KENNY HAUK’S MOAB 4X4 EXPO IS BORN
ISSUE 10 VOL 1
The Voice Of Off-Road Motorsports
NOVEMBER 2020
LEGENDARY WEEK ON EDGE INSIDE THIS ISSUE: UTV WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS SHIFTS TO LAKE HAVASU
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+ ZACH OSBORNE WINS PRO MOTO CHAMPIONSHIP + HUMMER GOES ELECTRIC
LUCAS OIL OFF ROAD MASTERPIECE OF METAL: SEASON CHAMPIONSHIP OFF-ROAD LIKE A G6 WINNERS
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TABLE OF CONTENTS REGULAR DIRT>
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4 WORD
5 NEWS FROM AROUND THE DIRT 8 NEW PRODUCT
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8 DIRTWORLD 56 CHAPPY’S PIT STOP 57 CALENDAR
FEATURES>
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14 MOAB 4X4 EXPO 18 COVER STORY: WHEELING WITH THE PROS.
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24 UTV WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS SHIFT TO LAKE HAVASU 30 MASTERPIECE OF METAL: GAUNT MOTORSPORTS G6 SPEC TT
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38 LUCAS OIL OFF ROAD SEASON CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS 43 ZACH OSBORNE WINS PRO MOTO CHAMPIONSHIP
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46 HUMMER GOES ELECTRIC
TECH>
54 Publisher DirtSports Inc. Editor-In-Chief Shaun Ochsner Sales and Management Dave Arnold Contributing Editors LaChelle Halliday Steve Hanson Dave Arnold
WHAT HOSE DO YOU NEED? Contributing Photography Shaun Ochsner Dave Arnold Eric Minks Ford Steve Hanson Align Media Polaris Kawasaki
Email: dirtsports@dirtsportsworld.com Website: www.dirtsportsworld.com FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA DIRTSPORTSWORLD
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WORD
THE BATTLE OF THE EV’S Electric vehicle wars are heating up. It was only a matter of time before we started seeing off-road capable EV’s. Start-up Rivian debuted an SUV and Truck two years ago at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Tesla has been teasing us with a truck for way too long. It finally debuted last year. GMC announced the return of an electric version of the Hummer last month packed with off-road capable features such as “crabwalk” and IFS front and rear. Rivian recently built an overland version of its SUV complete with pull-out kitchen and rooftop tent. The company even sent its R1T truck to compete in this year’s Rebelle Rally. As battery technology evolves, will the future of off-roading shift to electric? How long before we are driving an electric Jeep or Raptor or even new Ford Bronco on off-road trails. Could this pave the way for an all-electric Trophy Truck? We might see one sooner rather than later.
Shaun Ochsner Editor-In-Chief Dirt Sports World 4 | DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM
NEWS Geico Honda Team Shuts Down Geico Honda’s Supercross and Outdoor Motocross Team has shut down operations. The announcement comes as the AMA Outdoor season comes to an end. The team released the following statement: “We definitely didn’t see this announcement coming and the term, “all good things must come to an end”, just doesn’t seem fitting. After 22 years and 12 championships, we were forced to make the decision of closing down our race team. We were thrown a curve ball in August by losing our title sponsor. We have worked tirelessly to try and find a replacement but given this unpredictable year, we ran out of time to get something put together. We would like to thank our staff and riders for being as understanding as they can be in this situation. Being forced to close our team doesn’t mean we lose the family we created and no matter where our next chapters take us, our bond will not be broke. Thank you to every team member, rider and
their families who have come through our operation- we truly could not have done it without you. This sport requires a lot of sacrifices from more than just the rider and we have been lucky to have some amazing support systems behind our guys. The team has been operated by Factory Connection for 22 years. Geico has been a sponsor for 13 years. The team has 12 championships.
3-Phased Opening for Oceano Dunes California State Parks is opening the Oceano Dunes near Pismo Beach in a 3-phased opening. The dunes have been closed to vehicular traffic since March due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. In Phase 1, street legal vehicles will be allowed to use the dunes during Day use hours. There will be a 1,000-vehicle limit. Green sticker vehicles and camping will only be allowed in phase 2. Spots will be limited. Inventory will expand in Phase 3 in alignment with state health orders. Phase-1 opening began on October 31st. Phase 2 and 3 opening dates have not been announced. DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 5
NEWS FROM AROUND THE DIRT
Kawasaki Hands Eli Tomac Keys to Teryx KRX-1000
Eli Tomac was rewarded for winning the 2020 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship. Kawasaki handed Tomac the keys to a brand new Teryx KRX 1000. Tomac’s Teryx was outfitted with custom D’Cor graphics and a whole host of Kawasaki accessories.
“Wow! What a surprise! I was not expecting this at all. What a cool gift from everyone at Kawasaki,” said the 2020 Monster Energy Supercross champion, Eli Tomac. “Kawasaki’s tradition to give each champion a ring is something special and receiving another one for this year’s supercross title is amazing. Honestly, I am speechless. I got to drive the new Teryx KRX1000 out at the global launch last year and it was a blast. We use the Kawasaki MULE around our property for all sorts of things, but now I’ve got a serious side by side to go rip around in!”
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The list of accessories installed on Tomac’s Teryx includes front and rear bumpers, LED lights, spare tire, recovery hooks and straps, dash net, upgraded premium roof and dash net.
Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series Discontinues Operations The Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series has announced it is discontinuing operations just weeks after hosting its final championship round at Glen Helen. “Lucas Oil has made the decision to discontinue owning and operating both the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series and the Lucas Oil Regional Off-Road Series,” said Director of Race Operations, Ritchie Lewis. “This year, Lucas Oil made an incredible financial effort to keep our offroad commitments to our employees, promoters, racers and sponsors, during arguably one of the roughest periods of time for our country. As we look ahead, there are too many variables that could impact the financial commitment and overall health of the series going forward, which necessitated this difficult course of action. The Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series could never have achieved the levels of success it did without the individuals who made it all happen - out on the racetrack. The unwavering commitment from our drivers over the years has allowed Lucas Oil to invest in their talent, and we couldn’t be prouder to see all the success stories that have come out of this
championship,” added Lewis. “Moreover, we owe tremendous gratitude to the companies that have lent their support to short course off road, as their partnerships were invaluable to our success. As we close this chapter, these individuals and our relationships are what we will remember.” The series has hosted races for 12-years. The Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series began after the 2008 financial failure of Championship Off Road Racing (CORR). Former CORR employee Tony Vanillo convinced Lucas Oil Products to invest in short course off-road to give west coast racers a place to race. Lucas Oil dissolved its Midwest Shortcourse Series last year.
DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 7
DIRT WORLD BIG CRANDON
Shooting “bangers” all day can be exhausting
BIG CRANDON
LOORRS GLEN HELEN
Is he taking a picture of his wife on the podium or shooting a selfie?
LOORRS GLEN HELEN
LOORRS GLEN HELEN
Jamey’s other talent
Future Trophy Kart Champions.
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Because Unimogs are that cool.
LOORRS GLEN HELEN
Anybody looking for a ringer to drive their truck?
LOORRS GLEN HELEN
THE WORLD IS A DIRTY PLACE
LOORRS CHANDLER Apparently this guy hates the governor
The beer is on us!
LOORRS GLEN HELEN
BIG CRANDON
Tastes that bad?
The first “two seater” mod kart
UTV WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
SU B YO MI T PH UR OT O SEND US YOUR CRAZY PHOTO OUT IN THE DIRT AND WE MAY FEATURE IT HERE IN AN UPCOMING ISSUE.
When you are part of the “cool kids” club
Email to: Dirtsports@dirtsportsworld.com DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 9
NEW PRODUCT
Polaris General XP 1000 Factory Custom Polaris continues to add to its capable side-by-side line-up. The limited release Polaris General XP 1000 Factory custom is now available. Customers can choose between a four-seat or two-seat model. “With the GENERAL XP 1000 Factory Custom Edition, we wanted to deliver an off-road experience that can typically only be found with a full-blown custom vehicle,” said Steven Menneto, President of Polaris Off Road. “This product is another example of our relentless effort to apply direct feedback from our riders to deliver the best vehicles, push the industry forward and, ultimately, elevate the off-road lifestyle.”
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The Polaris General XP 1000 Factory Custom starts with a signature design that makes the machine stand out from the rest. It features a premium Matte Titanium finish wrapped in the signature Polaris Blue with Carbon Fiber graphics. Even the components such as bumper, suspension parts have been powder coated in Polaris Blue. There is special badging and color matched piping on the interior. To top it off and make the vehicle special, Polaris added a new raceinspired steering wheel featuring semi-perforated material with contrast stitching.
POLARIS GENERAL XP 1000 FACTORY CUSTOM
The Polaris General XP 1000 has a 64-inch stance. Polaris added 30-inch Pro Armor Crawler tires and Pro Armor HEXLR wheels. Even the beadlock rings are color matched to the vehicle. The customization continues with a high-output 11-inch Pro Armor light bar in the front. Tech includes the Polaris Ride Command. A 7-inch screen can be accessed with gloves on packed with GPS navigation, maps and more. A follow mode allows the leader during a group ride to leave a digital track that other riders can follow. Of course, you can’t forget about the Rock Fosgate Stage 4 audio system to rock out to all of your favorite tunes. The system has four surround speakers and a 10-inch sub-woofer. The Polaris General XP 1000 Factory Custom is now arriving in dealerships. MSRP for the twoseat model starts at $25,999 and $27,999 for the four-seat model. DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 11
CAPTURED Factory Air Support: Normally aerial support at off-road races is used by big budget teams that tend to drive unlimited vehicles. If you are Eliott Watson and Christopher Polvoorde and drive a Honda Talon, you get a chase helicopter, complete with film crew at the UTV World Championships.
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KENNY HAUK’S moab 4x4 expo is born
story and photos: Shaun ochsner 14 | DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM
EVENT COVERAGE
K
enny Hauk had an idea. Host an off-road event open to all kinds of 4x4 vehicles. Hauk’s idea came to life after the COVID-19 Pandemic forced the annual Easter Jeep Safari to be canceled. EJS is a week-long event held annually in Moab, Utah right before the Easter holiday. EJS attracts a huge amount of Jeep enthusiasts from all across the country. Parts manufacturers and even the representatives from the Jeep brand descend on Moab. It’s an opportunity for Jeep designers and engineers to speak with their core customer. In April, all EJS plans came to a screeching halt as hotels were shuttered and an emergency county ordinance outlawed camping, all to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This meant a huge blow to Moab’s economy which depends on events like Easter Jeep Safari. Enter Kenny Hauk to help Moab recover. Kenny Hauk is the owner of Hauk Designs. A builder of highly customized vehicles, Kenny Hauk prides himself on doing anything he puts his mind to. Hauk regularly makes trips to Moab. Last year he brought a 6x6 steam
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powered Jeep JK Wrangler called the Loco Hauk. Hauk’s television show- Road Hauks aired on the History Channel. He is currently working on a build series which airs on Netflix.
MOAB 4X4 EXPO
Hauk’s inaugural Moab 4x4 Expo brought out vendors to showcase off-road products and vehicles. Ford brought out the 2021 Bronco which garnered much attention. Jeep sent their latest line-up of JL’s and Gladiators. Several professional drives were invited to host runs on some of Moab’s most popular trails. The vendor expo was held in the morning hours to allow everyone time in the afternoon to participate in trail runs. Other events at the expo included an Axe throwing contest, and RC truck challenge and mini offroad course, complete with plenty of off-road obstacles.
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COVER STORY
WHEELING WITH THE
PROS
STORY AND PHOTOS: SHAUN OCHSNER DAVE ARNOLD 18 | DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM
A
large part of the Moab 4x4 Expo included going on out on trail runs with professional drivers. Attendees had the option of signing up and paying for an afternoon on their favorite trail. Professional drivers were assigned to lead each trail run. The list included a who’s who of the offroad community. On the list of names was Loren Healy. Healy is a two-time King of the Hammers winner. Healy has raced every major rock obstacle in the Ultra 4 series across the country. On the first day of the Moab 4x4 Expo, Healy led a run of seven vehicles
on Pritchett Canyon¬– one of the most difficult trails in Moab. The terrain starts out through beautiful trees lined with large rock walls. Just as you think you are in for an easy ride; the trail gives way to the first couple of rock obstacles. Things are just getting started here. Healy drives his Ford Ranger “Fun-Haver” through the obstacles just like it’s another day racing King of the Hammers. As he glides through with ease, others struggle. Healy is quickly out of his truck guiding the trail participants through, teaching them which lines to take. As the trail winds its way through the canyon, things become really difficult. Pritchett
COVER STORY
BELOW: Loren Healy helps one of the participants up a rock obstacle.
Pritchett Canyon two of the most challenging obstacles– Rocker Knocker and Axle Hill. A third obstacle known as the Rock-Pile is no longer used. There are winch points at the top of each to help recover stuck and broken vehicles. While we had a good group of capable rigs, there are always going to be equipment casualties. One of rigs broke steering parts and would have to be left behind for later recovery. Another rolled off of Rocker Knocker. Everyone scrambled into action to help roll the vehicle back over and fix a broken steering arm. The hours on Pritchett Canyon can tick away really quick when rigs are making several attempts to climb an obstacle or stopped to fix broken parts. Healy was patient with the group all while helping to guide everyone through.
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WHEELING WITH THE PROS
Short course racer Christopher Polvoorde is normally found behind the wheel of his ProLite truck. He and his dad have been wheeling for years. Polvoorde even raced King of The Hammers this year in a Honda Talon. When Kenny Hauk invited him to Moab as a celebrity on a trail run, he jumped at the chance. Polvoorde brought out his 2020 Ford Ranger. We had the opportunity to ride with him on the “Top of The World� trail. This trail is an off-roaders favorite. Polvoorde was right at home here. The trail starts out as a regular dirt road but quickly gets technical as the elevation climbs. Polvoorde crawled the Ford Ranger over the rocks with ease. We had a relatively small group for this run. Optima batteries brought out their newly built Unimog. The large German-built vehicle had no issues rolling over whatever rocks were on the trail. As the Top of the World trail nears
its end, you find yourself with a 3,287-foot elevation gain providing a phenomenal view of the canyons below. There is a single rock that juts out over the canyon. People park here and take pictures of their rigs overlooking the world below.
ABOVE: Christopher Polvoorde was one of the invited Pros.
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COVER STORY
Tanner Foust came out on Day 2 for an intermediate trail ride. His group was selected to run Hell’s Revenge. Foust is a well-known rally racer and former host of the Top Gear television series. To get to Hell’s Revenge, you have to drive through the Sand Flats recreation entrance. The trail winds up a steep razorback rock with a 100foot drop on either side. The procession of vehicles ranging from Jeep renegades, Jeep Rubicons and rock buggies had no issues crawling the first obstacles. There were even a couple of full-size Hummers on this run. Tanner Foust was behind the wheel of a Jeep Rubicon. For Tanner, crawling these obstacles was a new experience. The trail continues to snake through the rocks with more obstacles and you look out on a sparse, but beautiful landscape that is almost alien to the eye and reminiscent of a Mars mission. The first major rock climb is lovingly referred to as Hells gate. As all these rock warriors lined up below, the buggies made it look almost easy as they were first to hit the rock climb. Next, the Jeeps ascended up through this narrow
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WHEELING WITH THE PROS
crevasse also making it look fairly effortless. Finally, it was time for the Hummers. As they barely squeezed up through this narrow gorge we start to see one lean against the rocks. Luckily, they had aftermarket rock sliders installed, so no damage to the body. Tanner was finally getting comfortable with the trails. He jumped out of his borrowed Rubicon and into the drivers seat of one of the rock buggies with a big grin on his face! With a little coaching and he was able to easily navigate the rock obstacle. An offer comes in from one of the Hummers for Tanner to drive so he quickly jumps into the drivers seat. Tanner squeezes it up the gorge like a professional. “What a blast it is,” says Tanner as he jumps out the of driver seat. We learn that he is driven Hummers a few times for movie stunts and is amazed how the big heavy machines easily climbed up the rocks. The trail continues towards iconic sections known as the car wash and hot tubs. Another major obstacle is the “Escalator.” With not wanting to scratch the borrowed property of the Jeep, Tanner jumps back into the Rock crawler again to negotiate the vertical undulations of the escalator. He returns with the grin of a 10-year-old boy still on his face ready for more! At the exit of the trail there are dinosaur prints molded into the rocks.
ABOVE: Tanner Foust is all smiles after driving on Hells Gate
Other trail rides include Chicken Corners which is one of the many entry-level trails in Moab. The beauty and scenic canyons with different striations of rocks and colors that are mind blowing. There are beautiful panoramic views with the Colorado river sneaking through the deep canyon.
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UTV
World Championships SHIFTS TO Lake Havasu
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his year marked a new venue for the UTV World Championships. For the last few years the event has been held in Laughlin, Nevada. Owners, Matt and Joshua Martelli changed the event venue to Lake Havasu, Arizona. With the iconic lake and jagged rock mountains as a backdrop, the event was held at the popular Standard Wash OHV area just a few miles outside of Lake Havasu City. The move comes after more than a year of research and development along with coordination with the Lake Havasu BLM office.
story and photos: Shaun ochsner
UTV WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
The venue change allowed the Martellis to triple the size of their poker run and invite more racers to participate in the weekend’s events. First up on the schedule– qualifying. Only the Desert Turbo, Normally Aspirated (NA) & Unlimited classes were able to qualify for starting positions on a 3.76-mile course. The UTV World Championships catered to kids as well with Youth 170, 250, 570 and 1000 classes. The Youth UTV classes are a great way for the kids to get their feet wet in desert racing. In the Youth 170 and 250 classes, drivers can get their start as young as 5 years old all the way up to age 12. Their course included a 2-mile land rush start with grand prix finish. Minimum age for the Youth 570 starts at 12. Victories were awarded to Paxton Schendel in Youth 250, TJ Siewers in Youth 170. Ethan Groom won the Youth 570 class. Polaris added a bonus for all of the youth winners¬– $15,000 worth of support from the company for their race programs. The money is part of a new youth sponsorship program. Ronnie Anderson led the short-course event wire to wire with an easy win. Anderson had the holeshot and never looked back. Friday
ABOVE: Dodge Poleman wins his second UTV World Championship title in the Pro-UTV class. 26 | DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM
afternoon, the Pro NA and Pro Unlimited UTV’s took to the course for a 5-lap desert race totaling 148 miles. The father and son team of Macy and Dodge Poleman cruised out front all afternoon completing the five 29.6-mile laps in 4 hours, 26 minutes. Kaeden Wells finished second and Travis Zollinger finished third. It wasn’t all that easy for a few racers who had some bad luck on the course at checkpoint 10. Reports from the race radio channel was “we have three racers down at checkpoint 10, the course seems to be eating vehicles”. If you are Dodge Poleman, you know how to navigate that type of mess as he had no issues securing his second career UTV World Championship title.
ABOVE: Kaden Wells finished second.
LAKE HAVASU
Robby and son, Max Gordon shared driving duties in the new Speed UTV.
Other events at the UTV World Championships included a Desert UTV Rally and Sportsman race. Racers did a total of 118.4 miles across 4 laps. Chris Blais and his brother Nick took a victory in that race driving a Can-Am. Chris Blais was paralyzed after a moto accident while pre-running for a desert race in Nevada in 2007. As UTV racing has grown more popular over the years, racers have made names for themselves in the sport. Off Road celebrities who have had opportunities to race everything from top the line Trophy Trucks to short course race vehicles have taken notice of UTV racing and are now participating in growing events like the UTV World Championships. One such racer is Robby Gordon. Gordon has raced just about everything all over the world. He even campaigned a couple of Wild Cat XX vehicles in the Dakar Rally. Gordon announced last year he would be building his own brand of UTV called the Speed UTV, based on his knowledge of off-road racing. Both Robby and his son Max Gordon campaigned the new UTV in the Desert Pro
class. Robby and Max finished 22nd in a field of 45 vehicles. Robby came back the next day and raced in the Desert Pro Turbo class, finishing 8th.
Doug Fortin started out front in the Desert Pro Turbo Class. Fortin is known for making steering products for just about every class of off-road racing vehicle. He is also an accomplished racer. Fortin was out front for the first two laps of the race, but it wasn’t long before 4th place qualifier Ryan Piplic settled into the lead for the rest of the race. Piplic finished the race in 4 hours, 12 minutes. DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 27
UTV WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS LEFT: Doug Fortin starts out the Desert Pro Turbo race in the lead.
BELOW: Justin Lambert finished the race in second place after a 19th qualifying spot.
The UTV World Championships were a huge success. Lake Havasu mayor Cal Sheehy checked out the race. Sheehy is excited for the event to return to the area in 2021. The Martelli brothers have already announced next year’s event will be held October 13th17th 2021.
BELOW: Ryan Piplic is the winner of the Desert Pro Turbo race.
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Performance Products
PERFORMANCE IS OUR MIDDLE NAME! CBR Performance Products Inc has a number of years of hands on experience from Motocross Racing, UTV Racing, Road Racing and Off-Road Racing. Many Teams and/or individuals who use CBR products are winning championships and seeing podium finishes. www.cbr-performance.com
MASTERPIECE OF METAL
OFF-ROAD LIKE A
G6
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The first Geiser Bros G6 TT Spec truck STORY AND PHOTOS: SHAUN OCHSNER
T
he G6 is Geiser Bros latest Trophy Truck build. Since 1995, Geiser has been building championship winning race trucks. The Gaunt Motorsports G6 truck was originally like a Trophy Truck. The engine was changed to an LS3 to meet the rules of the SCORE Spec trophy truck class. The engine power in the class cannot be greater than a stock sealed V8. This is the first spec truck built on the Geiser G6 platform. It features a lower center of gravity with improved offroad handling. The Gaunt team was involved in the entire build process, which allowed them to personalize Every build is precision cut with the truck just the way wanted it. Geiser’s custom parts and stamped with their logo. Fox Shocks and Eibach springs are used on the suspension.
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GAUNT MOTORSPORTS GEISER G6
LEFT: Under the hood is a Dougans Spec LS 3 racing engine. Per the rules of the class, motors must be sealed and are limited to stock V-8. BELOW: Gaunt personalized the G6 with a Pit Boss Jack, traction mats,spare axles and a Safecraft fire suppression system.
LEFT: The G6 has a custom Tubeworks offroad durable rear end.
RIGHT: A hydraulic system adjusts the KC Hilites light bar up and down while racing. DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 33
The interior of the G6 has all of the bells and whistles. A large Lowrance HDS 12 inch screen allows the co-driver to see everything on the map. A lead-nav system provides a secondary GPS for navigation. The co-driver can also monitor everything on the Motec digital dash system. Drivers are secured inside the cab with Simpson seats and safety equipment.
BUILD SHEET Vehicle: 2020 Geiser Bros G6 TT Spec Builder: Geiser Bros Power Train: Dougans LS3 Spec Engine Drive Train: RDE Suspension: FOX Racing Shocks/Eibach Springs Steering: Geiser Exterior: Raceline Wheels, BFG KR3 Tires, Ebbco Race Products, KC Hilites Interior: Simpson Racing Seats, LeadNav, PCI Radio & Intercom, MPI Steering Wheel, Lowrance HDS 12-inch display, MOTEC digital dash. 34 | DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM
DESERT RACING
BITD Ends Season on a Highly Competitive Note
T
Story: Shaun Ochsner Photos: Shaun Ochsner & Eric Minks
he final points totals have been calculated for the Best in The Desert 2020 Season. Racing was off to a roaring start with Jason Voss taking a Trick Truck win at the Parker 425– BITD’s first race of the season in January. Adam Householder claimed an overall weekend win at the Laughlin Desert Classic in February. The COVID-19 Pandemic then sidelined everything in March forcing Best in the Desert to revise their schedule. When racing resumed in June, Luke McMillin took the win at the Sliver State 300. Bryce Menzies then won Vegas to Reno. At the final race weekend of the season in Parker, Arizona for the Bluewater Desert Challenge, Justin Lofton took the overall DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 35
BEST IN THE DESERT SEASON CHAMPIONSHIP
win. So, with different winners at each event, who wins the overall season championship? None of these guys. Proof that consistency is key, Concrete Motorsports Team owner Kevin Thompson and “wheel-man” Harley Letner take the season championship. The Concrete team was near the front of the pack at every event. Jason Voss came into the final race with the points lead, but a bad crash would send Voss to the hospital on Day 1 of the two-day event. His truck was heavily damaged and would not finish the weekend. Adam Householder finished 14 points behind Concrete Motorsports in the season standings.
“Wheel-man” Harley Letner kept the #70 TT in contention for the championship all season. 36 | DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM
DESERT RACING
All of the racers were allowed one “throwaway race.” This was decided mid-season to help out racers that were unable to travel due to restrictions during the pandemic. To make things even more exciting, the Silver State 300 and Bluewater Desert Challenge were double points events. Three points separated Brandon Bailey and Michael Frye in Class 1500. Desert racing legend Sam Berri had the point lead coming into the Bluewater Challenge. A DNF would wash away his championship hopes this season. Michael Frye took the season win.
Kaden Wells. Phil Blurton was crowned champion in the UTV Turbo Class. $667,000 in purse winnings were paid out this season proving that off-road racing does pay off– maybe just a little. Courtesy of : Polaris
The 6100 class saw a tight point battle between Kyle Jergensen, Ray Griffith and Troy Messer. Jergensen earned himself the 28 points he desperately needed to claim the championship. Seth Quintero won the UTV Pro Production class by a single point over
DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 37
2020 lucas oil off road season championship
winners
story and photos: Shaun ochsner
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T
he Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series hosted its final rounds of the season at Glen Helen Raceway. The season was set to begin in March when the COVID Pandemic forced the cancellation of several races for months. The season finally kicked off in July without fans. Short course racers quickly found their groove on the track after months long lockdown. Some were lucky enough to get some testing in before racing started. As the series moved to the next rounds in Wheatland, Missouri at Lucas Oil Speedway, things went into overdrive. Worried about not getting a full season in, officials added two triple headers to the schedule. This meant racers would have to deal with three-days of continuous racing. Short course racing is punishing on even the best prepped vehicles. It’s 20-minutes of hard driving and door banging. Short course racing pushes parts to the breaking point as drivers charge hard for the lead. Add in an extra day of racing and your whole race program can change.
SHORT COURSE
Mr. Consistency One of the most consistent drivers in the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series was Myles Cheek. Racing in the Production 1000 UTV class, Cheek has been on the podium at every single round. Cheek had seven wins in the class earning him the season championship.
The Watson Effect Elliot Watson won eight straight Pro Buggy races. Watson, the defending 2019 Pro Buggy championship was back, and he let everybody know. Watson may not have always started out front every round. There was always a half-way point in the race that ABOVE: Elliot Watson won eight Watson was making a move for the lead. While both straight Pro-Buggy races. Trey Gibbs and Matt Brister were always there to put a little pressure on Watson, it was Watson who had an incredible 53-point lead over Gibbs for the championship. Watson also received the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series driver of the year award.
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LUCAS OIL OFF ROAD SEASON CHAMPOINSHIPS
Heger Gets It Done Brock Heger secured his position in the championship standings early. Multiple podiums and wins put him 42 points ahead of closest competitor Christopher Polvoorde. Heger was back on the podium in first place during Round 9. In the final Round Heger would pull off the track with a transmission issue on the second lap. He still had enough points to secure the season championship, even with Christopher Polvoorde taking the Round 10 win.
DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 41
SHORT COURSE
Brooks vs. Mittag
ABOVE: Connor Barry secured the Modified Kart Championship. BELOW: Cory Weller wins another Turbo UTV Championship.
One of the tightest and craziest points battles was in the Pro-2 class. The drivers in Pro-2 are incredibly fast and talented. Jerett Brooks came into the final rounds, seven points ahead of Doug Mittag. In Pro-2, anything can happen. The final rounds proved both drivers had to work for the championship. Mittag started Round 9 out front. A second lap caution shuffled Mittag to third and Brooks gained the lead spot for the rest of the race. The final round saw just as much drama. Cory Winner had the pole position and started out front. Trevor Leighton saw opportunity to take the lead. Meantime, behind Leighton, both Mittag and Brooks were digging for the lead. Leighton spun out and Mittag took over the lead and stayed there the rest of the race. Despite Mittag’s win, Brooks won the season championship by two points. Other season championship wins went to Connor Barry in Modified Kart and Corry Weller in Turbo UTV.
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PRO MOTOCROSS
The Season That Almost Wasn’t I
t almost didn’t happen. Early this year, the pandemic froze Supercross mid season. The future remained uncertain as to when racing would resume. The outdoor motocross season couldn’t even get started until Supercross was finished. For weeks, no one knew when that would be as the lockdown continued for weeks. A plan was hatched to finish out the final rounds of Supercross in Salt Lake City, Utah in just three weeks during the month of June. Already past the start date of the
STORY BY: SHAUN OCHSNER PHOTOS: COURTESY ALIGN MEDIA
traditional outdoor motocross season, summer began to look promising as states allowed limited events and lockdowns were lifted. The schedule was adjusted several times and fans were allowed to attend events with strict COVID protocols in place that included mandatory masks, hand sanitizing stations and social distancing. Access to the paddock areas were extremely limited to protect riders and crews.
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LUCAS OIL PRO MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP
Racing finally got underway in August with nine rounds on the schedule. Zach Osborne earned his first 450 class victory at the opening round at the Loretta Lynn Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. Dylan Ferrandis swept both motos in the 250 class. A second weekend of racing was added at the Loretta Lynn Ranch after rising COVID cases forced the cancellation of Washougal National in Washington State. Zach Osborne was back on the podium after a wild rainy afternoon of racing. Dylan Ferrandis also made it to the podium in Moto 2.
Eli Tomac took the overall win at the Ironman National in Crawfordsville, Indiana as Ferrandis continued to extend his points lead. Zach Osborne was back atop the podium the following weekend in a series first doubleheader at the Red Bud National. The weeks wound down and Osborne’s points lead continued to grow.
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ABOVE: Zach Osborne earns his first win of the Pro Motocross season.
OUTDOOR MX
Four wins and six podium finishes later, Osborne became the 25th rider to earn the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship. 31-year old Osborne also made history as the oldest rider to win a Pro Motocross Championship in the history of the sport. Osborne finished 12 points ahead of closest competitor Adam Cianciarulo. Dylan Ferrandis also broke records winning the 250 Championship and becoming the first rider from France to hold such a title.
ABOVE: Zach Osborne’s team celebrates a hard earned victory. BELOW: Frenchman Dylan Ferrandis won the 250 championship.
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Hummer Goes Electric STORY: LaChelle Halliday PHOTOS: Courtesy of GMC
“GET TO THE CHOPPA”
Y
ou don’t have to thank Arnold this time for the iconic comeback of GMC’s groundbreaking beast of a machine, the Hummer. In the early 90s, Arnold Schwarzenegger undoubtedly fell head over heels for the military grade 6,000 lb vehicle used by military individuals to carry man and supplies to the battleground. He ultimately requested AM General, manufacturer at the time, to build a civilian version of the Hummer. After obtaining the rights, GMC began producing the Hummer line to include the H2 and H3. By 2010, as sales drastically declined, GMC stated the line had ceased in production. 10 years later, GM boasts fully renovated factories and an upcoming lineup, promising an army of electric vehicles for the coming years. Yet the most awaited reveal was undeniably the new fully electric Hummer
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with a six-figure price tag promising to give fuel guzzling trucks some fierce competition. GMC has held a strong foundation of manufacturing trucks since 1902 in multiple countries, thus setting the standard for purpose-built vehicles designed and engineered to the highest degree. With the backing of engineers who are deeply passionate off-road enthusiasts themselves¬– the Hummer EV was born.
HUMMER GOES ELECTRIC
At a glance, there is no mistake this truck is anything BUT a GMC Hummer EV. With Formidable styling cues, including wheels at the corners and a high stance, rooted in a capability-first mantra, where off road functionality such as approach and departure angles take precedence in the design. This unique opportunity is a bold design statement combined with a truly capable chassis that visually conveys an eagerness to forge a new path.
Equipped with GM’s Ultium batteries, providing power and range, also will be contributing to driving dynamics and structure. With a low mounting position, the chassis contributes to a low center of gravity, enhancing the vehicle’s control and stability. As the first vehicle designed around an EV propulsions system together with the truck enhances the unique performance capabilities
to yield a combined GM estimate of 1,000 horsepower. As this is then multiplied through front and rear drive unit gear ratios, GM estimates 11,500 lb-ft of torque available to the driver at the wheels. The single front drive unit will have a 13:3:1 fixed gear ratio and will offer an electronic lockable differential capable of delivering 100 percent of motor torque to one wheel. DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 47
GMC DEBUT
With a range estimate of 350+ miles, the Hummer EV’s e4WD drive system with torque vectoring enables maneuverability and traction beyond anything GM has previously offered, allowing the vehicle to reach new destinations over the most challenging terrain. Boasting capability to climb 60% grades (forward and reverse), scaling 18-inch verticals and fording water more than 2 feet deep. With Drive Mode Control to include Terrain Mode, offering unique one pedal driving tailored for off-roading to allow the driver to negotiate challenging terrain at low speeds by simply modulating input on the accelerator pedal. Including newly designed UltraVision, with new front and rear under body cameras with live “virtual spotter” views to assist drivers navigating obstacles and place wheels on and off of the trail. The under body cameras are specially packaged to help protect against damage and are equipped with a wash function to help remove debris while forging your way through any path of choice. The Hummer EV has a total of 18 available camera views from the vehicle, helping to increase awareness of surroundings, to serve as a virtual spotter.
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HUMMER GOES ELECTRIC
Maneuverability was not lost during the designs of the EV as GMC created an exceptionally nimble 4-wheel steer. The system allows the rear wheels to be locked in the forward position to turn opposite of the front wheels or turn in the same direction as in the exclusive feature dubbed the “CrabWalk.” This feature turns the rear wheel at the same angle as the front at low speeds, allowing diagonal movement of the vehicle for an even greater range of maneuverability in tight off-road conditions. Last but certainly not least, the immersive technology fundamentally responsible for tracking range and locating charging stations to monitor vehicle performance on and off the road also ensures the right soundtrack is playing for that Moab adventure we’re all planning since seeing the unveiling. The Hummers infotainment system comes alive when you interact with it. It involves you and rewards you, enhancing the experience by making you a bigger part of it. The geometrically textured interior contributes to the premium look and commensurate with GMC’s high standards of
craftsmanship and ruggedness. Without conventional carpet, a versatile and easy to clean vinyl floor topped with rubber flooring made from recycled material, is functional and designed for easy clean up after a day on the trails. We will soon be saying “RUN TO THE HUMMER” but don’t start running too soon. Hummer isn’t scheduling production until late 2021. GMC is currently taking reservations online as they gear up for the newly rebuilt ZERO Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Center, a 40-year-old facility re-purposed solely devoted to electric vehicle production, to begin building this iconic and now eco-friendly brand.
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BRONCO MANIA
Ford’s Overland Bronco Concept
I
t was only a matter of time before we were going to see an overland version of the Ford Bronco. SUV’s are super popular with the overlanding crowd. The new 2021 Bronco is the perfect vehicle to outfit as an overlander and Ford Motor Company recognizes that. Ford came out with the OG Concept overlander in October. “OG” stands for off-the-grid and that’s exactly what this vehicle is designed for. The OG concept is based around the four-door Badlands model with the Sasquatch package which delivers maximum off-road capability. On top of the Bronco is a heavy-duty Yakima two-person rooftop tent. The tent is mounted to the Bronco’s existing roof rails. There is also a front mounted Rigid Light bar with six additional Rigid light pods in a 360-degree configuration. This allows visibility around the entire vehicle. A CB antenna has been mounted to the rear bumper which doubles as a spotter flag.
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In the rear of the Bronco, the cargo area has been reconfigured. A complete food storage area was installed. Installation also includes water tank, ARB refrigerator, cooking kit and stove. The refrigerator has a slide-out tray for easy access. A table is mounted to the tailgate. There are also chairs that help complete the dining area.
FORD BRONCO OG CONCEPT
In the front, a Warn winch was added to the Ford accessories steel modular front bumper. While the OG Concept overland is just that, a concept, the build shows what the overlanding community can do with the 2021 Bronco.
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BRONCO MANIA
Ford Builds Wildland Fire Concept Bronco
F
orest service green is a color that has been around since the 1950’s. The U.S. Forest Service uses it exclusively on their vehicles. So why is this 2021 Ford Bronco painted in the distinctive green color? Ford teamed up with Filson to build a Wildland Fire Rig Concept Bronco. Filson, a Seattle, Washington based company, manufactures gear for the
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outdoorsman. The purpose of the Wildland Fire Rig Concept is to raise funds in support of the National Forest Foundation’s reforestation programs. Both Ford and Filson have a unique history of protecting wildland fire crews, Filson with their products and Ford with their long line of reliable vehicles. The Forest Service put several Broncos into service on the frontlines in the 1990’s.
WILDLAND FIRE RIG CONCEPT
The Wildland Fire Rig Concept is based on the 2021 Bronco Badlands model with the Sasquatch Package. Its painted in the iconic Forest Service Green. A full fire skid with water tank and hose reel was added to the back of the vehicle. Ford also added a steel modular bumper with a Warn Zeon winch. A heavy-duty custom fabricated roof rack was also added to the Bronco with a Rigid LED light-bar. The roof rack carries several wildland fire tools such as a Pulaski (firefighting axe), shovel and water tank. The roof rack is durable enough for a firefighter to stand on and assess a situation above ground. Other fire specific equipment includes a chainsaw, two hard hats, drip torch and high-lift jack. Filson came in with their custom otter green duck canvas door bolsters, armrests and seating surfaces. The material is inspired by Filson’s jacket lining. The steering wheel features the Bronco horse logo plated in Filson brass. Filson also included their logo in other locations throughout the concept vehicle. Filson manufactures a ripstop nylon, typically found on their line of backpacks. That same material was used on the Bimini-style top and rear cargo divider. The top can be opened and rolled back and secured with Filson bridle leather straps. The Wildland Fire Rig Concept Bronco is just that, a concept. It will not be available in a production model and not available to the public. It does show how versatile and capable the 2021 Bronco can be and the endless customization possibilities. There is no word as of yet whether the U.S. Forest Service will place an order for 2021 Broncos to add to their aging fleet. Ford and the newly created Bronco Wild Fund will donate two vehicles help with firefighting efforts. DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 53
TECH
What Hose Do You Need? Words and Photos: Shaun Ochsner
H
oses are the most important components on any vehicle. They carry essential fluids to your engine, transmission, fuel pump and radiator. Hoses can easily break under high heat or pressure situations. Selecting the proper hose for your application is critical. It is very important to know the industry-standard AN number for your hose. Too small of a hose can restrict flow of fluids. Your hose needs to be made out of the proper materials. Here are the most common hoses found in the automotive industry.
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HOSES
Steel Braid Hose Steel braid hose is usually used for water, fuel or oil lines. The hose allows for these fluids to be transported through your system under high pressure and temperatures. Any high temperature applications are going to require a metal flexible hose. Steel braid hoses are also gas-tight. They resist abrasion, and many can maintain integrity up to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, steel braid hose has higher-lifetime expectancy.
Smooth-bore PTFE Hose These hoses can be used on brake lines, gearboxes and clutches. They are made from a PTFE material. Polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE is a synthetic material that is used in numerous applications. PTFE is solid fluorocarbon with a high molecular weight compound. PTFE reduces friction and wear and is perfect component in a hose application. The smooth-bore PTFE hose is durable and flexible. It has a high chemical resistance.
Polyester Braid Hose These hoses are used for non-pressure applications. One major thing to keep in mind when using this type of hose is that it is not designed for temperatures above 275 degrees Fahrenheit. Polyester hoses are lightweight. The hoses are made from the same synthetic polyester materials found in ropes commonly used in the marine industry. These hoses are also great for highvibration applications on race cars. DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 55
CHAPPY’S PIT STOP
MAKE YOUR CHOICE! I Kings 18:21 niv Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two options? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.” Words: Steve Hanson
I
am writing this on the eve of November 3rd, election day. It is hard to say how things will go tomorrow, but in my lifetime & probably my parents’, there has never been a more divisive choice of who we want to lead America. More pointedly, not just who will lead, but more importantly what direction their cabinet will lead us. In talking with voters from both sides, it’s amazing how scared we are of the “other” parties’ direction. This is not the first-time people have been indecisive on what direction they want their lives to go. Some indecisiveness does not have real consequences; for example, stepping into 31-Flavors, mind blower for me, or any take-out place for that matter. This is partly why I am such a fan of In-N-Out, I just decide how hungry I am to determine how many meat patties I get. These are not tragic decisions that cause our life to hang in the balance, but when people are indecisive about God, it literally is a life or death decision. In Elijah’s day, for 85-years the nation of Israel had gone back and forth between false gods and the one true God. They could not decide between living under absolutes or following other gods so they could live without responsibilities. Time and time again they would follow false gods only to scurry back to the Lord when life’s consequences caught up with them. As God would make those problems go away, they would go back like wayward children repeating the same poor decisions.
At the brink of their own destruction, God would show mercy and forgive them. One day, Elijah laid it out, “Enough is enough. Make a choice. Which side are you on?” Moses posed a similar question to Israel when they fell before the golden calf. He said, Exodus 32:26 niv So he stood at the entrance to the camp and said, “Whoever is for the Lord, come to me.” And all the Levites rallied to him. His successor Joshua challenged Israel as well Joshua 24:15 niv…”Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve…” Our savior Jesus asks us the same challenging question: Matthew 12:30 niv Jesus said, “He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters.” It will be interesting to see what direction our nation goes in the following days, weeks, and years ahead. Today it feels like we are at a serious crossroad that may make our country look vastly different a few years from now. The election decision is an important one, but it does not hold a candle to the decision you make in your own life. Who are you going to follow as your Lord and Savior? Jesus demands a response. He demands us to decide which side we are on. Choose this day whom you will serve. “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15b). See ya in Baja, God bless! Follow @rfc_dirtsportministry
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CALENDAR
UPCOMING EVENTS november Lucas Oil Regional Series SOCAL Rounds 5 & 6 San Bernardino County Fairgrounds, Victorville, CA October 31st-November 1st.
EVENT TO ATTEND International Off-Road and UTV Expo
Lucas Oil Regional Series Arizona Rounds 3 & 4 Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, Chandler, AZ November 14th-15th SCORE Baja 1000, Ensenada, Mexico November 17th-22nd Red Bull Day in the Dirt @ Glen Helen Raceway San Bernardino, CA November 27th-29
december International Off-Road & UTV Expo- @ Westworld of Scottsdale, AZ December 5th-6th MORE Challenge Race @ Slash X, Barstow,CA SNORE Rage at the River- Laughlin, NV December 10th-13th
With most of the expos canceled for 2020 because of the pandemic, the International Off-Road and UTV Expo is moving forward. This event is expected to be HUGE! Set right in the middle of the traditional riding season, expect to find tons of deals on parts for your off-road vehicle. This show always features the coolest builds on display as well. There are also educational seminars to keep you informed.
Have an event for our Calendar? Send us an email: dirtsports@dirtsportsworld.com DIRTSPORTSWORLD.COM | 57
