Why a RTT vs. a Kamp Rite Tent Cot?

Corey

OverCamping Specialist
How thick is that foam?
I sleep fairly well in the AirLander, but it seems a little hard at first.
I know Mike from AutoHome uses a thin feather bed on top of his I think.

As for ease, what could be easier than this?
Last summer.
I have gone down three pant sizes since then from working out the past few months, it is harder to take it off as you get older :sombrero:

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4927PoLecY"]YouTube- Setting up the Maggiolina roof top tent Part II[/ame]
 

CSG

Explorer
Corey, I talked to Mike S. about the various models and he mentioned the new AirTop to me (that's the one that pops up on hydraulic struts like the Columbus, right?). The only thing that didn't appeal to me was the lack of taut tent sides like you can get with the standard Maggiolina. The crank model is also more secure underway as I understand it because of the crank key". The benefit of the hydraulic model seems to be a quicker set-up and more usable interior length. The Maggiolina I looked at and climbed into (a standard version) had enough interior length for me in any event.
 
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Corey

OverCamping Specialist
Glad you got to check them out.
Yes, the new AirTop has more room since it lacks the scissors lift mechanism like the other Maggiolina models.

I am very happy with mine.
The only think I do not like about it though is I have a ripped screen on the left side, and I was under the assumption you could zip them out to replace them.
Not so, it is attached to the canvas and pop riveted to the upper shell.

The new Maggiolinas Mike informed me will zip out to replace, but not mine.
Mine as made February of 2008, and I took possession of if in April of 2008.
They have since changed to the newer zip out style.

I was not aware of the AirTop not being as taut as my style.
I really like how tight the canvas is and no movement even in the wind.

You can not go wrong with my AirLander model though.

Were you going to switch racks?
The new BajaRack model MG that Mike and I have are very nice, and they get the tent nice and low to the roof.
 

CSG

Explorer
If I were to get one I would ideally like to use the factory rack and rails but if I were able to save a few inches in overall height it would be worth installing a new rack.
 

bobDog

Expedition Leader
My one complaint about my RTT is climbing down in the middle of the night. But, I have managed to solve that problem to a degree.

Keeping in mind, I have a standard issue, factory installed bladder, in good working order.

If I don’t drink any liquids for at least 45 minutes before bedtime, I can make it until morning before I need to climb down to deal with nature’s calls.

I know, kids work under different assumptions! But, it works for me!
You just need the right plastic bottle w/ the right size opening and screw top lid ( no pun intended). Now the wife is another problem but I'm sure someone out there has a creative solution!:sombrero:
 

Mike S

Sponsor - AutoHomeUSA
Corey, I talked to Mike S. about the various models and he mentioned the new AirTop to me (that's the one that pops up on hydraulic struts like the Columbus, right?). The only thing that didn't appeal to me was the lack of taut tent sides like you can get with the standard Maggiolina. The crank model is also more secure underway as I understand it because of the crank key". The benefit of the hydraulic model seems to be a quicker set-up and more usable interior length. The Maggiolina I looked at and climbed into (a standard version) had enough interior length for me in any event.

Perhaps there is a little misunderstanding here... the Air Top sides are under some significant pressure, and are taut when open. The crank-up Maggiolina allows the user to manually add tension, a feature that the gas ram activated Air Top does not provide.

I have used all our tent models under field conditions. All the Maggiolinas are terrific tents. Despite the gas ram design, the Air Top is quiet in the wind, and has so many other positive features that I give it the edge over the traditional Maggiolinas in most circumstances. I like them. Apparently customers like them as well, since they are selling fast.

Thanks to all of you for your patronage and support.
 

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