Foretravel, an originator and innovator in custom-coach building since 1967 under the
guidance of founder C.M. Fore, has continued its significant presence in high-end motorhome
construction with the latest version of the Nimbus SE Caspian floor-plan. Built on
Foretravel’s proprietary TravelRide air-ride semimonocoque chassis with improved frame and
suspension geometry – and offered with an optional independent front suspension ($10,450)
and standard ABS air discs on all axles – this motorhome creates the solid, comfortable
ride discriminating owners often seek. Power comes from the standard Cummins 500 hp ISM
engine and Allison six-speed 4000MH transmission with automatic traction control and
retarder, making travel to any elevation of the U.S. an effortless experience.
Outside, the
2009 Nimbus has a new face that recesses all forward lighting, creating a clean, sleek look
that caught our eye from a distance and is offered in a choice of four exterior full-body
paint schemes.
The Nimbus offers the ample cargo storage expected in a motorhome of this
caliber and provides easy access to compartments below the slides with unique horizontal
pantograph doors. With an Occupant and Cargo Carrying Capacity of 7,200 pounds, there’s
ample capability for handling heavy packing, and the chassis is rated sufficiently to
accommodate the standard 18,000-pound rated hitch receiver.
Maintenance access for checking
engine and coach systems is well thought out from years of experience and customer
feedback. Both are placed within safe and easy reach. The utility bay with cleanup station
protects all external coach connections along with new-for-2009 standard electric dump
valves and gray-water bypass of the single holding tank, allowing for direct-connect sink
and shower discharge.
Inside, the Caspian floor-plan is a four-slide design wrapped in
beautiful clear cherry wood cabinetry. Three other woods and six fabric choices are
available with Silestone solid-surface counter-tops throughout.
The semi-wraparound cockpit
places all gauges and controls in clear view and easy reach of the driver seated in the
comfortable air-ride leather chair with six-way power adjustments. Copilot amenities
include a swivel chair with six-way power, foot and head rests, and his/her own A/C dash
controls for adjustable temperatures on the right side. The 2009 model features a motorized
backup camera with dash control as well as MP3 audio connections.
The street-side pantry
with forward entertainment center – which includes a 37-inch LCD TV or optional 42-inch LCD
TV ($680) – and dinette lounge faces the curbside galley and sofa bed in dual opposing,
pneumatically sealed slides, creating a spacious yet intimate feeling. The living area is
enhanced by the addition of the Intellitec multiplex lighting control system with dimmers.
Additional accent lighting is also new for 2009.
Chefs can remain a part of social
gatherings while preparing meals in the roomy and well-equipped galley. A 12-cubic-foot
residential side-by-side refrigerator, aided by the two-burner cook-top and GE Advantium
microwave, makes mealtimes quick and convenient.
Pocket doors create versatile privacy for
the full-width, amidships lavatory at both ends. The spacious bath area sports a large
corner shower with sliding shower-head and skylight. The sink and medicine cabinet share the
shower wall, creating an open dressing area with vanity for the bedroom. A second sink and
medicine cabinet are installed in the street-side enclosed toilet room.
The queen-size bed
and matching nightstands are set into the street-side slide. The overhead storage cabinets,
as well as the full width of the rear wall, is devoted to wardrobe space. A louvered
storage cabinet is already plumbed for an optional washer/dryer combo ($2,020). The fourth
slide contains a built-in dresser with four large clothing drawers and more storage
cabinetry to house the rear 23-inch LCD TV.
Meticulously crafted cabinetry with tight fit
and beautiful finish is evident throughout the coach and Foretravel’s attention to detail
is obvious. Using design cues that carry from exterior paint to interior design, one
prospective client summed up her appraisal of the Nimbus SE 40 – simple elegance. We agree.
