Caravan review: Legend Tycoon 27 Slider Tri-Axle family van - Caravan World Australia

Caravan review: Legend Tycoon 27 Slider Tri-Axle family van

Written by: John Hughes

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If you want to be the king of the campsite, this 27ft tri-axle beast by Legend Caravans has the size and presence to stake your claim. Bragging rights include a slide-out front bed and dining area, two bunks up the back and luxurious appointments throughout including a TV bigger than I have in my house!

In brief:

  • 8.2m/27ft
  • tri-axle 4.5T ATM family caravan
  • Combination bed/dining slide-out
  • Gasless van with 48V 9.6kW/h battery

In preparation for this story, I compared notes with our editor John Ford who has seen just about everything there is to see in the caravan industry. He reckons this Legend Tycoon Slider 27 Tri-Axle is the largest caravan to appear in Caravan World in his time. So, this was an interesting assignment for me to see what this ‘biggest van’ had to offer


Before we dive in, it is worth noting Legend Caravans doesn’t only build big vans. I have reviewed examples of its single axle 16ft and 17ft models and Legend co-owner Zoran Stojanoski highlighted that the brand also has a 15ft unit in its range. Among Legend’s large vans, I have reviewed another Tycoon Slider — a 23ft couples model — which you can read about here.


The Tycoon Slider 27 is a big van, so there’s plenty of space for the whole familyThe Tycoon Slider 27 is a big caravan, so there’s plenty of space for the whole family


Apart from the extra four feet, the big difference in this 27ft (8.2m) unit is jumping up from a dual to a triple axle. Zoran told me that once a van hits 25ft Legend runs with triple axles. The extra set of wheels on the ground improves stability to offset the inevitable increased pitching action of such a long van.


Legend classifies the Tycoon Slider series as ‘luxury on-road’ vans. We will see these vans well and truly deserve the luxury label with the $242,990 price tag to match. And ‘on-road’ is a commonsense description — a van this long is never going to be as nimble or have the same departure angles as vans that could be around half the size. However, Zoran made it very clear that despite the conservative ‘on-road’ description, customers should have every confidence venturing down to the beach or a nice open bush camp spot.


A big slide-out for the bed and dining areaA big slide-out for the bed and dining area


Triple axle power and stability


We don’t review triple axle caravans every day so let’s take a closer look at that first. The Tycoon Slider 27 sports three pairs of AL-KO Enduro X trailing arm suspension mounted to the chassis. Enduro X is positioned as AL-KO’s premium offering with performance and handling for unpredictable offroad conditions. Given its pedigree, you can be confident about its performance in this heavy-duty application. Enduro X uses a ‘clamshell’ trailing arm constructed from two pressed steel sections welded together. It’s designed to be significantly lighter than traditional trailing arms while maintaining strength. Another key attribute is the forged bolt-on stub axles designed for extra strength and easy replacement in the event of failure.


AL-KO Enduro X trailing arm suspensionAL-KO Enduro X trailing arm suspension


Many caravanners are fans of dual axle vans compared to a single axle because they feel more comfortable limping along with one flat tyre if they really need to. Zoran reckons a triple axle is even better than a dual axle to spread the load of a flat tyre, although he does suggest moving a flat to the central axle for better load distribution. For this reason, Legend supplies this van with a single spare wheel rather than two.


Speaking of tyres, they are light truck rated as you would expect, and Legend has opted for a conservative all-terrain tread pattern for better rolling resistance and braking traction. And of course, when you hit the brakes, you’ve got stopping power across all six wheels.


Across the range, Legend uses both traditional and truss chassis. This Tycoon has been built with the premium S&M truss option. Just like the clamshell swing arm, truss chassis use less material to save weight while maintaining strength. Truss chassis are also taller, making the van body higher for better ground clearance on uneven terrain.


Triple axle setup with light truck tyresTriple axle setup with light truck tyres


Legend has been using its aluminium frame construction since 2015, so it’s had plenty of time to sort it out. The manufacturer opts for a self-piercing rivet system to join its aluminium frame together. Legend believes this method has superior dynamic joint strength and is not susceptible to failure through vibration. The wall frames are lock-bolted to the chassis and roof frame to create an integral structure. Lock bolts use a collar with a smooth internal bore instead of a nut. The collar is swaged to effectively crush the collar onto the bolt thread and protect the connection from rattling free under vibration. Composite aluminium sheets are used to clad the walls. A one-piece fibreglass skin completes the roof along with an upmarket one-piece composite construction floor.


Spacious slide-out living for the whole family


OK, we know it’s big. How does this make the living space better? A stand-out feature is the slide-out compartment that incorporates both the queen bed and the club lounge. This makes it possible to orient the bed east–west and still have room to walk around the end of the bed so it can be accessed from both sides. Nearly all east–west beds limit you to ‘one side’ access which means occupants are forced to crawl over one another to get in and out of bed.


The large slide-out allows for an island east–west bed and plenty of storage on the front wallThe large slide-out allows for an island east–west bed and plenty of storage on the front wall

Plenty of dual-access storage under the bedPlenty of dual-access storage under the bed


Access to the far side of the bed also enabled Legend to fit a full bank of four wardrobes along the front wall, giving you around double the robe space of most vans. Storage above and beside the bed is good. Underbed storage is better than good because you can use all of the space. It’s not eaten up with housing power systems as you see in many vans. And, as I have observed before on Legend vans, the bed struts are nicely weighted so that the bed lowers gently rather than slamming down like I have seen on many, many vans. The wow factor of the bedroom for many will be the 65in TV — not just because it’s big but because it is concealed in a cabinet when not in use and at the press of a button it elevates up out of the furniture.


The 65in TV in the bedroom lowers down into the cabinet at the touch of a buttonThe 65in TV in the bedroom lowers down into the cabinet at the touch of a button


The club lounge is generously proportioned, affording plenty of room for four occupants — remember this is a four-berth family van. The 27ft length also gives you the luxury of plenty of bench space in the kitchen, even with the double sink taking up some room. Seriously, how many vans have a double sink? Concealed under the hinged section of the bench is a twin plate induction cooker — no gas here, it’s a fully electric van. And of course, underneath all that bench space is a corresponding number of drawers and cupboards — as much as you could ever need.


Plenty of bench space in the large kitchen, and the bunk area is separated by the bathroom and two doorsPlenty of bench space in the large kitchen, and the bunk area is separated by the bathroom and two doors


The full bathroom is functional and features a full-size Sôlt 8kg commercial front load washing machine. It’s around three times the capacity of most caravan washing machines we see, meaning it’s up to the task of a big family load of laundry. The bathroom creates a buffer space between the front bed/living area and the kids’ sleeping quarters through the use of two doors. A concertina door closes off the living area and a sliding door separates the twin bunk beds running along the rear wall. This means everyone can get on with life while the bathroom can be used with privacy. When the sliding door is closed the ‘bunk room’ would feel quite small. If you would prefer a roomier feel, check out Legend’s alternate bunk layout which has bunks running along each side wall rather than across the back wall.


The ensuite features a commercial size washing machine under the vanityThe ensuite features a commercial size washing machine under the vanity


King of the free camp? — Off-grid capabilities and power setup


We have anointed this van the king of the campsite due to its imposing size. However, its proportions limit its capacity to venture into tricky bush camp spots that may require steep creek crossings or weaving through trees.


Nonetheless, the Tycoon Slider 27 has plenty of off-grid camping capacity with an impressive 48V power system neatly housed in an externally accessed cabinet. Legend has gone for a Victron-controlled package for this showcase build.


Plenty of power for off-grid campingPlenty of power for off-grid camping


The 2400W solar power capacity gives you plenty of input from the sun along with 120A DC-DC charger to top up from the car. A 5000W inverter takes care of 240V power delivery and Legend is moving to a Dyness 48V lithium 9.6kWh battery for ample storage. Two 95L fresh water tanks and one 110L grey water tank will be the standard configuration for this van.


So, if you pick the right easy-to-get-to spots, you have the power to be the ‘king of the free camp’ too.


For more information about power management for off-grid stays, check out our guide.


Front toolbox slide-outsFront toolbox slide-outs


Towing considerations and payload realities


By anyone’s standards, the Tycoon Slider 27 is a big van requiring your full driving attention. You need to take the same approach as a truck driver and accept you are often going to use more than one lane when making turns. And of course, you will be in a substantial tow vehicle such as the big Chevy Silverado 2500 pictured. In the hands of an experienced tower, it’s all very manageable but if you are completely new to towing this may not be the place to start.


We have to address the elephant in the room. This is a heavy van with limited payload. Zoran explained to me that they went all out to showcase as many features as possible in a mega display van which does add substantially to the weight. He advised that in standard format the tare weights for the Tycoon Slider series start at 2800kg for dual axle models and 3800kg for triple axle models. The takeaway is to work with the caravan manufacturer to find the right balance of options and remaining payload that works for you.


You’ll need to have some towing experience for this vanYou’ll need to have some towing experience for this van


Final thoughts on the Legend Tycoon Slider 27 Tri-Axle


The Legend Tycoon Slider 27 Tri-Axle is a special van that oozes luxury and raises spacious living to a grand level. Off-grid power is in abundance to keep a family running. It will appeal to confident towers who want to hit the open road in style. Of course, you will need a big budget for this beauty and the right tow vehicle. If you have what it takes, then you can be the king of the campsite.


Measuring up


Pros

  • It oozes wow factor
  • Luxury appointments throughout
  • It’s huge — so plenty of space for the whole family

Cons

  • It’s huge — so campsites and drivers may be limited
  • It’s heavy

LEGEND TYCOON 27 SLIDER TRI-AXLE RATINGS


VALUE FOR MONEY

This is out of reach for many people, but you get your money’s worth out of this showcase van


TOWABILITY

The Tycoon Slider 27 Tri-Axle is for experienced towers with a big tow vehicle. Work with the manufacturer to define your payload requirements


SUITABILITY FOR INTENDED TOURING

An open road tourer packed with luxury. You will need to consider your payload requirements


BUILD QUALITY

Legends are built to a consistently high standard, and this one is no exception


LIVEABILITY

It’s got everything including two kitchen sinks


SELF-SUFFICIENCY

Enough power to be the ‘king of the free camp’


CUSTOMER CARE

Two years on the body and fittings and five years on the chassis and suspension. Extended warranty and customer care are options


INNOVATION

Pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a conventionally towed caravan


X-FACTOR

A strikingly large caravan with the perfect blend of comfort and luxury


Legend Tycoon Slider 27 Tri-Axle floorplan


LEGEND TYCOON 27 SLIDER TRI-AXLE SPECS


WEIGHTS AND MEASURES

Body length  8.2m (27ft)
Overall length  10m (32ft 8in)
Width 2.5m (8ft 2in)
Height  3.3m (10ft 8in)
Tare  4050kg (standard format starting at 2800kg)
ATM  4500kg
Payload  450kg (calculated)
Ball weight at tare 400kg
Ball to tare ratio  9.9% (calculated)

EXTERNAL

Frame Aluminium
Cladding Aluminium composite sheeting
Chassis S&M truss
Suspension AL-KO Enduro X trailing arm tri-axle
Coupling Cruisemaster DO45
Brakes Electric drum 12in
Wheels 16in alloy wheels with 265/76R16 all-terrain light truck tyres
Water 2 x 95L freshwater, 1 x 110L grey water
Battery Dyness 48V lithium 9.6kWh
Inverter 5000W 
Solar 2400W (standard 1000W)
Air-conditioner Dometic FreshJet
Gas N/A – all-electric van
Sway control N/A

INTERNAL

Cooking NCE twin-plate induction
Microwave

NCE 25L

Fridge Dometic 224L
Bathroom Separate shower and toilet
Washing machine Sôlt 8kg commercial front loader
Hot water

Diesel combination water/space heater


Legend Tycoon 27 Slider Tri-Axle price from $

221,000



OPTIONS FITTED

  • 48V battery system with 5000W inverter, 2400W of solar panels and 9.6kWh lithium battery
  • Diesel combination water/space heater (twin head heater, ducted heating)
  • Sôlt 8kg commercial washing machine
  • 65in TV
  • S&M truss chassis
  • Insulated floor (honeycomb floor is standard)

Legend Tycoon 27 Slider Tri-Axle price as shown $242,990


MORE INFORMATION


Legend Caravans

2 Florey Court

Somerton Vic 3062

P: 03 9308 9550

E: info@legendcaravans.com.au


The Legend Tycoon 27 Slider Tri-Axle is a big but luxurious van perfect for families with towing experienceThe Legend Tycoon 27 Slider Tri-Axle is a big but luxurious van perfect for families with towing experience




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