We usually get many "Can my rig make it" questions at this point in the planning. Some time ago I wrote the below narrative for a group that I was leading on the Rubicon. Thought I would share in case it helps anyone.
Can my rig make it through the Rubicon? That question is both easy and hard to answer at the same time. Almost any mild to moderate trail rig can “make it” to the end of the trail. The real questions are how hard will you have to work, what damage will you sustain, how many times will you get super stuck and delay others, and in the end will it be a good experience or a bad one.
If you have not done the trail, or similar hard trails before, it is difficult to know how you will react. Are you patient and cooperative? You need to be. Do you actually listen to a spotter and are you willing to accept help from others? I sure hope so.
Is your ego wrapped up in your rig and your success? Do you think that you know enough that you don’t need a pointer now and then? If so I will recommend a different run, one that I am not on.
There are many variations on how rigs are “set up” these days. Generally the bigger the tires, the lower the gears and the presence of lockers will make it easier. However, it is not correct to say that simply because a rig has these things, that it will be fine. A bad driver can have trouble with the best rig and a good driver can get most stock rigs down most trails.
The other sometimes serious issue with “built” rigs is the attention to the little things. Is the rest of the rig in good condition and properly maintained. Were the weak points that one modification created taken care of? Are the basics in good shape? I can’t count the number of times I have found myself with someone on the trail with what appears to be a “built” rig. Then we find out that the starter is acting up or the engine tends to overheat while crawling slowly. You can become “that guy” real fast in situations like this.
So you see the real answer is “it depends”. Is your rig set up with the traditional basic mods for this type of trail? Is it in good, no, is it in great shape otherwise. Are you prepared for vehicle damage? Some damage is probable and you have to accept the possibility that it could be worse. It happens to the best of us. Are you open minded and do you play well with others?
The best way to do a trail like Rubicon for the first time is with a group of people that have much more experience with the trail. With the right attitude it can be the best run you have ever been on.
Not trying to preach, just food for thought.
. I'll watch it later on the big magic box.
