An important modification to the design of the Year 2000 range of Cub camper trailers could lead to a significant increase in sales for the company, once potential buyers discover the significance.

First seen at the Adelaide Caravan Show, the new models feature what Cub calls the 'Ezy Flip' or 'Easy Wind' operation, and the secret behind it is an all-in-one roof rack and camper roof.

In any flip-top camper trailer design, the sturdy roof luggage rack is an essential component. Not only does it serve to carry anything from a spare

A light hand-winch controles the process.

wheel or load of wood for the campfire to an aluminum dinghy, when the camper is set up it also becomes a firm base for the ground level section of the tent. Separately hinged, it acts as a cantilever to commence the unfolding procedure, and as it swings over and descends it is followed by the top of the trailer- which of course then becomes the floor of the erected camper.

Unfortunately, though, it can be a different story once the more mature traveler is faced with the daily business of setting up camp. Many singles and couples have been disappointed to find that setting up a flip-top required a lot more effort than they first thought, and people with infirmities have found the process physically demanding, even for two people. Eagerly anticipated holidays have been cut short because the fun has been ruined by unwanted toil.

Cub's clever new design has put an end to all that, and now age or physical condition need be no barrier to enjoying

In the new 'Easy" range, the roof rack, instead of being a separate swing-over section, is now bolted to the camper top. Not only does this sandwich construction make the floor and rack combination stronger and more rigid, it also allows the camper to be erected in one easy action. With the aid of powerful gas struts to assist the lifting process and delay the descent, the Ezy Flip camper can now be set up by almost anyone with a minimum effort.

Aware that even this easy movement could be difficult for users with a disability, Cub has gone one step further with the introduction of the optional Easy Wind system, featuring a light hand winch and a webbing strap that takes over the entire operation. Many wheelchair-bound campers will find this system the answer to their prayers.

Keeping cool: Cub's Supamatic and Spacematic trailers now have an upright fridge.

Not only can they set up their camper themselves, the Cub's wide door makes it easy for them to get their wheelchair inside once the tent is erected. Other models in the Cub range have received further improvements. While Cub's Supamatic models are as well equipped and certainly as spacious as a small caravan, a slight disadvantage that may have deterred would-be buyers has been the lack of an upright refrigerator.With vertical space limited by the height of the camper wall, in the past Cub has fitted these fully equipped models with a chest-type fridge.

The latest design breakthrough has enabled the company to install a 60-litre three-way fridge-freezer as a standard fitting in the Supamatic and Spacematic. As the maker of a popular and well established product, Cub deserves full marks for introducing improvements which will make the outdoors experience even more enjoyable for those who love to tour with a camper trailer.