Have you ever thought about joining an off-road adventure like a charity rally? It's the kind of experience that can inspire you in ways you never imagined! But let's face it, you may also be wondering if your current vehicle is up for the challenge.
Well, you'll be surprised to know that many of us these days have cars that are more than capable of tackling the dust, dunes, and ditches that come our way. And here's the best part - these events are not just about rallies, they are about meeting great people and enjoying the breathtaking scenery. So, are you ready to take the leap and embark on an unforgettable adventure?
what makes my current car good for off-road trips or other driving events?
Whether you’re building your own car or buying one that’s ready to go, it’s essential that you start with a good, healthy ride. After all, a rusted-out clunker will always be a rusted-out clunker, no matter what bells and whistles you add on (unless you have a lot of time and money).
Now, if you’re thinking about joining a charity rally or ‘bash’, it’s important to know that these events often have specific car requirements that may not be met by your existing vehicle. Don't worry though, it’s not because your car isn’t cut out for off-roading, but more due to the creative limitations that these events put on the cars to add to their definition of fun.
At the end of the day, the type of car you choose really depends on what you want to do on your driving adventure. So, be sure to select a ride that can handle everything you’ve got planned and get ready for an amazing time on the road!
does that mean my existing 4WD or 2WD sedan can take on an off-road adventure?
4WD or 2WD, it doesn’t entirely matter.
If your car should has a good set of tyres (all terrain tyre preferred) and reasonable ground clearance, you can take on driving events like the Great Endeavour Rally. But, remember, when choosing your car, keep in mind accessibility to spare parts in remote areas and basic repairs that may need to be done.
Be mindful of what you are capable of fixing and maintaining yourself and what you may need assistance with in the event of a breakdown.
you said something about tyres. What sort of tyres are good for an off-road drive then?
Your ride's tyres play a crucial role in determining your success. So, it's important to start with six healthy tyres - four on the car and two spares. Trust me, having them will be enough to get you through the toughest of challenges!
Now, when it comes to choosing the right tyres, it can be a bit overwhelming, right? Well, don't worry, I'm here to help! If budget is not an issue for you, then a nice 4WD type tread is great. But, if you want to save some bucks, then new or second-hand rally tyres might not be that practical as they wear out pretty quickly, especially on long bitumen runs.
So, what's the best option? Light truck/commercial tyres, my friend! They are hard wearing and tough, and the Bridgestone Dueler (All Terrain) is our top recommendation for both value for money and durability. You can get a good run on off-road and plenty of use on your daily drive before these beauties show any serious wear.
But, at the end of the day, the choice is yours. Just make sure they are new or in perfect health at the beginning of the event. And, don't forget to enjoy the ride!
what did you mean by ground clearance for my preferred car?
When heading off on an Outback adventure you should be prepared for some rough and challenging terrain. But don't worry, you don't need to build a monster truck to tackle it! Sometimes, a little extra ground clearance can make all the difference and protect your car from getting damaged.
You may think that your vehicle's clearance is good enough, but once you load it up with three people and all your gear, it can start dragging on the ground and scraping on every little bump on the road. So, if you're not sure whether your current ground clearance is enough, seek some helpful advice on your chosen car. And always be mindful of how much you'll be loading into it - fuel, water, sleeping gear, passengers, and tools.
Remember, with the right preparation, you'll be able to take on any off-road challenge and make unforgettable memories along the way!
is that all there is to a good off-road vehicle?
This is a start, a good one but still just a start.
There’s plenty more we can share with you. The Great Endeavour Rally team is always on hand to help out those who are eager to head out on the road as part of our rally family.
If you would like to know more about vehicle specs or the drive we’re taking on in 2021, you can request more info via the button below.
