Tag Archives: Conquest Class C

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.”

Gulf Stream Coach Packs Full-Size Features into Its Shortest Class C Motorhome

NAPPANEE, Ind. — The Class C motorhome segment is experiencing increasing demand, specifically for small, easy-to-maneuver, family-oriented floorplans. Gulf Stream Coach, the nation’s largest family-owned RV manufacturer, is betting its new Conquest 6215LE is the exact blueprint the market is looking for.

Following a winter show season where the compact Class C drew heavy foot traffic and strong dealer orders, the multi-year DSI Quality Circle Award winner is ramping up production. The 6215LE hits a sweet spot of price and practicality by squeezing full-size amenities into a highly maneuverable RV.

Measuring just 21 feet, 6 inches long, the coach arrives on a Ford chassis. The engineering feat, according to Gulf Stream designers, was opening up the living space without abandoning the heavy-duty construction the 43-year-old company is known for.

“After listening to the needs of our core customers, the design and engineering team exceeded expectations, developing a full-featured, high-value, innovative, and unique small floorplan,” said Matthew Buckman, general manager of Gulf Stream’s motorized division. “Understanding consumer expectations, we engineered a spacious dry bath, not settling for a cramped wet bath like many of our competitors. We expanded the U-dinette and main sleeping area while enhancing both interior and exterior storage. Our design goal was functional differentiation. Based on dealer and consumer feedback, Gulf Stream Coach exceeded expectations.”

Buckman noted that the layout enhancements did not come at the expense of the brand’s core structural integrity.

“We accomplished all of this without compromising our ‘Cradle of Strength’ steel frame foundation or our laminated one-piece floors,” Buckman said. “It’s the same industry-leading construction and extensive list of standard features, just packaged more effectively.”

Gulf Stream President Phil Sarvari attributes the breakout success of the 6215LE to the company’s independent, family-operated roots, which allows the builder to pivot quickly to what consumers are actually asking for on the lot.

“For 43 years, our design philosophy has been anchored by functionality and unmatched value,” Sarvari said. “When dealers and retail customers walk through the 6215LE, they immediately recognize the quality. It proves you don’t have to be the biggest coach in the campground to offer the best experience. It is a small package that delivers massive quality, features, and an incredible price.”

Gulf Stream Coach debuts innovative Conquest Transit 4237 All-Wheel-Drive motorhome

Nappanee, IN – Gulf Stream Coach, America’s largest family-owned RV manufacturer, announced the debut of its innovative Conquest Transit 4237 All-Wheel-Drive motorhome, which received an overwhelmingly positive reception from dealers at the Elkhart RV Hall of Fame Open House Show in September.

The nimble, 24-foot Class C motorhome is built on the advanced Ford Transit chassis and powered by a 6-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine. Despite its compact size, it features an extra-large overhead bunk for spacious sleeping quarters.

The main attraction for dealers was the Intelligent All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system. It enhances traction and stability on challenging surfaces like snow, mud, and gravel by automatically distributing power when slip is detected. This feature improves safety and allows owners to access more remote destinations. Drivers can also select various traction modes via the large in-dash touchscreen to optimize performance.

“The response from our dealer partners was phenomenal,” said Gulf Stream Coach President Phil Sarvari. “They immediately recognized the market demand for a smaller, versatile motorhome with the all-weather, all-terrain capability the Conquest Transit’s AWD system provides.”

The Conquest Transit 4237 AWD is positioned to appeal to RVers who value maneuverability, safety, and the freedom to explore beyond the pavement.

Visit gulfstreamcoach.com to find a dealer near you.

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.

New Conquest Class C 6238 Photo Gallery Now Online

The photographer took his camera inside one of the most popular floor plans in the Gulf Stream Coach lineup, the Conquest Class C 6238, and the results are posted online here.

The 6238 provides motor home customers with every comfort of home, in a well-planned and skillfully built floor plan. The 6238 includes a large 60″ x 74″ bed, a full dry bath, a large main living area with a convertible dinette in the slide-out, and a full stainless steel kitchen.

The 6238 Cradle Of Strength Foundation

We build the 6238 on the rugged, efficient, powerful Ford E350 platform, with the Ford 6.7L V10 engine. But Gulf Stream Coach takes over just one inch above the steel rails of the Ford chassis, where we add our exclusive “Cradle Of Strength®”. The Cradle Of Strength® (see our previous post) uses box-style steel trusses, steel stringers, welded braces, metal cargo boxes, and a diamond plate subfloor to help keep your traveling family safe and comfortable.

Laminated Fiberglass Walls

The 6238 is enclosed by lightweight yet rigid laminated fiberglass walls that use welded tubular aluminum, rigid polyfoam insulation, and synthetic Azdel subtrates. We vacuum-bond these layers with advanced adhesives in our own lamination plant, using a proprietary process we’ve developed over the past 30 years.

We build the roof with a welded aluminum truss system and seamless synthetic rubber to shed water and resist leaks.

Stylish Interior Decor, Extensive Standard Features

The decor and furnishings inside the Conquest Class C 6238 reflect the casual yet sophisticated look popular in vacation homes, with extensive use of our Roanoke Light Cherry woodwork and coordinating fabrics, leather-touch vinyl, and easy-care wood-grain flooring. Electronics include hookups for an optional HDTV/DVD player, a standard rear-mount backup camera and in-dash color monitor, USB charging ports, and cool, efficient LED lighting inside and out.

Drawers, cabinets, closets, and other storage areas are handy at every turn. Floor-ducted heating and overhead ducted air conditioning keep your family comfortable, and a standard 4-kilowatt generator keeps everything powered up.

Take A Look at the 6238

Explore the gallery and see the 6238 for yourself. Better yet, use our Dealer Locator to find the Conquest Class C line at a Gulf Stream Coach dealership near you.

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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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Click here to get email notice every time we add a new post. You’ll be the first to know about new products, features, technology, and events from Gulf Stream Coach.