I’m seriously considering similar, because I can’t drive my cabin around the continent, or ship it across the pond. That said, you can get a whole lotta land for $185,000. I could upfit the van myself, but the time/income I’d have to invest to do so would be more costly than hiring professionals; I’d also end up with a subpar product.
38 38 This is why insurance is a necessity. It does take some thinking out of the box, but it is possible to generate an income remotely, seasonally or passively. There is definitely a market for these vehicles and many people who can comfortably afford them, otherwise Sportsmobile will be out of business. These vehicles also retain a decent resale value- it’s not $185,000 out the window.
@ken well this is more a toy for well off people. Like instead of buying a Ford Expedition, they’ll buy this instead for their weekend camping and park it in their massive garage of their $14 million dollar home. Price is a non-issue.
Exactly what we did...Bought the house, AND a cabin in North Idaho that borders 1.5 million acres of Federal land.. They can Keep their over priced gas hog.
I would have to say that was the best walk around video I’ve seen yet. He kept it simple, but informative. He should do more walk arounds for other company’s.
First, you can shower inside. Second, compost toilet is bulky, use foldable camping toilet with black garbage bag instead. After poop, just throw out the garbage bag. Let me show you how to shower inside. Install 4 hooks on the ceiling. Hang a shower curtain on the hook. put the foldable doggy bath tub on the floor. That's it.
When You go Camping on a Vehicle Without 4x4 , No Diesel Power & No Bathroom. Definitely You Don't Have Places to Go and if you go You Can't Come Back Driving the Same Vehicle you Drove.
@@marcoantoniovqz.vqz.8192 An ex-military guy told me that aluminium foil is the best thing to wrap your number twos when you're away from a toilet. Bottles hold number ones until you can dispose of them.
@@raksh9 It's okay for him but what about for his womens,? Wife and or any other Family members or friends,, I don't want to imagine any similar solutions.
I have the 1998 E 350 extended body with the 7.3 diesel, we purchased it new and it now has 225k miles on it and we still use it. Our kids were babies when we purchased it and now they take it camping. As far as cost goes, its considered a second home and you can write off the interest and put it on a 15 year note, so the payment is like a car payment. The owners of the company are great and the company stands behind what they sell. We’ve had it in deep snow and very rough terrain as well as one sandy beaches. We’ve only had it stuck one time and the winch pulled us right out. If you take care of it you can give it to your kids. Best purchase we ever made...I had ghost flames painted on the side of mine recently. My wife asked why, I told her “Every man should have a vehicle with flames on it at least once in his life.” Thanks Alan
After buying a Ram 2500 diesel 4x4, 5th wheel 40' ATC aluminum toy hauler camper, and a dirt bike, I'll still spend less than $185k to have a lot more space and features, as well as similar fuel economy while towing as Ford's V-10 gas without towing.
But can't go where this thing can go. The cost of the front axle and transfer case alone take up a lot 20k 4x4 conversion cost. Almost like comparing a Forest River RV to an ATC.
@@TobyCostaRica I just don't want to pay that much for so little living space. If I owned my aforementioned rig and wanted to camp where this van can go, I'd take the dirt bike and some camping gear, and then I can still go places the van can't go. I can't help but feel the van is overpriced for its functions when I can spend less and still go places the van can't go.
Ford has a new F250/350 4x4 offroad package available later this year called the Tremor. There is also a new 7.3 liter gas motor Ford has code named "Godzilla". Probably you could get one for $60K depending on the options. Put a pop top slide in camper on the back for around $30K (Four Wheel Campers) and get out of town for less than $100K total. Go anywhere capability with the pop top views and ventilation you love.
I have a 1998 Ford E250 Sportsmobile with the same general layout as shown here. I absolutely LOVE it. Edit: Another advantage to the lower roof is less wind resistance on the highway which means better gas mileage.
@@stevengatewood2725 dang that look on the ford transit build. really not feelin it. i like the ford e series build so much more. need to find a good diesel to custom build though.
@@JRis44 ok, cool. If you really look at some videos, and know what you specifically can't live without, you can create something awesome. Best of luck.
185k? It's cool but not that cool. No shower? That crummy toilet? I've seen converted 4x4 minibuses with more features, more space and a fraction of the price. Cool Idea though things to take away from it. Also what about bedding?
I have been watching your videos as you try different loaner vehicle. When I saw you guys with this one I knew right away this was your favorite. Thanks for finally showing us what the ins and outs of the camper has to offer after you lived in it for awhile.
That's a beast. Looks well designed and rugged. Thanks for the great run down. Probably not on the immediate buy list but definitely a dream vehicle. Thanks -Henry
@@Weretherussos Oh wow, that's a long time.. Give Barnsley Tire in Boulder CO a call, I just saw a used one that's sitting outside their shop for sale.
10 years Vanlifing, here. Nice 4×4 build/layout by Ford. Except sometimes when parking in urban areas. If your an urban vanlifer. Overnighting on the side of the street. If it's an old street that's repaved with asphalt 20 times, it will be bowed in the middle. Tipping the vehicle up to 9° at curbside in certain areas. Making it advantageous to sleep widthwise feet toward the curb in a vanbuild.
When the empty-shell version at under 100k is actually available I’d strongly consider it to replace my JKU camper setup - I could do my own interior with stuff I already have for less than 10k. Love the 4x4 and body / pop top though!
We're the Russos yeah I left em a message. I’m in no hurry as it’s a long term goal (next year or two). I did see what looks like a brand new presence in Reno for them and since I’m 20 minutes away at Lake Tahoe I’ll probably go check em out in person. Thanks for the great walkthrough and review.
Built in my home town, Fresno, California. Dynatrac front axle needs Dynatrac stub hubs, ram assist steering. Also needs diesel powerplant, not V10 gas. A bit more fresh water would be nice, but these are just a few of my own ideas. Have seen these work before, very nice. Built for the roads less traveled.
I can't complain about this video, I personally think it was a very important overview of the features and benefits of this four season 4X4 pop top camper van. Anyone that complaied hasn't followed you and Kait to understand your honesty and up front attitude. I now have a better understanding of this rig. I would point out that this is not a Cookie cutter design but a very customizable unit and that’s the reason why it costs as much as it does. If you bought this unit off a production line it would be a lot less expensive. So with that in mind, can you justify the buy in price? See you in your next video and as always happy trails
Dale - you're absolutely correct. With some custom vans, we struggle to see the value in them. With this, we definitely see the value and think that the price is worth what you get. As I mentioned, it's a serious consideration but the cost and timeframe to get one are limiting factors for us. That said, there is a lot of demand for these. They don't depreciate like cookie cutter vans do and if we were to buy one, we could get most of our money back out of it if we sold - assuming it was in good shape.
Really don’t know why anyone would want a V10. Other then the stupid power i really like the layout. As a old soldier that lived in Utah, El Paso, an a few other military places. We used my S10 I put a V8 it got 110 miles out of a tank of gas. Needless we had 5 gal jerry cans stuffed everywhere. But I did 1/4 miles in 12 to 12:50 it was a beast. We would have loved having a vehicle like that.
Absolutely, if that's what you wanted. We don't want to tow a camper, that would change the whole dynamic of how we travel. That said, this is expensive and we may look for an older used model rather than going new if this is what we decide to get.
@@Weretherussos Have you tried a Four Wheel Camper slide in camper? I really like the Sportsmobile Classic and I really like the idea swiveling captains chairs adding to the living space. That's a beautiful rig but it ain't cheap.
@@Weretherussos, there’s always the M1078-M1088 Stewart and Stevens used LMTVs. Quite a few snowbird couples are going that route, since you can get a 6x6 Cat powered truck with less than 20k miles for as much as a base model 1/2 ton pickup retails at a dealership. It looks like a lot of the cost is more the external bodywork for recessed storage, and less the interior or drivetrain amenities. If Ford, Chevy, and Ram made SUVs and passenger vans with a diesel selectable AWD/4x4 drivetrain as a widely available option at their dealerships, they could probably make enough volume sales to lower the price point on the full adventure camper van package.
There's no denying the fact that each campervan or motorhome has its place, you can have your own home on wheels or you can have a compact campervan and the fact is I truly love them all and now I'm on my own again apart from my guard cat and dog who farts when he awake and then his silent but deadly when hes asleep. Don't get me wrong though I love them both but if I could afford to have one I'd have mine done all over in Matt black linex and white steel wheels and not forgetting the raised lift, I almost forgot I'd have it in right hand drive
The Swiss knife of adventure! 👍 I like the layout compared to any other Class B RV or custom sprinter van! The pop top is an amazing feature in my mind! Awesome video... 😃
Bad ass vehicle! That said, my wife, daughter, family dog and I spend our summers in Baja Sur Mexico, surfing, fishing and exploring and while this van is amazing, all we really need is our 2020 Toyota 4Runner as we Airbnb/VRBO a house/casita for in between $60-$120 a night and use them as our home base while doing daytime exploration!
Windows! The awning windows allow you to have them open in the rain. And the windows in the pop-up allow you to see the stars when lying in the upper bed. My 4WD pop-up camper has windows at the head of my bed, and the night sky is spectacular!
There is just something wrong when a toilet is not included and you have to bring your own and stick it under the kitchen counter !! Please tell you your not buying that thing ?? !!!
Moe Jaime do you really want to take a S**t and stink up a small RV. Where the other people will smell it and hear it? (And then have to dispose of it later)People who buy this type of RV are talking it way out into nature and are not afraid to go in the woods and will only use it if they absolutely have to.
Moe...this puppy has the best of everything...the year does not matter, nor does a toilet . Perhaps you could toss out your thoughts in a more amiable manner?
Sounds like you like a pop up top and of course 4WD. Be sure to look at Four Wheel Campers. We have a nice new F250 truck and a fully loaded camper that has most of what you mentioned this has. There are slide in models or flat bed models (for more room). I believe the company would be happy to work with you to try one out for a video review. They are wonderful to work with provide Rallies for the owners twice a year.
It’s very nice. 4x4 is a must. For us, we need a larger bed and an indoor shower is necessary, particularly to be consistent with “all seasons” and not needing a gym etc. Those are the caveats for us. $150,000+ is what these things cost. Fuel consumption is whatever it is.
Hi kids! I thought I passed you in Yosemite last week - and I now know I did! Hope you loved it as much as we did.....we stayed in Lee Vining and visited all of Yosemite from there! What a wonderful, wonderful place! See you down the road! With our corgis, Zeplyn & Ratchet.....who really think you should buy that van!
There isn't enough room in a van to put all the features of "the perfect van". however, this one is awfully close. I would definitely ad the fan, and make port-potty access easier for those middle of the night needs in coyote country. Thanks for showing us this beautiful "home". Travel safe.
Yo Russos! thanks for constantly sharing your experience. For your next temporary RV vehicle shout out, can you please share your experience living in an old-er RV? You guys review a lot of newer renovated/conversations, but for folks who can't afford expensive vans/RVs; an older well-used vehicle is more realistic. For someone like myself, a weekend camper who still works a full-time 9-to-5 (wahhh!), a high-end van/rv is not something I would want to invest in. But a 1995 Ford Class B for $15k? Well, that is more within the price range for a novice like myself. Maybe you can do a series: 70s, 80s, 90s, 2000s etc.
The problem is that we'd need someone to give us their RV so we could test it. We can get new vans because many companies like Sportsmobile have demos for us to use...that's not the case with older used units.
this van is perfect! I built my own van out and did it very similar but now seeing this I think I'll make a few changes to get it more like this one particularly the bench seat that lays down to a bed, mine is just a bed all the time so the only good seating is the passenger seat.
How are these reviews independent? If they give you the van to use for free how could you possibly complain. "You say one bad thing about our van, we're going to tell you to bring it back, just remember that"
We're under no obligation to say anything good about the van. This also isn't a review per se, I'm simply showing everyone the different features of the van. While I give a few thoughts about it at the end, I've left it to the viewer to make up their own mind.
@@Weretherussos True, but Joe come on. now, I like you guys. but this is not a fair review. If your given something for free, clearly you wont complain about.
Kali Falone / yes of course, I know that the loaner could have some strings attached. Providing the detailed overview is probably in there someplace. That said I know Joe would give a honest review. I believe that if anything was proven to be bad or problematic Joe would point it out. He had done that in the past with other loaners.
I should have bought that 18 yr old used sportsmobile ford 4x4 econoline for $40k and just rebuilt the diesel motor. I can’t believe the price for your green dream machine.
Hi kids! I thought I passed you in Yosemite last week - and I now know I did! Hope you loved it as much as we did.....we stayed in Lee Vining and visited all of Yosemite from there! What a wonderful, wonderful place! See you down the road! With our corgis, Zeplyn & Ratchet.....
You know🤔 IM SO FEELING THIS LOW ROOF POP TOP! Even tho I’ve been totally against low roofs and pop tops in the past!!!!! I’m so interested tho in wear and tear in the future for the pop top tho. It’s very pricy too! But makes me consider other pop tops! I would love to see you Russo’s in it tho!
I have a 2001 7.3L E450 shuttle bus that I converted into an RV. Bought her off craiglist for 3k. Love this thing. Screw that v10, I'll take the 7.3L turbo diesel anyday. Shes a beast just need to make it 4x6.
Love the video review and the van .... to big for the UK lol ..... it’s a lot of money but I guess it’s something different .... sounds like you are homing in what you want out of a van .... we love our little Harry Ford Autocamper
We're the Russos yep there are that somehow looks a lot wider mind you any US vehicle does - our roads are do narrow - we took our short wheelbase transit down to the south west in Devon and Cornwall and some side roads with high hedge and walls you barely could get down - stressful
Our ford transit is 78 inches wide excl mirror or 90 inches with mirror - maybe it’s an optical illusion - this is ours the hi line version with 2 sliding doors so great and airy but small www.auto-campers.co.uk/leisure-van/
Love this vehicle but... that price tag is just waaaaay too much for me. I realize it's high end quality but isn't that out of most of your viewers reach? Dunno.
Great walk-thru. I've seen other van life videos where they have mounted a Maxxfan high up on their drivers side rear door to help with ventilation and to leave more room on the roof for solar. Maybe Sportsmobile will offer that as an option in the future. I know Sportsmobile is debuting a Ford Transit mid-roof pop top in October. A mid-roof pop top would be much more convenient for full time stealth camping and should have more storage in it because of the upper cabinets. Just think of the Sportsmobile Ford Transit mid-roof you were in at Overland Expo West... except with a pop top. Once the 2020 Transit AWD model comes out, it will be perfect for most people who just want the extra grip for winter road and fire road conditions. Having said that, this Classic model is pretty awesome.
Foolish to even consider this van at $185000. How can I take them serious about anything if they would say they are considering something like this. I wouldn’t pay half that for that van.
I think the Sportsmobbile van is a great product - at $160k to start, it's also a serious outlay for most folks although I know they have a 1 year waiting list to get one. I guess there are a lot of folks with that much cash.
Interesting that you said you would add a Fantastic Fan for when the top is down. I was also thinking that would be great but I've never seen a video with one on a Sportsmobile pop top. I have seen Safari Condo offer one on theirs. Would you put in in the front? Guess you would have to loose the roof rack. Great review on this beautiful van!
We got 11 mpg going up and down the mountains. We didn't really get out on long flat stretches of highway, so my guess is that the MPG would improve a bit. Considering the weight, lift, large tires and roof racks, we were happy with it.
Hi Kait and Joe. Just a hello and another reminder that an installed pop-top on the Chev Van your friend lent you may be just the thing. Perhaps he has contacts to instal the pop-top (penthouse/T-Top pop-top) half-price or something. The van you are using now is the cost of some houses. You, of course, would have to get the old Chev safety checked. Of course, it is your decision.
It's a solid Van build built to live out of and not in.....definitely more for lugging gear into the backcountry for wildlife photographers,etc. and not showering except for campgrounds.I think at least an outdoor shower could have been done here,with all of the non-specific storage space installed.I'd rather get ahold of a used Earthroamer XV-LT-I just found a used one for 165,000 with a wet bath
I love it. It's exactly what I would build. The 4X4 Ford Van's are rare and hard to come by. I love the roof top sleeper tent/hard top. But, on the other hand. There's no way I could afford at 185,000.00 No way.
What makes this vehicle’s interior rig so beautifully designed and set up is the fact that they took so many cues from the VW Westfalia Vanagons. Those Westfalia vans were so well thought out when came to utilizing the small interior space and it appears that they improved on all of the Westfalia features. This particular vehicle is absolutely amazing. I would definitely consider buying it or at least something on par that has all of the same amenities . Overlanding is a great hobby or lifestyle if you have the right rig and the right set up. This was a fantastic video and I greatly appreciate you sharing what this vehicle has to offer! Cheers!
It's always my great pleasure to see one of your new video reviews. What an experience it's been to see you go through all these options to replace your old way of life and consider new ways to move forward. So far as I am concerned, the top choice would be the Winnebago on the new Ford AWD chassis. Admittedly it won't be the serious off roader that rigs like you are now experiencing are but it would serve to be just enough safety to give me piece of mind and take advantage of all the new safety features. Hope to see Kait in the next video. Wish her well and in good health.
I'm intrigued by SMB vans, both the Classic and the Sprinter/ based ones, and I could definitely see myself owning one. However, they are quite expensive and the gas mileage of that V10 must be abysmal. What mileage are you guys seeing...I'm guessing around 13 mpg. If you travel over 20,000 miles per year as I plan to, fuel cost is a major consideration. Not having an indoor shower is also a pretty big downside for me, as I plan to do a fair bit of urban travel, although I suppose I could get a Planet Fitness membership. Also, is there a table anywhere in this rig? If not, that's a major oversight. Great review!
D LG i think it should be less than 13mpg , they should have used a diesel engine which is way more efficient,or at least convert the v10 to run on Lpg or cng
@@alanmay7929 The Russos are usually pretty good about answering questions, so I hope they will answer this one. I am very curious what mileage they're getting, and also whether this van has a table of any kind. I'd also like to know the detailed specs of the electrical system.
your videos used to be very interesting and the ones with Kate and Leo were great this new stuff of overland motorcycles is really not interesting to me however I'm sure there are some out there who liked it
Joe and Kait, thanks for another informative and entertaining vid. I'm really enjoying this series of videos about your search for a new full-time home. I'm at an age where retirement is a tangible thing and, for the last couple of years, have been learning what I can about Class B options. Following your adventures in the Aktiv and your current search for a new rig is a great insider's look at one couple's process. It's been educational. For example, I used to obsess about the small size and narrow confines of wet baths in Class Bs but, recently, have come to appreciate that a vehicle without a floor-to-ceiling bath is much more open. Also, it seems a lot of experienced RV'ers who enjoy going off-grid in the wild seem to prefer units without wet baths. I'm guessing the inevitable odor of an interior facility is a factor one should consider. Anyway, thanks for inviting us into your lives and your journey. Best of success to you in finding the perfect full-time rig for your needs, travel and lifestyle.
![Ultimate DIY Overland Rig? Sportsmobile Inspired 4x4 Van [Adventure Ready 006]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/P8Vg29Olz70/mqdefault.jpg)
For more content, check out our official website weretherussos.com
8:40 Gotta love all the electrical switches right under the wash basin!
For $185,000 I'll buy a cabin AND a camper up north in Michigan.
I’m seriously considering similar, because I can’t drive my cabin around the continent, or ship it across the pond. That said, you can get a whole lotta land for $185,000. I could upfit the van myself, but the time/income I’d have to invest to do so would be more costly than hiring professionals; I’d also end up with a subpar product.
38 38 This is why insurance is a necessity. It does take some thinking out of the box, but it is possible to generate an income remotely, seasonally or passively. There is definitely a market for these vehicles and many people who can comfortably afford them, otherwise Sportsmobile will be out of business. These vehicles also retain a decent resale value- it’s not $185,000 out the window.
38 38 Absolutely. As cliched as it sounds, you have to be happy in the here and now without being stupid about it. Best laid plans of mice and men...
@ken well this is more a toy for well off people. Like instead of buying a Ford Expedition, they’ll buy this instead for their weekend camping and park it in their massive garage of their $14 million dollar home. Price is a non-issue.
Exactly what we did...Bought the house, AND a cabin in North Idaho that borders 1.5 million acres of Federal land.. They can Keep their over priced gas hog.
I would have to say that was the best walk around video I’ve seen yet. He kept it simple, but informative. He should do more walk arounds for other company’s.
We do - check out our channel
First, you can shower inside.
Second, compost toilet is bulky, use foldable camping toilet with black garbage bag instead.
After poop, just throw out the garbage bag.
Let me show you how to shower inside.
Install 4 hooks on the ceiling.
Hang a shower curtain on the hook.
put the foldable doggy bath tub on the floor.
That's it.
Just a few things wrong no Diesel engine no shower no toilet very high price
@Xyang Guang For this price you kidding me
When You go Camping on a Vehicle Without 4x4 , No Diesel Power & No Bathroom.
Definitely You Don't Have Places to Go and if you go
You Can't Come Back Driving the Same Vehicle you Drove.
@@marcoantoniovqz.vqz.8192 An ex-military guy told me that aluminium foil is the best thing to wrap your number twos when you're away from a toilet. Bottles hold number ones until you can dispose of them.
@@raksh9 It's okay for him but what about for his womens,?
Wife and or any other Family members or friends,, I don't want to imagine any similar solutions.
@@marcoantoniovqz.vqz.8192 Who needs women when you've got such an awesome thunderwagon?
I have the 1998 E 350 extended body with the 7.3 diesel, we purchased it new and it now has 225k miles on it and we still use it. Our kids were babies when we purchased it and now they take it camping. As far as cost goes, its considered a second home and you can write off the interest and put it on a 15 year note, so the payment is like a car payment. The owners of the company are great and the company stands behind what they sell. We’ve had it in deep snow and very rough terrain as well as one sandy beaches. We’ve only had it stuck one time and the winch pulled us right out. If you take care of it you can give it to your kids. Best purchase we ever made...I had ghost flames painted on the side of mine recently. My wife asked why, I told her “Every man should have a vehicle with flames on it at least once in his life.” Thanks Alan
Ha! Now I have to paint stripes on something
you are the best spoke person . no one else comes close
Thanks!
Sportsmobile is the best of the best of the best overland camper van build ever have existed on the planet Earth.
After buying a Ram 2500 diesel 4x4, 5th wheel 40' ATC aluminum toy hauler camper, and a dirt bike, I'll still spend less than $185k to have a lot more space and features, as well as similar fuel economy while towing as Ford's V-10 gas without towing.
But can't go where this thing can go. The cost of the front axle and transfer case alone take up a lot 20k 4x4 conversion cost. Almost like comparing a Forest River RV to an ATC.
@@TobyCostaRica I just don't want to pay that much for so little living space. If I owned my aforementioned rig and wanted to camp where this van can go, I'd take the dirt bike and some camping gear, and then I can still go places the van can't go. I can't help but feel the van is overpriced for its functions when I can spend less and still go places the van can't go.
That is honestly the coolest vehicle I ever seen. I think it even tops the Batmobile.
Ford has a new F250/350 4x4 offroad package available later this year called the Tremor. There is also a new 7.3 liter gas motor Ford has code named "Godzilla". Probably you could get one for $60K depending on the options. Put a pop top slide in camper on the back for around $30K (Four Wheel Campers) and get out of town for less than $100K total. Go anywhere capability with the pop top views and ventilation you love.
Thanks for the info, David!
A company already made a supercharger for that engine
This is probably the best Ford van I’ve ever seen
I have a 1998 Ford E250 Sportsmobile with the same general layout as shown here. I absolutely LOVE it.
Edit: Another advantage to the lower roof is less wind resistance on the highway which means better gas mileage.
my 81 year old grandpa owns a 2010 e-350 that my family been thinking about converting
did you ever calc the gas mileage?
I like how calmly you talk.
Too much $ for what you getting. There are better options out there.
like what? in curious and would like to find better options. Im new to the van life thang and would like to have one by next year.
Junior Ducatel A Mercedes Unity Murphy Bed starts at 150,000. It has a toilet, shower, kitchen and many other features.
@@JRis44 a mercedes is sick expensive. Get a ford transit, and get creative.
@@stevengatewood2725 dang that look on the ford transit build. really not feelin it. i like the ford e series build so much more. need to find a good diesel to custom build though.
@@JRis44 ok, cool. If you really look at some videos, and know what you specifically can't live without, you can create something awesome. Best of luck.
This is my favorite van conversion I've ever seen. I wish I had this bad boy or could buy one!
185k? It's cool but not that cool. No shower? That crummy toilet? I've seen converted 4x4 minibuses with more features, more space and a fraction of the price.
Cool Idea though things to take away from it.
Also what about bedding?
Thos car eat to much Gas or Petrol (Diesel)
There’s two sleeping spaces as well as an outdoor shower. With the chassis and suspension it makes sense that it’s worth half a house.
185k. Maybe at a third of the price it would be ok
Can you suggest others that are as good but cheaper? Would love to check out more videos on them
@@yonbon14 doing the work yourself would be loads cheaper
I have been watching your videos as you try different loaner vehicle. When I saw you guys with this one I knew right away this was your favorite. Thanks for finally showing us what the ins and outs of the camper has to offer after you lived in it for awhile.
You're welcome!
That's a beast. Looks well designed and rugged. Thanks for the great run down. Probably not on the immediate buy list but definitely a dream vehicle. Thanks -Henry
The ultimate buck hunting vehicle. That pop top takes the weather element out of the equation while providing area protection
Pick your poison. 30-06, .308, or 300 win mag?
I am okay now but I was choking and safely recovered. Did someone say $160,000 or $185,000 for a van?
Did it burn when you shot coke out of your nose?
@@RVingwithG lol
I love my adventure van. It’s never failed me and I have gone from -30 to plus 30. It’s such a nice van and I would recommend it to anyone.
I knew you guys were going to go with the Sportsmobile after the first video. Do it!
It's a serious consideration but there's the cost and the 14 mo waiting time to get one.
@@Weretherussos Oh wow, that's a long time.. Give Barnsley Tire in Boulder CO a call, I just saw a used one that's sitting outside their shop for sale.
10 years Vanlifing, here. Nice 4×4 build/layout by Ford. Except sometimes when parking in urban areas. If your an urban vanlifer. Overnighting on the side of the street. If it's an old street that's repaved with asphalt 20 times, it will be bowed in the middle. Tipping the vehicle up to 9° at curbside in certain areas. Making it advantageous to sleep widthwise feet toward the curb in a vanbuild.
This was the best in-depth video I've seen of a Sportsmobile, thanks Joe!
You're welcome Phillip!
Excellent presentation!
I like the seamless B-roll inserts.
Clean clear audio synchronized to each area and amenity.
No waste!
When the empty-shell version at under 100k is actually available I’d strongly consider it to replace my JKU camper setup - I could do my own interior with stuff I already have for less than 10k. Love the 4x4 and body / pop top though!
Unfortunately, they are so swamped with orders, it may be a while until that happens.
We're the Russos yeah I left em a message. I’m in no hurry as it’s a long term goal (next year or two). I did see what looks like a brand new presence in Reno for them and since I’m 20 minutes away at Lake Tahoe I’ll probably go check em out in person. Thanks for the great walkthrough and review.
Built in my home town, Fresno, California. Dynatrac front axle needs Dynatrac stub hubs, ram assist steering. Also needs diesel powerplant, not V10 gas. A bit more fresh water would be nice, but these are just a few of my own ideas. Have seen these work before, very nice. Built for the roads less traveled.
I can't complain about this video, I personally think it was a very important overview of the features and benefits of this four season 4X4 pop top camper van. Anyone that complaied hasn't followed you and Kait to understand your honesty and up front attitude.
I now have a better understanding of this rig. I would point out that this is not a Cookie cutter design but a very customizable unit and that’s the reason why it costs as much as it does.
If you bought this unit off a production line it would be a lot less expensive. So with that in mind, can you justify the buy in price? See you in your next video and as always happy trails
Dale - you're absolutely correct. With some custom vans, we struggle to see the value in them. With this, we definitely see the value and think that the price is worth what you get. As I mentioned, it's a serious consideration but the cost and timeframe to get one are limiting factors for us. That said, there is a lot of demand for these. They don't depreciate like cookie cutter vans do and if we were to buy one, we could get most of our money back out of it if we sold - assuming it was in good shape.
Really don’t know why anyone would want a V10. Other then the stupid power i really like the layout. As a old soldier that lived in Utah, El Paso, an a few other military places. We used my S10 I put a V8 it got 110 miles out of a tank of gas. Needless we had 5 gal jerry cans stuffed everywhere. But I did 1/4 miles in 12 to 12:50 it was a beast.
We would have loved having a vehicle like that.
You could buy a really nice 4 wheel drive and a good used camper and put money in the bank for what cost!
Absolutely, if that's what you wanted. We don't want to tow a camper, that would change the whole dynamic of how we travel. That said, this is expensive and we may look for an older used model rather than going new if this is what we decide to get.
@@Weretherussos Have you tried a Four Wheel Camper slide in camper? I really like the Sportsmobile Classic and I really like the idea swiveling captains chairs adding to the living space. That's a beautiful rig but it ain't cheap.
@@Weretherussos, there’s always the M1078-M1088 Stewart and Stevens used LMTVs. Quite a few snowbird couples are going that route, since you can get a 6x6 Cat powered truck with less than 20k miles for as much as a base model 1/2 ton pickup retails at a dealership.
It looks like a lot of the cost is more the external bodywork for recessed storage, and less the interior or drivetrain amenities.
If Ford, Chevy, and Ram made SUVs and passenger vans with a diesel selectable AWD/4x4 drivetrain as a widely available option at their dealerships, they could probably make enough volume sales to lower the price point on the full adventure camper van package.
There's no denying the fact that each campervan or motorhome has its place, you can have your own home on wheels or you can have a compact campervan and the fact is I truly love them all and now I'm on my own again apart from my guard cat and dog who farts when he awake and then his silent but deadly when hes asleep. Don't get me wrong though I love them both but if I could afford to have one I'd have mine done all over in Matt black linex and white steel wheels and not forgetting the raised lift, I almost forgot I'd have it in right hand drive
The Swiss knife of adventure! 👍 I like the layout compared to any other Class B RV or custom sprinter van! The pop top is an amazing feature in my mind! Awesome video... 😃
Bad ass vehicle! That said, my wife, daughter, family dog and I spend our summers in Baja Sur Mexico, surfing, fishing and exploring and while this van is amazing, all we really need is our 2020 Toyota 4Runner as we Airbnb/VRBO a house/casita for in between $60-$120 a night and use them as our home base while doing daytime exploration!
Just about exactly what my husband would come home with one day if he could!
The question is...would you be excited that he did?
@@Weretherussos I would load it up and never look back!!
Awesome build 😎 ...only needs is a full roll down / zippered bug screen for when the doors stay open .
Its good it can tow.... so you can attach the petrol station on the back, since youre going to be everyday filling it lol
V10 and a Ford... Lmao I think you're right
Windows!
The awning windows allow you to have them open in the rain.
And the windows in the pop-up allow you to see the stars when lying in the upper bed.
My 4WD pop-up camper has windows at the head of my bed, and the night sky is spectacular!
There is just something wrong when a toilet is not included and you have to bring your own and stick it under the kitchen counter !! Please tell you your not buying that thing ?? !!!
Moe Jaime do you really want to take a S**t and stink up a small RV. Where the other people will smell it and hear it? (And then have to dispose of it later)People who buy this type of RV are talking it way out into nature and are not afraid to go in the woods and will only use it if they absolutely have to.
They already own a portable cassette toilet and made a video in the past about only using it for liquid waste.
Moe...this puppy has the best of everything...the year does not matter, nor does a toilet . Perhaps you could toss out your thoughts in a more amiable manner?
We have a 2005 e350 fully built sportsmobile and absolutely love it. It's truly a jack of all trades + some:)
That is a great rig have fun with it ,I bet you wish you could keep that one
What a boss ride! I like your chill/no hype and comprehensive walk-through. Nice work!
Much appreciated!
Drinking game: take a shot every time he says "storage" and a double shot every time he says "small storage".
Triple shot when he mentions his height
Help, I played the game and I’m hungover in a trash can (JK)
Tripple shot for "Kate and I".
🤣
How about his confidence 🤣
just a speaking tip. at 2:00 if say say gross vehicle weight rating or weight rating it sounds a lot more clear than GVWR
Sounds like you like a pop up top and of course 4WD. Be sure to look at Four Wheel Campers. We have a nice new F250 truck and a fully loaded camper that has most of what you mentioned this has. There are slide in models or flat bed models (for more room). I believe the company would be happy to work with you to try one out for a video review. They are wonderful to work with provide Rallies for the owners twice a year.
We've seen Four Wheel Campers at a couple shows and have spoken to them about taking a unit out. We're going to go visit them when we get a chance.
It’s very nice. 4x4 is a must. For us, we need a larger bed and an indoor shower is necessary, particularly to be consistent with “all seasons” and not needing a gym etc. Those are the caveats for us. $150,000+ is what these things cost. Fuel consumption is whatever it is.
Waaaaay to expensive especially when it doesn't have a Diesel...I'd build 1 myself with a 7.3 powerstroke for a fraction of that amount
This one is for idiots , without idiots the world doesnt go ! Vive le idiots
@@colgatetoothpaste4865 For rich idiots.
Hi kids! I thought I passed you in Yosemite last week - and I now know I did! Hope you loved it as much as we did.....we stayed in Lee Vining and visited all of Yosemite from there! What a wonderful, wonderful place! See you down the road! With our corgis, Zeplyn & Ratchet.....who really think you should buy that van!
Very cool!
185k??? Are you kidding me? That's highway robbery. Literally.
There isn't enough room in a van to put all the features of "the perfect van". however, this one is awfully close. I would definitely ad the fan, and make port-potty access easier for those middle of the night needs in coyote country. Thanks for showing us this beautiful "home".
Travel safe.
Yo Russos! thanks for constantly sharing your experience. For your next temporary RV vehicle shout out, can you please share your experience living in an old-er RV? You guys review a lot of newer renovated/conversations, but for folks who can't afford expensive vans/RVs; an older well-used vehicle is more realistic. For someone like myself, a weekend camper who still works a full-time 9-to-5 (wahhh!), a high-end van/rv is not something I would want to invest in. But a 1995 Ford Class B for $15k? Well, that is more within the price range for a novice like myself. Maybe you can do a series: 70s, 80s, 90s, 2000s etc.
The problem is that we'd need someone to give us their RV so we could test it. We can get new vans because many companies like Sportsmobile have demos for us to use...that's not the case with older used units.
@@Weretherussos what about used RV dealerships? Promo for them and content for your viewers? #winwin lol! 😆
this van is perfect! I built my own van out and did it very similar but now seeing this I think I'll make a few changes to get it more like this one particularly the bench seat that lays down to a bed, mine is just a bed all the time so the only good seating is the passenger seat.
How are these reviews independent? If they give you the van to use for free how could you possibly complain. "You say one bad thing about our van, we're going to tell you to bring it back, just remember that"
We're under no obligation to say anything good about the van. This also isn't a review per se, I'm simply showing everyone the different features of the van. While I give a few thoughts about it at the end, I've left it to the viewer to make up their own mind.
@@Weretherussos True, but Joe come on. now, I like you guys. but this is not a fair review. If your given something for free, clearly you wont complain about.
Kali Falone / people like Joe are not the type to play that game Kali. I for one believe what he said but of course entitled to your opinion 😁
@@NewAgeDIY i believe everting joe said, but when they give him a free van to explorer and talk about,, he's not going to talk bad about it.
Kali Falone / yes of course, I know that the loaner could have some strings attached. Providing the detailed overview is probably in there someplace. That said I know Joe would give a honest review. I believe that if anything was proven to be bad or problematic Joe would point it out. He had done that in the past with other loaners.
Ur simplicity got u a new subscriber... congrats.
Thank you!
I should have bought that 18 yr old used sportsmobile ford 4x4 econoline for $40k and just rebuilt the diesel motor. I can’t believe the price for your green dream machine.
Hi kids! I thought I passed you in Yosemite last week - and I now know I did! Hope you loved it as much as we did.....we stayed in Lee Vining and visited all of Yosemite from there! What a wonderful, wonderful place! See you down the road! With our corgis, Zeplyn & Ratchet.....
I am a motivation speaker, I live in a van; down by the river.
😂😂😂 R.I.P. Chris Farley!
That is a bad ass van i would drive proudly.
You know🤔 IM SO FEELING THIS LOW ROOF POP TOP! Even tho I’ve been totally against low roofs and pop tops in the past!!!!! I’m so interested tho in wear and tear in the future for the pop top tho. It’s very pricy too! But makes me consider other pop tops! I would love to see you Russo’s in it tho!
Best bug out vehicle I’ve ever seen.
Those wheels make it look like it skipped LEG DAY at the gym!!
Good call, thanks for the heads up, how did I not see that first?
I have a 2001 7.3L E450 shuttle bus that I converted into an RV. Bought her off craiglist for 3k. Love this thing. Screw that v10, I'll take the 7.3L turbo diesel anyday. Shes a beast just need to make it 4x6.
Love the video review and the van .... to big for the UK lol ..... it’s a lot of money but I guess it’s something different .... sounds like you are homing in what you want out of a van .... we love our little Harry Ford Autocamper
Aren't there Sprinter, Transit and Ducato vans running around the UK? This is the same size.
We're the Russos yep there are that somehow looks a lot wider mind you any US vehicle does - our roads are do narrow - we took our short wheelbase transit down to the south west in Devon and Cornwall and some side roads with high hedge and walls you barely could get down - stressful
Our ford transit is 78 inches wide excl mirror or 90 inches with mirror - maybe it’s an optical illusion - this is ours the hi line version with 2 sliding doors so great and airy but small www.auto-campers.co.uk/leisure-van/
My dream camper van.
Sports Mobile Classic...
Love this vehicle but... that price tag is just waaaaay too much for me. I realize it's high end quality but isn't that out of most of your viewers reach? Dunno.
Great walk-thru. I've seen other van life videos where they have mounted a Maxxfan high up on their drivers side rear door to help with ventilation and to leave more room on the roof for solar. Maybe Sportsmobile will offer that as an option in the future. I know Sportsmobile is debuting a Ford Transit mid-roof pop top in October. A mid-roof pop top would be much more convenient for full time stealth camping and should have more storage in it because of the upper cabinets. Just think of the Sportsmobile Ford Transit mid-roof you were in at Overland Expo West... except with a pop top. Once the 2020 Transit AWD model comes out, it will be perfect for most people who just want the extra grip for winter road and fire road conditions. Having said that, this Classic model is pretty awesome.
Yeah, they've been working on that Transit for a while now and we were joking that the amount of headroom in there will be ridiculous!
Foolish to even consider this van at $185000. How can I take them serious about anything if they would say they are considering something like this. I wouldn’t pay half that for that van.
Right, way I'm seeing this as ideas and do it somewhere else for things I can't do like the suspension and such
Gotta love off-road vans
I think I see one of these in your future! 😃
It's certainly on our wish list!
I think the Sportsmobbile van is a great product - at $160k to start, it's also a serious outlay for most folks although I know they have a 1 year waiting list to get one. I guess there are a lot of folks with that much cash.
2 years as of today I've been told.
Interesting that you said you would add a Fantastic Fan for when the top is down. I was also thinking that would be great but I've never seen a video with one on a Sportsmobile pop top. I have seen Safari Condo offer one on theirs. Would you put in in the front? Guess you would have to loose the roof rack. Great review on this beautiful van!
They make roof racks that work around the vents. Most of the high roof Sportsmobiles have the vents with the racks on top.
Your living my dream and for that best of luck hope you enjoy all your travels and adventures I’m super jealous in a good way
*You're
Love this van, too expensive but great DIY inspiration!
It looks like I will be keeping my pop-up camper for now.
What’s the average mpg? Assuming that your mostly in 2wd.
We got 11 mpg going up and down the mountains. We didn't really get out on long flat stretches of highway, so my guess is that the MPG would improve a bit. Considering the weight, lift, large tires and roof racks, we were happy with it.
I've got a regular E350 extended with the V10 and get 15mpg at 65mph.
Hi Kait and Joe. Just a hello and another reminder that an installed pop-top on the Chev Van your friend lent you may be just the thing. Perhaps he has contacts to instal the pop-top (penthouse/T-Top pop-top) half-price or something. The van you are using now is the cost of some houses.
You, of course, would have to get the old Chev safety checked. Of course, it is your decision.
$185K?? Gasp! cough cough.. I need a drink.
Loool🤣🤣🤣🤣
It's a solid Van build built to live out of and not in.....definitely more for lugging gear into the backcountry for wildlife photographers,etc. and not showering except for campgrounds.I think at least an outdoor shower could have been done here,with all of the non-specific storage space installed.I'd rather get ahold of a used Earthroamer XV-LT-I just found a used one for 165,000 with a wet bath
Absolutely love it but I'll never own one in my lifetime
I love it. It's exactly what I would build. The 4X4 Ford Van's are rare and hard to come by. I love the roof top sleeper tent/hard top.
But, on the other hand. There's no way I could afford at 185,000.00
No way.
I think in Germany you'll get a lot more for your money. Even though this car looks like fun, but to expensive.
It also seems rather unsophisticated by comparison. Equipment, build quality, just the details alone seem far too simple given the price point.
Nice color plus very nice view of nature
185k I'll hire some one to take me around and attend to my needs.
For 6 years ll
What makes this vehicle’s interior rig so beautifully designed and set up is the fact that they took so many cues from the VW Westfalia Vanagons. Those Westfalia vans were so well thought out when came to utilizing the small interior space and it appears that they improved on all of the Westfalia features. This particular vehicle is absolutely amazing. I would definitely consider buying it or at least something on par that has all of the same amenities . Overlanding is a great hobby or lifestyle if you have the right rig and the right set up. This was a fantastic video and I greatly appreciate you sharing what this vehicle has to offer! Cheers!
me: "oh this is cool but i bet it costs an arm and a leg" "yep....costs almost twice as much as i paid for my house"
love the green OD color of the van!!
"...the V10 engine..."
And I'm out.
I've been around those things and they are stupid reliable. Seen only a handful of issues besides mpg. Id take it over a diesel
Actually, the V10 is good. I've got one in my E350.
Cheap maintenance, good power, quiet, and it runs smooth.
me 2. L8!
I’ll stay with my 1997 Ford conversion van. Wow! I just saved a ton of money.
Holy hell! $185,000 . Who is the target demographic for this? People with too much money, and no clue what they're buying...
It's always my great pleasure to see one of your new video reviews. What an experience it's been to see you go through all these options to replace your old way of life and consider new ways to move forward. So far as I am concerned, the top choice would be the Winnebago on the new Ford AWD chassis. Admittedly it won't be the serious off roader that rigs like you are now experiencing are but it would serve to be just enough safety to give me piece of mind and take advantage of all the new safety features. Hope to see Kait in the next video. Wish her well and in good health.
You can keep it for that price! I can get a beautiful Super C Class 4X4 for that price!
I’m sold on it can’t wait get mine done
I'm intrigued by SMB vans, both the Classic and the Sprinter/ based ones, and I could definitely see myself owning one. However, they are quite expensive and the gas mileage of that V10 must be abysmal. What mileage are you guys seeing...I'm guessing around 13 mpg. If you travel over 20,000 miles per year as I plan to, fuel cost is a major consideration. Not having an indoor shower is also a pretty big downside for me, as I plan to do a fair bit of urban travel, although I suppose I could get a Planet Fitness membership. Also, is there a table anywhere in this rig? If not, that's a major oversight. Great review!
D LG i think it should be less than 13mpg , they should have used a diesel engine which is way more efficient,or at least convert the v10 to run on Lpg or cng
@@alanmay7929 The Russos are usually pretty good about answering questions, so I hope they will answer this one. I am very curious what mileage they're getting, and also whether this van has a table of any kind. I'd also like to know the detailed specs of the electrical system.
Oh WoW, this is the most beautiful camper there is
your videos used to be very interesting and the ones with Kate and Leo were great this new stuff of overland motorcycles is really not interesting to me however I'm sure there are some out there who liked it
GREAT tour Joe and Kate, safe travels!
For the Silicon Valley kids
They all get eaten
Exactly what I was thinking. It's for a tech bro cashing in stock options. Outside of that in the real world, no one buys this.
Joe and Kait, thanks for another informative and entertaining vid. I'm really enjoying this series of videos about your search for a new full-time home. I'm at an age where retirement is a tangible thing and, for the last couple of years, have been learning what I can about Class B options. Following your adventures in the Aktiv and your current search for a new rig is a great insider's look at one couple's process. It's been educational.
For example, I used to obsess about the small size and narrow confines of wet baths in Class Bs but, recently, have come to appreciate that a vehicle without a floor-to-ceiling bath is much more open. Also, it seems a lot of experienced RV'ers who enjoy going off-grid in the wild seem to prefer units without wet baths. I'm guessing the inevitable odor of an interior facility is a factor one should consider.
Anyway, thanks for inviting us into your lives and your journey. Best of success to you in finding the perfect full-time rig for your needs, travel and lifestyle.
You’re very welcome! Glad we have been able to provide some insight for you.
How about a table for eating and doing work?
SLAM BOY hahaha, I had to look what a Lagan table was. Looks like that would work well in that van, but I’m surprised it doesn’t come with one.
Oh yeah! Where would you two work?