In case you were away from your phone, computer, tablet…. Here’s what went down in the industry on the 24th week of 2018 (June 11-17).
BFG Terrain Takeover
BFGoodrich, earlier this week, hosted a huge event to introduce its new KM3 to the masses. The event unfolded in the mountains surrounding the world-famous Rubicon Trail. And, though the vehicles and scenery were incredible… the new mud terrain definitely stole the spotlight.
Overall… reviews are incredible positive and the KM2’s replacement looks like a sure thing. Its great on the street… and better on the trail. We think that the only thing missing from the tire is a “Mountain Snowflake” symbol. But, that’s just wishful thinking on our part. If you want extreme weather chops in a tire; you’ll have to settle for an all terrain tread.
Our daydreaming notwithstanding… it looks like the aggressive new tire is a home run for BFG. With excellent street manners and improved tread, we expect to see it take a little business from AT tires and other mud terrains alike. In fact, when we finally nail down a lift/wheel combo for our Rubicon Recon; there’s a good chance that KM3’s will replace the ancient BFG KM’s it currently wears.
For more on the BFG Terrain Takeover checkout Exploring Elements’ latest article or their excellent Instagram coverage (#terraintakeover).
A New Adventure Basecamp – Meet Douglas the Airstream
You probably know Chris Cordes from his work as the managing editor over at Expedition Portal. Or perhaps you’re following his Instagram @4x4Touring. Either way, earlier this week he made an announcement that really caught our attention. Chris is hitting the road full time with an awesome Airstream in tow. The travel trailer is a gorgeous home away from home that was upgraded to a Grand Lounge configuration by a Portland company called Ultimate Airstreams.
Douglas, as the trailer is called, will serve as a basecamp for Chris and company. And, it even has its own social media presence. If you’re on Instagram check out @DouglastheAirstream for trailer-specific content.
We’ll definitely keep a close eye on this adventure as the months pass. Living a life focused on adventure, instead of stuff, is definitely appealing. And, following Expo West we started talking about doing something similar. But, for now we’ll just have to live vicariously through Chris, Paige, Riley (the adventure pup), and Douglas (the Airstream).
Harsh Words for ARB’s New TPMS System
Andrew St. Pierre White, earlier this week, didn’t pull any punches while reviewing a new product from ARB. The Australian company’s new tire pressure monitoring system promised to be a great upgrade for those of us without TPMS. However, White’s experience proved otherwise. Twice. Check out the video below for the full review.
We really hate to see this from a company like ARB, and hope that it’s just an early production run bug. We look forward to seeing what ARB does with the new TPMS system. Based on our experience with the company, we’re certain they’re addressing the problem as we speak.
Venture 4WD Ditches his JK
Okay so that’s not entirely accurate. The JK is just parked… temporarily.
Full-time adventurer, Chris (aka venture4wd), recently took possession of a sweet Toyota Tacoma. Shortly after Overland Expo West, New Jersey-based OK 4WD handed Chris the keys to thier Khaya camper toting Taco. His mission… get it back home; and do a bit of exploring along the way. So, if you’re looking for a bit of binge-worthy programming on Alu-Cab’s Khaya, Chris just posted the third installment of his trip. And, for all the JK fans out there… Chris and the Jeep will be reunited soon. Don’t worry.
Image Courtesy: OK4WD
You can follow Chris’ adventures on YouTube, or better yet, head over to Patreon and become a supporter.