Tow cars

[Robert_374242026]

Went to Germany couple of weeks ago and observed at the camp what vehicles were pulling these large caravans who carried up to 3 bikes on the A frame and what they had in the awning was every thing apart from the proverble sink.I think there were about 130 units on site and counted no more than 5 4 by 4 jobs in fact we done 2390 miles and Land Rover would have gone broke as we saw 1 Defender and Discovery on the roads.The cars on the site were saloon/Hatchback Mercedes/BMW/Audi and a few other types.I am not clued up with these cars but they cetainly do the business.

 

[Lutz]

As I've mentioned in other threads before, no-one over here on the Continent has ever heard of a recommended 85% weight ratio. Generally, the majority who are happy to tow at the standard speed limit of 80km/h do so close to or right at the manufacturer's limit. A few who prefer to be able to do 100km/h legally are limited to a 100% weight ratio unless the towing limit is lower. Despite making full use of the legal limits, I can't say that I've seen more accidents involving caravans than in the UK.

Part of the reason for a lack of larger 4x4's is that they are heavily penalised taxwise but there are also fewer CL-type sites where good tugging capability on soft or wet ground is required.

 

[antrimboy]

Ah, but were they all able to keep within the tow-ball and kerbweight limits?

 

[Lutz]

Yes. Because they are out to make full use of what is legally allowed, they generally follow the manufacturers' limits meticulously. (The exceptions prove the rule)

 

[antrimboy]

Ah, but were they all able to keep within the tow-ball and kerbweight limits?

Oops! Looks as though I was thinking what to write at the same time as you were posting yours Lutz.

 

[rob_jax]

Also European made caravans - with the longer A frame - will have a lower nose-weight for the same stability.