Questionnaires – Owners Responses
We often send questionnaires to Sprinter owners to see how they like their vans after owning them for awhile. Here’s a few examples.
Owner Response to a Survey
How do you like your Sportsmobile?
A tremendous vehicle — love it. The bed is more comfortable than mine at home. I sleep better!
How does it ride and handle?
Plenty of power. Perfect cruise control. All positive — very smooth over bumps. Turning radius fantastic.
What’s your MPG under different driving conditions?
Been getting a little over 20 mpg mixed driving.
Where do you travel?
Favorite destinations. Scenic, rural and mountains.
Driving comfort?
I never got sore driving all day long. Never had so many options in seat adjustment.
Camping comfort?
Excellent!
And anything else that you feel may be of interest to a reader?
I really like the solar panels and rear-view camera and all the storage space.
—The VanNuys
Owner Response to a Survey
How to you like your Sportsmobile Sprinter?
My response to this question is an unqualified WONDERFUL, REMARKABLE . . . enough said!
How does it ride, drive and handle?
The ride, drive and handling is so responsive and good that I’m planning to sell my other car and only use the Sportsmobile for 100% of my needs. It is probably the best-handling vehicle I have ever owned. (Remember, I’m only 73 years young!)
What’s your MPG under different driving conditions?
To the best of my knowledge (I don’t track every tankful), I think I average from 18-22 mpg. It really depends on hills climbed, weight in vehicle, and lead foot.
Where do you travel? Favorite destination.
Since purchasing the Sportsmobile, I have traveled through the Western states and British Columbia. So far I have logged 13,500 miles. My favorite destinations are small towns (anywhere) where I can walk my dogs and explore the history and try to understand more of why people settled in the area and why people continue to live there. Plus, I just like to see the beauty of this vast land. Plans are afoot for Alaska this spring. Maybe two months . . . then who knows.
Driving comfort?
Needless to say this is a wonderful vehicle to drive — vision is clear, seats very comfortable, all in all a WONDERFUL response …
Camping comfort?
This is a real plus. The layout is just what the doctor ordered. I’ve slept in it for 75+ nights so far. All appliances, cupboards, etc., work just as they should. I have no buts, just praise for all who have put this together.
Thank you again for being who you all are.
—Richard Melenby
P.S. You don’t need to change my name for privacy.
We received this postcard from Mr. Melenby some months later.
Owner Response to a Survey
Our customization.
Traveling with two big dogs, CJ and Chase. Needed secure places for their crates and big refrigerator/freezer for their food (and ours, too).
Like best.
Our Sportsmobile Sprinter is like the magical tent that Harry Potter, Ron, and Hermione have. It is small on the outside and larger on the inside.
It is small enough — easy to drive, maneuverable, parks in a regular space — and big enough to have everything we want inside. We like the high driving position and the lots of foot room.
We like that other travelers are interested in our camper. They think we are smart and so do we.
Like least.
Inadequate cup holders for driving.
Influenced us to buy from Sportsmobile.
You were interested to customize for what we wanted, not what you had that you could convince us to take. Your staff was knowledgeable and offered good suggestions with patience. They did not promise things that could not be done.
Things we have not used yet. Air Conditioner.
Temperature pager. We love the ventilation using the Fantastic ceiling fan. That has been adequate for the camping we have done. Our dogs are amazingly happy lying around watching our the door with no attempt to escape.
Things we don’t like or use.
Wiring for the seat heaters is crossed. No idea how, but the switch on the passenger’s seat controls the driver’s heater and vice-versa.
The pillows you made are lovely, but for us they are in the way and stay home. Table — we don’t find it useful for inside. We use it only outside for cooking. When we eat inside, we hold our plates in our laps. Passenger’s feet are cold and that makes her cranky. The guys that put in the snaps for the bathroom curtain and the towel rod need to coordinate with each other better. We can’t use one of the snaps because it is too close to the towel bar.
In summary, we love your company and we love our Sportsmobile.
-John & Nell Whatson
Owner Comments
“The workmanship and completeness of the vehicle is marvelous.”
We want you to know how very pleased we are with our new Sportsmobile conversion. The van is a pleasure to drive. The workmanship and completeness of the vehicle is marvelous. All the components are nicely coordinated and beautifully manufactured. From the interior layout of cabinets, the well thought out lighting, the quality and finish of the upholstery, the comfort of the bed, to the finish of all the additions we could not be more pleased. Your staff has been consistently patient and courteous to us with our phone calls during the planning stage and the follow-up. Your knowledge and suggestions on how we could enhance our plans were most useful.
Gordon & Jeri Jenkins
“We began to notice your attention to detail and the quality with which you implemented our custom design.”
As we moved northwards, our decision to go with Sportsmobile was rewarded. We began to notice your attention to detail and the quality with which you implemented our custom design. The closet and cabinets along with over-cab storage and fridge mean we no longer will have to rely on suitcases and coolers. The Dinette/Bed converts easily and provides for a firm and comfortable rest. The air conditioner did an excellent job of cooling. It is an option everyone should have. We also got a lot of use out of our roof Vent Fan. It also does a great job!
And the abundance of lighting and the door treatment with storage and drop down tables were an added pleasure. Our Sportsmobile has raised us to a whole new level of camping enjoyment. A couple from Colorado approached us at a pullover on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. They wanted to see the inside of our Sportsmobile. They loved what they saw and I answered all their questions. I gave them my extra copy of the floor plans book that I had and provided your Web address. I’m sure you have a Sportsmobile customer in the making. There have been others who inquired and I continue to extol the pleasures of Sportsmobile to anyone who might ask!
Matt & Kathryn Karmickle
“We’re looking forward to many happy trips across America.”
Just a note to tell you how happy we are with Harvey, our new Sportsmobile. We’re looking forward to many happy trips across America.
Gene & Marilyn Phelps
“Since our purchase we have slept in it for more than 1,200 nights. This van has almost 260,000 miles on it. Assuredly, this paid for itself and much more. But our good times are invaluable!”
We are writing to tell you how much enjoyment we have had with our Sportsmobile. It has taken us to Fairbanks, Alaska, Cabo San Lucas, Key West, and twice to St. Johns, Newfoundland. It has been in all of the states, except Hawaii, two times or more and all of the Canadian Providences. Yes, we still own it and continue to use it without hesitation.
Since our purchase in 1997 we have slept in it for more than 1,200 nights. This van has almost 260,000 miles on it. Assuredly, this paid for itself and much more. But our good times are invaluable! Thank you!
Vincent & Joni Maley
“To her embarrassment, we declared that thanks so much, but we’d rather sleep in our van (in her driveway — oh whatever will the neighbors think?). But true — it’s so convenient.”
Don and I are still enjoying our Sportsmobile is a gross understatement. I still sit back on the gaucho seat at the arrival to our destination and proclaim “I love this van.” We’ve been to Alaska, Mexico, Nova Scotia, Florida and across the U.S. in different configurations a number of times. We visited our daughter in Duluth, MN, when they were remodeling their home, and they had made us a reservation at a Bed and Breakfast nearby. To her embarrassment, we declared that thanks so much, but we’d rather sleep in our van (in her driveway — oh whatever will the neighbors think?). But true — it’s so convenient.
Blanche Trithe
“Even after 11 years of owning the best RV we’ve ever had, we still can’t say enough about the quality of our Sportsmobile.”
Thanks for your kind assistance in helping us sell our Sportsmobile we call “Freedom.” Even after 11 years of owning the best RV we’ve ever had, we still can’t say enough about the quality of our Sportsmobile. About a week before we sold it, I used the van to pick up some items at a local store where a man looked at our van and asked, “What’s a Sportsmobile?” I hoped he wasn’t in a hurry, because he opened a “Pandora’s box.” I, as usual after all these years, proceeded to explain just what a Sportsmobile is, how the Penthouse top works, all the many features built into each and everyone, and then told him how to obtain his very own Sportsmobile. I gave him the fifteen minute “short version” tour only because I had another appointment. Otherwise, he would have been there for at least an hour. Over these many years, your service has always been outstanding! But even more, than the service has been the friendly “can do” attitude that is ever-present at Sportsmobile. We have always been made to feel like one of the family, a comforting business trait that, in this day of “get the money and run”, seems to have been lost by everyone but Sportsmobile. Even though we have sold our Sportsmobile and no longer plan to be a part of the RV lifestyle, we will continue to be “ready & willing” spokesmen for your products and we will always feel we are part of the “Sportsmobile family.” Thank you for 11+ years of excellent service and family-style friendship!
Jim & Phyllis Hivner
Note: Jim is a retired Air Force Colonel. He spent 4½ years as a P.O.W. when his Phantom fighter was shot down over Vietnam. As stated in his letter he named his Sportsmobile “Freedom.” He knows the true meaning of the word.
“We couldn’t be happier with our unit, and sing its praises wherever we go, as do all the other owners.”
Another Sportsmobile Social Club camp out has come and gone, and another wonderful weekend was had by all in attendance. We have been unable to attend the past two campouts, and have realized just how much we have missed…Sportsmobile owners have to be the nicest people in the world. The Advisory Board of the group put a lot of effort into making the weekend a success, and the sociability and goodwill that comes from this whole group makes the Sportsmobile and the company highly visible and highly rated wherever we go. We couldn’t be happier with our unit, and sing its praises wherever we go, as do all the other owners. On behalf of us all, many thanks, once again, for your support.
Jack & Dawn Lawson
“No matter what its guise, it is a comfortable and convenient way for us to travel.”
My wife and I are thoroughly enjoying our Sportsmobile Penthouse model. When we do a little camping and bird watching, it is known as the Birdmobile. However, in the fall, when we make a weekend pilgrimages to Kyle Field in College Station, it transforms itself into the AgWagon. No matter what its guise, it is a comfortable and convenient way for us to travel. I think in a year or two, we’ll be visiting you for a new one.
Don Simond
“We have been delighted to show its features to our family and friends, and a number of strangers in campgrounds have requested information and have admired your work.”
We are happy to respond to your request for our assessment of our Sportsmobile van conversion and our perception of the Sales procedure. We have completed the Report Card and are enclosing it, but we wish to supplement that with a few written observations. In the short time we have had our Sportsmobile van, about two months, we have recorded almost six thousand miles on the odometer, and have traveled to and through Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, West Virginia, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine. This week we leave for Florida passing through South Carolina and Georgia. At this point, we are pleased to tell you we are absolutely delighted with our Sportsmobile. We have been delighted to show its features to our family and friends, and a number of strangers in campgrounds have requested information and have admired your work.
Mark & Nancy Green
“I highly recommend the Sportsmobile to prospective buyers.”
I initiated my purchase of the Sportsmobile sight unseen. I’m pleased to say that I wasn’t fooled in any way by the friendly transaction that was conducted by phone and e-mail. I was fortunate to get a van that was a demonstration unit with most of the features that I wanted. I had many questions regarding specifications, features and their function and I got ready, informed answers from Sportsmobile personnel. Since the Sportsmobile van was going to be my everyday vehicle for all kinds of activities, I needed to make sure that it would work as well or better than my previous vehicles (GMC Suburban, Dodge Cargo Vans and VW Eurovan Camper) that were used for business and personal activities. I have not been disappointed so far as I have had 23 enjoyable camping nights. I highly recommend the Sportsmobile to prospective buyers.
Dr. and Mrs. Walter T. Shore
“It is rare to find this type of customer service and personable attitude your entire staff conveys.”
We love our van. We were impressed with your customer service on our van even though it was used. We were treated as though we were buying a new unit. You fixed the few items we were concerned with and invited us to have a mechanic inspect the van. It is rare to find this type of customer service and personable attitude your entire staff conveys. You are all professionals. We did not feel you were just out to make money, but to make long-term customers. Your high integrity and honesty did not go unnoticed. The workmanship is true quality and we will gladly tell other people about your fine organization.
Darold & Patsy Knok
“Without a doubt, my Sportsmobile is the single best investment I have made in a piece of field equipment. It has extended my operating capabilities substantially and made life in the field luxurious.”
I’m an environmental consultant and have been using my new Sportsmobile in the field for several months now. Some that know me and my field operation environment thought that it was made to my specifications because it is such a perfect match to the work that I do.
I am really glad that I got the high roof van because I am in and out of the back during the day and there is no setup time for camping, plus the storage above the cab is a great place for clothes and stuff.
I remember one cold and rainy night last month here in the Mojave when I much appreciated the Sportsmobile. I made a cup of hot chocolate in the microwave and then took a hot shower, all the while inside the van out of the wind, rain, and cold. In my previous field vehicles, that would have been a much less comfortable experience.
Without a doubt, my Sportsmobile is the single best investment I have made in a piece of field equipment. It has extended my operating capabilities substantially and made life in the field luxurious. I just wanted to say thanks to you for your help and to all of the folks at Sportsmobile that have engineered and produced a product that has resulted in a paradigm shift in my lifestyle.
Gilbert Parklett
“The ‘Sport’ has taken us over 7,500 miles now through (over) many of the few and poor roads of the Northwest Territories and the Yukon without problems.”
The “Sport” has taken us over 7,500 miles now through (over) many of the few and poor roads of the Northwest Territories and the Yukon without problems. We crossed the Arctic Circle and visited Inuvik, NWT, from which we flew on to the Arctic Ocean because there are only “winter” roads over those 60+ miles.
Ron Peterson
“Having the option of planning out the space to specifically meet our needs, excellent quality of construction and materials, and the personal quality assistance shown by your staff are all factors which so much contributed to our satisfaction.”
From our very first encounter with your staff, we experienced the most personal, courteous welcome and assistance, from planning to completion of our vehicle. While there were some early technical problems which interfered with our using the RV during the first several months (air hose, main battery, etc.) These were not connected with the work done by Sportsmobile and were corrected by the Ford company. We have had a check-up again at your “clinic” and feel assured that all is well. Having the option of planning out the space to specifically meet our needs, excellent quality of construction and materials, and the personal quality assistance shown by your staff are all factors which so much contributed to our satisfaction, and we praise you and your company to everyone who sees our vehicle. We look forward to years of enjoying our little house on wheels which we call “Babarmobile,” because it has such a sturdy, yet playful feel to it. Thanks so much for all your attention and kindness.
Roger & Peggy Mastrom
“I have been able to comfortably get into areas that a ‘regular’ motorhome would never be able to go and still have the comforts of home when we get there.”
I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for an excellent product. About two years ago I purchased a used Sportsmobile. It is remarkable how well everything still functions. I had never seen or heard of a Sportsmobile before and was really looking for a Westfalia. We saw an ad for the Sportsmobile and decided to take a look at it. It still has its original paint and the interior, other than carpet and lower drapes, is original. The original counters, cabinets, seats, etc., still look great and works perfectly. The top still operates perfectly also. It is impressive that everything works and looks near new after 23 years and 140,000 miles. I was fortunate that the previous owners cared for the vehicle well and I fully expect to keep it on the road for several more years. We have been on many outings with it including recent trips to both the Grand Canyon in May and Yosemite a couple of weeks ago. My two sons, ages four and six absolutely love it. They even like to play in it when it’s parked in the driveway. It truly is easy to drive and park. I have been able to comfortably get into areas that a “regular” motorhome would never be able to go and still have the comforts of home when we get there. I just wanted to thank you for an excellent product. I know that when we can afford a new or at least newer RV, it will definitely be a Sportsmobile. There is nothing I have seen that can match its comfort, convenience and versatility.
Mike Grayson
“For the two of us who preferred hotels to camping, the thought of camping beyond the required stay for the races wasn’t a consideration until we tried camping in our Sportsmobile. We love it!… We now cringe at the thought of staying at a hotel.”
“We just wanted to let you know that we love our Sportsmobile, the “stealth RV.” We originally purchased our Sportsmobile for the purpose of towing motorcycles and boondocking at Fabio’s off-road motorcycle races. For the two of us who preferred hotels to camping, the thought of camping beyond the required stay for the races wasn’t a consideration until we tried camping in our Sportsmobile. We love it! We have been “state park hopping” whenever we get an opportunity. We feel like we are on vacation just driving our Sportsmobile so we use it for errands whenever possible.
The penthouse top is great. It creates the “stealth RV” — an RV that looks like a van on the exterior. This allows our Sportsmobile to be parked at our house in a neighborhood that typically doesn’t allow regular RVs.
Even our dog, Muzzo, loves our Sportsmobile. Whenever we are working outside near our Sportsmobile, he wants to go inside. Once inside Muzzo will lie on his bed the entire time and is sometimes reluctant to come out.
We are spoiled with our Sportsmobile and look forward to our weekends. We now cringe at the thought of staying at a hotel. Thank you for a fabulous product and service!
Fabio, Linda & Muzzo Liarinis
“Design your own like my Irene did and you will love it.”
Buy another Sportsmobile — you bet — yes sir. Design your own like my Irene did and you will love it — we plan a short trip this weekend.
Stan & Irene Parson
“Thank you for all the help you have provided. It has been such a pleasure dealing with you.”
The first letter we received from John and Linda Scales
In the days leading up to our trip to Sportsmobile to pick up our new Sprinter that I was feeling like a kid on the day before Christmas? Well, Santa delivered the best present of all time on Friday. Can’t find the words to describe how thrilled we are!
We took enough camping stuff with us so that we could camp for a couple of nights before we had to be back home. We had so much fun discovering all the cool features of our new toy. We are busy planning our first real trip which will take us all the way to Canada, that starts in about three weeks.
Thank you for all the help you have provided. It has been such a pleasure dealing with you.
John & Linda Scales
“I have traveled about 240K miles over the last 11+ years while visiting 49 states and most provinces in Canada in my Sportsmobile Sprinter.”
I am an international IT consultant. I live in the Philippines but average about seven months a year in the USA during which time my Sportsmobile is my home. I consult and travel about seven months birdwatching (709 ABA species so far!), hiking/backpacking, playing tourist, and visiting my friends.
I have lived previously in Johannesburg and Bangkok and have consulted in the USA, Mexico, Portugal, Turkey, Africa, Indonesia, and Thailand. I have traveled to various countries in South America. I have also worked as a safari guide in southern Africa (Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, and South Africa). As a birder, I have IDed 765 bird species in Africa.
My search for rare birds has caused me to travel and camp in my Sportsmobile near the Rio Grande, in southeast Arizona, and many remote areas of North America. I dry camp in rest areas, truck stops, Walmart, Cracker Barrel, and in national parks, forests, and grasslands. I also stay in various “full service” private, state, county, and city campgrounds. I have never had a problem with my own personal safety and security nor that of my Sportsmobile.
I designed the layout of my RV with helpful input from Sportsmobile. It has room for a computer work area, a gaucho, kitchen with a 7CU/FT refrigerator, bath with a Porta Potti, shower, furnace, and 26 gallons of fresh water. I carry a motorcycle on the rear. I can dry camp for up to two weeks before needing more water.
Gary McCormack
“Sprinter is performing like a dream.”
The second letter we received from John and Linda Scales
Sprinter is performing like a dream. Getting great gas mileage. Not a problem to report. We are having a wonderful time.
We are in Banff National Park in Canada. Some excitement here in the form of a big brown bear in our campground at Lake Louise. My reaction was “Quick, get me the camera.” Whoa dude.
I have attached another photo. We went for a bike ride near Jackson, Wyoming, parked next to another Sportsmobile. Owner just got it in March, and this was also their first real trip. Tetons in the background.
John & Linda Scales
“Everywhere we go people ask us about our Sportsmobile and want a tour. They are all fascinated with the beauty, compactness, craftsmanship, economy, and comfort of the Sportsmobile.”
Cathy and I want to say thank you for creating our Sportsmobile. We received it from you 9 months ago and already have over 19,000 miles on it and have spent over 60 wonderfully comfortable nights in it.
We have traveled throughout the northern portion of the United States, from Maine to Vancouver, BC, and south to Texas.
We have been in wind chills of -55 degrees and heat of over 100 degrees, and our Sportsmobile has performed wonderfully, keeping us warm and cool when needed.
I was initially concerned about the rear wheel drive slipping in snow, but we drove on steep mountain snowy roads with no problem. I never had to put on chains.
The rear dinette makes into a very comfortable queen size bed.
Making our bed at night and putting it away in the morning only takes a few minutes.
Everywhere we go people ask us about our Sportsmobile and want a tour. They are all fascinated with the beauty, compactness, craftsmanship, economy and comfort of the Sportsmobile.
Last week we drove our Sportsmobile through Sturgis, SD, during the annual Harley Davidson motorcycle rally along with 200,000 motorcycles.
Several of the cyclists asked about our Sportsmobile, and many gave us the “thumbs-up” as they drove by. No, we don’t have motorcycles. We just thought it would be fun to do, but we won’t do it again!
This week we are camping with five other Sportsmobile owners from the Chicago area, and are looking forward to a great conversation about our vehicles.
We do have a question about getting additional material for our rear window curtains. The consistent use of the closure snaps is causing the material to rip. Where can we buy replacement material?
(Sportsmobile note: Unfortunately “hard” snaps were used in place of the “soft” easy-to-pull snaps, which we are sending to you. Our goof.)
Thanks for everything, and please free free to use our names and comments as you see fit.
Erik & Cathy Bayer
Single Women Owners
Single women and Sportsmobiles have been a winning combination for decades. In fact, around 9% of our sales each year are to single women.
You may have never owned a recreational vehicle before or have yet to do any extensive traveling. You may be considering “the adventure” but just can’t quite decide. Some of the following responses may be from women that had the same apprehensions you do before they acquired their Sportsmobile.
The letters are the result of a form letter we sent to Sportsmobile women owners inviting them to offer their comments that would be of interest to women considering a Sportsmobile. Such as: What kind of traveling do you do? Are you comfortable driving a Sportsmobile? Do you feel safe? Where do you stay? Why did you select Sportsmobile? And any other comments. For privacy, names have been changed.
This mailing was sent to 50 women. Forty-two, or 84%, responded, which is really good for a survey. Did we receive any unfavorable replies? No, not a single one!
“I rate my decision to buy a Sportsmobile among the 2 or 3 best decisions I have ever made.”
I rate my decision to buy a Sportsmobile among the 2 or 3 best decisions I have ever made. I had an old rusty VW pop-up van for a couple of years, and it whetted my appetite for this type of travel. I have driven alone from Houston to Montana, New Mexico twice, Kentucky and Tennessee and the bayou country of Louisiana. I have taken innumerable weekend trips, including various conferences and conventions where I avoided motel/restaurant expenses by staying in State Parks and private campgrounds. My grandchildren love to sleep in the “loft.” I would give you my home before “Marvy,” my Sportsmobile.
Marcia Gleason
“I still haven’t gotten used to the fact that I can take “stuff” without it being a big deal. I have storage!”
My new Sportsmobile is great! I can trailer my horse, ride, have a soda, change my clothes, sit down a moment and relax — it is wonderful! I am so glad I didn’t buy a truck!
We went to the lake last weekend, with the dog of course. It was fun! I still haven’t gotten used to the fact that I can take “stuff” with it being a big deal. I have storage! I can make a cup of tea!
I know this sounds silly to you, but I have never had anything this nice before. Thanks for all of your help.
Cheryl Porter
“The van was built exactly the way I wanted it, plus some nice extras.”
As a previous van camper owner, I can honestly say the Sportsmobile is far and away superior to all others I looked at. Mine was custom designed for my needs and wants, and it’s perfect. I just returned from a 5,000 mile trip by myself, and I felt safe, secure and, most importantly, comfortable. The staff is wonderful. I get immediate response and assistance. The van was built exactly the way I wanted it, plus some nice extras. Buy one of these vehicles — you’ll be glad you did.
Judy O’Donnell
“My grandchildren love riding with me, watching TV and playing games.”
When I first saw Sportsmobile, my mind was changed about RVs. My Sportsmobile has provided me with many hours of safe, comfortable and pleasurable travel. I have stayed in KOA campgrounds on the driveways of friends and family. The versatility of my Sportsmobile makes traveling, shopping and general transportation very enjoyable. I can take a friend shopping for a tree, pick up a 5 drawer chest, 8-foot long tomato sticks and groceries for all.
My cat travels with me, which means her kennel is secured in the passenger’s seat and litter box in the back with my Porta Potti. I try to keep the couch vacant so if I get tired I can simply pull into a rest stop, Walmart or motel parking lot, close the curtains, lock up and take a nap or relax watching TV. After about 30 minutes, I feel refreshed and can proceed with my trip safely.
My grandchildren love riding with me, watching TV and playing games. I’m so glad I purchased a Sportsmobile before I retired so that I could have it paid off and feel comfortable with the new mode of travel. It has been wonderful, and Sportsmobile has been most helpful to assist with any questions or problems that arise.
Love my Sportsmobile.
Sandy Stroin
“The Penthouse is great! None of the fixed tops gave me enough headroom — I am tall, over six feet.”
All in all, I am very pleased and happy with my Sportsmobile. I just love it! I did a custom design. There was nothing that I wanted that they couldn’t do — custom cabinets and arrangements, solar panels and all. The little “extras” that Sportsmobile puts in are just great. Their brochure is very clear—the drawings are especially helpful, and they have a complete introductory checkout upon delivery. Their Owner’s Manual is complete and easy to understand.
The Penthouse is great! None of the fixed tops gave me enough room headroom — I am tall, over six feet. I give “grand tours” whenever I visit and can’t stop bragging. I chose Sportsmobile after investigating several other major brands of van motorhomes as well as the Class C motorhome, the kind with the cab over bed. Sportsmobile is the only van motorhome company that lets you customize, lets you omit propane, lets you have solar power and gives you a “pop top” and lots of choices of upholstery, floor materials and colors. With Sportsmobile I got exactly what I wanted, where I wanted it, and no extras I didn’t want, in the same price range as a van motorhome from the other companies.
As for the Class Cs, they can be even cheaper (as well as much more expensive) than a van motorhome, but they were too large (even the smallest ones) and gas-hungry for my purpose as a single traveler and certainly offered little customization. I also like the idea of solid steel all around me in my van.
I have had my Sportsmobile for less than three months. Since I am not yet retired, my trips for the next couple of years will be mainly in the summer except for weekends. I managed to put 5,200 miles on in three weeks this summer, which included seven days of just being parked. I haven’t really much experience yet in where I’ll be staying there two weeks included only four campgrounds (otherwise I was in the yards of friends), including three state park campgrounds and one private (Good Sam). I used the Trailer Life Campgrounds Directory and the AAA Camp books to select my overnight places before I left home.
To summarize: in my opinion, if you can afford a camper van motorhome, you can’t afford to get any kind except Sportsmobile!
Paula Woolover
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my Sportsmobile for the past 3 years & over 55,000 miles staying, mostly in State, National and Forest Service Park Grounds, and have always felt entirely safe…”
I have thoroughly enjoyed my Sportsmobile for the past 3 years & over 55,000 miles staying, mostly in State, National and Forest Service Park Grounds, and have always felt entirely safe—although I do make 1 or 2 rounds before choosing a campsite. My vehicle is very comfortable and is my only one. (It’s regular size van). I travel both with friends and alone—and always with my cat! The staff at Sportsmobile Texas was wonderful in helping me with the layout plans. I would recommend them very highly to anyone considering purchasing a van camper.
Dottie Samuels
“My Sportsmobile is my Emancipation Proclamation. In it, I feel safe. All my “Stuff” is with me, and the world is open in front of me.”
My Sportsmobile is my Emancipation Proclamation. In it, I feel safe. All my “Stuff” is with me, and the world is open in front of me. I have proved to myself that I can explore narrow tunnel roads in the Black Hills, 10% gravel grades in Utah, plenty-cold winter camping in the White Mountains, and flat-out and rolling wildflower roads. I can parallel park in town and track through rain storms in Iowa wildlife preserves. And then have dinner waiting in the refrigerator and microwave. Sometimes I’m held up in Trailhead parking lots by people who want to see inside and take a flyer on the “company that makes such a nice motorhome.” They are boggled by the detail and instruction that was presented to me on purchase. One Cedar Breaks, Utah camper whispered to his wife that he thought I was a company sales rep! I’m trying to stay lower keyed now.
The quality of construction, the ease of use, and its beauty make me very proud of my Sportsmobile. We’ve been together a year now, “Sport” and me. My best friend—travel partner-spouse passed away several years ago. Traveling in the Sportsmobile that I can manage myself is the next open door in my life.
Donna Nelson
“This was something I’ve wanted all my life! After 5,000 miles I’m still amazed at how BIG it is inside even though it is only a little larger than my minivan outside. I love it!”
After years of tent camping, my Sportsmobile is my first RV. It’s a “Freedom Mobile,” that makes it possible to spend a weekend in Yosemite or camp at the beach. Sportsmobile and the Golden Age Pass make a great combination for anyone over 60 — free entrance to National Parks and half price on Forest Service camping fees!
There are many reasons to use a Sportsmobile daily. The refrigerator makes grocery shopping possible even when you can’t go home immediately. My five-year-old granddaughter loves to use the Sportsmobile when I care for her. We pop the top at a local park and have a place to snack and play games for the afternoon.
A small ad in Trailer Life magazine first made me aware of Sportsmobile and the package of floor plans and options sent was great. This was something I’ve wanted all my life! After 5,000 miles I’m still amazed at how BIG it is inside even though it is only a little larger than my minivan outside. I love it!
On a recent camp out with our church hiking group, two of us (single women 64 and 78) parked our Sportsmobile side by side. We were able to help all the tent campers by boiling water, making coffee and chilling things in our “real refrigerator.” If my letter seems too personal or too emotional, that is unavoidable. I am pleased and proud of my Sportsmobile and still overwhelmed with the wonder of it almost a year after taking delivery.
I have never had any business transaction anywhere that was as satisfying as dealing with Sportsmobile. They were supportive by phone as well as in person, guiding me in the decision of features I needed and answering all my questions. Thank you for the opportunity to share my enthusiasm with other single women. They too will find it feels safe and secure and gives confidence and delight. Why would anyone want to drive a 30 foot-long monster that gets 6 mpg when Sportsmobile can supply all your needs?
Sandie Mueller
We receive lots of letters, postcards and e-mail from happy Sportsmobile owners.
Here’s a sampling that may be of interest to you. Do we receive any from unhappy owners? Yes. But it’s extremely rare, and we do our best to make them happy. Names have been changed for privacy.