The Simple Guide to Class A Motorhomes

What defines a Motorhome as a class A?

And, who decided to label it a “Class A”.

Probably a silly question that will never be truly answered.

Does it matter?

Nope, not one bit.

So what is a class A motorhome.

And what is unique about a class A?

Actually its very easy to identify a Class A motorhome.

Want to know how?

What is a Class A motorhome

If you search Google for the term “Define Class A Motorhome” you will find answers like “Built on a very heavy duty strong frame” and “With 22.5 wheels” and “At least 2 slide outs” and my favorite “The worst fuel economy”.

These statements are mostly true.

And very incomplete.

Many have 22.5 wheels, but not all of them do.

Newer have slide outs, but very few Vintage RVs have slide outs.

And probably the most vague statement is about fuel economy.

So lets get down to the basics here and clarify what defines a motorhome as a Class A.

Then we will list some of the unique features found on most Class A motorhomes.

Details that will help you identify if a Class A motorhome is the right fit for you.

The Definition of a Class A Motorhome

The simplest definition of a class A motorhome is this: A recreational vehicle built on a chassis where the cockpit is integrated with the living area.

The living space and drivers space is built as one.

The cockpit is located at the very front on the motorhome.

There is little or no hood (bonnet for you people across the pond) jutting out front.

But wait “There’s more”…

The Class A Chassis

The chassis or frame are commonly designed and built specifically for use under a motorhome.

Some chassis are specifically built for RV use by independent companies like Spartan and Freightliner.

Then there are companies like Prevost that design and build the chassis and shell for use as a motorhome.

And there is at least one company, Newell Coach, that custom builds every motorhome chassis and shell from the raw components.

These are just a few of the companies that build or have built chassis for Class A motorhomes.

History has a long list of RV manufacturers that designed and built Class A motorhomes. Sadly, many of these builders are now gone.

So lets get to the details on what makes an RV fit the Class A definition.

The Class A Drivetrain

These chassis builders utilize drivetrain components built by companies like Cummins andDetroit for engines and Allison for transmissions.

Then there are different chassis designs in regard to the location of the engine and transmission.

Motorhomes with the engine in the rear are referred to as pushers.

The term “Diesel Pusher” refers to a diesel powered motorhome with the engine mounted in the rear.

Although, there are gas pushers the most common type of pusher motorhome is the diesel pusher.

Motorhomes with the engine in the front are sometimes referred to as pullers.

The gas engines are commonly found in the front mount chassis.

It is common to find Class A motorhomes with front engines as the entry level into the Class A market.

Simply stated Class A motorhomes are often built on a custom metal frame with drivetrain components added.

Common options found in Class A Motorhomes

The Class A motorhome has distinct features not commonly found on other classes of motorhomes.

Features like:

Larger storage tanks (fuel, water, waste)
- Excellent for stays without water and sewer hookups
Larger storage bays
- More space for comfortable chairs, outdoor grills and toys
Larger windows
- Ideal for seeing the world as you travel
Taller overall heights
- A result of the increased size and weight which requires bigger frames
Longer total lengths
- Dedicated sleeping spaces, larger bathrooms and interior storage
Increased Gross Vehicle Weight
- With more weight you get an RV that better absorbs road imperfections (potholes), resists side winds (passing large trucks) and increased overall comfort.
Air ride suspension
- Improved ride and reduced road noise
Air brakes
- Increased braking pressure to compensate for the higher weights
Rooftop platforms
- Excellent for viewing outdoor events

Something to consider is that Class A motorhomes built on an independent chassis often require service at certified chassis centers.

This can be good in that the service centers should be trained for the chassis they support.

On the other hand this may require a visit to the Motorhome dealer network for the living space services like appliance maintenance, window repairs and structural needs.

And another visit to the chassis service center for drive train maintenance and repairs.

The Most Comfortable way to Travel

The Class A motorhome is often considered the top of the line for style and comfort when traveling.

The superior ride combined with the cavernous storage and dedicated spaces are why the Class A motorhome is considered “The most comfortable way to travel”.

We really enjoy the space and comfort of our motorhome.

To learn more about the Blue Bird Wanderlodge Class A motorhomes check out the Guide.

On a side note the recent addition to the RV classes referred to as “Super C” is quickly gaining popularity. And for many of the same reasons the class A is considered the ultimate traveling machine.

But for now the Class A motorhome is the reigning champion.

That’s it for now.

If you find this helpful please let me know in the comments below.