Classy Off Roader
With blue skies and a cool wind blowing, we headed to the outskirts of the High Country to test out Bayswater RV’s newest off road caravan and came away impressed.
Bayswater RV’s resident character, Flavio O’Sughrue’s 100 Series Cruiser hauled the Outer Limits van slowly through the big washaways with the Simplicity suspension working effortlessly to keep the van stable. The climb was not too steep, however the washaways were tricky to deal with and the track was soaked and sloppy after nearly 4-inches of rain throughout the week.
We’d found a track leading to a logged and burnt section of bush and the stark, burnt background offered a unique photo opportunity that we couldn’t resist. The sun’s position was against us and thick, black clouds raced across the sky, one minute blocking the sun completely and next causing the sun to cast huge shadows everywhere. It was worth persisting to snap off the shots, however the light didn’t do the location any real justice.
We were out the back of Neerim Junction to check out Bayswater RV’s newest rig, the Scenic Outer Limits Off Road and what a swisho package it is. Flavio was excited about this Scenic not just because of the price tag under 80 big ones and not just because it’s jam packed with goodies, he was excited because this Outer Limits holds true to the Scenic name, brand and quality that has been around seemingly forever.
As mentioned previously the Simplicity suspension worked a treat off-road however on-road it was a little choppy. We chatted about this and came to the conclusion that the combo of standard Toyota suspension and the van’s suspension wasn’t as compatible as they could be. Flavio has a raft of off road experience and several suspension options available for the Outer Limits plus plenty of advice on how to set up a tow vehicle to best handle all road conditions.
The Outer Limits Off Roader is based on a Duragal Preston Chassis with a 4-inch raiser. From the Hitchmaster DO35 off-road coupling to the AL-KO ESC system this van is capable of plenty of safe touring in all conditions. Electric brakes and 16-inch tyres with alloy rims are just some of the mechanicals included on the van.
Under the chassis are two 95 litre water tanks with shielding, batteries in a box, dropdown jacks, gas bayonet for a BBQ and copper plumbing. Up front on the chassis are twin 9kg gas bottles, a great sized storage box, tap and a wide, adjustable stone guard. At the back is a bumper with a spare. Personally I’d move the spare tyre a little higher on the bumper for extra clearance.
Body-wise the grey aluminium body panels look smart in combination with black chequer plate front boot and skirts. Add some flashy decals and the overall look of the off roader is really neat and tough without being extreme. Around the body features including solar panels on the roof, Dometic windows, Aussie Traveller awning and a picnic table. There is plenty of storage with a full width tunnel boot and plenty of external hatches for odd shaped items. An entertainment hatch hides a swivel mount and connections to take the TV outside if desired.
The van is built very neatly right the way around and it’s the sort of finish you’d expect from Scenic and Bayswater RV’S.
Moving inside I loved the colour contrast between the dark timber trim and the cream leather seating and trimming and cream coloured bench tops. Even the floor added to the smouldering look. The first thing I noticed was the open plan look and feel that seemed open but basic. That was first glance though. Start looking around and the storage space is amazing and all the appliances are quality, from the LED lights to the Swift cooking gear.
This Outer Limits has everything needed for easy touring. At the back is a full width ensuite including a large moulded shower, Maxi RV washing machine and Thetford swivel toilet. There are plenty of storage cupboards and overall this room is pretty flash.
In the centre of the van on the passenger side of the van is the kitchen with a club style dinette opposite. From the water filter to the microwave and the leather trim this section of the van is practical and well appointed.
At the front of the van is the bedroom complete with concertina door to separate the living from the sleeping quarters. The bedroom is just big enough to be functional, allowing more space in the main living areas, and again the classy look flows through the van from front to back.
Other appliances inside the van include an Ibis reverse cycle AC, 22-inch TV on a swivel mount, JVC stereo system and a Daewoo microwave. Again storage space is a feature on this van. I do like the layout of this interior and as I mentioned earlier its simplicity belies its fit out and practicality.
I have to admit for under 80Gs this Outer Limits has a lot to offer anyone who wants some touring comfort with the ability to traverse some dirt and corrugations to find that special spot away from the crowds.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Spaceland Caravans
Model: Scenic Outer Limits Off Road
Travel length: 6.71m (22ft)
Travel width: 2.4m (7ft 9in)
Tare weight: 2260kg
Ball weight: 127kg
Price: As shown $76,990.00 drive away ex Melb.
Thanks To:
Thanks to Flavio O’Sughrue for helping out on the photo shoot on a stunning day touring through the edge of the High Country around Neerim and beyond. We should apologize for the amount of mud we found too!
Find Out More
Janet O’Sughrue
Bayswater RV’s
575 Dorset Rd, Bayswater Vic 3153
03 9761 7133