Berkshire/Charleston

[Thumper7]

We're about 24 months from retirement and are considering a Class A for our travels. We're currently full timing in a 2015 Trilogy 36RL. Are the Berkshire and Charleston the same rigs just different names? It seems to me they're like comparing a GMC and Chevrolet pickup. Also, how does driving/backing the Class A compare to pulling a 40' FW as far as degree of difficulty? We're just now beginning to consider the Class A (had FW's for 15 years) so I have lots of questions. Thank you.

[KennyGolub]

I just heard a rumor that FR is considering dropping the Charleston line in favor of the Berkshire XLT.

Just a whisper at this point.

[NO3putt]

What I can figure out, there is not much difference between the Berkshire XLT and the Charleston. Would base my decision on the floor plan that fits you best.

[hordok]

I've heard that the XLT was introduced to allow the Charleston to be changed in 2017. Not an inside scoop ... Just rumor.


IPad

[ceedog]

T-7

The Charleston has more bells & whistles than the Berk XLT & costs more. Is the Charleston worth ~100k more? That part I can't answer.

The Charleston has a fancier ceiling, & you can get a ceiling fan for the bedroom. The fan would be great when it's extremely hot (like it is on the east coast) at night. From what I've experienced & heard all of the bedroom A/C's are kinda loud making it hard to sleep.

The Charleston also has reels for the electrical cable & water hose.

The XLT can be had with a heated floor, steerable tag, & bigger generator. I don't know if it's available on the Charleston.

Having said all that, I wouldn't trade my 390BH (40') for a Charleston. The XLT....

When I was at the 2015 FROG Rally the factory reps said the Charleston would experience some major changes/upgrades for 2018 in order tpo better compete with some of the higher end coaches (Newmar).

Good luck with whatever you choose best suits you.

[CAT-RN]

You are paying quite a bit for the XLT or Charleston glitz and tag axle + 3'. Both those look great. But a 40' Berkshire XL. Is a great coach for the $$. I love mine.

Now ceedog above says he not trade his 40' berk for a Charleston??? That a stretch. Lol. I would trade even. Ha

Russell

[Bunci]

Berkshire XL is 41'-1".

[CAT-RN]

Ya if you measure the ladder. I don't count the ladder and I've never saw it listed that way.

Russell

[Thumper7]

Thank you for all the replies. We have several RV shows a year here in DFW and we will be checking the B and C out. Lots to consider before making the decision.

[Bunci]

Originally Posted by CAT-RN

Ya if you measure the ladder. I don't count the ladder and I've never saw it listed that way.

Russell

Wheel base is 14" longer than the standard Berkshire.

[joeplante]

I was in Elkhart and was told they are planning something different for the Charleston for 2018 . The Berk XLT is a beautiful machine .

[jcowles3]

If your in DFW area check out mhsrv.com they are just south of you and have some of the best pricing around.


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[Herk7769]

Now that Laura has a functioning kidney, the pressure is off to upgrade to a diesel pusher right away (we needed the payload for her dialysys supplies).

We are considering the Berkshire XLT but we will definitely wait to see what the 2018 Charleston's offer as far as ammenities.

[outloud]

I have heard of changing the Charleston to compete with the Dutch Star. Just heard.


Sent from my iPhone using Forest River Forums we had 3 Fe and by far the Class A Berkshires are piece of cake to backup.

[Chessie]

Thumper, we just bought a 2017 Berkshire XL HB with the upgraded engine (380hp -1150lb/ft torque) and we could not be happier. You get a lot for the money.

[Thumper7]

Thanks again for all the replies. I'm familiar with MHSRV, some of our friends have bought from them. We're interested in a bunk model. Not so much for the bunks but to use as closet space.