Niesmann Bischoff info please

[Vixter]

We are considering buying a circa 1990 A class Clou Liner for full-timing in Europe. Does anyone have experience they would share with us on Clou Liners in general and the L800 in particular?

[Mel E]

The Clou Liner range is the very upmarket end of N+B's ranges and has a reputation for excellent build quality. At the time (1990), N+B was still independent - it is now wholly owned by Hymer Group. HOWEVER, the vehicle you mention is now 16 years old. Even the upmarket models use the same parts bin as everyone else (Thetford loos, Truma heaters, Smev ovens, hobs, sinks, Electrolux (now Dometic) fridges, Seitz windows and so on. These parts will now be getting tired and you are inevitably going to have problems full timing. You do not say what the seller is asking, but for my money, in your situation, I would buy a much newer, less upmarket model.

[Vixter]

Hello Mel thank you for your reply and comments. With motorhomes or any other form of mobile accomodation, there is always a trade off and we have spent nearly 10 years since first buying a caravan to weigh up the pros and cons. We have chosen a Niesmann +Bischoff Clouliner 800 L which was in our GBP30+k budget. Our main concern is space coupled with reliablity, the reliability being in the motive side and the build quality eg no damp or lamination issues. The appliances as you say are, getting old and may have a limited life span. On a pro rata basis things like fridges and toilets are more expensive than their domestic equivalents, due to limited demand in comparison. ( Hopefully with the reported boom in motor home sales this may be reversed!) However these things can be replaced relatively easily compared with a new roof or side panel, windows etc. The layout of the Clou suits our needs very well and regardless of the years of marriage some times a little personal space is also required, especially when its pouring outside. We had in fact considered American at one stage but found that apart from size there was nothing else to recommend them for our needs. With N+B part of Hymer now, we believe we can get the service we need on the continent, and with MAN being in the VW group its the next best thing to Mercedes in the motive department. Obviously there is a risk in everything second hand but the dealer we are in contact with appears to be most helpful and reassuring. we will let you know how we get on - watch this space! Rgds Vixters other half

[Clive]

"the dealer we are in contact with appears to be most helpful and reassuring" They always are until it goes wrong! If you are a confident DIYer and the base vehicle is of quality and relatively low mileage then it sound fine. But don,t under estimate the replacement cost of the appliances and windows. If you need to replace the loo for instance its almost certain that one will not be for sale at a local rally at the right time. Have you looked at the price of new?? Ouch! Plastic ages and gets brittle, especially in the sun. But if the price is right and you have done your maths erring on the side of caution.... Good luck Clive