RV review: Brinkley RV Model Z 2670—The newest and smallest

Today’s RV review is another preview from Brinkley RV, this time the Model Z 2670 fifth wheel. This is the latest offering from Brinkley RV and is also the smallest and lightest fifth wheel they make. Now, before you jump to conclusions, know that this fifth wheel is not light. While it is under 30 feet in length, it’s over 10,000 pounds in dry weight. 

So why? A lot of reasons, but know that Brinkley makes things that are pretty substantial and this model is no exception. So all those fifth wheels we’ve been talking about lately with the “frame flex”—which is really frame failure—that’s far less likely to happen here. 

From the road up in the Brinkley RV Model Z 2670

This trailer rides on H-rated Cooper tires with internal tire pressure monitoring (TPMS). It does use traditional leaf springs, but those are attached to a Road Armor suspension system which does a good job of absorbing motion and vibration. 

The underbelly of this trailer is enclosed with heat ducted into the space as well as 12-volt tank heaters. The gate valves for the sewer dump are also inside this enclosed space and are electrically operated. In other words, no doing the black tank twist as you reach way the heck under the trailer to pull the black tank valve. You just push a button and you’re done. Son. 

And while we’re talking about that, know that this trailer only has one connection point. There is also a tube to hold your sewer hose right adjacent to the termination point, so everything’s in one spot. Heck, there are even lights under here, although I hope, hope, hope that owners don’t leave these lights on all. Night. Long. 

There’s also a fresh water hose built into this rig on a reel. All the exterior baggage doors feature magnetic hold-backs, but these magnets are color coordinated with the exterior. It’s like the Force—you can’t see it but you can feel it. There’s also a rear storage compartment on this model that is the perfect size for things like camping chairs and that sort of stuff.

The model I saw had a new CURT pin box that featured a shock absorber and a coil spring. It reportedly provides much less bucking and vibration in the tow vehicle. This is part of a whole new series of components from CURT and I was happy to see this out there. More exciting stuff is coming. 

What I like about the Brinkley RV Model Z 2650

In some ways, this almost approximates the typical floor plan of what every fifth wheel builder builds, but then Brinkley goes and makes enough changes that it really stands out. The interior really has a high-quality feel. 

The build quality on this is precise enough that there isn’t crown molding to hide rushed wall builds. 

The windows are square frameless windows but they swing upward significantly and incorporate both night shades and retractable screens. Very different and just better. Much better.

Along the back there’s a couch, of course, but there are tables on either side that flip up to reveal more storage. There is also a pop-up power wedge with household and USB outlets. And, of course, the couch turns into a bed. 

Over on the road side is a large slide, where you’ll find theater seats and the 12-volt fridge. 

Kitchen in the Brinkley RV Model Z 2670

You could say that the kitchen counter runs the length of the space from the entry door to the bulkhead of this model and then makes a left turn to add more space. As usual, Brinkley is using high-quality appliances hereno complaints. 

The drawers are also something to write home about. They have dovetailed corners, which is much stronger and better than stapled edges. They also finish the wood on the edges of the drawers and reinforce the bottom of the drawers. 

Something that shows that Brinkley is thinking is that there’s a cabinet in the kitchen that can be accessed with the slide in that has all the fuses and circuit breakers. Someone is paying attention. 

But something that really sets this space apart is the dining table. 

The dining table is mounted a bit higher and is sort of like a tongue that sticks out of the cabinet. You can have just the tip of said tongue or get the full treatment. There is an extension that slots into the space giving you a full-length table. It also slides back and forth. 

This makes sense, as there are a bunch of drawers here that you’ll need to move the legs of the table to access. So it’s a good thing the table slides back and forth. 

Upper deck in the Brinkley Model Z 2670

I like that there’s a “bubble” in the ceiling of the bathroom so you get additional headroom, but it doesn’t extend to the exterior of the trailer. These skylights are a huge source of leaks as they expand and contract differently than the rest of the roof around them—which is a challenge for the sealants. 

But there are lights in the shower, so it’s not dark. This works out even when it is dark outside. Like, you know, at night. 

Getting to the second floor, you’ll see floating steps which are the perfect spot for shoes. Once upstairs, you’ll likely appreciate the 6’ 7.5” ceiling height.

Since I mentioned that the “bubble” in the shower doesn’t extend into a skylight, know that Brinkley is using different sealants on the roof of their rigs that tend to last a lot longer and require much less maintenance. Yes. They’re more expensive. But do you want to have to go up on the roof frequently inspecting and maintaining the lesser sealants that are prevalent in the RV industry? I didn’t think so. 

Brinkley Model Z 2670 specifications

Conclusions

One of the things I think that could easily be changed by checking out what Keystone’s Cougar division is doing is to buy a mount for the TV that enables it to lower. As it is, it’s pretty high up, so you’re almost looking to the sky when watching TV. I know this is going to promote falling asleep. 

Otherwise, I really like this fifth wheel. The fact that it’s heavier and more expensive than others in this category makes me happy because it’s not so flimsy. That’s a good thing. 

We all perceive things differently, of course, and I really, really dislike the gold faucets and handles because it just seems so gaudy. But that’s just me. 

I also absolutely love the fact that this rig is using the Furrion Chill Cube for the main air conditioner. 

Overall, Brinkley RV has really shaken up the industry in so many ways. They seem to be building a better RV. But the appearance of their RVs, too, is really causing others to finally address the carnival float exteriors that were so common. 

I like this and like what I see in Brinkley RV. What’s your take on this latest offering? 

My thanks to Josh from Bish’s RV for the photos and video in this article.

More recent Brinkley RV reviews:

More about these RV reviews

These RV reviews are written based on information provided by the manufacturers along with our writer’s own research. They are based on information from a single unit and may not reflect your actual experience. Shop your RV and dealership carefully before making a buying decision. We receive no money or other financial benefits from these reviews. They are intended only as a brief overview of the vehicle, not a comprehensive critique, which would require a thorough inspection and/or test drive.

Tony comes to RVtravel.com having worked at an RV dealership and been a life long RV enthusiast. He also has written the syndicated Curbside column about cars. He also works closely with a number of RV manufacturers to get an inside look at how things are done and is a brand ambassador for Rockwood Mini Lite with his wife, Peggy.

You can also check out his RV podcast with his wife, Peggy. 

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Tony Barthel
Tony Barthelhttp://anthonybarthel.com
Tony worked at an RV dealership handling sales and warranty issues before deciding he wanted to review RVs and RV-related products. He also publishing a weekly RV podcast with his wife, Peggy, which you can find at https://www.stresslesscampingpodcast.com.

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11 Comments

Bob M
1 year ago

No access to the bedroom or bathroom during travel and don’t like seeing the ladder out the back window. Do the steps drop dirt when folded up or do they drop the dirt outside? Heavy weight would stop a lot of campers from buying.

Stacey Stone
1 year ago

My usual comment – How’s the plumbing?

Steve H
1 year ago

I definitely agree that lack of bathroom access ruins this floorplan for me. And it eliminates quick overnight stops at rest areas, Flying J RV parking spaces, or, dare I say it, Walmart and Cracker Barrel. Can’t tell whether the fridge is accessible with the slide in, but, if not, that also eliminates lunch stops at rest areas. Maybe Brinkley thinks anyone who can afford their trailers doesn’t need roadside bathroom breaks or quick, free overnights.

Our somewhat similar rear entry, rear sofa, mid-kitchen fifth wheel floorplan, the smallest built by Rockwood/Flagstaff, is no longer offered. It had bathroom-bedroom-fridge access with the slide in and we loved it!

Mikal
1 year ago

I have to agree with others that the slide blocking access to the upper deck, especially the bathroom, is a show stopper for us. In addition, I know my short wife would in no way want to dangle her legs off those “seats” at the table. No back support either. Maybe good for a younger buyer that doesn’t yet need back support in their seating.

Glad to see them introducing a little color into their newer offerings. All white everything didn’t do it for us.

Neal Davis
1 year ago

Thank you, Tony! 🙂 Gold plumbing fixtures?!? Yikes! Are the 80’s returning 40 years later? Maybe, if this becomes a trend. The description of the build quality and the pictures make me think that Brinkley wants its RVs out camping and not sitting in a shop awaiting parts or repairs. 🙂 That seems good and valuable in exchange for the higher up-front/purchase price. 🙂 Thanks again, Tony, and here’s All. Night. Long, also from 40 years ago (https://youtu.be/nqAvFx3NxUM?feature=shared); cheers! 🙂 Have a great week, safe travels, and safe stays! 🙂

Last edited 1 year ago by Neal Davis
Neal Davis
1 year ago
Reply to  Tony Barthel

Sorry, Tony! 🙁 Did not mean to ruin your day. 🙁 But I did think that it logically followed a particular section of your review. 😉 Thanks again, have a great day, safe travels, and safe stays! 🙂

Steve H
1 year ago

Tony, just realized that you made several references to tongues in this review without once mentioning Mick Jagger or Gene Simmons. How unlike you!

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Diane McGovern
1 year ago
Reply to  Steve H

Hi, Steve. That reminded me of many decades ago when I saw Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones on the huge IMAX Theater screen in Seattle. Talk about BIG!!!! Have a great day. 😀 –Diane at RVtravel.com