the body colour. Speaking of the awning, there are LED lights on both sides and the rear for convenience and nighttime security, plus an illuminated entry grab-handle.

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TESTED

Because the Conqueror is intended for more extreme adventures it lacks a couple of features you might expect as standard: living area air conditioning and a microwave. However, careful thought has been given to its mission profile and the water system reflects this: The main tank carries 95-litres and solely serves the shower and sink, while a 43-litre tank delivers filtered drinking water to the kitchen. The cassette toilet has its own 15-litre tank, which means you're not flushing drinking water down the loo. While a little inconvenient at fill-up time, it makes the most of available water resources and the system is sure to be appreciated on extended remote trips.

Both main water tanks have lockable individual fillers, plus there's a mains-pressure water connector for the shower and sink when in a caravan park. By the time you take into account the 20-litre capacity of the hot water system, 43-litres for the grey water tank and 19-litres for the toilet cassette, the Conqueror can carry up to 235-litres (235 kg) of water. Add to that about 116 kg for 140-litres of diesel and the 2 x 4 kg LPG cylinders, it means the Conqueror’s traditional ‘dry’ tare weight measurement (with 10-litres of fuel) is around 2857 kg, Suncamper advises.

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TESTED

Body ‘n Soul

P

roven and durable, the Sherwood features a traditional steel frame base and fully-welded aluminium framework for the walls, rear and nose, plus a single-piece roof. Underneath, a rustproofing and sound deadening agent is applied to protect from noise and road damage The walls and roof are fully insulated with fire retardant foam and then pressed together.

Because the framework is extensive, every fitting is screwed into a solid spot and the walls are more than 30 mm thick while the roof exceeds 45 mm. Inside, all cabinetry is plywood that has been glued and screwed together, not stapled. General Manager Cameron Harrison is a cabinetmaker by trade and takes great pride in the design and quality of Suncamper’s interiors.

While the floor plan of the Conqueror is almost pure Sherwood E-Series, it has been significantly upgraded.

The cabinetry has been re-designed to give a modern, seamless look, with concealed but easily-operated 33

TESTED

latches on the overhead cupboards and a new style latch that's simple and robust, elsewhere. Leather upholstery is now the go, while the U-shaped dinette with removable table converts to a second bed if/when required. There’s good internal storage for the size of vehicle including a hanging wardrobe between the bathroom and sink unit and large overhead cupboards.

Other things to note include the relocation of the electrical control panel, etc, plus light switches to the wall between the kitchen bench and overhead cupboards, just inside the door. Stone benchtops are used throughout; there’s a new Thetford two-burner ceramic glass gas cook-top and a large, wooden bench extension that easily lifts into place over the stairwell.

Above the cooker is a flush-mount rangehood, neatly hidden beneath the overhead cupboards, while touch-operated-and-dimmed LED strip lighting is also concealed there. As expected, the other interior lighting is LED and has a couple of switching options to reduce electrical load and/or suit ‘the mood’.

A new Thetford compressor fridge sits beneath the cooker and it eliminates external venting, significantly 34

TESTED

reducing the chance of dust ingress. It circulates air internally, drawing-in cooler air underneath and venting warm air out the top, between it and the cabinet. It will be interesting to see how effective this is in more extreme conditions and if it noticeably raises the Conqueror’s internal temperature. Across the aisle in its own cabinet is the new enamelled black sink with black glass lid and matching tap. It includes a removable drain board, cutting board, wash bowl and draining rack; all of which fit neatly together and sit in the sink, under the lid, whilst travelling. As mentioned, there is a separate filtered drinking water supply, and tap, that has a cartridge-type filter under the sink.

Two excellent inclusions for remote adventures yearround are a ducted Webasto diesel heater with digital controller and 12-volt Sirocco fan; the latter positioned above the stairwell so it can be swivelled to cool the living area or bed. Also on a swing-out arm is the digital TV, above the sink, which can also be viewed from the dinette or bed. Speaking of the bed, it’s an east-west queen-size and the Conqueror has a revised step and additional grab handle for easier access.

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TESTED

There are also blue LED reading lights above the bed head (kerbside), while a large over-bed hatch, with white LEDs in the surrounds, and windows at both ends should provide plenty of ventilation.

The only part of the Conqueror I can see that remains untouched from the standard Sherwood E-Series is the bathroom. Directly opposite the entry door, between the bed and wardrobe, it's a basic all-in-one wet design. Features comprise an opaque door, Thetford bench-style cassette toilet, small, corner hand basin, flick mixer tap with an extendable hose that doubles as the shower, a fold-out clothes line, mirror, LED light and a fan roof hatch. There is no storage space nor room for swinging cats, but in this size vehicle it’s what you'd expect.

36

TESTED

Impressions

I

only had half a day in the Conqueror and it had been awhile since I'd driven any Sherwood. However, it didn't take long for the familiarity to return. Being a 4x4 with revised suspension and larger tyres, you sit quite high and the elevated ride-height felt more akin to a van than even a bread-and-butter 4x4 Sherwood.

essentially obscured the view through the centre of the windscreen, but this will be addressed in production.

Side visibility was excellent thanks to the large towing mirrors, split almost 50/50 between the upper, electrically-adjustable flat glass section and the lower, convex wide-angle mirrors.

Performance was surprisingly brisk, with the gearbox proving a slick shifter. Engine noise was reasonably subdued except under heavier acceleration or if it Obviously there’s no walk-through cab and due dropped back a gear on a bigger hill to maintain to Toyota’s increased safety provisions in the roof structure, only a small hatch is now available to access cruise-control speed. Ride comfort was also good, partially due to Toyota’s seats but also to the wellthe cab from the living area or vv. Actually, you’d sorted suspension. Despite the GVM upgrade, the ride probably only do it from the living area, feet first, and was well damped and although there was noticeable then only if you absolutely had to. Otherwise, it’s get thumping from the rear suspension over gaps in out and walk around. That, perhaps, is the biggest the dreaded Pennant Hills Rd and other surface limitation of this style of vehicle and not something irregularities, they were heard as much as felt. The exclusive to the Sherwood. On the plus side, the cab’s compact size, along with the front and side body increased ride height gives the Conqueror a higher centre of gravity and it was noticeable, although well overhang, means the cab is well shaded and the air conditioning should have little trouble proving effective controlled: After an initial pitch turning into a corner, the vehicle sat flat and continued without drama. The in tough conditions. wider mud-terrain tyres provided a degree of ‘wander’ at freeway speeds, but this is something you would The new HiLux is a comfortable and high-tech quickly get used to. Ditto buffeting in gusty wind office that will take a bit of time to get to know in conditions and from passing trucks. full detail. On the test vehicle, the positioning of the large reversing camera display plus the GPS

37

TESTED

What I think

T

he Conqueror elicits a kind of shock-and-awe response and it certainly created a lot of attention during my short drive. And I mean, a lot. The good news for Suncamper is it was all positive.

Toyota’s latest HiLux is crammed with goodies and should prove as unbreakable as ever. Suncamper’s Sherwood has proven equally unbreakable and is more than up to the task. Together, they make a unique off-road motorhome that's small in stature but big in practicality, durability and ability. Priced at $194,990 drive-way it’s also highly competitive against rivals in the off-road motorhome segment.

While any Sherwood is a fun little motorhome, the Conqueror takes that to extremes and has the potential to develop something of a cult following. More at home in wide open spaces than the confines of narrow bush tracks, it nonetheless is an extremely capable and comfortable motorhome that could literally take you all over Australia – or the world. Mighty Conqueror?

Check out our first 360º tour and decide...

38

SPECS GENERAL Make

Suncamper Motorhomes

Model

Sherwood Conqueror

Type

C-class

Berths

2

Approved Seating

2

Licence

Car

VEHICLE Make/Model

Toyota SR HiLux

Engine

2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Power

150 kW @ 3400 rpm

Torque

500 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm

Transmission/Drive

6-speed automatic/On-Demand 4x4

Safety

5-Star ANCAP & Toyota Saftey Sense

Fuel

140 L

Pros...

Looks!

4x4 Capability Standard equipment Proven engineering Clever water system Comfortable Compact

WEIGHTS Tare Weight

3140 kg with full fuel and water

Gross Vehicle Mass

3620 kg

Braked Towing Capacity

2200 kg (1500 kg towbar fitted)

DIMENSIONS Overall Length

5.85 m (19' 2")

Overall Width

2.21 m (7' 3") exc mirrors

Overall Height

3.00 m (9' 10”)

Internal Height

1.93 m (6’ 4”)

Bed

1.94 m x 1.75 m (6' 4" x 5' 9”)

EQUIPMENT

Cons...

Slide-Out

No

Awning

Wind-out

Entry Steps

Electric x 2

Cooker

2 x LPG

Rangehood Sink Fridge Microwave Lighting 12 V Sockets/USB Outlets Air Conditioner Space Heater Hot Water System Toilet Shower CAPACITIES Batteries Solar LPG Fresh Water Grey Water Hot Water Toilet PRICE - drive-away As Reviewed Warranty

Yes Black enamel, separate tap & filtered drinking water Thetford DE105 90 L 12/240-volt compressor Optional 12 V LED Yes/Yes Optional Webasto Diesel Swift LPG/Electric Cassette Wet bathroom/Flexible hose shower 1 x 120 Ah Lithium + 2000 W Sinewave Inverter 405 W 2 x 4 kg 95 L Shower & sink / 43 L Drinking 43 L 20 L 15 L Flushing tank / 19.3 Cassette A$194,990 5 Years/100,000 km

39

Cab access Basic bathroom Door colour doesn’t match body

Contact

Suncamper Motorhomes

Unit 3, 9 Sefton Rd Thornleigh. NSW. 2120.

T: 1300 416-854 E: sales@suncampermotorhomes.com.au W: suncampermotorhomes.com.au

“The Conqueror elicits a kind of shock-and-awe response and it certainly created a lot of attention. The good news for Suncamper is it was all positive...�

TESTED

41

DRIVEN

Daily

driver

Daily driving impressions of the Iveco Daily‌

by Richard Robertson 42

DRIVEN

T

hey say it's not what you know but who you know, and the older I get the more I find that to be true.

Remember back in the September issue, project Polly had a new hot water system installed by our friends at Suncamper Motorhomes up in Thornleigh, in Sydney's North West. At the time there was an unusual vehicle being constructed right alongside Polly; a mobile billboard/promotional truck based on an Iveco Daily, for a company called Streetfighter Media.

It turns out the truck and company are owned by the daughter of Suncamper CEO Keith Harrison, and the truck is destined to spend its life plying the streets of Sydney and surrounds promoting various products and services.

Imagine my surprise a couple of months later to get a call from Keith asking if I'd be interested in some ad hoc driving work; specifically, the billboard truck. It seems daughter Ruth was after some older drivers fuelled more by experience and caution than testosterone to ply the city’s streets in her unusual baby. Of course I said yes – these days you have to grab every opportunity that comes along – plus I was actually keen to spend some time really getting to know the current model Iveco Daily.

The Iveco in-build, on the hoist.

43

DRIVEN

Unique Platform

I

t's doing this truck a disservice to refer to it simply as a mobile billboard. In fact the whole concept behind it is as a mobile mural. Streetfighter Media specialises in outdoor promotions and operates all across Australia, and the concept behind the truck is unique: Imagine a mobile easel that can set-up in busy locations while a talented mural artist or two transforms the huge canvas into a work of art. It would intrigue and engage passers-by and become a local point-of-interest, before taking to the road with the finished work to promote the sponsoring cause. And that’s exactly what it does…

If you check out the body you'll see it's a regular aluminium tabletop with the towering framework for the ‘canvas’ positioned immediately behind the driver, leaving the rest of the space open for the artist to work.

Equipped with a set of motorhome-style electric steps and railings around the side, the body also doubles as artist only paints the side facing the kerb, with the other a mobile stage, making the truck even more useful for side featuring a regular poster of what the mural will eventually become. promotional work. And in case you're wondering, the

44

DRIVEN

A reversing camera makes parking easier.

Daily Driver

M

easuring eight and a half metres long and four metres high, this unique vehicle cuts quite an impressive site on suburban streets. However, it weighs less than three tonnes, meaning it can be driven on a car license and also access many otherwise weight-limited local streets. It also has rare suspension, with the driver’s-side airbag at a higher setting to compensate for the A-frame’s weight and keep the tray level.

I spent seven days behind the wheel of this unusual vehicle, with each eight-hour day spent in a different area of Sydney: Day one Balmain to Leichhardt, day two St Leonards to Hornsby, day three Bondi to Maroubra, day four Manly to Mona Vale, day five North Sydney to St Leonards, day six North Sydney to Mosman and day seven Sydney's CBD and surrounds.

As you can imagine, after this, which equated to around 60 hours driving time, I was feeling pretty comfortable with the Iveco Daily and had had plenty of time to really assess its plus and minus points.

45

DRIVEN

Plus Points

O

n the plus side I found general drivability to be excellent, with good overall visibility and a surprisingly tight turning circle – just the thing for doing (many) 180° turns on small roundabouts. Driver’s seat comfort was excellent with no aches or pains during or after the whole experience; aided no doubt by it being a weight-adjustable suspension seat that’s also heated. Cab access was good and there was plenty of storage space for my basic needs, including cup and bottle holders and deep door pockets. It also came with climate control and the touchscreen infotainment centre with a myriad of options and I Bluetoothed my phone for easy hands-free calling.

With 125 kW and 430 NM powering less than 3 tonnes, performance was impressive as you would expect, not that there was much call for it (slow and steady wins the mobile billboard race!). The most impressive driving aspect, as expected, was the eightspeed Hi-Matic gearbox, which performed flawlessly.

Crisp, smooth changes up and down are its hallmark and never once did it hesitate or hunt for the right gear. I also came to appreciate the gear selector and especially the P button (for Park), which I regularly used at traffic lights and even in bumper-to-bumper

traffic. It significantly reduced fatigue from holding my foot on the break and selection of Drive took about a second when it was time to go.

The gearbox features Eco and Power modes, and naturally I drove in Eco, with just the occasional experiment to see how Power responded. As expected, it held gears longer and was more aggressive with changes; entirely unnecessary attributes tootling around the city.

Finally and more an observation, I was pleased to be driving a European light truck because of the car-like cab and suspension arrangement, rather than sitting over the front axle and feeling every bump as I would have in a Japanese equivalent.

46

DRIVEN

Minus Points

T

here are no deal breakers in the Iveco Daily’s driving experience, only some disappointments and signs of an ageing underlying design. For starters, the steering wheel has no tilt adjustment, only reach, and that's less than ideal. Iveco’s proprietary touchscreen infotainment system isn't bad, but it lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for your smart phone. I ran my iPhone in a windscreen mount, connected to a dash-top USB outlet, and that worked fine.

Cruise control is operated via a separate, stubby ‘wand’ to the left of the steering wheel and it's the same unit Fiat has used in its Ducato for years. It's not so much there's anything wrong with it, but it's now old tech, lacking a digital readout or speed setting. Also,

the cruise control itself is ‘old tech’, unlike the new Ford Transit, for example, which has adaptive cruise control as standard.

One limitation that took several days to realise and is really only applicable in heavy traffic environments like city driving, is just how much vision the thick A-pillars and large side mirrors restrict, when looking for pedestrians at crossings or small cars and motorbikes coming out of side streets. In a motorhome application for those touring the countryside it's basically irrelevant, but something to be aware of in built-up areas. I'm sure it's also not a fault of the Daily specifically, it's just I haven't spent as much time in any other vehicle in a similar situation.

47

DRIVEN

It’s a Wrap

A

fter an intensive week behind the wheel I came away impressed with the Iveco Daily as a genuine daily driver. It's comfortable, performs well, economical (I think it used an average $20 of diesel a day), manoeuvrable and more than a bit of fun to drive.

There was never a moment where I found it a chore to drive, nor was there a morning where I headed out thinking, “Oh no not this again”.

meaning it has big truck DNA and that bodes well for durability. The company also has a strong presence in the Australian trucking industry and a national dealer and service network, which is something to be considered when heading out in the motorhome on the Big Lap.

In a motorhome application the Iveco Daily should prove as comfortable and capable is its rivals, with just some engineering updates and tweaks needed to keep it at the cutting edge. It could also do with a bit more sound deadening material to refine the driving experience, but then again it is a truck. Speaking of that, Iveco builds big trucks and the Daily is entry level,

This wasn't a one-off driving week. As Streetfighter Media’s business case for this unique outdoor promotional unit builds, I'm sure I'll be back behind the wheel. If you're driving around Sydney and see it, toot and wave! And if you can see an opportunity to use it, drop me a line and I’ll let Ruth know. Because as I said at the beginning, it's not what you know but who you know…

48

PROJECT POLLY

under pressure 49

PROJECT POLLY

P

roject Polly’s tyre blowout in August, due to a split valve, was a wake-up call to finally fit a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Thankfully it was a rear wheel blowout and happened on a straight stretch of freeway, otherwise it could have ended very badly.

While buying tyres is often viewed as a ‘grudge purchase’ (something I learned working in advertising), they truly are a matter of life and death – and even more so in a campervan or motorhome. That’s because our vehicles regularly operate close to or at their maximum gross vehicle mass (GVM) and over roads of dubious quality. In these situations any failure is dangerous, but vehicles like Polly that have single wheels at the rear are especially susceptible as more weight is carried over the back axle.

Checking and maintaining RV tyre pressures is vital yet difficult. Manufacturer-stipulated pressures of 50-90 psi are common, but service station air pumps often don’t go above 50 psi.

That means finding a truck stop or tyre dealer, which isn’t always easy.

At the very minimum, tyre pressures should be checked before every journey. On average, tyres lose one to two pounds pressure per month, so experts reckon, and on longer trips a weekly check is recommended. Most importantly, you need to check pressures before starting out, because it increases with heat build-up with the road and rising daytime air temperature. This means your minimum amount of ‘kit’ you need to carry is a tyre pressure gauge.

50

PROJECT POLLY The good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune. If you have access to a pump and accurate gauge somewhere close to home, start at the more affordable end of the scale and see how they go. Supercheap Autos currently have SCA (its own brand) pencil-type gauges at $6.99 and it’s a good starting point – just be sure to get the one that measures up to 100-psi. I have one and also a $28.99 SCA Digital Tyre gauge (0-100 psi) and both concur with my ancient home air compressor’s gauge, so they can’t all be accurately wrong together! They also agree with my TPMS, which adds confidence.

Speaking of tyre pressure monitoring systems, one of these should be your next line of defence and is really a must-have. Budget $300-$600 for a name brand system, but the more wheels and tyres you have, the bigger/more expensive the system need to be. In this article I’m referring to a basic, four-tyre system to suit a campervan or small motorhome. Many of you will need to monitor six tyres, plus if you tow a trailer or car you should add sensors to cover them. While bigger systems are more complex to install and monitor, the basics described here hold true. However, before continuing let me tell you a little story…

51

PROJECT POLLY

Chinese Takeaway

I

This style of TPMS comes with a sensor that screws on to each tyre’s valve stem and is secured by a locknut. Each has a battery and connects via Bluetooth to a small display unit, which sits in a 12volt socket (for power) and includes a pair of USB charging outlets on the side. Polly has a 12-V socket in the middle of the dashboard and so it’s ideal.

set out to buy a basic TPMS with a very specific ARB-brand unit in mind, having done a fair bit of research balancing reputation with budget and the degree of installation difficulty. Firstly, however, I decided to go the absolutely cheap-and-cheerful way and see just how bad a bargain-basement eBay special could be.

There are at least 100,000 and possibly up to 12 million cheap Chinese-made tyre pressure monitoring systems available on eBay (and for the thousandth time, I’m not prone to exaggeration).

However, in no time I’d pressed the Buy Now button and for $33.67 – including free postage – the ‘experiment’ was on its way. Sooner than later the parcel arrived and I got straight down to the task of installation. Well, as soon as I could make sense of the detailed-but-not-too-clear ‘instwuctions’…

What attracted me to this unit in particular was its similarity to the desired ARB system, but at literally a fraction of the price. How bad could it be I wondered, as I commenced the installation process?

52

PROJECT POLLY

When first installed the display unit flashed as it established contact with the sensor, after which it displayed the pressure and also internal air temperature. For some reason it was flashing at 50 psi and beeping, and I couldn’t stop the noise.

Further investigation of the instructions revealed the beeping to be an over-pressure alarm, which was ridiculous because the front tyres on Polly run 52 psi and the rears 72 psi. Then a light went on (in my mind, not the display unit). Rechecking the fine print of the eBay ad showed the system to have a pressure readout range of 20-50 psi. That meant it thought the tyres were already over pressure and was letting me know. Bugger. Well, at least the alarm function worked…

Following that I installed the set on our Falcon ute.

Before installation I set each tyre to its recommended pressure – 30 front/35 rear – but was amused/not surprised to see the display showing some quite different pressures: 32/34 front and 37/35 rear. While disappointing, I’ve realised the value of this system now is as a guide to each tyre’s pressure, and that should a leak develop that beeping alarm will again sound if pressure drops more than 15 percent. For less than $37 it’s good insurance and to this day the colourful little display unit lights-up on starting the car and I can see all is well.

53

PROJECT POLLY

ARB and The Dark Ages

A

nd so it was back to square one and searching online for the ARB system. Unbelievably, in this age of online shopping and Covid travel restrictions, ARB not only doesn’t have an online shop, it also won’t take phone orders or ship them out. Talk about a business making money despite itself. The system I was after comes in two parts – wheel sensors and head unit – and so I had to call around and find them separately. In the end I bought the head unit online via eBay for about $50 more than ARB’s recommended price, then drove to Morebank in Sydney’s South West to buy the sensors. Total cost was close to $400 and a lot of mucking around. Very unsatisfactory…

The ARB system certainly seems better than its cheap competitor, which is as you’d expect. Again, it has a sensor for each wheel that’s secured by a locknut and a display unit that sits in a 12-volt socket and includes a pair of USB charging ports.

Importantly, it covers a pressure range of 5-99 psi.

ARB also sells in-wheel sensors rather than the screw-ons, but they’re a lot more work to fit (and replace if there are issues), plus are prone to damage by tyre fitters. Also, you need a separate one for the spare (which is included) rather than just swapping across the screw-on unit, should you get a flat.

The ARB’s display unit is bigger, more substantial and easily read, with what appears to be an old fashioned liquid crystal display that only shows air pressure. It also includes alarms for under and over-pressure. There’s also an upgrade that lets you monitor up to six vehicle tyres and six trailer tyres, with four customisable pressure presets for different driving conditions. It’s a heavy-duty system designed for 4x4s and caravans/trailers, but equally suited to RVs.

54

PROJECT POLLY

On The Road

S

o far the ARB system has worked well, with the displayed pressures matching my tyre pressure gauge readout to +/- 1 psi when cold. I set 55/72 psi front/rear as the reference pressures and initial runs in spring weather showed readings of 60/61 psi front and 82 psi for both rears. However, I’ve noted that some of the numbers in the display unit are ‘fading’ and difficult to read, and soon I’ll be on to ARB about a warranty claim. I’ve noticed the same thing in our resident tech guru Allan Whiting’s ARB unit, and like ARB’s sales arrangement, it’s very disappointing. Meanwhile, the cheap (and brilliantly colourful) Chinese unit continues to work like a charm. Hmm… Speaking of Tech Guru Allan, he reckons the best rule of thumb for tyre pressure increases while driving is to allow 10 percent for the ambient air temperature plus 10 percent for rolling friction.

That puts Polly’s cold pressures of 52/72 to around 60/84 on the highway, which is about right.

However, I decided that adding the bike rack and bikes, and driving in hotter weather, means the rear pressures need to come up a bit.

On our most recent escape, when the days were in the high 20s to low 30s C, I stayed at 52 psi front but went to 75 psi rear, which gave highway readings of 60-62 front and 88-92 rear, depending on the time of day. Polly’s Continental light truck tyres have a maximum cold inflation pressure of 79 psi, so we’re getting close to maximum and I think I’ll try that on the next run just to see what the highway temperatures are.

Allan also points out that the old 4-5 psi rule-ofthumb for pressure increase when driving is a hangover from cross-ply tyre days and that the sorts of tyres most of us now run work quite safely with the 10%+10% formula. He also points out that if you’re not getting those sorts of increases you’re starting with pressures set too high, but notes you do need to play around depending on the vehicle’s load and prevailing weather conditions to ensure correct results.

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PROJECT POLLY

Next Steps

I

f you’ve got a tyre pressure gauge and TMPS you’re well on the way to tyre Nirvana. The final piece of the puzzle is a 12-volt air compressor so you can adjust pressures at home or while away.

It also means if you get a slow leak you can keep topping it up while keeping an eye on the pressure as you head to get it fixed. Just be sure the 12-volt lead and air hose are long enough to comfortably get from power in your vehicle (a 12-V socket or battery clips) to the most distant tyres.

I’ve unearthed a near-new 12-volt ARB system in its own tool-box-like carry case from the bowels of the garage, a remnant from our four-wheel-driving days. It has long leads with battery clips and a long hose, and should work fine, although it is bulky.

However, I’ve seen some smaller Chinese pumps on eBay for around $30 and wonder what they might be like. What could possibly go wrong?

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TECH

Gas Detectors

by Allan Whiting of OutbackTravelAustralia.com.au

T

he most common cooking and water-heating fuel used by Australian campers is liquified petroleum gas (LPG). It’s relatively cheap and readily available Australia-wide. However, there are fire and explosion risks with LPG and precautions must be taken.  Many RV makers are moving away from LPG because of hazard risks. Diesel-fuelled cooktops are becoming

increasingly popular, as are diesel water and room heaters. Also, lithium batteries and solar power have made induction electric cooking possible.

However, the bulk of campers have LPG and, if proper installation, usage and maintenance are employed, all will be well.

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TECH

Real-time Leak Detection

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ears ago, we came back to our moored yacht after a night at the club and there was a strong smell when we opened the hatch. Instantly, we recognised the possible danger and didn’t touch any electrical switches. Using a torch we discovered the source of the smell: a ruptured aerosol can of ‘Start Ya Bastard’ rolling around in the bilge, with its one-time contents of ether and hydrocarbon propellant making a nice explosive-gas cocktail! The event taught us a valuable lesson: Gas detection in a sealed vessel is vital.

Even with the best will in the world, sometimes things go wrong. An LPG leak inside an RV can be catastrophic, with the potential to cause fire or an explosion that can be life-threatening. Also, if you’re operating an indoor LPG stove and LPG or diesel heating for comfort or hot water, you need to monitor carbon monoxide (CO) levels inside the vehicle.

set-point levels at 25-percent low explosive limit (LEL) of propane. LEL is the minimum concentration of a particular combustible gas necessary to support its combustion in air. Below that concentration the air/gas mixture is too ‘lean’ to burn.

It’s important to have gas detectors inside your vehicle and there are plenty available on-line, with prices as low as fifty bucks. However, for such a vital piece of equipment we’d suggest doing some homework before trusting a ‘cheapie’. There are Australian legalities some overseas units might not comply with. Australian Standards and safety requirements stipulate alarm

A well-made gas detector that complies with LEL requirements should eliminate ‘nuisance alarms’ that trigger a detector to alarm as a result of other contaminants, at low levels, such as cleaning products or fly and hair spray. More than one cheap LPG detector has been disconnected due to nuisance alarms!

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TECH Another critical component of a gas detector is a ‘test’ function that proves the unit is working correctly. Don’t even think about a detector that doesn’t have a test button. An LED that ‘says’ the unit is working might just indicate the power is getting to it, but it’s not proof the sensor is active. Some gas detectors need an extended ‘warm up’ time before they’re functional – as much as 24 hours after being switched on!

There’s not much point having an LPG leak detector if it doesn’t function as a gas shut-off device. A detector that only warns of a leak is fine if you’re in the vehicle at the time but, if you’re elsewhere and forgot to turn off the gas cylinder, your vehicle could be a potential bomb by the time you get back. Top quality LPG detectors can be supplied with a shut-off solenoid in the gas line. They also have long leads between the wall units and the sensors, allowing the sensors to be placed in ideal positions.

It’s also very important that you can buy replacement parts for your gas detectors, should something go wrong. Buying from a ‘fly by night’ on-line source means it’s most unlikely you’ll get any after-sale support. While we all like to find a bargain, life-saving gas detectors need to be totally reliable. Budget around $500 for a pair of detectors — one for CO and another for LPG – with all the kit you need, including a shutoff solenoid.

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TECH

Important RV LPG Safety Procedures: • Read the vehicle manufacturer’s operating instructions • In the case of outside BBQs, do not use LPG in windy conditions • Always keep cylinders cool and away from flames, sparks and heat • Use approved or certified hoses and connections designed for gas: not home-made ones • Protect exposed pipes and hoses from flying-stone damage and make sure all gas connections are tight • Regularly turn on the cylinder valve and test for leaks at all connections, using a squirt bottle with soapy water • Close all appliance valves before opening the cylinder valve • After you have finished using your LPG appliance, close the cylinder valve first before turning off the LPG appliance, to empty the plumbing line • Gas cylinders are required to be replaced or retested and stamped every 10 years • Close the cylinder valve when appliances are not being used • In the event of an accidental gas leak, close the cylinder valve and ventilate the vehicle until the air is clear • Never use cooking appliances as room heaters: carbon monoxide is a silent killer • All additions or alterations to the LPG system must be performed by an authorised person, so be sure to consult your LPG supplier • Make sure that all RV users are familiar with the odour of unburnt LPG to assist in the detection of leaks • Ensure all permanent ventilators, flues and vents are clear • Stop dirt from entering external gas connections, such as BBQ bayonet fittings.

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TECH

less gain more pain?

by Allan Whiting of OutbackTravelAustralia.com.au

I

t’s a common misconception that a tall CB aerial gives the longest reception and transmission range in all situations. Certainly a tall aerial works better than a shorter one in open, flat country, but it’s not as effective as the shorter aerial in hilly or undulating terrain. How can that be?

Aerials are defined by ‘gain’: Gain is an electromagnetic term that describes how well an antenna converts electrical power into radio waves in a specific direction when transmitting and the reverse function when receiving.

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TECH

Gain is measured in ‘decibels’ (dB), which is somewhat confusing, because noise-level measuring and audio equipment also use decibels as a unit of measure.

However, dB is a general unit that can be applied to nearly any force with amplitude or power, and isn’t reserved exclusively to describe the loudness of sound.

Gain, in the case of aerials, is measured in comparison with an isotropic aerial, which is a theoretical aerial, having the same intensity of radiation and reception in all directions. So, an antenna with 0dB would evenly transmit and receive radio waves to and from all directions, like a perfect sphere. Such an aerial would have great coverage in all directions, but would not have much range. More gain than 0dB is desirable to increase range and that’s why CB aerials are described variously as having 3dBi, 6dBi or 9dBi gain. The ‘i’ in the description is the comparison with ‘isotropic’.

However, as usual, there’s a catch: To increase aerial range the incoming and outgoing radio waves become limited in focus. The more gain and, therefore, range, the smaller the area of coverage. The isotropic theoretical spherical coverage narrows to a gradually flattening torus (donut) shape, with the aerial at its centre.

Some people fit two aerials to their vehicles, spaced as far apart as possible, to avoid interference and using a switch to change between aerials. Oricom has taken that a step further, with a twin-aerial-specific CB radio that automatically switches between aerials, without user intervention.

It’s clear that the narrower band produced by a highgain aerial may pass over the top of another vehicle aerial, where a lower-gain aerial will contact it.

So, for optimum CB radio coverage in all conditions, you need a short aerial and a long one.

An alternative is to opt for a ‘twin’ kit, such as Uniden’s 2020-release ATX that comes with a single coil-spring mounting and two screw-on aerials; a 725 mm one On flat terrain, that donut radio-wave coverage isn’t a problem, because the focus often reaches as far as the with 3dBi gain and the longer, 1200 mm one with 6.6dBi horizon, but the accompanying diagram shows the real- gain. It’s pretty easy to find a spot to stow the second aerial in most 4WDs and it’s easy to swap them when world limitations of high-gain 6dBi and 9dBi aerials in conditions dictate a change in gain. dune country.

62

DIY

w h a t ’s

in store?

by Warren McCullough

If your clothes ‘auto-eject’ when you open the cupboard here’s what to do...

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DIY

O

ur van, like many others, has overhead storage And of course, even when the clothes stay in place in cupboards fitted above the windows. The cupboards above our bed are used for storing clothes - the opened cupboard, the shirt that you want is always at the bottom of the stack and removing that one shirt HIS on the right, HERS on the left! de-stabilises the whole pile, which usually ends up spilling from the cupboard.

These cupboards are tapered in depth - deeper at the top than the bottom - to provide more cabin So, off to our local hardware store for some materials room at head height. They can store all the clothes to build holding rails in the cupboard opening – 12 we need for an extended holiday, all neatly folded mm aluminium tube, 9 mm marine ply, countersunk and stacked. However, the stacks of clothes in the stainless steel or brass screws and a can of matt black cupboards are top heavy, so we would often open the paint (or whatever colour suits your decor). cupboards only to have our clothes auto-empty on to the bed below!

The aluminium tube is cut to length 1 mm short of the width of the cupboard opening – two rails per cupboard.

The plywood is drilled with two 12 mm holes to accommodate the aluminium rails, along with a couple of screw holes, then cut to size to form a gusset that fits inside the cupboard end walls, fitting together in much the same way as a shower curtain rail.

The exact height and spacing of the rails will depend on the height of the cupboard and the location of the hinge mounts.

Hint: Mark out the shapes of the gussets on the ply, but don't cut the shapes until after the holes are drilled.

This makes it easier to hold the ply while drilling.

Drill the rail holes with a 12 mm speed bore rather than a regular drill bit. Using a piece of scrap timber as a backing board, drill half way from one side, then finish from the other side to avoid splitting the surface veneers.

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DIY

We set the top rail at about centre height and split elusive must-have T-shirt is eased from the bottom the space below the centre rail with the lower rail. We of the stack. Of course I often wonder why I bother haven't found a need to add a rail above the centre rail. packing so many clothes, when I end up wearing the same two T-shirts and pairs of shorts the whole Now, with all clothes stored securely behind their holiday! respective rails, they stay there – even when that

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LIFESTYLE

TRAINING

WHEELS

by Richard Robertson

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LIFESTYLE

For health and fitness it's worth getting your trainer wheels on...

M

otorhoming is a great lifestyle and a fabulous reward at the end of a working life. Unfortunately, and despite being surrounded by and living in the Great Outdoors, it can also be seriously unhealthy.

Endless Happy Hours, ‘treats’ at every turn and a laid-back attitude to not having to be anywhere or do anything in a hurry might sound idyllic, but they can also be deadly to your health. Couple this with months of lockdown stuck at or close to home and not only have ageing waistlines taken a hit, ‘Covid kilos’ have crept on, adding ‘weight’ to the dilemma.

Things are no different here at iMotorhome Central; what with Mrs iM now home every night, generally cooking up a storm and also making cheese. Add a well stocked wine rack and the stresses and uncertainties of a year of bushfires, pandemic and career change, and we’ve have the perfect recipe for waistline creep and a general feeling of malaise. All of us need regular exercise, but doing it is another thing.

A dozen years back, having decided 50 and fat was a bad look, I drew a line in the sand and turned things around. It took such a serious mental shift to get going, but once in the groove I found regular exercise and making healthier food choices became second nature. Well, most of the time.

Regular readers will know my exercise-of-choice is cycling. However, for the last years or so the combination of a tough winter and spring, the summer’s bushfires and then Covid saw my cycling activities fall to basically zero. Somewhere in there I also lost the love and wondered if it would ever return.

Thankfully it has, but not as expected…

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LIFESTYLE

The Great Indoors

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xperts tell us we regularly need to elevate our heart rates beyond what we usually achieve by walking. Riding an indoor exercise bike is a great way to achieve that, having first checked with your doctor that you’re good to go. And riding an indoor bike is one of the most fun-filled and exciting ways to get fit and lose weight, especially for hours at a time (said nobody, ever). As with all home exercise devices, any initial enthusiasm quickly turns to boredom and before long dust gathers on the embarrassing thing sitting in the spare room, which you keep meaning to use again.

Sound familiar?

The good news is the Internet has revolutionised more than personal shopping habits and finding out what your friends had for lunch. So called ‘Smart’ exercise equipment now connects to an online world that transforms a solitary and soul destroying experience into an involving and even exciting pastime. Seriously.

Yes, you still have to put in effort, sweat and toil, but there is now a whole world of adventure out there and I mean ‘world’ quite literally. Whether you want to ride a bike, walk or run on a treadmill, row a river, do exercise classes, pump weights or whatever, there are Smart devices to make it more rewarding, fun and involving.

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LIFESTYLE

Smart Move

At the time of purchase it seemed every person and their animal of choice was after one too and nobody had smart trainers in stock, nor were any deals available. eing a cyclist I decided to ditch my old exercise Eventually I ordered (and waited a month for) an Elite bike, bring my bike indoors and connect it to a Suito Smart trainer for $1199, which was middle of the Smart trainer to see if I could rekindle the love. A Smart trainer is simply a device you attach your bicycle road for such units. Recently released, it had garnered a swag of five star reviews and was about half the price of to and which in turn connects to an online app via the top rated wheel-off smart trainers.

Bluetooth. It not only tells you how fast you’re riding and all that geek stuff, it also replicates the rise and fall of the road by increasing or decreasing effort as you pedal. All this happens as a ‘ride’ unfolds before you on your iPad, tablet, TV or home cinema screen. In short, it’s the closest you can get to riding your bike outdoors without leaving the room.

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Now, regardless of the time of day or weather and without sunburn, magpies, headwinds, traffic, potholes, barking dogs or dangerous drivers, you can go for a ride that’s interesting, involving and, if you choose, bloody hard work.

In the lead-up to purchase I did a fair bit of research and found Smart trainers fall into two categories: wheel-off and wheel-on. I chose the former because although it’s a bit more expensive, it eliminates rear tyre wear and is generally considered to deliver the most realistic experience.

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LIFESTYLE You don’t need to spend anything near that amount, with Smart wheel-on trainers starting at a few hundred dollars. The currently-rated best wheel-on Smart trainer is the Tacx Flow, which sells for $499 when in stock. It seems demand is still high, even on eBay and Gumtree for used units.

All such trainers are portable, as is my Elite, which comes with a carry handle and folding legs, although it is a bit heavy. Setting up the Elite was straightforward: remove from box, extend legs and plug-in. I then had to remove the bike’s back wheel and connect it to the ‘wheel’ of the trainer, which came with an 11-speed gear cassette preinstalled as that’s the norm in road cycling these days. I could have used any bike with any number of gears, all I’d need have done was swap the gear cassette for the one from the bike’s back wheel (and the instructions were included). The Elite Suito needs mains power, but comes with a long cord and it Bluetooth’s quite readily to an iPad or similar device.

Buying a Smart trainer is the big investment and there’s no denying it’s a fair chunk of money, but then again, what price health? While it’s central to this new style of riding, you still need an internet connection and an app or two to deliver the experience. Here are the apps I use and how they work.

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LIFESTYLE

Zwift

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he biggest player in the indoor/virtual cycling scene is Zwift. Originating in America in 2014, it's a global success story and although it looks and even plays like a game, it's seriously dedicated to getting you fit (and fast if you want).

The Zwift app comes with a seven-day free trial, which is enough time to get the hang of the basics. After that it costs $21.99 a month, but there's no lock-in contract and you can pause membership at any time.

That membership also allows you to connect a Smart treadmill so you can run or walk as well as ride in its virtual worlds. Finally, Zwift connects to Strava if you want to track your rides and progress outside it and add them to your real-world adventures.

When launched, Zwift connects via Bluetooth to the Smart trainer so it can display speed, watts (power output) and cadence (pedalling rpm) as you ride.

I also Bluetooth a chest-strap heart rate monitor, which shows beats-per-minute next to watts, and the combination helps me balance speed and endurance, particularly on climbs.

Zwift’s ‘home world’ is Watopia, as serious cyclists are all about watts. It's a mythical island crisscrossed with roads that traverse a desert, tropical jungle, follow the cost, roll over green hills and climb volcanoes and snowcapped mountains. The graphics are impressive and even on an iPad it’s a surprisingly immersive experience, especially when positioned a close to the front of the bike as possible.

You can simply ride anywhere in Watopia or follow preprogrammed rides (or walks/runs on a treadmill).

Also – and very importantly when starting out – Zwift has a library of structured workouts that can take you from totally unfit to peloton rider in a matter of weeks, and from there to serious athlete if you have the inspiration/inclination.

The island of Watopia is always available to ride around, but other ‘guest worlds’ appear daily on a rotational basis and include London, Yorkshire, New York, Paris, France and others. No matter where you ride in Zwift it looks like a computer game, albeit a highly crafted one. If you're riding around London or Paris for instance, all the landmarks are there and faithfully reproduced. In a perfect recreation of the final day of the Tour de France, for example, I’ve raced on the cobbles of the Champs-Élysées and around the Arc de Triumph in pursuit of cycling glory!

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LIFESTYLE

Zwift is populated with avatars of riders on bikes and each is a real person somewhere in the world riding in real time on a home trainer. While you can just ride around and do your own thing – and many do – you can also try to keep up with or pass other riders, race individuals or in a group, or join bunch rides and even online cycling clubs and special events/challenges.

Also, you can ‘chat’ with others (haven’t quite worked that out yet) and also arrange to meet friends online for a specific ride at a specific time.

There are 50 levels to pass through and you also gain points the more you ride. Each new level unlocks rewards, plus you can redeem points to customise your avatar's bike or the clothing your avatar wears and so on. It really is very involved and involving, and it can become addictive. Just ask Mrs iM…

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LIFESTYLE

FulGaz

A

galaxy away from the computer generated landscapes, avatars and competition of Zwift is the FulGaz app – a Melbourne based success that has built a global reputation on superb video rides in the real world. It’s so good it’s even used by professional teams to train on specific routes prior to racing.

as possible. I’ve never engaged with Bernard – he's not really my type – nor do I try and ride at the original speeds, although sometimes it shows I’m actually riding faster (yes, downhill!).

About the only downside to FulGaz is it doesn’t have structured training programs for people starting from FulGaz uses high-quality video recorded by real people scratch. Its training programs are for experienced riders and designed to make you better/faster. Still, riding real bikes, all around the world. Like Zwift, it you can choose rides not only by location, duration, recreates the uphills and downhills of the countryside distance or elevation climbed, but also by level of by increasing or decreasing trainer resistance, but ease, and even a novice can start out riding on the unlike Zwift there is no rider-to-rider competition. You flat around Port Phillip Bay, Amsterdam, New York or can choose to try and ride the video at the pace of wherever. the person who recorded it (good luck in most cases!) or have the video play at the pace you're riding it. It's In fact the absolute beauty of FulGaz is the library of a brilliant system that is remarkably realistic and if more than 600 rides all around the world, and in some you choose the latter pace, you can turn on a virtual of the most stunning locations (with more added every riding companion called Bernard who will challenge Tuesday). Rides can vary from just a kilometre or two to keep you as close to the original ride speed/time

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LIFESTYLE

up to nearly a couple of hundred, and you can pause and come back later and it will show total elapsed time as well as actual riding time. Again, you can upload results to Strava to keep a total track on all your activities. Fulgaz is how I ‘rode’ the 82 km Gong Ride on Sunday 1 November, taking 3 hrs 44 mins riding time and 4 hrs 5 mins in total, including coffee/loo breaks.

It's not unusual for me to do two or three shorter rides in a session and I might choose to ride along Melbourne's Port Phillip Bay, then across the Golden Gate Bridge before hitting the cycle paths around Amsterdam. You can ride the Swiss or French Alps, Rocky Mountains, cycle through most major cities, along beach fronts and through tiny villages on all inhabited continents, and all from the comfort of your own home. Rides use quite a lot of download capacity, but you can store favourites and ride them again and again.

For the indoor rider more interested in a real world experience than competition and ultimate fitness, FulGaz is better and more enjoyable. It’s also something of a bargain, with a monthly subscription of $18.99 or an annual price of $157.99 for unlimited riding

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LIFESTYLE

Virtually Done

W

hile indoor riding misses out on the nuances of the real thing – from the wafting scent of flowers and mown grass to small temperature changes, birdsong and the chance to physically explore new places – it certainly compensates with convenience and safety. It's also highly rewarding in its own right and can take you to places you're never likely to visit, never mind ride through.

Click for Further Information • 2020 Best Smart Trainer Reviews • Elite Suito smart trainer

Zwift and FulGaz have certainly rekindled my love of cycling. The former is computer-game-like and allows me to compete, sometimes pushing to my absolute limits. The latter transports me around the world to places of stunning beauty and lets me ride at my own pace while enjoying the views. They’re a winning combination worth trying if you’re looking to get fit, lose weight and/or just feel better. Best of all, if you eventually jump on a real bike you’ll be fit enough to ride and enjoy it, and that’s virtually priceless…

• Tacx Flow smart trainer • Strava app • FulGaz app

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Click to discover a world of rail trail r u o y g in a w a s e r tu n adve discovery!

TRAVELTOWNS RV FRIENDLY

CMCA

RV Friendly Towns image: Joey Csunyo

he RV Friendly program is a Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia Limited (CMCA) initiative aimed at assisting RV travellers as they journey throughout this wonderful country.

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will be provided for them that may not be available in other centres, and they will have access to a safe place to stay overnight and possibly for a longer period.

An RV Friendly Town (RVFT) is one that provides a certain number of amenities and a certain level of services for these travellers.

On the following pages are this issue’s featured RV Friendly towns. If possible please include them in your travels and support the communities going out of their way to welcome those of us fortunate enough to be travelling. Enjoy!

When RV travellers enter a town displaying the RVFT sign they know they will be welcome. Certain services

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RV FRIENDLY TOWNS

Benalla, Vic

L

ocated two hours north of Melbourne and one hour south of Albury, Benalla is a small town on the Broken River.

Wander through immaculate parks and gardens, view contemporary Australian art and discover the story of Victoria’s most famous bushranger, Ned Kelly. Visitors should time a trip during one of the fantastic annual events including Wall to Wall Street Art, motorsport at Winton Raceway and the Benalla Festival.

RV travellers passing through town will find shortterm parking available at Jaycee Island and Benalla Showground. Jaycee Island offers parking for selfcontained vehicles for up to 48 hours at no cost and Benalla Showground offers parking for up to 48 hours at $12 per vehicle per night (self-contained). A dump point, along with potable water, can be sourced at Benalla Airport.

Tourist/Visitor Information Centre

Benalla Visitor Information Centre 14 Main St BENALLA. VIC T: (03) 5762-1749 W: www.enjoybenalla.com.au

Casual Parking (near retail centre)

Lowry Place, Bridge St W near Art Gallery

Short Term Parking

Jaycee Island, Fawckner Drive 48-hrs, self-contaibed, free, pets on leads, bins Benalla Showground, Cecil Street 48-hrs, $12pvpn, self-contained, pets on leads, bins, loos

Dump Point

Benalla Airport, Hanger Lane

Potable Water

Benalla Airport, Hanger Lane, not far from dump point

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RV FRIENDLY TOWNS

Port Neill, SA

P

ort Neill is a small coastal town on the eastern side of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula. With great fishing and clear calm waters for boating, sailing and water skiing, Port Neill is an idyllic place for the whole family.

The historic Green Shed is a popular spot for picnics, barbecues and lazy afternoons. Also, the boat ramp and breakwater make launching the boat a breeze.

Like many towns on the Eyre Peninsula, Port Neill is

now a well-established tourist destination that sees town numbers boom during peak periods.

Visitors travelling in RVs can stay at Port Neill RV Park for up to 5 days, giving people ample opportunity to explore the town and its surrounding region. To stay at the park, vehicles must be self-contained and a fee of $5 per-vehicle per-night is to be paid via the honesty box. Pets are permitted on leads, while the closest dump point is located on Wallis Street.

Tourist/Visitor Information Centre

Port Neill Post & Trade 24 Wallis St PORT NEILL. SA T: 0422 153-466 E: portneillpostandtrade@gmail.com

Casual Parking (near retail centre)

Peake Terrace near the main jetty

Short Term Parking

Port Neill RV Park Winckel Rd 5-days max, $5pvpn to the honesty box, self-contained only, pets on leads

Dump Point

Wallis St

Potable Water

Foreshore near Jetty on Pioneer Drive

By Kerry Raymond at the English Wikipedia

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RV FRIENDLY TOWNS

Isisford, Qld

T

he Outback town of Isisford is approximately 1200 kilometres from Brisbane and 120 kilometres from Longreach. The town lies on the tranquil Coolabahlined banks of the Barcoo River, where fishing for Yellowbelly has become a favourite pastime.

ale. A visit to Isisford will be full of history, culture and great hospitality.

Barcoo Weir offers travellers RV parking for $3 per night or $15 per week on the banks of the Barcoo River. Accommodating all sizes of rigs, this shady, Isisford is the home to Clancy’s Overflow Hotel, located tranquil campground offers a peaceful stopover during in St Mary Street. Built in 1898, the hotel was named in your travels. It is important to note that access to the honour of Banjo Paterson’s Clancy of the Overflow. We campground is dependent on weather and conditions. encourage travellers to stop in and enjoy an ice-cold

Tourist/Visitor Information Centre

Council Offices 20 Mary St ISISFORD. QLD T: (07) 4658-8900 W: www.longreach.qld.gov.au

Casual Parking (near retail centre)

Parking within town centre. Centre and parallel in Mary St

Short Term Parking

Barcoo Weir $3 nightly or $15 per week. Overnight (24-hr) only in wet weather at truckstop (behind council park) near bypass. Access to camping grounds depends on weather and conditions

Dump Point

In St Francis St near Weir toilets

Potable Water

Isisford Park, 20 Mary St; Weir toilets in St Francis St; Weir camping grounds in St Francis St (all taps adequately signed)

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LIFESTYLE

“Might you never be too grown-up to search the sky on Christmas eve...”

Unknown

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