Hi Tom,
I apologize for the delay in responding to your post and thank you for your kind words.
It looks like you are trying to make some decisions or at least perform a cost / benefit analysis. As you mention, the choice of a rig is a very personal decision and I would add that the analysis is also a very personal, individual and complex process.
I agree with you that one could theoretically go through several other rigs for the same overall cost of a fully-kitted out GXV. We chose not to. Regarding the cost of a rig like ours, I would direct you to discuss costs and options with Rene’ Van Pelt at Global Expedition Vehicles (GXV). Each rig is a little different and the options seem endless.
What was the cost of your vehicle to date? – The only items that we have added are an air hose connection to the air tanks and we have upgraded the OEM headlights that were installed in the bumper. We also had the trim rings powder coated black. I suggest that you contact Rene’ at GXV as each rig is different and they have many different options and packages to choose from. Once you narrow down what your needs / wants are, you will have a pretty accurate cost.
What upfitting expenses do you anticipate for hydro winch, other items? – I haven’t gotten to the winch pricing yet. We are currently considering a rear-mounted electric over hydraulic winch.
What mpg are you getting hwy., backcountry, etc.? – Combined mpg is around 8.
How many miles do you expect to get on a set of tires? – I do not know.
What will a replacement set of tires cost? – I do not know.
What are your insurance coverages and costs? – I have this vehicle insured along with several others so the cost is not applicable to a stand-alone policy.
What are your registration and license plate fees? – They will vary from state to state. It is registered as a Motorhome and not as a commercial vehicle.
How much better has your rig been in reaching remote destinations than say, an EarthRoamer might be? – I do not know. I’ll have to set up some outings with some of my ER buddies. :smiley_drive:
Have you had to turn around in any backcountry situations where the vehicle was too high. – Not yet, but I know the rig has height limitations.
Have you had any experience yet in urban driving and parking, and if so, what problems did you have? – It has been quite easy to drive and park. The turning radius is really the only consideration.
I do not see the "Expedition" body on the GXV site. It looks like a modified Safari Extreme; is that correct, or do they have other models not shown on their site? – It looks like it is listed under the “Safari Extreme”.
Can you give any more insight about the pros and cons of GXV's larger models when compared to each other, and how you settled on your model vs. their other offerings? – We liked the overall size of the Safari Extreme body. We really like the floorplan with the bath forward, the tall cab-to-cabin access and the side Dinette area.
I hope that this information is helpful.
Blackeye
