I am trying to get feedback from current owners of either the Cyclone or the Raptor. I have looked at both at RV dealerships but want owners opinions so that I can make a more valid decision as to which to buy. Please let me know what you like/dislike about your Cyclone or Raptor 5th Wheel toy hauler. If you also compared both models before buying yours what were the factors that swayed you decision?!?!
2011 Heartland Big Country 3450TS
2007.5 Chev LMM Duramax/Allison
2010 FLHTC Electra Glide Classic Red Hot Sunglo
Heartland Owners Club - Washington Chapter Leaders
I watch both the TH and the Fiver forums. We've a 3950 Cyclone HD version. We love it. We had researched most all large TH's before settling on this one. We chose it because we liked the floor plan and it met all of our requirements (garage, second bathroom (1/2) and a full size fridge in the garage) and they all seem about the same, quality-wise.
Do not go into this with the thought that when you buy a new rig like this it will be flawless. They aren't. We had a detailed checklist when we picked it up and were merciless on the dealer. We had a full page of corrections for them after the initial inspection. Made them turn on and demonstrate EVERYTHING in the rig before we signed for it (they find that really frustrating). They fixed everything to our satisfaction and what they couldn't fix (due to parts or time) they provided a signed IOU form.
When we got home, some of the inside walls had developed interesting curves in them. In other words, they had buckled. These were interior walls only, not load bearing or anything. It was due to a poor framing design. We called them to let them know this had happened (we live about 170 miles from dealer).
On our next trip to the dealer, they looked a them and conferred with the factory rep. The original plan was to ship the rig back to Heartland when we were done with it for the season. (wasn't unsightly or unsafe). Long story short, the dealer wound up doing it. Fortunately they did it over the winter as it took them 3 months to wrap it up. As part of this effort they also replaced all of the upholstered parts (including cushions) in the living area as they had started to fray. And a few other minor issues.
That was a couple of years ago, the rig now has well over 10,000 miles on it since then and 8-10 weeks of camping under it's belt. All in all, we still love it and don't regret chosing it. The dealer was great, slow, but great. The work is flawless. The new cushions are still new looking (must have been a bad batch or something).
The point is, these types of rigs are really complex. Lots of moving parts installed by people who make little per hour. They are loaded with potential problems. When you select your dealer, make sure part of that process includes a tour of the service area and a discussion with the service manager. Not just the Sales rep. Because, as soon as you buy the rig and they have their check, you can bet the Sales rep will forget your name, unless of course, you are wanting to upgrade.....
Let floor plan be your guide, if you're gonna spend lost of time in it the layout should be all that you are looking for! And take a big dose of patience when you go to pick it up, time is your friend!
2013 Sierra Denali 3500 Duramax\Dually
2011 Cyclone 3950 HD
2009 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic
2011 Can-Am Spyder RT-S Limited (DW's)
Usually a keg of beer....
Cyclone 3612 owner here and we couldn't be happier with ours as well. Only minor issues so far. Fit and finish is great. We looked at Raptors on paper anyway but no actual units in our area to be seen. This is our second Heartland unit and because of our postive experience with the first, we had no reluctance at all choosing the Cyclone.
My only negative is the China Bomb tires. If I would have known about the option to upgrade at the time, that would have been the only change.
Good luck with you decision whichever route you choose. I don't think you'll go wrong either way.
Frank
FrankoToo
2012 Heartland Cyclone 3612 HD
2011 Ford F450 6.7L PS 4X4 Crew Cab Lariat
Offline
