International 34R

For many RVers, there is something undeniably appealing about a motorhome built upon a
commercial platform. For some, it’s realizing the childhood fantasy of one day driving a
big rig. For others, it’s the peace of mind that comes from owning a vehicle specifically
designed for heavy-duty use, reliable operation and long life. If you’ve always dreamed of
owning a commercial-based coach, Four Winds International has something to offer in its new
model 34R Class C, based on the Chevrolet Kodiak C5500 chassis. According to Jon Krider,
product planner for Four Winds International, there are several reasons potential buyers
might want to consider this coach over other Class C’s or even a comparably sized Class A.
“For many RVers, the Class C platform inspires more confidence while driving because it is
more familiar to them, like a large truck or van,” he said. “But there are other advantages
of the platform, as well. Since this is a truck chassis, it comes standard with driver and
front-passenger air bags, which a lot of people like. The engine is in front of you, not
underneath you, which makes it quieter. And, the Kodiak-based Class C is the only chassis
that you can choose either a gas or diesel engine without changing the platform of the
coach.” Krider also maintains that the Class C market has traditionally been limited
somewhat by insufficient weight-carrying capacity. “A Class C typically has more sleeping
capacity than a Class A, which is why many families prefer it,” he said, “but then they
don’t have enough room or weight-carrying capacity for a group of people and their
belongings. The 34R is [built] on a 22,000-lb gvwr chassis; it has four belted seating
positions and room to sleep up to eight, and pass-through basement storage. Honestly, this
coach could be a full-timer.” At present, the 34R is offered in one floorplan across the
company’s Chateau, Dutchmen and Four Winds brands. Standard are a two-person overhead bunk,
a 30-inch-deep streetside slideout (with full-size sofa and four-place booth dinette), and
a curbside barrel chair. The living area also includes a cable-ready television cabinet,
and is available with either a 20-inch flat-screen television mounted on an electric swivel
(deploys from the overhead cab wall) or an entertainment system with slideout,
single-person bunk and a 27-inch CRT television. A home theater system with DVD player is
also available. A generously proportioned galley features an eight-cubic-foot, double-door
refrigerator; three-burner rangetop with oven; microwave; stainless steel double-bowl sink;
and slideout pantry. Out back, the 34R closely resembles a Class A coach with a separate
bath area boasting a full-size “neo angle” (corner) shower with glass door and full-size
lav top. The bedroom features a queen bed in a curbside slideout, wardrobe, vanity and a
20-inch flat-screen television in an overhead cabinet. Four Winds International, 574)
266-1111, fourwinds-rv.com