Some of the other systems that are becoming indispensable when towing trailers this size are: adaptive cruise control; automatic emergency braking— which also extends to the trailer brakes; engine braking and selectable transmission gearing for holding the rig steady on long downgrades; and a tire pressure monitoring system that accommodates up to six truck tires and the tires on your trailer as well. And, I should mention, these new HD trucks are quiet, comfortable, ride well, and have beautifully appointed interiors that feature every possible modern electronic and infotainment system. The net effect of all this technology and engineering is that you can tow the biggest trailer on the market comfortably and without anxiety. You’ll feel that you are in complete control of the load and that is the best feeling of all. Keystone’s Avalanche lineup is aimed at full-timers and large active families. The trailers all offer substantial floor space and up-sized features like king-size beds. The main floor features a kitchen island that sits in the middle of action. Housing the twin sinks, it faces the free-standing dining table and the theater seating next to it in a slide-out. The sinks both have covers and, when in place, create a large food prep surface.
A swiveling gooseneck faucet stays out of the way. From that theater seating the two of you can watch the 50-inch flat-screen TV (over the fireplace, which also has a heating function) directly across from you. This is a good sight line—no off-set, neck craning viewing needed here. But the most comfortable viewing spot will be the full-length hide-a-bed sofa that takes up the entire rear wall of the trailer. (I confess I like to lay on the couch while watching TV). The rest of the kitchen appliances (including an optional 18 cu. ft. refrigerator) are directly behind the center island. A full oven and a built-in microwave above the stove flanks another good-sized counter area. Kitchen cabinets are found above and below this kitchen layout. All this, the entertainment center (with its own cabinets), fireplace and the kitchen, are housed in a second large slide-out which, because it’s opposite the dining table slide, makes for a very spacious main salon when open. On the dividing wall (next to the frig) is a full-sized glass-doored pantry and next to it is a counter top— which I’d think of as a desk space. Above and below it is more storage in the form of drawers and what’s called a “curio cabinet”. As this is not specifically part of the kitchen, it truly can be an office type space—or catch- all. Frankly, every trailer needs a spot for “stuff”—and this one has it.
RV REVIEW
COAST TO COAST SPRING MAGAZINE 2020
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