Class A RV Size Specifications

Class A motor homes are the largest self-contained RVs available.

Class A motor homes are the most common RVs in the motor home family. Motor homes are recreational vehicles that are self-contained, unlike campers, which must be towed. The Class A is the biggest RV, has the most amenities and is the most expensive to operate.

Length and Weight

Typically constructed from a 3- to 10-ton truck chassis, Class A motor homes range in length from 20 to 45 feet and weigh in between 15,000 and 48,000 lbs.

Width and Amenities

All vehicles traveling on highways are limited in width to 102 inches. Many Class A Motor homes have additional slide-outs that extend outward, increasing the width of the RV by several feet. Class A's usually have cooking facilities, a heating system and an air conditioner. Depending on the floor plan, the motor homes can accommodate up to eight people.

Costs

As of 2010, Class A motor homes ranged in price from $80,000 to $700,000 for a top-of-the-line model. Because Class A motor homes are built on a chassis without a body, builders have a lot of latitude when balancing quality and price. Higher fuel consumption adds to their cost compared to smaller motor homes.

Size Considerations

Class A motor homes are comfortable to drive on the open road, however, it may take some practice to learn to comfortably maneuver the long, tall vehicles in tight areas, including RV parks.

References

• "The Complete Idiot's Guide to RVing, 2nd ed."; Brent Peterson; 2006
• RV Consumer Group: RV Types: Class A Motorhomes

Resources

• Recreational Vehicle Consumer Group