DirtVenture Q2 2023

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF BEST IN THE DESERT RACING ASSOCIATION

Best In The Desert Racing Association Founder

Casey Folks

Co-Owner / Race Director

Bryan Folks

Co-Owner / Race Steward

Daryl Folks

Event Coordinator / Assistant Race Director

Megan Phillips

Media Directors

Donald Fall

email: donaldf@fallads.com

Russ Turner

email: russt@fallads.com

DirtVenture Magazine

Publisher / Advertising Sales

Fall Advertising

email: donaldf@fallads.com

phone: 619-742-9977

Editor

Don Fall

Content Mgr. / Creative / Design

Russ Turner

Editorial

Mike Ingalsbee

Advertising Sales

Krystal Fitzpatrick

email: dirtventuremag.krystal@gmail.com

On The Cover

Jason Voss, four time four-wheel overall Vegas to Reno winner.

Photo provided by Dirtfocus.com

Best In The Desert, BITD and DirtVenture are registered trademarks of Best In The Desert Racing Association

©2023 Best In The Desert Racing Association

This wheel to wheel battle at Vegas to Reno in 2015 between Geno Licitra in his Tube Shark Chenowth and Keith Waibel in the Hy-Tech Performance Alumi Craft was for 12th place.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

IN THIS ISSUE

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

VIEW FROM THE RIDGE - BRYAN FOLKS

1996 VEGAS TO RENO

The 1996 Vegas to Reno was the first time BITD raced a true off-road event, and in addition, it was the first time BITD included cars and trucks in the series. For my father, this was a huge step and a coming of age so to speak. I remember speaking with him about it and the excitement was just oozing out of every part of his being. For me, it also meant something special.

It allowed me the opportunity to be a part of history while doing what I did best, race a motorcycle. It also allowed me to team with my brother for only the second time in our racing careers. We chose to race a KTM 300 in the Open Pro class. As for the race, it was long and challenging to say the least. So many things I can share about that day, but I will focus on just a few things. First, we were severely out- horse-powered by the bigger 500cc machines. Nevertheless, we held our own and ran in the top 10 overall all day long against a huge motorcycle pro turnout and the best in the business. Early in the day, we got hooked up with the Team Green Kawasaki 250 pro team of Steve Hengeveld and Oakley Lehman.

We battled back and forth for the remainder of the day. We had one chase driver, and we were switching riders at each pit. I took the longest section from Mina to Top Gun, to hand my brother the bike for the last time, for him to take us to the finish. I remember telling our chase driver on the way to Mina, “DO NOT let my brother fall asleep in the truck on the way to Top Gun!” I knew my brother, and I knew given the opportunity he would try to catch a cat nap. Daryl handed me the bike in Mina at 7th overall, about 30-45 seconds ahead of the 250-pro team. I had a really good ride in that section (it was the longest section of the day) and put a minute and half to two minutes on the Team Green team behind us.

To my dismay, when I pulled into Top Gun, our chase driver just finished filling the dump can and my brother was nowhere in sight. I threw the bike on the stand and yelled, “Where is Daryl?” and Chad replied, “Trying to wake up in the truck.” I ran over and opened the door and there was my brother half-awake or half asleep, whichever you prefer. I hurried him out and starting helping him

"The 1996 Vegas to Reno race was a heck of a thing for Best In The Desert. You could say it was the changing of the guard for the race series."

get his gear on while Chad fueled the bike and looked it over. Knowing we were losing all of the time I just made up, I was in no mood to let Daryl take his time getting ready. Just as I finally got him ready and to the bike, I saw the Team Green come through the pits and pit at the other end. I hurried Daryl on the bike so he could beat them out of the pit, and as he started to leave, he looked at me with pure uncertainty. He throttled away (no speed limit back then) and the Team Green left at the same time. At the end of the pit was a hard right hander, and Daryl was on the inside. Still half asleep, he hooked the back wheel of Oakley Lehman’s bike, and they both went

down. Oakley was up and going quickly, but Daryl was not moving quickly at all. I ran down to him and when I got there, I asked, “Are you ok?” He replied, “Yes, but I can’t wake up for some reason.” Moments later Daryl rode off and we ended up 8th Overall and 7th Open Pro on the day.

As stated above, the day was eventful to say the least. I am proud to have had the opportunity to race the first Vegas to Reno and equally proud to say I am a part of its continuing success. I look forward to seeing everyone at this year’s race, and with words of wisdom to the racers, “Don’t fall asleep between your racing sections!”

Bryan on his KTM 300 at the '96 Vegas to Reno

VEGAS TO RENO Through The Eyes Of The Racers

By Mike Ingalsbee

Best In The Desert’s Vegas to Reno race has been the premiere point to point, long distance off road race in the United States since 1996. That’s when Casey Folks brought cars and trucks into his Best In The Desert motorcycle racing series and created the now epic event. Vegas to Reno brings out the best of the best to challenge their abilities in an unforgiving speed

contest that traverses dry lake beds, (most of the time), rocky, high mountain passes, river washes, and bottomless silt beds. Conditions range from cold, wet and windy, to stifling heat that can boil your fuel before it even reaches the engine. Teams have to be patient if they want to win such a long haul, but at the same time, if your pace isn’t flat out, you’ll get left behind.

The sometimes seemingly endless quest to reach the finish line at the 2015 Vegas to Reno.

Photo by HighRev Photography

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VEGAS TO RENO - A LOOK BACK

Now called the “Casey Folks” Vegas to Reno after Casey’s passing in 2017, it represents the kind of racer Casey was. He had a reputation for being tough and aggressive, but he was also smart; you have to be to win 17 championships. Being a racer himself, Casey always put the racers first when he organized his events. With Vegas to Reno approaching on August 16th through the 20th, we

thought we would find out what it’s like to compete in such challenging conditions and how it feels to win.

“What is it like winning Vegas to Reno?” says Johnny Campbell. “Thankful! Vegas to Reno is the longest continuous offroad race in North America which makes it a very prestigious race to win! I have won the event four times overall, and I am thankful to my teammates and pit support

Nick Burson and Justin Morrow rode their Beta to the 2013 V2R overall motorcycle win.

Photo by Trackside Photo

crews who helped make these wins happen. It is a long race and speed is a big part of it but you have to be there at the finish to win. You need to be smart, make a solid plan, prepare properly and stay on two wheels. My favorite memory is winning the 2001 version when all the top teams got lost. We were down about eight minutes early in the race and rallied back to win by 30 seconds on adjusted time.”

“There is a real strategy to your pit stops, you have to leap frog,” says Joe Wasson. “We change the gearing on the bike. I usually run a 14-47, but at Vegas to Reno we go with a 14-51. You are running the bike in the top gears all day. I’ve tried different gas tank sizes. We ran a big tank; even bigger than usual, trying to make fewer stops, but it affected the bike handling. I think we make better time on the bike with a smaller tank, even if it takes more stops. I also run extended pegs to give me a bigger platform while standing. You spend a lot of time on the pegs in the attack position. If you are riding solo, it’s a long day on the bike.”

“Being a point-to-point race with no prerunning, takes more mental energy,” says Steve Olliges. “On a loop race, you can take the first lap to learn the course and then speed up on every other lap. At Vegas to Reno, you need to be cautious the entire way. Because it’s not as rough as other courses and there is so much high speed running, we usually lower the

In 27 years, the 1500 cars have managed to take the top spot only seven times. Garrick Freitas was the last to do it in 2012.

Photo by HighRev Photography

Steve Olliges at the 2011 V2R.

Photo by Bink Designs

VEGAS TO RENO - A LOOK BACK

ride height and change the gearing.”

Vegas to Reno typically takes place in August so high temperatures are a major factor for the machines and the people.

“We take extra time to make sure all our coolers are functioning properly before the race. The heat is hard on the body. It’s a challenge staying hydrated and fed for nine hours or more in the heat. The same is true for the crew. It’s hard

to chase this race. The crew is a major part of the equation. That’s why my crew loves it so much,” said Bryce Menzies.

“I actually prefer a point-to-point race; the main reason is the terrain,” says Skyler Howes. “You travel a long distance and go through a lot of different terrain like mountains, trees, valleys, riverbeds, and dry lakes. You are a little bit more on edge because the terrain

Brandon Schueler navigates through silt, rocks and yucca trees.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

If you want a real challenge, do Vegas to Reno in a stock full like Greg Foutz and Dave Winner in their Fabtech Ford.

Curt LeDuc won the overall in 1997. Here he is still bashing through the silt a decade later.

Justin Matney qualifies in the Speed Energy, RPM offroad, Geiser Brothers Truggy; basically an open wheel Trick Truck.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

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THE LEGEND RETURNS.

VEGAS TO RENO - A LOOK BACKK

in front of you is going to be changing. Long distance racing is unique. The preparation to the bike is very serious and there are many trick things that I’ve learned over the years (mostly by failure). The term “don’t step over dollars to pick up pennies” rings the loudest. Think new tires, new mousses (foam inserts), clean and well-oiled air filters, new grips, seals, bearings, fresh oil in the bike and suspension, the

Bryce Menzies getting every bit out of his new Huseman built AWD Trick Truck during qualifying in 2018. The following year he took the truck to the overall win.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

Joe Wasson on the gas at the 2022 Vegas to Reno.

Photo by Daniel Curiel

VEGAS TO RENO - A LOOK BACK

list goes on. Then there are specific areas of the bike that you need to protect, or safety wire, just to ensure that when you are so far from any pit, the bike stays together.”

“We keep our truck set-up the same, but we are running the Fox Live Valve shocks so we can make changes on the fly,” says Ryan Arciero. “We see triple-digit temps, and there are a lot of long pulls, so it puts a strain on the equipment and the driver. Vegas to Reno challenges the entire team. You have to wait and see what the pace needs to be and

Skyler Howes took the overall motorcycle win in 2022.

Photo by Dirt Nation

Ryan Arciero came back from a devastating vehicle fire in 2020 to capture the overall win in the 2021 Vegas to Reno.

Photo by HighRev Photography

SCOTT Douglas ouglas

JEFF Cummings EVAN Evans HELEN"Sugar" Fields

Morris

"Fud" Sieck

Wernimont

then make the adjustments necessary to stay up front.”

Vegas to Reno takes a lot of planning, and there is a lot to think about. It’s not always clear what the deciding factor was in a win or a loss. Some racers develop superstitions that they hold on to because they’ve been successful. For instance, Bryce Menzies says he puts his left shoe on first every time. Somewhere along the way he developed that habit and he has stuck with it. For Vito Ranuio, it’s the right shoe first. “I’m not superstitious, but we’ll

take every bit of luck we can get,” says Vito.

Ryan Arciero has a favorite pair of nomex underwear he likes, but doesn’t always wear them. He also has a lucky hat. The one thing he never fails to do is say a prayer before the race. Remember, their truck burned to the ground in 2020. In 2021 they came back and won the race overall. In 2022, they backed that win up. This year they are going for three in a row. He’ll probably be wearing both the hat and the underwear this year.

Pat Dean carries his Father Butch’s off-road racing legacy and is now joined by his Sons James and Jordan who won their class in 2021 finishing 4th overall.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

“I have had good things happen with no prep and a lack of sleep, and I’ve had bad things happen when everything was done perfectly,” says Skyler Howes. “Sometimes you zig when you should have zagged. Other times you’re on rails and everything goes according to plan. I guess that’s what makes this race and desert racing in general so great; you’re at the mercy of the desert. It doesn’t matter what superstition you have, how much you prepared, or how much money you spent; at the end of the day it’s you against the desert.”

Many racers reached incredible milestones at Vegas to Reno that they

will never forget. “In 2014, it was the first time I prepped my father’s car from the ground up,” says James Dean. “I was only 17 years old. I rode the entire race, and we had zero issues. That was a huge accomplishment for me. I’m also proud of the first Vegas to Reno race my brother and I did together. We had a great day and finished top five overall.”

Mitch Guthrie, Jr. got incredible news while leaving the finish line six years ago. “Joey D handed me his phone and it was Craig Scanlon on the other end. He was offering me a full contract to race for Polaris. The part I will never forget is that he was calling me from a porta potty at a

Mitch Guthrie Jr. running hard in the 2016 Vegas to Reno.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

The only locals around watching Wayne Matlock in 2018.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

Pearl Jam concert. For me it depends on what position I’m in. If I’m leading, I can be a bit nervous. You have to make sure you hit your marks. If you’re down on time, it’s a lot of fun pushing hard and doing what

you can to make up time. The worst thing is if you have had issues and you’re just trying to bring the car home.”

Nobody has more memories of Vegas to Reno than Sam Berri; he’s raced every

Brandon Schueler on the way to the podium in 2015.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

Sam Berri has raced every single Vegas to Reno and still going strong.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

Mike and Robbie McCarthy, Tracy Rubio and RD Miner all got to take in views like this in their Ford Ecoboost class 7200.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

VEGAS TO RENO - A LOOK BACK

one of them. “I remember the first year we raced. We paraded down I15, on the highway, to get to the starting line. People got a chance to see the cars up close going down the road. I thought that was really cool. I’ve raced 47 years in a buggy, and now I’m learning to drive a truck. I hope we can get an overall win. I’ve never finished better than 2nd overall; it haunts me. I tell people all the time, even if I’m in a wheelchair, as long as you can get me in the car, I’ll race it!”

The Murray Brothers, Derek and Jason, had the best race ever. “It was 2016 and Can-Am just released the X3,” said Jason. “They gave one to the S3 guys, Dustin

Jones, and one to us. We built the car in 20 days. We met up to go testing and then went straight to the starting line. I was in the new car and took the win in the Unlimited Class. Derek was in the existing car and took the win in the Turbo Class.”

“My mood all day is to push and stay focused,” says Phil Blurton. “The UTV class is so competitive, it has even turned Vegas to Reno into a sprint race. We push so hard all day, crossing the finish line is awesome. I love that it's close to home so my wife gets to drive out and be waiting there for me. You know you just finished the longest off-road race in the U.S. when it’s over. My favorite Vegas to Reno was

Phil Blurton on his way to the 2019 V2R UTV Turbo Pro victory.

Photo by Dirt Nation

when we rolled the car while leading at about race mile 100. We got it back over and drove from almost last place all the way back up to first and won the race.”

Then there was the time for Vito Ranuio when the shoe was on the other foot with Blurton. “I think we were ahead on time, but you can never count out Blurton,” says Vito. “We came around a corner and saw Phil out changing a tire. We knew there was no doubt, we had the win. It is such a great feeling crossing the finish line with the win. The toughest competition showed up and we beat all of them. I love to watch the in-car from that race. It was great for everyone on the team, our families, our sponsors, and our fans.”

Vito Ranuio earned the UTV Turbo Pro victory at the 2022 Vegas to Reno.

Photo by HighRev Photography

Jeff Proctor and Jason Lafortune brought out this high tech Honda Ridgeline with a turbo charged, Indy car engine.

Photo Mike Ingalsbee

The team aspect of Vegas to Reno really comes into play. If the crew isn’t in the right place, you can lose the race. “I rely solely on my pit support to be at each pit to give me fuel, parts, food, etc,” says Skyler Howes. “At a loop race you may only need one or two support vehicles. At V2R, it’s possible to need 3 or more depending on the pit strategy. You need to make sure you have support at every stop and that you don’t beat the chase vehicle there.”

For many crews it’s their chance to shine. Some are on top teams and are earning a pay check. For others, the pit crew consists of family, friends, and

sometimes other teams they compete against. I recall a story from one of the Jeepspeed racers about his crew staying in one of the pits a little longer after servicing their own truck because another team’s crew was stuck in traffic. They helped pit one of their competitors. Later in the race, the same team returned the favor even though their truck was running just behind them in second place. They all want to win, but there is a lot of mutual respect because the biggest challenge is always the desert.

“Point-to-point for me is a lot better because it means we get to go somewhere and give the pit crew a destination and

The unmistakable Terrible Herbst Landshark Truggy using all the suspension on day 3 of Vegas to Reno “The Long Way” in 2009.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

In 2009 Andy McMillin won his first Vegas to Reno overall “The Long Way” running 997 miles over 3 days of racing.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

Team McMillin preps Mark McMillin’s truck under an incredible sunset in Hawthorn, Nevada.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

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something to chase,” says Ricky Brabec. “My favorite thing about Vegas to Reno is the adrenaline, the adventure and getting the whole team involved in helping and supporting. It’s all about the logistics. If it's fun and flowy, you can get on it with some calculated risks. The mood throughout the race is always amped up; it's the adrenaline for me. I do this stuff to catch the adrenaline feel, and it's a bad addiction.

4-time winner Ricky Brabec at the 2020 event.

Photo by HighRev Photography

In 2015, Jason Voss took his third consecutive overall Vegas to Reno victory. We'll have to wait and see if Ryan Aciero is able to match that magical accomplishment this August.

Jason Voss photo by HighRev Photography

When it's pure fun, or when it’s dusty and you're stuck behind someone else, I'd say the adrenaline is pretty similar. You have fired up angry adrenaline or fun and fast adrenaline. To cross the finish line is always an accomplishment. A finish is always good; another notch on the belt.”

The bikes were faster in the beginning, but the Trick Trucks and buggies then began to give them a run for their money. They run different sections now so the comparison is not relevant. Everyone thinks that the Trick Trucks are the fastest on four wheels, but the Unlimited Open Wheel cars have held their own. To win at all is incredible, but those with multiple wins are part of an even more exclusive group. Andy McMillin has won overall twice; both times “The Long Way.” That’s something Brian Stewart knows well. He

won the Nevada 1000 race in 2002 and the Millennium Nevada “2000” in 2000. That Millennium race was seven days of stage racing. Destry Abbott and Skyler Howes have two overall wins. Bryce Menzies and Ryan Arciero both have back to back wins so far. Sitting at the top of the win category are Johnny Campbell, Ricky Brabec and Jason Voss have four wins apiece. Jason Voss won three straight in a row. This year Ryan Arciero is trying to match that feat.

Whoever comes out on top this year will be anyone’s guess. The only thing you can count on is that they will have earned it. Whether it’s the desert or the competition, The “Casey Folks” Vegas to Reno race brings out the best in the desert. That was Casey’s goal from the very beginning.

The scale and beauty of remote Nevada is incredible.

Photo by Mike Ingalsbee

Photos provided by Dirt Nation

Best In The Desert Youth UTV Racing Develops The Champions Of The Future

By Mike Ingalsbee

Many racers toil for years before they win a race. Championships are even more elusive. When a racer comes along who captures both a championship and rookie of the year award in the same season, you know he has something special.

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Cash Martinez is one of those racers. He took both honors in the youth 170 Pure Stock Youth UTV class racing against other 9 to 13 year olds. Cash had stiff competition from Cole Warner, Dexter Warren, and Evan Atkins who were all within striking distance. Cash accumulated more wins than anyone which earned him the points needed for the championship. Cash is just one of the latest racers to make his mark in the Best In The Desert (BITD), Youth UTV series. He follows in the footsteps of several racers who travelled a similar path and now race professionally

on the International stage. One example is Seth Quintero. Seth is a professional racer who holds the record for most stage wins in a single event at the Dakar Rally. In 2018, Seth finished second place at Vegas to Reno. The following year he won a UTV championship in the Best In The Desert series, winning six events along the way. He started racing side by sides at age 10.

BITD provides a stepping stone for kids as young as 5 years old to compete. By the time some of these kids get their driver’s license on the street, they will have been racing for a decade. Since

Cash Martinez (right), 2022 170 Pure Stock 9-13 Class Champion

Tanner Thompson, 2022 170 Pure Stock 5-8 Class Champion

Wyatt Cotter, 2022 Trophy Unlimited Mini Class Champion

UTVs are used, it’s easy for a parent to purchase a standard, safe and reliable vehicle instead of having to build one from scratch or hire a professional fabricator. In the stock classes the rules are simple. Most have to do with safety regulations like seat belts, helmets and window nets to keep the drivers safe. The 170 UTVs are rather tame when it comes to horsepower. As the kids gain skill and confidence, they can move up to faster cars. The key is to get them comfortable first, and then they can learn how to go fast. Many of the best racers in off-road

history learned to drive in small, limited race cars. They learned the basics long before they started going fast. Those basic skills became the building blocks that turned them into champions.

Usually the entire family gets involved. During the week they are just a typical family, but on the weekends they are transformed into a race team. Many excellent life lessons can be learned in racing like teamwork, sportsmanship, and that hard work pays off. The race series brings like-minded families together that can lead to life-long friendships.

Declan Shields, 2022 170 Super Stock Class Champion

The kids compete on the track, but play together when the helmets come off.

“My father passed away when I was young, but luckily I had a mentor who taught me about racing,” says Danny Martinez, Cash’s father. “Eddie Kirk instilled that passion for racing in me. I raced a 250R in the desert. My older kids raced too, but Cash really took to it. He plays football and baseball, but he loves racing the most. We make sacrifices as a family to race. One day it’s bologna, the next day it may be Red Lobster. That’s how it goes. It’s all worth it to see the kids smiling. Cash has to keep his grades up; that’s part of the bargain. I work on his car during the week and Pete Corwin from GSP has really helped out our family with the rest. He’s one of the best fabricators in the country. When we head out on the weekends it’s a long drive for us, but worth it. Cash will hit the track during practice to figure out his lines and we might make a couple adjustments, but then it’s go time. If you need a part, someone that has one will help you out. I’ve loaned out lots of stuff myself. Everyone just wants the kids to have a great time. The kids don’t hold back on the course, but they leave it on the track.”

I asked Cash if the other kids got intimidated by his number one plate. Danny chimed in that mostly it was the other dads who took notice. “I think racing has taught me that you have to be humble,” said Cash. “I want to race a Trick Truck, but I’ll have to be patient and wait for my turn. When it comes to racing, you have to hit the switch. You have no friends on the racetrack, but once it’s over, you go right back again to being friends with everyone.”

“Cash will be moving up into an RS1 around the middle of next season,” says Danny. “He wants me to put graphics on his car, but those things are a little top heavy and I’m not made of money. If he can keep it on all four tires, maybe he can have his graphics then. His

Paxton Schendel, 2022 570 Production Stock Class Champion

Evan Atkins, 2022 570 Mod Class Champion

younger sister Lydalis is going to be racing in the 170 Pure Stock class next year. I’m not sure how that’s going to go. With my boys it was easy. When they had trouble, I just said to suck it up. I’m not sure how my daughter will feel about that. You can have the best car, the best mechanic, but I’ve learned that if the wife is not on board, it’s not going to happen. We couldn’t do it without my wife Heather.” Cash says if he sees his sister doing something wrong he won’t be afraid to say something. He plans on mentoring his little sister. If she has the same talent as her older brother, look out. You could have a couple of number one plates in the Martinez family.

Cash Martinez has shown what can be done when the opportunity is out there. He’s already a champion. One day he may be racing against one of the sport’s icons or a fellow competitor who came up with him through the ranks for a Trick Truck championship. As long as the Best In The Desert Youth UTV series keeps turning out fast racers, the sport of off-road racing will continue to prosper. I recommend everyone watch these kids race. You’ll be able to brag one day that you saw Cash Martinez race, or any of the other future champions, when they were just kids.

Landen De Sousa Dias, 2022 1000/RS1 Class Champion

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CARPE TERRA

THE NEW RAZR XT

side-by-sides, the emphasis has been on labor- and job-oriented benefits. With Polaris XPEDITION, Polaris’ design and development efforts were focused on elevating outdoor adventure, delivering a level of adaptability, comfort and capability to go farther into the wild, allowing new customers to explore the outdoors unlike ever before.

The Polaris XPEDITION performs without missing a step, allowing riders to conquer rugged terrain with thoughtfully designed standard features, combined with Polaris’ widest range of accessories

and customization options to date. With adaptability at the forefront, the 2024 Polaris XPEDITION features integrated fold-flat rear seats, a pass-through cab and easy roof rack solutions to accommodate virtually any loadout. Delivering all-day comfort for any adventure, the Polaris XPEDITION is the first-ever sport side-by-side to offer a fully enclosed cab with full roof coverage, windows and optional heating and air conditioning providing riders protection from the elements.

The Polaris XPEDITION ADV model

features a fully covered pass-through rear cargo box providing 36" and 63" on the 2-seat and 5-seat models, respectively, of flat storage length. The Polaris XPEDITION XP features a dumping cargo box that measures 30" long to provide ample space for your spare tire and additional gear or accessories. The XP 5-seat model features a 60/40 split flip-up rear seats which allows seating to convert to storage space in seconds, while the ADV 5-seat model also has fold flat functionality for even more configuration and storage. Both models feature a segment-leading 48” width box with 16” high side walls so riders can carry equipment with ease.

Adaptable for Any Adventure

The 2024 Polaris XPEDITION features a flat roof that enables over 100 all-new adventure focused accessories including, Rhino-Rack® roof rack and accessories such as the Polaris rooftop tent, kayak holder, fishing rod holder, MAXTRAX® traction boards and more. Additionally, flat floors and a large rear storage box allow for ample space to carry gear and keep it protected from the elements. Whether hauling people or supplies, the five-seat configuration offers modular rear seats, providing even more storage space. In addition, a 2,000 lb. towing capacity

allows riders to hitch and pull additional gear. Plus, the all-new Lock & Ride MAX cargo system adds an unmatched level of adaptability, with accessories that allow for virtually limitless configurations to best match the needs of the next adventure.

Curated specifically for the Polaris XPEDITION are five rider-inspired accessory collections, built for a variety of activities including Overland, Kayak, Trail, Hunt and Utility.

Comfortable All Day and in Any Season

The Polaris XPEDITION is equipped with plush and sophisticated FOX®

Podium QS3® Shocks with Position

Sensitive Spiral technology keeping the ride smooth and enjoyable all day, even against rough terrain. An optional enclosed Pro Shield Cab System offers the most integrated, tight seal year-round to provide a superior experience every day, in every season. Additionally, the NorthStar trim features an exclusive HVAC system with adjustable control modes, allowing riders to set and direct the airflow to ensure the cab stays comfortable in hot or cold conditions. The NorthStar temperaturecontrolled vehicle is the industry’s only sport side-by-side to offer HVAC standard.

THE CHAMPIONS’ CHOICE

VP PRO GRADE ENGINE OIL

Trusted By Joe Gibbs Engines

We’ve been testing the VP Pro Grade Engine Oil for the last year. Everything looks so good on tear-down; the results are incredible. All of our previous engine wear issues went away. This is the only oil we allow to be used in our engines.

Mark Cronquist Director of Engine Department Joe

Gibbs Engines

OVERLAND ADVENTURE - 2024 POLARIS XPEDITION

Coupled with power windows and a tip-out front windshield, riders can still enjoy the great outdoors within the comfort and protection of the cab.

Focusing on rider comfort, the Polaris XPEDITION cab features a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, 6” of seat adjustability and front bucket seats for a tailored fit. To keep rider’s gear protected, the vehicle also has available locking doors, center console and a rear cargo box. Exploring the unknown

confidently has never been easier with Polaris’ industry-leading seven-inch touchscreen display powered by RIDE COMMAND, giving riders access to the most sophisticated GPS and trail network available. The Group Ride feature allows riders to communicate, navigate and stay connected as a group while out on the trail. Even while appreciating nature, riders can enjoy the soundtrack to their outdoor adventure with a JBL® Trail Pro audio system.

Capable Beyond the Trailhead

For the ultimate adventurer looking

to stay out longer and go deeper into the backcountry, the 2024 Polaris XPEDITION touts the industry’s largest fuel capacity of any factory side-by-side on the market with a 200+ miles range*. The 114-horspower, ProStar 1000 Gen 2 engine provides quick responsiveness and acceleration, while the on-demand all-wheel drive, Pro Armor 30” Crawler XP tires and a segment-leading 14” of ground clearance make easy work of the even the most technical terrain. High-mounted air intakes, sealed electrical components and extreme approach and departure angles allow riders to tackle trail conditions with

F�O� S�R�E� T� C�M�E�I�I�N

NEW SEVERE DUTY - HIGH PERFORMANCE DIESEL PISTON RING SETS

Total Seal’s exclusive new Diesel Ring Designs help these engines unleash their full potential by greatly improving efficiency while increasing horsepower and torque. They are ideal for OE rebuilds, towing and industrial apps, street performance, and all the way to 1,000 HP engines for full on competition. The new sets are available in Gapless® 2nd, or Conventional 2nd Ring configurations, depending on your application.

Top and 2nd rings are crafted from Martenstic Ductile Iron, the highest strength iron available, specially heat treated and coated with CrN (Chromium Nitride is a chemical compound of chromium and nitrogen with the formula CrN. It is very hard, and is extremely resistant to corrosion) for lasting durability and reduced wear.

Gapless® Second Ring – Patented Total Seal Gapless® design keeps fuel out of the oil and reduces turbo lag. This is the ring of choice for high performance or high efficiency applications.

Gapless® 2nd Ring Diesel Set

Conventional 2nd Ring - Premium quality ring with a conventional end gap. Ideal for stock rebuilds and mild performance applications.

Oil Ring – Two different oil ring configurations, Nitride Steel with chrome face, or Iron with chrome face, depending on the specific application and use are provided. Both are longer lasting, provide better sealing, maximum performance, lowers oil temperature, and maintains cleaner, longer lasting oil.

Conventional 2nd Ring Diesel Set

New Total Seal® Diesel Ring Sets available for:

• Cummins 5.9L and 6.7L

• Duramax 6.6L

• Custom sets also available For complete applications, please see the website. email or call for more info.

• Ford Powerstroke 6.4L to 7.3L

Phone: 623-587-7400

Web: www.TotalSeal.com

Email: info@TotalSeal.com

confidence, knowing the electrical system will stay dry and the engine, clutches and belt will still receive air flow for peak performance.

Built with a purposeful design, the Polaris XPEDITION comes with a Polaris HD 4,500 LB winch to help navigate the unknown and makes it easier than ever to add a Glacier Pro HD plow system. Plus, the Polaris PULSE electrical system allows you to easily install electrical accessories

such as light bars, a heater kit and more so you can go the distance year-round, day or night.

The 2024 Polaris XPEDITION XP and ADV are both available in two and five-seat configurations in three trims: Premium, Ultimate and NorthStar. The Ultimate and NorthStar trims will begin shipping to dealers in Summer of 2023, while the Premium trim will be made available in 2024.

2024 Polaris XPEDITION XP Premium and XPEDITION ADV Premium:

*This trim will be made available in 2024. The Polaris XPEDITION Premium features a 4.3” JBL® Color Display and Trail Pro 2000 Audio, 660 W stator charging system, FOX ® Shocks, Pro Armor 30” Crawler XP tires with 15” wheels, standard bumper, winch and roof. The ADV 5-seat model includes covered cargo area with flat fold and 60/40 split

flip-up rear seats, while the XP 5-seat model includes a dumping cargo box and 60/40 split flip-up rear seats.

2024 Polaris XPEDITION XP Ultimate and XPEDITION ADV Ultimate:

In addition to the premium offering, the Polaris XPEDITION Ultimate also includes Polaris’ industry-leading seven-inch touchscreen display powered by RIDE COMMAND, 900W stator charging system,

OVERLAND ADVENTURE - 2024 POLARIS XPEDITION

JBL® Trail Pro 4100 surround sound audio system with 400W AMP and 10” subwoofer, front and rear cameras, tilt and telescopic steering, plus padded console and auto stop winch.

2024 Polaris XPEDITION XP NorthStar and XPEDITION ADV NorthStar: Rounding out the lineup is the top-tier Polaris XPEDITION NorthStar. Including

everything from the Ultimate trim, the NorthStar trim features a fully enclosed cab with HVAC temperature and zone controls, lockable full doors with power windows and a tip-out front glass windshield. The NorthStar trim also comes standard with RIDE COMMAND+, allowing for vehicle health monitoring and more.

A CLOSER LOOK

RIGID INDUSTRIES

Rigid Industries, a company specializing in high-quality LED lighting products, has become a wellknown name in off-road racing since its founding in 2006. The company was started by Jason Christiansen, an off-road racing enthusiast

who wanted to create durable products that could withstand the harsh conditions of desert racing.

Rigid Industries is a leader in LED technology lighting, producing products that are unmatched in quality and durability.

The company's commitment to quality is unparalleled, with all products rigorously tested in the USA to ensure they can withstand even the most challenging conditions. As a result, Rigid Industries has developed a loyal following among off-

road enthusiasts who demand the best. Rigid Industries prides itself on putting racing at the forefront of their product development. They strive to stay cutting-edge with technology and durability, ensuring that racers can "Own

From extreme high horsepower race engines to powerful stationary engines for industrial use and everything in between, Total Seal® can take care of all your piston ring needs.

• 1.9” bore to 16.0” bore and everything in between

• Production quantities of 30 rings to 3,000 or more

• The greatest selection of piston rings in the world

• A wide range of available special coatings

• Any bore, axial thickness or radial dimension

• Custom ring design and manufacturing services

• Unmatched personal technical assistance

A piston can only perform as well as the rings surrounding it. That’s why Total Seal® concentrates on making the most precise, lightest, strongest, and innovative piston rings available. Nobody else can provide you with endless piston ring solutions like Total Seal®.

the Night" and conquer the race course. Supporting top-notch racers, like BJ Baldwin, the ’22 BITD point champion, and racers from various race classes as they take on the challenge of desert racing is a

highlight for Rigid.

One of the ways Rigid Industries demonstrates its commitment to quality is through its support of racers who compete in Best in the Desert (BITD).

The company knows that their lights will be required to light up pitch-dark desert terrain and be sturdy enough to withstand the tough terrain. By supporting racers

who put their products to the ultimate test, Rigid Industries continues to solidify its reputation as a leader in off-road LED lighting.

Ken Tichy

2023 King of the Hammers Desert Challenge Jeepspeed Challenge Class Winner

Photos by RnR Photos

Racing is at the root of Rigid Industries, and each year they strive to be the best in the industry both on and off the dirt. When you run Rigid, you know you are getting the best.

TRENDING IN THE DUST

IT'S FINALLY HERE

The wait is over; the all-new 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor is coming to North America. Ranger Raptor is based on a proven legacy of performance and built with uncompromised suspension design, power, purposeful technology, and rugged styling. Ranger Raptor is fully prepared to take on the most demanding terrain its extreme adventure-seeking customers can find.

Confident Suspension, Purposeful Tech

The heart of every Raptor is its suspension. Ranger Raptor starts with a purpose-built suspension that includes lightweight aluminum upper and lower control arms and a long-travel rear suspension with a Watts linkage and trailing arms for control and confidence in off-road conditions.

Ranger Raptor’s next-generation FOX™ 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shocks are coil-overs at the front and piggyback reservoirs at the rear to reduce heat buildup for uninterrupted performance all day

long.

Ranger Raptor is built on a beefy foundation, taking Ranger’s fully boxed frame up a notch by reinforcing the front frame rails, front shock towers, rear shock brackets, suspension mounting points, and other key areas so Ranger Raptor can handle more punishing off-road conditions.

The FOX™ Live Valve Internal Bypass system changes damping performance based on Ranger Raptor’s Drive Modes. The modes include Normal, Tow/Haul, Sport, Slippery, Off-Road, Rock Crawl, and Baja, all developed to provide

better on-road comfort, off-road control, capability and ride quality at high and low speeds.

Each selectable drive mode appropriately adjusts the tuning of the engine, transmission, ABS calibration, traction control, steering, throttle response and even the instrument cluster and touch screen look and information. The active valve exhaust system can also be tuned to several modes including Quiet, Normal, Sport and Baja settings. Ranger Raptor also comes with Trail Control™ so drivers

can navigate tricky spots while the truck manages the throttle and brakes.

Powertrain Fit for a Class of One

An amazing suspension deserves to be backed by a matching level of power. The Ford Performance tuned twin-turbo 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V6 produces 430 lb.ft. of torque and best-in-class maximum available 405 horsepower,** the most powerful Ranger ever built for increased performance on gravel, dirt, mud and sand.

Beginning with a compacted graphiteiron cylinder block, the engine utilizes a race-bred anti turbo-lag system to enable boost on demand in Baja mode. It keeps the turbochargers spinning for up to three seconds after the driver backs off the throttle, so acceleration is there while exiting corners. Bolted to that EcoBoost engine is a class-exclusive 10-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission* mated to an advanced four-wheel drive system with a new electronically controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case combined with front and rear locking differentials.

Designed for Purpose

Each Ranger Raptor design element has a purpose. Confident, modern styling starts with LED projector headlights to light up the night flanked by C-clamp signature lighting. Bold F-O-R-D lettering on the grille sits above an all-steel bumper with integrated, frame-mounted front and rear tow hooks and LED taillights that provide a signature C-clamp link to the front. Flared fenders with functional fender vents house aggressive 33-inch BFGoodrich® all-terrain KO3® tires on 17-inch wheels that can be mounted to optional beadlock capable wheels with

available bead locks for running extra low tire pressures in sand and rocky conditions. Ranger Raptor also sports serious underbody protection. The thick front bash plate is made of high-strength

steel and is complemented by dedicated engine, transfer case and fuel tank shields.

The Raptor’s cab is built for performance, with a sport steering wheel including cast magnesium alloy paddle

shifters for quick transmission control and a signature Raptor centering mark in a Code Orange color. Six overhead upfitter switches mounted in the overhead console simplify powering off-road hardware. Unique Ford Performance front seats are supportive, with extra bolstering to hold drivers in place during high-speed cornering. The rest of the cab includes premium materials trimmed in Code

Orange.

Ranger Raptor connects the driver to adventure with features like a 360-Degree Camera and Front View Camera to assist in off-roading, Zone Lighting to light up the night in remote locations, and classexclusive* Pro Trailer Backup Assist† to help back up boats and campers at the kinds of remote locations Raptors are built to reach. Even far out there, drivers want

to be informed and connected, so Raptor comes with a high-resolution 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and 12-inch center touchscreen running SYNC® 4A, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ wireless smartphone connectivity. Finally, \if the active exhaust doesn’t provide enough auditory stimulation, there’s a Bang & Olufsen® sound system to pump out your favorite soundtracks.

The Ford Raptor family spans across its truck and SUV portfolio. F-150 Raptor,

F-150 Raptor R, Bronco Raptor, and now Ranger Raptor are all built for the passionate performance enthusiast who wants a truck to tackle their biggest adventures.

The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor will be proudly assembled at the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan with orders beginning in June and availability late this summer.

Ford Performance Preps to Race Ranger Raptor T1+ in Dakar Rally

An extreme racing version of the Ford Ranger® will lead the expansion of Ford Performance global off-road racing to include the famed Dakar Rally in 2024 and beyond.

Ford Performance has raced and won from Le Mans to Monaco, Daytona to Bathurst and Finke to Ensenada. But it has yet to take on one of the toughest races on the planet – the iconic Dakar Rally.

The first step in the multi-year plan to compete in the Dakar Rally is to finish and learn in collaboration with longtime partners M-Sport and Neil Woolridge Motorsport (NWM) for vehicle development, servicing and event management.

The joint Ford Performance, M-Sport and NWM team has implemented a series of development phases through 2023 and continues testing with the Ranger T1+, based on the previous generation global Ranger, with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine. Test races are expected to include Spain’s Baja España Aragón and Morocco’s Rally du Maroc rallies in July and October, respectively, before tackling the Dakar Rally next year.

Photo provided by South Racing

By David Nehrbass

Many may think that when these words are yelled by a driver, co-driver, or crew member, what happens next is the most critical moment of your life. However, the reality of the situation is what you did that morning before you got in the racecar is likely the most critical element of your racing career.

This issue’s Safety-First article has a very personal connection because it deals specifically with a couple of real-life situations in which people were burned recently. Every racing organization has required safety equipment that a racer (and in many cases crew members) must wear. They also often have “Recommended” or “Highly Recommended” garments and equipment added to the rules for their organization. Many also have forbidden items to wear while associated with their race. Old school racers dislike being told what they must wear or what they can’t wear, often out of routine, and personal experience. While what racers and crew do away from a sanctioned event is ultimately up to them, at the races, promoters with established rules should have

a reasonable expectation that teams will follow those rules.

Case #1

A vehicle was involved in a rollover accident. The driver self-extracted and the co-driver was trapped in the vehicle as it caught on fi re. The co-driver was unable to get his belts undone and was trapped in the burning vehicle for approximately 30 seconds. The driver, along with race staff, were able to get him out and pull him to safety. The co-driver was not wearing a multi-layer SFI 3,2A/5 suit as required by the racing organization. To make matters more critical he was also wearing socks with a nylon-based fabric. After months in the hospital, ultimately this co-driver lost both his legs right to the point where his socks came up to due to damage received from the burns and the melting of the socks to his legs.

Case #2

Just a couple months ago, racer and good friend Patrick Gailey, strapped into his spec truck and tackled a well-known race here in the United States. Charging hard through some nasty terrain he had a power steering failure, ultimately pumping out hot fl uid at a fast rate and covering his helmet, hands, and suit with power steering fl uid. Shortly after becoming covered in the fl uid, a fl ash fi re occurred in a matter of seconds. This experienced driver upon egress of the vehicle lifted his helmet visor slightly for visibility at some point and allowed superheated air to enter his helmet. While wearing gloves, they were nylon-based go-kart gloves that not only have no fi re protection, but rapid melt in the fi re.

Super heated air can cause massive edema and complications when inhaled. It will kill you faster than the actual exterior

Alpinestar Karting Glove Patrick Gailey with burns to face and hands

Patrick Gailey's burned hand

Fire protection should also be a concern for your pit crew

burns. While an experienced racer, Patrick didn’t fully embrace the rules established in the rule book. He purchased the gloves he was wearing from a vendor at tech and contingency for a race not realizing they were not SFI rated and were a

educate on safety equipment after his very challenging experience. He plans on being a very vocal advocate reminding drivers of the expectations and the ramifi cations of either lack of safety gear or improper safety gear.

In both situations it is impossible with certainty to say that had they followed

Nylon based Alpinestar Go Kart Glove with no SFI rating – Not allowed as defined by most off-road racing series rulebooks

Nylon based motorcycle riding glove with no SFI rating worn by some well-known off road racers – Not allowed as defined by most off-road racing series rulebooks

Required SFI 3.3/5 on driving gloves

Alpha Gloves SFI 3.3/5 rated driving glove

the established rules set by the race promoters, that they would have been fi ne. However, there are years of science, testing, and standards established for a reason in all forms of motorsports. The SFI Foundation sets the gold standard of expectations for Motorsports and spends their lives testing, retesting and continually improving standards for Motorsports Safety expectations.

Gloves are required or recommended in all major Off-Road series. That recommendation carries with it the SFI

listing of 3.3/5. Without this SFI tag and listing, your glove is not only not protecting your hands from a fi re but can rapidly melt to your hands and cause more damage than a fl ash fi re.

Since Pat’s injury in March, I have been to numerous off-road events and still see people wearing nylon-based gloves as drivers and co-drivers. Recently in Baja, I watched a friend climb in a TT with the exact same gloves that Pat had been wearing in his incident. We immediately had a talk, and he grabbed his other SFI rated gloves as he headed out. He admittedly knew the hazards but liked the comfort of the glove.

Racing is something we all do for fun. Regardless of what your role on the team is, we all want to have fun. Let’s make sure as a off road community we do the right things, protect ourselves the best we can and try and remember to put Safety First.

In Memoriam –Arnold “Arnie” Kuhns

As I sat down to write this article today, I learned of the passing of Arnie Kuhns. Most people in racing likely have no idea who this iconic leader was but if you have raced any form of Motorsports, ever, you

have him to thank for standards in safety related items. Arnie was the founder of the SFI Foundation and took his role incredibly passionate and seriously developing and setting benchmarks for every single item that dealt with safety inside a race vehicle. From suits, helmets and restraints to belts nets and seats. Arnie is who you thank when you crawl out of your racecar after a violent crash.

Arnold “Arnie” Kuhns, safety pioneer and founder of SFI Foundation, passed away peacefully on June 1, surrounded by family. He was 83.

Arnie had a unique background that blended his engineering, production, and business skills into one talented individual. In 1984, Arnie was approached by his peers in the automotive industry to lead the newly formed SFI Foundation to address the increasing concern of inferior parts that posed a risk to safety at the racetrack. Arnie developed what was at the time an innovative system, creating minimum performance testing standards for products to help reduce the frequent failures of parts experienced during that era.

In the beginning, SFI had only two employees managing four product standards for one sanctioning body. Now, SFI testing and certifi cation has grown to a steadfast program with more than one hundred quality assurance specifi cations that are utilized by hundreds of sanctioning bodies internationally.

As a result of Arnie’s hard work and

unrelenting belief in doing the right thing, thousands of parts have been tested to safety standards to prove their worth and reliability. That has undoubtedly led to countless lives saved on the racetrack.

He was well-respected in the motorsport safety community due to his high level of integrity. Along the way, Arnie was honored with the Sports Car Club of America George Snively Award for Outstanding Contributions to Motorsports Safety (1995), the United States Auto Club Jack O’Neal Award for Motorsports Safety (1996), inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame (2002), awarded an NHRA Wally for Valued Personal Contributions to the Sport of Drag Racing and High Performance Industries (2002), SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Hall of Fame (2016), British Drag Racing Hall of Fame’s Lucas Oil Global Achievement Award (2018), and Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) John Melvin Motorsport Safety Award (2021). During his career he served as President of the International Council of Motorsports Sciences (ICMS) and was an active member of the NFPA 610 Committee for Safety at Motorsports Venues and the Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine.

As a person, Arnie was a kind family man and served as a role model to those who worked with him and knew him personally. He will be greatly missed by all.

NEED TO KNOW

Bob The Cooler Co. Launches New Outdoor-Themed Cooler Products

Bob The Cooler Co. born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona - where cacti, cervezas, and sunscreen rule. These guys are on top of their game with their tough, reliable, and uniquely designed coolers, drinkware, and gear that keeps up with your active lifestyle. BOB goes where you go, whether you’re cruisin the boat, rippin the dunes or simply hanging with friends. BOB’s your ultimate wingman keeping you cool in the hottest moments of life!

ABOUT:

After three decades of marketing success and his experience in the support of building Rockstar Energy into a huge success story, Jordan Cochrum and the “BOB’s Cool” team set out to revolutionize the cooler and active lifestyle accessories industry. To cater to powersports aficionados everywhere, they decided something new was needed - enter Bob The Cooler Co., an exciting alternative brand set on disrupting traditional outdoor-themed cooler products. This fun-loving friend is for every outdoor occasion; Bob’s your best bud, always down for a good time and will never let you down. Watch for the Bob Cooler product launch at the end of July

Details on Bob Coolers at: bobscool.com

atturo.com/product/trail-blade-x-t-sxs/

atturo.com/product/trail-blade-boss-sxs/

NEED TO KNOW

EIBACH Pro Truck Lift for 2017 to 2022 Ford Super Duty F-250 and F-350

One of the most popular heavy-duty trucks is the Ford Super Duty lineup and now Eibach has a product to lift the truck. Eibach‘s Pro Truck Lift for the 2017 to 2022 Ford Super Duty combines their lift springs and sport shocks to create a perfectly tuned suspension system engineered for both, on and off-road performance.

Each of Eibach’s Pro Truck Lift kits is designed and tested to deliver maximum ride height without compromising the integrity of factory bushings, ball joints, and other components. The front utilizes Pro Lift Kit springs manufactured using race-winning off-road spring technology. In addition to the new springs, the front also comes with Eibach’s Pro Truck shocks. These shocks feature a monotube design, 46mm pistons, Nitro coated rod, and heavy-duty zinc coating.

One thing that sets Eibach’s kits apart is that they are designed to work with factory suspension components for an increase in height without accelerated wear to ball joints and bushings. In addition, they are developed specifically to provide balanced ride quality, control, and off-road capability.

Click for more Information: eibach.com/us/

HENNESSEY Elevates Ford Ranger Raptor To 500 BHP ‘VelociRaptor 500’

Hennessey, the Texas-based hypercar manufacturer and high-performance vehicle creator, has announced the development and engineering for the new ‘VelociRaptor 500’ Ranger. The high-performance midsize pickup is based on the all-new 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, to which Hennessey’s engineers applied their extensive expertise to boost power and improve capability.

The team at Hennessey, which has been ‘making fast cars faster’ for more than 30 years, significantly enhanced the pickup’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine. The powerplant is rated at 405 bhp and 430 lb-ft of torque in stock configuration. Thanks to a new high-flow air induction system, a larger front-mounted intercooler, and an engine management software upgrade, Hennessey’s engineers boosted output to 500 bhp and 550 lb-ft of torque.

• 500 bhp production version of the new Hennessey

‘VelociRaptor 500’ Ranger boosts factory horsepower output by more than 20 percent

• Exclusive upgrade available for the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 in the flagship Ford Ranger Raptor

• ‘VelociRaptor 500’ Ranger is the most powerful warrantied midsize pickup available today

• As is the case with the Hennessey ‘VelociRaptor 500’ Bronco Raptor, the powerplant is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission sending power to an all-wheel drive system that has locking front and rear differentials, and a low-range transmission for additional off-road capability. The extra horsepower

will further improve the capabilities of the Ranger Raptor, which is fitted with an active exhaust system, Fox 2.5-inch ‘Live Valve’ internal bypass shocks, and factory G.O.A.T driving modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, Sand, Mud/Ruts, Rock Crawl, Baja, and Tow-Haul.

• Hennessey upgrade package pricing confirmed at MRSP $24,950

• Production to begin Q4 2023

Click for more Information: hennesseyperformance.com

ISSUE Q2 2023

FEATURED

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Bink Designs

Dirtfocus.com

Dirt Nation

GETSOMEphoto

HighRev Photography

Mike Ingalsbee

100 Q2 2023

This August, Ryan Arciero will be gunning for his third straight victory and trying to tie Jason Voss, the only three-peat winner in the history of Vegas to Reno.

Photo by GETSOMEphoto