The Mrs and I have just taken on 2 German Shepard pups and it is quite clear that it won't be long before her estate car won't be big enough to take both dogs and any meaningful amount of luggage if we go anywhere. So we were thinking of getting a van (she's always wanted one anyway) and I was thinking that it would be handy if we could fit the bikes in (not with the dogs etc - just for transporting if necessary). I have a DVT and she has a blade. So I was wondering, does anyone have any recommendations for a van? I'd love a transit or similar but that will probably be overkill. What's the smallest van that would take a pair of bikes? Stoob
You will struggle with the height of the multi in all but semi high top vans, can't get my multi in the back of my transporter, might just go in if I take the mirrors and screen off.
I have a Vito Sports, I like Vito's, have two side doors but have to take screen off and mirrors off my DVT and old 2013 Multi too to get in the back. Bikes are deceiving in height required to get in back of a van, van height always looks bigger than it is, so if you look at any take a tape measure.
depending o your budget i would a the older model fiat ducato or Peugeot/Citroen derivative. they come in high top. not expensive to buy reliable and cheep to maintain. you can get a really good one for around 2k
Vito is a very good, if you buy a used one get 120-122 cdi. V6 cdi engine is superb, sounds good pulls very good and it is very reliable. Automatic gearbox is very reliable and gear changes are smooth like silk If you are very precise and want that your paint surface looks good, dont get "normal" color. Only metallic colors have clear coat on..
I have a renault master mwb and it will only take a multi and a sports bike. Staggered, not side by side. Suspect even vivaro size would be a struggle without messing with mirrors etc
Have you considered a covered trailer? Cheaper than a van & you are not stuck with it on every drive. Storing it might be an issue though depending on where you live.
with regards merc vitos dont get the mk 1 2002 - 2006 iirc I had one as a company van and it was dire in every way. VW's are nice but overpriced. Transits are ok but be picky. French stuff can be terrible. also don't forget vehicles with the van tax class have slower speed limits on NSL single and dual carigeways but not on motorways. A high top transit is probably your best bet as they are plentiful in supply and cheapish to run. Also if you ever have the misfortune to drive into london some older vans are charged due to the LEZ Low Emission Zone - Transport for London http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classif...c&page=1&radius=45&postcode=B69 2NA&logcode=p I had a transit connect which did 260000 miles so dont let 100k + put you off
Ironically I have had a Vito 112 yr 2000 from new it is sorned off as do not use it, mechanically sound fantastic van goes like a train, just body is ROT, have a 2008 vito Sport v6 again fantastic van goes even quicker, well a lot quicker, again mechanically sound. New Transits are suppose to be good, VW hold their prices, but over priced to start with. I agree French stuff can be rubbish.
Over the years i've had vito's, french vans and the T5 now using the transit and can't fault it drives like a car and has all the room needed....but you still need to take the mirrors and screen of the DVT...i use it on motorways all the time and it goes under 2 metres so the tolls and the same as a car. They all do the job, it just depends on budget and how many miles you do.
relay and boxer. up 2007 (although fiat based) scudo expert and dispatch all french based and v.good for the money.
