Tag Archives: BT Cruiser

What is a Class B+ RV? | Class B+ vs. Class B Van vs. Class C Motorhome Explained

What is a Class B+ RV? A Class B+ motorhome, like the Gulf Stream Coach BT Cruiser, is designed primarily for couples. It serves as an undersized Class C, offering a slightly smaller, narrower footprint that is easier to maneuver while still providing more space than a standard camper van.

Gulf Stream Coach is the largest independently owned, family-operated RV manufacturer in the industry, having been in business for 43 years and building motorhomes for 39 years. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the BT Cruiser has pioneered innovation in the Class B+ market.

Key B+ Construction & Advantages:

Built on a strong foundation featuring a fiberglass cap, molded fiberglass side moldings, rear fiberglass cap, and a fiberglass roof.

Includes a full dry bath, unlike the wet baths typically found in standard Class B vans.

Upgraded capacities compared to a B van, including infinitely more towing capability, a larger engine, and larger tanks for fuel, fresh water, gray water, black water, LP, and the generator.

Features a modified overhead area designed for a 42-inch TV and entertainment, rather than the extended over-cab sleeping bunk found on a family-sized Class C.

Video Transcript

Introduction to Gulf Stream Coach Motorhomes

“Hi, my name is Matt Buckman. I’m the General Manager of Gulf Stream Coach’s Motorized Division, where we produce the Class B-Plus BT Cruiser, and behind me, the Class C Conquest.

Gulf Stream has been in business for 43 years, and we’ve been building motorhomes for 39. Gulf Stream is the largest independently owned, family-operated RV manufacturer in the industry. We are known throughout the industry as a quality manufacturer. We really focus on innovation, and one of our key marks is the value equation. Our products, regardless of what we build, really pack a punch when it comes to value.”

What is a Class B-Plus RV?

“As we travel the country attending shows and talk to thousands of people, a common question comes up: What is a B-Plus? It’s a great question. A B-Plus is what you’re looking at here on my right. This is a coach that is designed for couples. It’s a little smaller, a little narrower, and a little easier to maneuver compared to its original namesake, the Class C, which is behind us.

A Class C is designed for families. You have a cab-over sleeping area on a Class C, while on a B-Plus, that space is modified. So, they have two different functions and uses—uniquely different, but similar. The B-Plus is somewhat of an undersized Class C.

We’ve been building the BT Cruiser for 25 years. In fact, it’s our 25th anniversary, and it’s a product that has really pioneered innovation in the Class B-Plus market. What makes us unique is that we’ve held true to our original design. We have an incredibly strong foundation and outstanding construction. There are a lot of great components on this unit: you have a fiberglass front cap, molded fiberglass side moldings, a rear fiberglass cap, and a fiberglass roof. There are a lot of great features on a BT Cruiser that really bump up the quality and benefits of the product.”

Why should I buy a Class B-Plus instead of a Class B Camper Van?

“Another question I get very often is: Why would I buy a B-Plus as opposed to a B van? A B van is a little smaller and easier to maneuver, but consumers often figure out that it’s not quite the full RV experience you can have with something like a B-Plus. There are some very key and distinct advantages to a B-Plus:

First, you’re typically going to have a dry bath on a B-Plus versus a wet bath on a B van. Second, a B-Plus is going to give you infinitely more towing capability as well as weight and storage capacity. Those are two very key elements when you’re thinking about RVing. Third, the B-Plus is a little bit more versatile. We can make them longer, and they feel more spacious inside. With a B van, you have a great time for a weekend. With a B-Plus, you can have a great time for a month at a time.

Beyond that, there’s a whole other slew of things that make it advantageous: a larger engine and larger tanks—that means more capacity for fuel, fresh water, gray water, black water, LP, and the generator. All of those things are upgraded and larger compared to a B van, which makes your RV experience that much more enjoyable.”

What is the difference between a Class B-Plus and a Class C Motorhome?

“The next question people typically ask is: Why should I buy a B-Plus versus a Class C? That really depends on the particular customer and their needs and wants. But like I said before: it is a couples unit versus a family unit.

Traditionally, the B-Plus is going to be a little narrower than the Class C. It’s not as tall and has a lower center of gravity, making it easier to drive, park, and maneuver. Outside of that, the functionality is almost identical to that of a Class C.

Besides height and width, one key design element really differentiates the B-Plus from the Class C: the overhead cab. If you notice on the B-Plus, the overhead cab extends just to the edge of the top of the windshield. With the Class C, the overhead bunk extends significantly beyond the windshield. Some manufacturers take it all the way out, which can give you a very unique experience when driving—it can feel like you’re driving in a cave, and visibility is somewhat limited. With the B-Plus, visibility is wide open.”

Class B-Plus Entertainment Centers vs. Class C Overhead Bunks

“I’d like to give you a visual example of what a B-Plus overhead looks like. It’s primarily used for entertainment and some storage. On this B-Plus, there is no overhead bunk; it’s an overhead entertainment center. This model features a nice 42-inch TV mounted up front, and you also have nice storage on both sides. This modified overhead area is what we define as a B-Plus design.

Just for comparison, a Class C has an overhead bunk—a very traditional design. While you can store a lot of things up there if it’s just the two of you, it is primarily made for sleeping.”

Built for the Long Haul: Gulf Stream Coach Celebrates 43 Years Strong

Gulf Stream Coach is celebrating its 43rd anniversary this week, marking more than four decades in the RV industry as an independent, privately held family company.

Founded in 1983, the northern Indiana manufacturer has grown into a well-known builder of motorhomes and travel trailers recognized for delivering high-quality, high-value products. Today, Gulf Stream builds a wide range of motorhomes and travel trailers sold through a nationwide dealer network serving RV customers across North America. Company leaders say Gulf Stream’s independence allows it to remain responsive to dealers and customers—a philosophy captured in its guiding principle: We listen, we respond.

The anniversary also highlights more than four decades of RV manufacturing in northern Indiana, the center of the North American RV industry. Gulf Stream leaders say the company’s long-tenured workforce and dealer relationships have been key to sustaining that legacy.

As the company marks the milestone, Gulf Stream leadership emphasized the role its nationwide dealer network has played in the company’s growth.

“Our dealers have been essential to Gulf Stream’s success over the past four decades,” said Gulf Stream President Phil Sarvari. “They connect our manufacturing teams with the families who take our RVs on the road, and their support has helped build the Gulf Stream brand across North America.”

“Our focus has always been simple: build quality RVs and support dealers,” Sarvari added.

Company leaders also recognized the dedication of the manufacturing teams who build Gulf Stream products every day.

“Our employees on the production floor are the foundation of this company,” Sarvari said. “Their craftsmanship, pride in their work, and commitment to quality are what make Gulf Stream RVs something families can depend on.”

Throughout its history, Gulf Stream Coach has remained a privately held, debt-free manufacturer. Company leaders say that independence supports long-term relationships with dealer partners while allowing the company to respond quickly to market changes and dealer feedback.

“Dealers represent Gulf Stream Coach with professionalism and pride in their communities,” Sarvari said. “Their teams help customers create memorable travel experiences and lasting family traditions.”

As the company looks ahead, Gulf Stream reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its dealer network with reliable products, strong service, and continued focus on quality and value.

Gulf Stream Coach Sponsors Essential Leadership Development Course at 2024 RVDA Expo

Nappanee, IN – Gulf Stream Coach continues its long-standing commitment to industry excellence by sponsoring the Leadership Development Course at this year’s RVDA Expo, scheduled for November 11-15, 2024 at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The half-day course, “Giving Feedback,” will be led by renowned peacebuilding expert Sara Jeckovich and focuses on essential leadership skills for RV industry professionals.

“This rewarding endeavor for both Gulf Stream and RVDA has provided us the opportunity for the development of today’s and tomorrow’s leaders,” said Gulf Stream President Phil Sarvari. “We are very proud to be a part of this great industry.”

In addition to supporting professional development, Gulf Stream Coach is also making a commitment to supporting the industry by purchasing exhibit space at the show. This year they will showcase three exciting 2025 models at booth #319, including:

The all-new Conquest Transit 4237 Class C motorhome
A Laura Ashley-inspired Vintage Cruiser
The innovative 109OK Trail Boss teardrop travel trailer

“We are excited to provide dealers who did not have the opportunity at Open House to view some of our award-winning products and premiere new models,” said Sarvari.

A Class on “RV Classes” – What’s In A Name?

As soon as you start looking at RVs, you’ll encounter a new language filled with terms that mean little to the uninitiated. The “RV Classes” that are mentioned by manufacturers and dealers can be pretty confusing until you know what they mean. Here’s a quick rundown that will help:

The Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) has defined several “Classes” of RVs. The official Classes clarify the kinds of products available for the government offices that regulate them.

A “Class A” RV . . .

Is a motor home that includes living space AND a driver’s compartment built by an RV manufacturer. Class A’s begin life as ‘bare-bones’ chassis with running gear, engine, steering wheel, and little else. Everything else is added by the RV maker. Class A motor homes are often the biggest and most luxurious RVs on the road, and have profiles similar to buses. Typical size: L: 26’ to 42’; W: 8’

*The famous Gulf Stream Coach Friendship Class A, no longer in production, but still seen on roads across North America*

A “Class B” RV . . .

Is a motor home based on a cargo van that uses the original driver’s compartment and metal body of the van. The RV maker adds all of the interior accommodations, and a raised roof to provide standing room inside. Class B motor homes are the most compact RVs on the road, and resemble service vans with high-top roofs added. Typical size: L: 16’ to 25’; W: 7’ to 7.5’

A “Class C” RV . . .

Is a motor home with a bare steel chassis and driving gear (like Class A’s), and the original driver’s compartment (like Class B’s). The RV maker adds everything behind the driver’s compartment. The result is a box-like space behind the cab with all walls, roof, floor, and interior accommodations added by the RV maker. Class C’s often have bunk space for children/guests above the cab. Typical Size: L: 21′ to 35′, W: 8′ to 8.5′

The Conquest Class C 6238 - An ideal choice for first-time motor home buyers — *Class C’s (Like this Conquest 6238) are the most popular Class of motor home*

RV manufacturers have created products that blur the lines between the official RV Classes. For example, you’ll find “Class B+” motor homes as well as other variations. In fact, one of the most popular products produced by Gulf Stream Coach is the BT Cruiser. It’s a down-sized luxury motor home that bridges the gap between Class B and Class C. The BT Cruiser offers the advantages of a smaller, lower profile than standard Class C’s, but more space and power than standard Class B’s.

*The BT Cruiser, an industry innovation that “breaks” the Class rules*

When it comes to towable RVs, here are two official RV Classes recognized by the RVIA.

A “Travel Trailer” . . .

Is an RV with a hitch mounted low on the frame so it can be towed by a pickup truck, SUV, or passenger car with a bumper- or frame-mounted receiver. RV manufacturers build the walls, floor, and roof of the trailer, as well as all of the accommodations inside. There are many of variations, sizes, and styles of travel trailers covered by this broad description. You can start here to see a wide range of our most popular travel trailer models. Typical size: L: 12’ to 38’; W: 7’ to 8’

*The Innsbruck 276BH Travel Trailer from Gulf Stream Coach*

A “Fifth Wheel”…

Is a specialized travel trailer with a hitch designed to fit a receiver installed in the bed of a pickup truck. This type of hitch provides support for the Fifth Wheel directly above the rear wheels of the pickup. The setup also provides additional living space, better maneuverability, and a tighter turning circle than trailers with bumper-mount hitches. Typical size: L: 25’ to 45’; W: 8’

An image of a pickup and Canyon Trail Fifth Wheel from our archives (not currently in production) — *An example of a Fifth Wheel from the Gulf Stream Coach Archives*

And, yes, as you might expect, the RV industry has created many trailers that stretch these two categories. But this list of the five basic, most-popular “RV Classes” will help you identify and categorize virtually all RVs. Want to explore more? Check out this article, one of many online that discusses RV Classes.

Only Gulf Stream Coach Motor Homes Have The “Cradle Of Strength®”

We’ve spent over thirty years building motor homes that give you the same kind of comfort, convenience, and safety you enjoy in your own home. So far we’ve put over 60,000 motor homes on the road – and, as you can imagine – we’re really good at it!

Imagine this too: Imagine what it’s like to build a home that has to travel 70 miles per hour on an Interstate Highway, and wind its way along narrow, bumpy country roads. Then imagine a home that has to go up and down hills, brave the rain, snow, and searing summer sun, all while carrying the people you love most from one place to another.

Because you put your family in our hands, we put a “Cradle Of Strength®” under your motor home.

Unique in the RV industry, the Gulf Stream Coach “Cradle Of Strength®” is the carefully engineered foundation of steel we add to the motor home chassis.

Our Cradle Of Strength® uses large box-style TUFF TRUSSES rated at 6,000 lbs. each. That puts more welded steel across the chassis rail than the triangle trusses other manufacturers use.

We further stiffen and strengthen the trusses with front-to-rear steel stringers.

We build our outside storage compartments with galvanized steel, not plastic, then wrap the insides with felt to protect your cargo.

We use extra welds and brackets to mount our TUFF TRUSSES on top of the main frame rail so they can’t shift down.

Finally, we cover the drivetrain and service lines with a 26-gauge galvanized steel sub-floor.

Our Cradle Of Strength is the perfect foundation for our laminated floor and walls, providing incredible stiffness, resilience, and durability. That strength translates into more dependable road manners, easier handling, and an overall safer, less-stressful driving experience.

We give you a “Cradle Of Strength®” – and no one else does.

If you want a “Cradle Of Strength®” as the foundation of your family’s next RV, there’s only one way to get it: Choose a Gulf Stream Coach motor home. Whether you prefer the family-favorite Conquest Class C, or “The sports car of motor homes” BT Cruiser, you can rest assured: There’s a “Cradle Of Strength®” supporting and protecting you everywhere you go.

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