CrossRoads RV’s new ultra lite ST27FB travel trailer features innovative family-friendly floorplan
by Kristopher Bunker
Trailer Life, November 2009
As tow-vehicle manufacturers continue to improve the fuel economy on everyday commuters such as half-ton pickups and SUVs, RV companies continue to build platforms that can take advantage of these dollar-saving advances in technology. The Sunset Trail UL (Ultra Lite) series from CrossRoads RV is a brand-new line of trailers designed to offer lightweight towability without sacrificing build quality and amenities.
Sunset Trail UL trailers are constructed using all-aluminum 16-inch on center studding in the floors, walls and roof. Lightweight tongue-and-groove plywood for the floors and an I-beam frame round out the weight-saving measures. A seamless, fiberglass exterior makes for easy maintenance.
But the first thing we noticed about the ST27FB seen here wasn’t the build quality and pound-trimming techniques; it was of a more “personal” nature. Granted, it’s not often we list the lavy as one of the top draws of a new trailer, but the ST27FB’s rear-bathroom configuration is worth some attention. The large walk-through bathroom features its own entry door, which means adventurers won’t have to track dirt and grime from their days’ journey through the interior to use the commode. The corner shower offers plenty of room for personal grooming, and doesn’t intrude on the large, open area surrounding the toilet, meaning two could easily use the bathroom at the same time (provided they know each other quite well, that is). The bathroom also houses a sink with medicine cabinet above and two cabinets/wardrobes for linen/clothes duties.
Walking through the Sunset Trail, it’s apparent that CrossRoads has paid attention to detail, and designed a practical, family-friendly floorplan without scrimping on quality.
Few options are offered, ensuring CrossRoads is able to select higher-quality fixtures, wood work and amenities. The Formica counter surface nicely complements the Tuscany Maple cabinetry, and brushed-nickel cabinet pulls add to the classy feel of the trailer.
The 6-cubic-foot double-door fridge is located curbside, while the microwave, two-burner stove, oven and dual-basin sink are housed in the streetside slideout. Just enough counter space is available to handle most routine food-prep duties, which is to be expected in a trailer this size.
Also part of the streetside slide is a jackknife sofa, offering a nice conversation/TV-viewing area and additional sleeping space for one or two.
Across from the slide, a 94-inch dinette seats four diners, and is another comfortable spot to view the 19-inch LCD TV housed in the entertainment center (E-Center) that backs against the master bedroom.
The queen bed is comfortable enough, with overhead storage and wardrobes surrounding it, and once the little ones hit the sack, the TV in the E-Center can be swiveled around to let mom and dad watch the evening news, a popular configuration that’s a good use of space. Curtains are drawn to separate the master bedroom from the rest of the trailer.
The Sunset Trail ST27FB features efficient use of space, quality appointments and enough room for a family of four to bring along a friend or two. Plus, the innovative bathroom layout has space in spades — especially for a trailer this size — which goes a long way toward increasing livability beyond a weekend excursion. And the fact that it’s towable by many practical commuter vehicles makes it a solid choice for a family trailer.
