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This could explain why the last couple year at the Alexis open house there has been an HME quint demo on display. Alexis was using RK for their platforms.
What is the general concession on the quality of an RK ladder?
I'm biased on the RK stuff because I sold it. I think it competes well enough with the likes of a Pierce or a Smeal. When they integrated the smart aerial stuff from the euro line of Rosenbauer aerials (Metz) that made the RK product something pretty special (envelope control so you wouldn't overload the thing while short jacked, etc.) that no one else at the time was offering. Not sure if other builders offer something that competes or not now.
I've always been impressed because Rob wasn't afraid to try new stuff. There was a four section 104' tower, when people complained about the four sections he did a three section 101 footer (I may have the exact dimensions off). He was doing an 80 footer when no one else was anymore, it wasn't well marketed but it was there. The fact that they were willing to go after the articulating boom business with Chicago was a brave move, and all indications are that the RK units on the squads run smoother and "easier" than a Snorkel did or does. They still have a very wide aerial line to offer customers. The hot dipped aerials, torque box and outriggers is kind of ugly, but offers a really strong warranty against corrosion for something as expensive as a ladder.
I'm not sold on the seated aerial operator thing, but that's just me.
Having said that, other builders may offer some products that have more to offer, and since I'm not selling anymore - I'm not "up" on everyone else's stuff like I once was.
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