Hobby caravan 650 1900kgs? what tow vehicle

[ian260281]

Hi,

I'm sure this question has been raised many times before....we are considering a hobby 650 van, 2.5m wide, 8m long 1900kgs. It will suit our needs perfectly.... big family, long holidays etc.

Question is, are they legal in the UK and Europe? Being german, I would have though so in Europe.

Second question, what can be used to tow it? My BMW X5 is around 2000KGs so would not quite do the 85% rule, but I've read certain vans have a towing capacity of over 2000KGs (MWB transits, merc sprinters) they do often seen to be towed by vans.

I've got class one on my licence so no concerns re experience of towing/loads, log vehicles etc...

If anyone has a hobby of similar size/weight and uses it for touring, I'd love to hear from you.

Cheers,

Ian

 

[otherclive]

Don't know about the legality of the caravan but a Shogun, Disco3/4 or a pickup would be suitable. Get less funny looks than turning up in a van.

 

[Martin24]

Transit comes to mind :evil:

 

[ProfJohnL]

The 85% is only guidance and has no basis in law. It is of course a good idea to keep caravan weights as small as possible, and whilst 85% is the most frequent part of the advice the other is experienced tower's may be able exceed it with greater care.

 

[panther1]

The 85% is just a guide & not a rule so no legal standing
Whats the towing capacity of your X5?

 

[Damian]

In the UK you are restricted in towing by the body length to 7Mtrs, this does not include the A frame.
If the van you want has a body length over 7Mtrs you will need a vehicle with a GVW of 3500Kg or more, which rules out the X5 and most other vehicles apart from Sprinter vans and the like.

 

[Raywood]

As Damien says provided the body length does not exceed 7m the caravan can be towed legally throughout the EU. The A frame does not count in the legal definition of length.
The BMW is probably a little light for the caravan if it is fully laden, but should have the power in most cases, although you do not say which engine it has. Basically an ideal tow car would be even heavier, but the BMW is one of the better towcars so should manage, but do take care in windy conditions, and be aware or heavy vehicles overtaking. When it comes to replacement however a heavier car would be a better bet.
The 85% figure is a recommendation rather than a rule or legal requirement but essentially the heavier the car the better and it is advice for newcomers.