Do the checks and this family tourer could be a bargain buy, says Andrew Jenkinson
WHEN BAILEY CHANGED its production processes in 2009, the Alu-Tech system was rolled out on new ranges.
One of these was the Orion, a rather quirky tourer that had somewhat limited appeal. So in late 2013, Bailey introduced the Pursuit.
This new line-up was more practical in design, lightweight and with a good spec. The range had a great choice of layouts and was updated after a couple of years, before being dropped.
The Pursuit’s spec included blown-air heating, a radio/CD player, Status TV aerial, fridge, oven and shower. Although it was described as a sunroof, up front, the Bailey also came with an opening roof vent.
The choice of six floorplans included an end-washroom two-berth. Outside, GRP sides were used and a side gas locker fitted.
The Pursuit was a big improvement on the Orion, but how does it look as a used buy, some eight years on?
Model history
The Pursuit was launched at the NEC show in October 2013, and classed as the Series 1. With six layouts, the 540-5 was one of the most popular in the line-up, providing side fixed bunk beds, a big front lounge and a sizeable rear washroom.
The Bailey also offered a side dinette, which made up into a single bed when needed.
There was plenty of overhead locker storage space, as well as a large wardrobe.
The side kitchen provided more storage, too, although the gas locker does steal some of the capacity here.
Work surface provision in the 540-5 was another good feature for families, with a side dresser opposite the kitchen offering yet more worktop.
Although not a Bailey option, the 540-5 seen here had an air conditioning unit fitted. This might have been added by a dealer, but whoever installed it, the job was professionally done. A very welcome extra, especially if you tour abroad.
The Pursuit promised to be a good seller in the entry-level market, but it only had a couple of years in production and was dropped after Series 2.
Price checker
We found prices from £13,995 to £14,495 and one private sale (with awning) at £13,495. But prices seem pretty stable and, at £13,995 and with added air con, the model we saw offered value for a family on tour. For the rest of the range, expect to pay:
400-2 £9895-£11,995
430-4 £12,495-£12,995
530-4 £12,995-£13,595
550-4 £13,195-£13,995
560-5 £12,995-£13,495
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