RVers looking for something different in a new motorhome — smaller, lighter weight, perhaps easier to drive and park — may find it in the Born Free Class C motorhome. Based on a 14,050-pound gross vehicle weight rating (gvwr) Ford cutaway chassis, the Born Free is powered by Ford’s 6.8-liter V-10 engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission and offers all the power and performance a driver could hope for, along with a good deal of pure driving fun.
The popular 24-foot, rear-bath model we reviewed (shown here) included a curbside sofa/bed opposite a pair of swivel chairs and a pull-up table, a streetside midcoach galley and a rear bath with nice-sized shower, sink, toilet and wardrobe facilities. Rich-looking oak cabinets and sturdy but plush upholstery are Born Free standard features. The coach shows great attention to detail and evidence of skilled assembly.
The coach body is a sleek fiberglass shell with a steel and wood frame and spun fiberglass insulation. A one-inch-thick plywood laminate floor over fiberglass gives the coach a solid feel underfoot.
A pair of full-size adults fit the cabover bed with ease, and access via the removable ladder is not difficult for those even moderately limber. Walkaround room in the coach is tight but not unmanageable for two. The galley has all the necessary hardware and makes for more-than-adequate meal preparation space, and likewise, the fold-out streetside table is small overall but it’s big enough for simple meals. Out back, the bathroom provides a tight but functional bathing and lavatory area, and the adjacent wardrobe is handy for clothes that must be hung up.
As shown, the Born Free 24-footer with a few select options including a 4.0-kW Onan generator, A&E awning, a 13,500-Btu air conditioner and the cabover bed carries a $76,075 MSRP. Other Born Free models range from 23- up to 26-feet long.
For more details about the Born Free test drive, pick up the April 2002 issue of Trailer Life on the newsstand. Then subscribe to Trailer Life – so you can stay informed on the latest tow vehicles, tests and previews, RV equipment and tech info.
Born Free Motorcoach Incorporated, (800) 247-1835, www.bornfreemotorcoach.com.
