Getting Started with Off-Roading
If you’re looking to get started with off-roading, it can be challenging to understand what upgrades and equipment you might need. It is also common to feel overwhelmed as there is a lot to learn about off-roading. Luckily, there’s a good foundation of knowledge to tap into due to the off-roading community’s welcoming nature. Follow these tips to get started.
Determine What Features Your Vehicle Currently Has
Some experts recommend taking your vehicle out to determine what it can and can't do before your off-roading adventures. Cars aren't designed equally - some are better equipped to handle dirt and off-roading's roughness. Vehicle features like low ground pressure and ground clearance are crucial to successful off-roading; it helps to stay stable on soft ground and not lose traction. You will also need to know if your tires qualify for off-roading, as your traction quality depends on your tire. Several off-road vehicles have low gearing, so you must check for this also. Finally, check if your car has four-wheel drive capabilities, as overcoming rock formations and other obstacles is a significant off-roaring element. Determining your vehicle’s features will reveal your car’s off-roading basics and which modifications to make, to equip it for your off-roading adventures.
Modifications Necessary for Your Vehicle
Getting started with off-roading may require some vehicle adjustments, and your tires are probably the first thing you will have to change. Choose your tires based on the terrain types you intend to visit frequently. Hybrid and all-terrain light truck tires perform better during off-roading, so you may need to replace your present passenger car tires with these off-road-friendly tires. Adding bigger tires may also necessitate other changes like lifting your vehicle to fit these tires. You may also have to add a light bar for increased visibility, and a tow hook should your car get stuck. An upgraded front bumper, snorkel, lift kit, mud flaps, roof basket, and interior liners are other off-roading basics to consider.
Local Clubs & Events
It would help to belong to an off-roading community to enjoy some perks, so consider this even as a beginner. A Google or Facebook search can reveal several local clubs who are always willing to welcome new members. These clubs frequently host training runs for beginners. Also, there are exciting events you can participate in, like the road racing series that make your membership exciting and worthwhile. You get to engage with like-minded people, participate in events, and find trails easily through membership in a club. You are also safer when you go off-roading with others, and you enjoy the ‘strength in numbers’ advantage.
Finding Trails
There are tons of locations around the country that are ideal for off-roading. Some of these areas may even be close to you, so you must do your research well. Online maps are a good starting point to find off-road trails and parks. By searching “off-roading” in Google Maps, you can see a lot of great off-roading locations, along with user reviews. Off-road parks’ website links may also be present so you can quickly follow up. The National Parks and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) offers several acres of explorable land. Many of these areas are in the Western parts and are ideal for conservation and recreation. Some national parks and Jeep’s Badge of Honor Program also offer great off-roading trails, so you can monitor these communities to find ideal off-roading locations.
About Us
Based in Sullivan, Illinois, BD Motorsports is a leading auto customization and tuning shop. Our experienced mechanics can handle many vehicles, including trucks, Jeeps, cars, and many more.
Contact us today at http://www.bd-motorsports.com/ or call us at 1-217-752-6225 to get started.
