Monaco Riptide RV Review

March 28, 2011 - PRLog -- The Monaco Riptide does manage to pack quite a bit of kit in it for its price range and is therefore probably most suited to people on a tight budget.

The Riptide offers four alternative floor plans all designed for a Ford chassis. It is durable and reliable and is powered by a 6.8L V-10 Triton gasoline engine. This is more than enough power for the average traveler and is definitely sufficient for shorter trips. The standard features are also well designed and complement the floor plans nicely.

The cockpit houses leatherette pilot and co-pilot recliner seats. They are comfortable but there is an option available to upgrade to a six-way power driver's seat. Additional upgrade options include a single rear vision camera system and a 3-camera rear vision system. It would be nice if it was a standard option, but this would mean the stating price would be higher.

For the interior, the standard Newport cherry cabinetry is finished to a high standard and provides a modern look. Linoleum is standard in the bath, galley and entryway while carpet with padding is standard in the bedroom and living room areas. There is the upgrade option of having full-width linoleum fitted instead of the standard, but it isn't really necessary. The standard options are easy enough to clean and enough default storage space is available to pack all the essentials for a short trip.

All four models have a queen bed fitted as standard with the 34BSD model allowing for an upgrade to a king bed if the bunk bed option is not taken out. If the bunk bed option is taken, it comes with two fold-down DVD players with hookups available for game consoles. This will definitely help keep the kids entertained while the grown ups can be kept entertained with the LCD TV option in the bedroom or the standard TV option in either the main living area or the cockpit overhead area. It depends which model is chosen as to where the standard installation point is for the TV.

Whichever floor plan is chosen for the Monaco Riptide, it is sure to be reasonably friendly on the pocket as well as packing a lot of value into the finished model. For those who do not mind stretching their budget, the available options will help pack in more luxury and comfort.

View the Monaco Riptide here: http://www.mhsrv.com/monaco-rv/monaco-riptide-rv/