On this week’s podcast episode, we are talking about our recent trip to the Jayco Dealer Homecoming that took place in Nashville, Tennessee. This is a dealer exclusive annual event where dealers get to check out what’s new for 2018.
Jayco was kind enough to let us get a sneak peak behind the scenes, and we share all the exciting innovations we saw in the towable and motorized divisions. Plus, we managed to squeeze in a little bit of sight seeing and a lot of eating during our short visit. You’ll have to take a listen to hear our very thorough discussion of heat levels at Hattie Bs Hot Chicken…
ALL of the 2018 models can be found on the Jayco website, so make sure you head over there to look for additional info, floor plans, and specs. You can also check out our Instagram feed to see short videos and photo collections. Plus, we took over Jayco’s IG account during our visit, so scroll through their feed for more pics!
Segment One: Towables
There are a LOT of changes in many of the towable lines for the 2018 model year. We were able to spend some time with all five product managers (many of whom you have heard on the show in the past) walking through the rigs and getting an in depth look at their latest innovations and design tweaks.
Jay Feathers and White Hawks
After introducing the Hummingbird, John Fisher got to work completely rethinking the Jay Feather and White Hawk line, and we discuss the exterior and interior changes that will be well received by folks interested in more linear design trends. Listen to hear our thoughts on the new automotive-bonded front window option, the Jay Feather 7 22BHM, and the White Hawk 31BH.
Jay Flights
The newest addition to the Jay Flight travel trailer lineup is the 28BHS. This will be a very welcome addition for families in the market for bunks. Two exterior doors, a rear bathroom, and an L-shaped kitchen create a great interior layout.
Eagle
The Eagle line is on fire right now, and we had a great time chatting with Chris Barth, who was recently on our podcast for our Pros and Cons of a Fifth Wheel episode. Listen to hear more details about the Eagle 25.5REOK, a couple’s coach under 30 feet.
North Point
We are seeing these at campgrounds EVERYWHERE right now, so it was great to meet Matt Fisher and get a true understanding about why this model has been gaining so much traction with RVers. If you have been looking for truly on-point design, Matt stepped up to the plate, taking out the traditional finishes and shooting for a clean, linear look. From the stovetop grate to the handle pulls and square, stainless bathroom sinks, this RV is not your grandparents’ coach.
Toy Haulers
Lastly, there was lots of new things to check out in the world of toy haulers, including the new exterior designs on the Octane line and the introduction of an entirely new line called the Talon. Listen to hear us talk about the Octane T32H.
Segment Two: Motorized
In the motorized category, Jayco is determined to meet the demand for two things: updated interior design and smaller Class Cs. We were happy to see the first results of this effort and talk about two big model debuts…
Melbourne Prestige
The Melbourne Prestige is a small C that has the sleek European design that so many folks are looking for in the small motorhome segment. The woven, vinyl floor is stylish and pragmatic. The large window on the front cap makes the space feel open and airy.
Red Hawk SE 22C
We are head over heals in love with this new model as it introduces a great motorized floor plan that is under 30 feet AND affordably priced. In fact, you could probably buy one of these for the same price as a Ford Lariat. You could sleep a couple of kids on the over-cab bed. And if you are super adventurous, a third kid could sleep on the dinette.
Segment Three: Nashville, Tennessee
We squeezed in a little bit of site seeing during our brief stay, so listen to hear our thoughts on the Grand Ole Opry, Martins BBQ, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, The Frothy Monkey, and the Johnny Cash Museum. Oh, and Jeremy breaks into the 21st century with his first Uber ride…
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