Forum Discussion

mlts22's avatar
mlts22
Explorer II
Mar 09, 2015

How fast should one drive a "C"?

Here in Texas, the speed limit on 130 from Austin to I-10 is 85, and around Austin on 130, it is 80. Assuming properly rated tires, how fast should one take a "C" on roads like that, in general?

I think Sprinter based chassis models top out at 75-80, while Fords go up to 95, but there is a lot of difference between what the speed governor says a vehicle can do versus what it can do safely.

59 Replies

  • Class C's (like most RV's) are an aerodynamic nightmare that were never intended for high speed operation. Can they be driven at 75+? You betcha. Is it a good idea? Not so much. :R

    Every time I am passed by a Class C doing 75+ (and it happens a lot), it is a rental. Sadly these are the least experienced operators out there. I'm just saying.... :S

    For the record I cruise at 55 to 62 but will push it up to 65 on a high speed interstate.

    :C
  • I think it is highly overrated that one needs to keep up with fastest traffic for safety. I'm in AZ, just drove over highway 17 w/ 75 MPH limit. I did 65 and was in packs of numerous other slower vehicles at same speed. Faster vehicles simply changed lanes and went around slower vehicles. There were several smaller passes and traffic slowed to 40 MPH at times even in left lane. Watching for slower traffic is fundamental in driving, much like watching for traffic signal or stop sign. It is much safer to stay within the vehicles comfort zone than try to keep up with the fastest traffic.
  • Any advice is appreciated. I'm not used to "C"s, but with my current rig, I never go above 60, just because of tire ratings, and if things get too hot/heavy on 130, I have a habit of hitting the breakdown lane just out of common courtesy, similar to mentioned above. I'm not in a race, but I am focused on the safest way to drive.
  • You're likely to get a lot of opinions on this, so here's mine. If you feel safe driving that fast, and have assured yourself that your tires are up to the task, don't mind the cost of fuel then do what you like. I will gladly pull over and let you go by. No matter what speed you drive I'm sure someone in a great big diesel pusher will pass you.
  • Personally I do up to 65 for extended periods and faster to briefly pass another vehicle. I know it will go close to 80 at least. But fuel economy goes way downhill over 65-70 and wind noise greatly increases. 60-70 is typical cruising speed for these Ford based Cs.

    There are lots of slower vehicles on the road. Drive to your comfort level and you'll be fine.
  • Everyone is different I would drive at your comfort level below those speed limits
  • Our gas mileage tanks above 62mph. I would be concerned of being a traffic hazard if I was causing an obstruction where the limit is 85. I think a lot depends on how you're loaded and how comfortable you are at higher speeds. Let your conscience be your guide and try a frontage road or an alternate route if you feel unsafe. Don't push it.