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 caravan 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?
- If you’re after more pre-owned tourer inspiration, our guide to the best used caravans is a great place to start
Model history of the Bailey Pursuit 540-5 Series 1
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 Bailey Pursuit 540-5 Series 1 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
Alternatives
Look for other family-sized tourers, such as the 2015 Adria Altea 542 DK, with fixed bunk beds, lightweight design and six berths. Prices for the Altea start at around £14,995.
Otherwise, try a 2013 Sterling Eccles Sport 586, also with fixed bunks, again sleeping up to six, and having higher spec. These prices start at £14,495-£14,995.
If you’re interested in a more modern Bailey instead, you can also take a look at our review of the Bailey Alicanto Grande Evora.
Check for
- Repairs to GRP side panels
- Damp by side locker doors
- Signs of damp in floors
- Furniture edgings peeling
- Damage to tyres and alloys
- Repair work on floors
- Damage to rear mouldings
You can also take a look at our guide to the interior checks to carry out when looking at a pre-owned tourer.
Verdict on a used Bailey Pursuit 540-5 Series 1
There’s a good choice of caravan layouts in the Pursuit range, and used prices are not over the top.
Keep an eye out for problems with the floor, which were quite common. We’d recommend buying from a dealer, where repairs will be carried out and the floor carefully inspected.
This 540-5 had been very well looked after. Some furniture edgings were coming away, but overall, it was in good condition and the added air-con made it a bargain buy for first-timers.
- Take a look at our best caravan for families guide to see our pick of the standout models on the market
Technical spec
- Berths: 5
- MTPLM: 1394kg
- MiRO: 1182kg
- Payload: 212kg
- Internal length: 5.72m
- Width: 2.24m
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