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Day one of the West Coast Rumble presented by Match Race Madness opened in a major way at Famoso Dragstrip, highlighted by the NHRA Youth & Education Services (YES) Program. Representing NHRA were Division 7 Director Matt DeYoung and Director of National Event Marketing John Baadilla, underscoring the importance of the program’s stop in Bakersfield. The impact was undeniable: 18 schools participated 660 students attended One unforgettable day at the racetrack Founded in 1989, the NHRA Youth & Education Services (YES) Program remains the only full-time education program in motorsports. The initiative is completely free and focuses on goal setting, continued education, and exposing students to career opportunities both within motorsports and beyond. Students learned how S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) applies to real-world situations — and to NHRA Drag Racing — before stepping outside to experience it firsthand at Famoso Dragstrip. From the technology inside a race car to the precision required on the starting line, the classroom-to-track connection was on full display. A special full-circle moment came when it was noted that Famoso Dragstrip promoter Tim Huddleston attended the very first YES Program meeting in 1989 at University High School in West Los Angeles. Also part of that original 1989 gathering was longtime Funny Car standout Gary Densham, who at the time was working as an automotive shop teacher before rising through the ranks of NHRA competition. Decades later, seeing 660 students at the Bakersfield facility for the same program speaks volumes about the longevity of the YES initiative and the deep educational roots that continue to run through the sport. Once the education portion — held Friday only — wrapped up, racing took center stage. With temperatures in the 70s and ideal conditions, teams filled the staging lanes and delivered a full afternoon of West Coast Rumble action. Hard launches, side-by-side battles, and the unmistakable thunder of nitro and horsepower signaled that the event had officially shifted from classroom inspiration to on-track intensity. If the opening day was any indication, the West Coast Rumble delivered more than just competition — it reinforced the connection between education, opportunity, and the future of drag racing. This story was originally published on March 4, 2026. The post NHRA YES Program Draws 660 Students to Open West Coast Rumble at Famoso Dragstrip first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

If you haven’t seen a video with an RC car hauling ass across a lake, or the same thing with a dirt bike or snowmobile, you must live under a rock. It’s not hard for an RV car as they have way more power than necessary for their size and they just skim across the water. The same goes for a snowmachine, but it can be a bit trickier on a dirt bike. Regardless of what you are in, or on, the act of making it across a body of water under power requires some pretty simple things to happen. The most important of which is keeping enough speed to keep the wheels and tires from dipping too deep in the water and slowing down. For this lesson, and the rest, we’re going to share the video below so you can see how they are pulling this off, why they are trying it in the first place, and what the heck is the point? We’re glad to see this entire escapade going on, because it’s fun and entertaining and shows physics which is science and that’s a thing we have gotten incredibly skeptical about in recent years which is a shame. Physics can be fun and here is a prime example. The post Can You Actually Drive A Car On Water? Travis Pastrana, And A Huge Team Of Folks, Want To Prove You Can. Watch! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Finnegan’s Sick Week adventures, like most of his adventures in Blasphemi, featured some unfortunate drama that would really be okay to leave behind. But in typical Finnegan fashion, he took it with a sigh and a smile, and with some help from friends and co-pilot Joe was able to make a fix. But man it wasn’t a cheap one! Swapping transmissions is rarely fun, and this one was no different. So what do you think? Is it time for an automatic in Blasphemi? Video Description: Episode 392 of Finnegan’s Garage contains the end of our Sick Week 2026 adventure as well as an epic roadside transmission replacement. On a small backroad in Florida something let loose inside of my Tick Performance-modified T56 gearbox and we were forced to replace it right next to the highway as cars wizzed by us. Thanks to my friends and neighbors we got it done and pressed on and attempted to finish the event. Welcome to my channel. This is a fun place to learn about modifying, repairing and upgrading your hot rod car, truck and even boat! I’ll teach you how to weld, how to build high performance engines, how to fabricate your own parts while you learn from watching me wrench on my own project vehicles. I’ll even take you on the adventure as I leave my workshop on epic road trips and racing events as we test out the mods done to all of my projects. Along the way we’ll meet new and interesting people and share in the joy of their automotive creations! Thanks for watching! The post Why The Hell Was Finnegan Swapping a Modded $10,000 T56 Transmission On The Side of the Road? This Question Answered and More… appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Amplifier wiring kits have been around for decades and decades, but with HUGE variations in pricing there have been a lot of cheap brands out there with components that just aren’t very good. And with power and ground wires, there is a little more to it than just the size. Size DOES MATTER when it comes to power and ground wire, but so does the material itself. Copper is clearly the best conductor, but with Copper Coated Aluminum and Tinned Copper options, it isn’t just as simple as looking for Oxygen Free Copper anymore, especially with companies using thicker insulation so they can cut down on the conductor size inside. So in the video below you’ll see three amp wiring kits reviewed, and ranked, based on the quality of wiring and components in the kit. None of these are big money kits, just good value propositions for the average project. But before we get to the video, let me explain a couple of things about car audio wiring so the lingo isn’t foreign to you. OFC: This means Oxygen-Free Copper, which has long been considered by many to be the gold standard for car audio wiring. Tinned OFC: Tinned Oxygen-Free Copper is a high-purity, low-resistance copper wire that is coated with a protective layer of tin to prevent oxidation and corrosion in harsh conditions. Car and marine audio systems are ideal for TOFC which gives the best conductivity and durability when compared to standard OFC. Twisted Pair RCA Cables: RCA cables, which carry the signal from your head unit to the amplifier, come in a variety of styles, with insane price fluctuations. One key feature to look for in them is Twisted Pair construction where the wires inside are twisted around each other to eliminate or reduce “noise” in the system. If you have ever been in a car with an audio system that whines as RPM increases, you have heard this “noise”. So now that you understand a few of the key phrases you’ll hear in the video, check it out and see what you think. And while these brands are being highlighted, know that the things being shown in this video can help you purchase amp wiring kits from any manufacturer. Video Description: In this vide we checkout and compare three four guauge amp wire kits to find out if this wire is true to size or oversized as the brand claims. Good news, these are all great kits. The post Amp Wiring Kit Shootout: What You Need To Know, And Measure, To Choose The Right Kit For Your Project appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

At Famoso Dragstrip, Andy and Ryan Partridge have taken on track prep duties with a focus on providing racers a consistent racing surface from the first pass to the last. The brothers bring years of experience from Irwindale, where they spent roughly 15 years working around the facility before eventually handling much of the prep work themselves. “The last several years at Irwindale we were primarily handling dragstrip prep,” Andy Partridge said. Now at Famoso, the responsibilities are shared. “Both of us will be involved,” Andy said. “If I’m not here, he is, and vice versa.” Ryan Partridge said the move into dragstrip preparation required a different approach — and a lot of learning. “Track prep is almost black magic,” Ryan said. “Scraping, spraying, mixtures, different glue — there’s a lot that goes into it. Ask 100 racers how they want the track and you’ll get 100 different answers, so you really have to look at the data.” To help remove guesswork, the team plans to rely on measurable consistency rather than feel alone. “I’ve got a grip meter coming so racers know what they’re getting when they show up,” Andy said. “That’s the big thing.” The Partridge family’s connection to the sport goes back decades. Their grandfather Bernie and grandmother Phyllis were longtime figures in NHRA Division 7, while other family members were involved in announcing and facility operations at tracks including Irwindale and Fontana. That background shapes how they approach the job at Famoso. “The heritage of the place is important,” Ryan said. “We want to keep the history but still move forward and improve things where it makes sense.” Ryan will not be present every race weekend but will assist during the week with preparation and maintenance, while Andy handles the day-to-day track work. “The goal is Andy as the lead guy day to day,” Ryan said. “I’m here to help and keep continuity, but he’s more than capable.” From early morning track cleaning to maintaining equipment and monitoring changing conditions, the focus remains the same — delivering a predictable racing surface racers can trust each time they stage. This story was originally published on March 4, 2026. The post Family Heritage: Partridge Brothers Handling Track Prep at Famoso first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Wheels and tires make or break a car. When combined with the right stance, the wheels and tires on your ride can dramatically change the look, character, and feel of any car or truck. With one simple change of wheels and tires you can change a car from race car to hot rod, lowrider to custom cruiser, and more. The style of the wheels, along with the size and fitment, can make a really big difference. And if two identical cars have the same style of wheel, but different backspacing/offset and dimensions, they can still look completely different. Fit matters. But the right fit and the wrong wheel style can be just as bad. Here’s a history lesson wheels, with more to come in another episode of Influence and Impact. Video Description: Auto Revolution’s Influence & Impact traces the automotive history of custom car and truck builders. We dive into the history of custom wheels, starting at the beginning. Not the Stone Age but when wooden spokes changed to Dayton wire wheels on Ford Model Ts. Hot rodders began to experiment with different casting materials to create alloy and mag wheels as tires became more advanced as well. The post Influence And Impact Podcast: Rolling Art – Wheel History Part 1. From Spokes to Mag Wheels, Dayton Wires, And So Much More! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

A retro-styled sidecar from Watsonian expands the touring potential of Triumph’s Rocket 3 motorcycle.View the full article

The 2026 Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series will rev up March 5-8, 2026, at the historic NHRA Gatornationals, with two-time world champ Mark Pawuk looking to hold off a host of challengers. Pawuk, the 2024 Gatornationals winner, will strap into the all-new, Hemi-powered 2026 Dodge Charger Hustle Stuff Drag Pak by Direct Connection and will face some of the toughest competition from Ford Cobra Jets and Chevrolet COPO Camaros in on-track action over a nine-race coast to coast schedule. The Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series will be one of the many highlight classes at Gainesville Raceway as the NHRA celebrates its 75th anniversary as the premiere drag racing sanctioning body in the world. “I started racing in the 1970s with Dodge and Plymouth, and I’ll finish my career with Dodge,” Pawuk said. “Debuting the new Charger Hustle Stuff Drag Pak during the NHRA’s 75th anniversary is special. We see tremendous potential. It’ll take time to develop—but I want to win one of those 75th-season Wallys, and I believe this car can do it.” Pawuk’s return follows a dominant two-year run in the Empaco Equipment Dodge Challenger Mopar Drag Pak, where he claimed back-to-back championships in 2024–2025 with victories at Bristol and Norwalk, plus multiple semifinal finishes. After several successful test sessions in Florida, the veteran from Richfield, Ohio, now sets his sights on a historic three-peat—this time in an entirely new platform. “Did I think I’d get two world championships? No,” said Pawuk. “Now I’m going to try for three, and all I can do is hope and pray that everything goes our way. We have a lot of tough competition out there again.” Looking to stop Pawuk’s reign as world champion will be perennial championship contenders Scott Libersher and Lee Hartman. Libersher and his Chevrolet COPO Camaro are eager to get back on track and start a new season. The excitement level is not lost on the veteran driver from Wilmington, Ill., who has been battling with Pawuk for years. “Dodge has got some stuff going on so I am kind of interested to see what’s going on with the competition,” said Libersher. “We did some engine work with a little R&D with Barton Racing and we got a bit more horsepower for this Chevy. This is the first time I’ll be in the race car this year, and I think it’s just kind of like opening day with baseball. I like seeing what everybody’s doing and it’s the whole vibe.” For Hartman he will bring his competitive Dodge Challenger Drag Pak to the Gatornationals looking for his first career win in the Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series. He raced to several final rounds last season but the driver from Canfield, Ohio will be looking to break through in 2026. His first opportunity for victory will be this weekend.“After looking at the Weather Channel, it looks like we’re gonna have a great week,” said Hartman. “I believe that the first race is go time, right? When we finished the last race at St. Louis, as soon as we crossed the finish line, we started thinking about this season. ‘What can we do better?’ We spent all winter reviewing what we did in the past at every location, every race. We looked at what worked and what didn’t work. The Gatornationals will be the first chance to see all that hard work pay off.” “Winning the Gatornationals would be awesome, but there’s some loaded guns coming this year. My son’s one of them, so he’s not going to be laying down lightly for dad or anyone else. Aaron and Greg Stanfield have been working with him. We are looking to have a lot of success this year,” added Hartman. Qualifying in the Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown category is scheduled for Friday at 12:45 p.m. ET, with eliminations scheduled at 10:30 a.m. ET on Saturday. Tune in to NHRA.tv to watch this historic race milestone live! The post World Champion Mark Pawuk Chases Historic Three-Peat as Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Revs Up at NHRA Gatornationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

BMW Motorrad France rolls out F 900 XR Aurelius Green and F 900 R Frozen Grey special editions, and neither model is available in the US market.View the full article

Harley-Davidson's 'Let’s Ride Challenge' channels the power of motorcycles into measurable support for military and emergency service communities.View the full article

The US International Trade Commission issued a decision on GoPro's complaint against Insta360. Both companies declared victory, so here's what it all means.View the full article

Todd Blicharz is set to debut his Camaro in Small Tire Pro Stock. This Camaro should be a front runner in the class in 2026. View the full article

The last few years have produced some unpredictable winter snowfall, and I think that's why New York State is offering free snowmobile registration fees for out-of-state riders.View the full article

Inspired Overland’s ultralight hard-shell rooftop tent design aims to reduce weight, drag, and setup time for off-road travelers who value mobility as much as comfort.View the full article

Harley just brought out a cafe racer concept called the RMCR, and it's what it should be building to ensure its future. That, along with a small entry motorcycle, and a lower-displacement Pan America. View the full article

Turning a Lamborghini into a fierce street car doesn't take much. Check out this twin turbo Lambo that makes 2,000 horsepower. View the full article

Touring Vietnam by motorcycle With Graeme Warring In life, when circumstances grant you plenty of time to enjoy yourself and the money to satisfy your whims, trouble typically lies around the next corner. For many, it happens midlife, and with it comes a clichéd sports car, a renewed interest in the gym, a refreshed, youthful […] The post A glimpse into a Vietnam Off-Road Motorcycle Adventure appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Harley-Davidson ends annual Homecoming Festival Returns to previous five-year anniversary model Harley-Davidson has confirmed it will end its annual Homecoming Festival in Milwaukee and revert to major anniversary celebrations every five years, with the next slated for the company’s 125th anniversary in 2028. Homecoming was launched in 2023, effectively extending Harley’s 120th anniversary celebrations into […] The post Harley-Davidson pivots away from annual Homecoming, links Milwaukee plans to milestone years appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Wildwood Rock gains HEWR World Ranking status Steve Braszell’s Wildwood Rock Extreme Enduro in Victoria will become a points-scoring event in the new Hard Enduro World Ranking (HEWR) system in 2026, listed as a Masters category round. The event is scheduled for the November 7–8 weekend at Wildwood, around 22 km from Melbourne Airport, and […] The post Wildwood Rock joins global Hard Enduro World Ranking calendar for 2026 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

It’s Saturday evening at Bradenton Motorsports Park, and Shawn “Murder Nova” Ellington is sitting on the ground next to the rear driver’s side wheel well of “Blue,” the ProCharger-powered ’69 Camaro he drives for Keith Haney Racing. For perhaps the first time all weekend, his pit area is unusually silent. The former Street Outlaws star is by himself at the moment. Fans who would typically be surrounding his trailer are anxiously awaiting the final round of the World Series of Pro Mod between NHRA Pro Stock star Aaron Stanfield and the newly crowned Drag Illustrated Winter Series points champion Peter Norton. It’s a final round that Ellington had just come so close to reaching. As I walk around the front of the car, he looks up at me, smiles, and says three simple words: “We didn’t quit.” Truer words have never been spoken. I watched it happen firsthand throughout the weekend. Parts scattered across tables, engine torn apart, zoomies lying on the ground. Multiple times throughout qualifying our official DI event photographer, Luke Nieuwhof, and I entered Ellington’s pits for a quick photo shoot – and each time we stopped and observed a mad thrash to repair the car. It wasn’t just Ellington, either. His wife Erin, son Aiden, crew chief Daniel “Phantom” Parker, tuner Brandon Stroud, William Ellington, Benjamin Harris, members of Keith Haney Racing, and even representatives from ProCharger were in a constant state of organized chaos. “We have worked on the car more this week than we have in the last three seasons of No Prep Kings,” Ellington says. “We changed multiple sleeves, multiple pistons, changed the transmission, changed gear drives. We’ve done it all this week, and we’ve said it before: We may not win everything, but we’re damn sure not quitters.” Such is the case with the World Series of Pro Mod, and the Winter Series as a whole. It’s not just a race; it’s a war of attrition, and those unwilling to go to battle every single day need not apply. For Ellington and his team, their effort was rewarded by earning a spot in the most difficult WSOPM field ever assembled. And from there, things really got crazy. Ellington qualified No. 30, and in a wild turn of events at the first-round chip draw, drew his good friend and Street Outlaws co-star Ryan Martin. The two took it in stride, happy that one would be moving on to the second round. That person was Ellington. From there, he single-handedly flipped the DIWS points championship upside down. In a rematch from the U.S. Street Nationals a month prior, Ellington met points leader “Stevie Fast” Jackson in round two, and took the win after Jackson red-lit. Jackson’s loss gave Eric Gustafson the points lead, and as fate would have it, Ellington drew him in the quarterfinals. The results were the same: another red light, and another win for Ellington. But this one felt different. The pop from the crowd was unlike anything I’ve ever seen. The starting line was pandemonium. Ellington’s team was screaming in elation. I instinctively ran over and started giving everyone high fives. Erin and I embraced in a bear hug. Drag Illustrated founder and Winter Series promoter Wes Buck was busy doing the same. Before you get the wrong idea, we weren’t playing favorites. The DI team loves all of our competitors. But the sheer emotion and weight of the moment – the reaction from both team and spectators – lends itself to celebration. The teams feed off the energy from the crowd, and the crowd in turn feeds off the energy of the teams. This is what the Winter Series provides – every round feels like a heavyweight title fight. The pressure that builds at the WSOPM is unmatched. There’s $150,000 on the line for the race, another $25,000 for the championship, and perhaps most importantly – the right to be considered the undisputed baddest door car driver on the planet. “Pressure bursts pipes” has become a familiar phrase at this event, and it once again proved true. Two longtime veterans had given away their shot at a championship, and Ellington was two rounds away from immortality. Prior to eliminations, Buck mentioned to the 32 qualified drivers that by his estimation, there are about 600 Pro Mods in the world. Just by qualifying, these drivers were in the top 5% in their field, an incredible accomplishment. But now, Ellington – who has only competed in Pro Mod for a little over a year – found himself in the final four. That’s within the top 1%. Imagine being in the top 1% of anything you do. Such is the importance of the Winter Series, and of a very powerful mindset: “We didn’t quit.” Despite the focus on Ellington, this mantra of determination and perseverance could be found throughout the facility. True 10.5 winner Russell Stone popped the blower on his “Black Widow” Camaro during testing and disintegrated his front clip in the process. He didn’t quit and took home $40,000. 2025 WSOPM champion Steve King blew his motor as well in the Outlaw Light Beer Wildcard Shootout. The G-Force Race Cars team with Melanie Salemi – King’s teammate – came over and helped him repair the car, setting up an eventual final round between the two, with King prevailing. If you searched the pits, you’d find a hundred other stories just like these. It’s part of what makes our sport so special. And returning to Ellington – at that moment, with the team and crowd going crazy, it truly felt like destiny was on his side. Surely nothing could stop this runaway freight train of momentum. But the Winter Series giveth, and the Winter Series taketh away. As Ellington was backing up from his burnout in the semifinals against eventual WSOPM winner Aaron Stanfield, the car died on him. Team members quickly pushed it back, and after a moment, he got it re-fired. The relief was short-lived, however, as after a few seconds the car shut off again. There was no oil pressure. This was one problem they couldn’t fix, and Ellington could do nothing but sit and watch Stanfield move on to the finals – and an eventual $150k payday. I’ve followed the sport of drag racing for more than 40 years. I’ve covered it for nearly 20. I’ve had to the privilege to meet, talk to, and work with countless drivers during that time, and honored to now call many of them friends. One thing I always try to do at any of our events is simply thank the drivers for choosing to race with us, for being a part of what we’re doing. All of these drivers deserve to know just how much we appreciate them, which is why I made the walk over to Ellington’s pits a short while after his heartbreaking loss. “My goal coming in was I wanted everyone to know we were here,” Ellington told me. “And by God, they know we’re here – and we’ll be back.” And that’s what makes the Winter Series so special – the people. A smorgasbord of drivers from all corners of the sport. Pro Mod legends? Check. No Prep Kings superstars? Check. NHRA world champions? Check. Radial tire outlaws? Check. Drag & Drive stalwarts? Check. Converted tractor pulling competitors? Check. They’re all here. And they all have one common mantra defining them. “We didn’t quit.” This story was originally published on March 3, 2026. The post “We Didn’t Quit:” Determination, Perseverance, and Why the Winter Series Matters first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Trucks Gone Wild has been putting on shows for 20+ years now and have created a style of event that has been imitated by many. But there is still just one Trucks Gone Wild, and with 15 different events going on this year there is something for everyone. Hell, they are even putting on their own ocean cruise! Check out the video below, where the Bounty Hole from No Mans Land during Plant Bamboo’s Muddy Valentines is giving everyone a run for the money. Watch mega trucks give it their all and see which ones have the horsepower to cross it, as Okeechobee Florida gives all the mud it can. The post Trucks Gone Wild 2026: No Mans Land Mud Bogging at Plant Bamboo Muddy Valentines Separates The Toys From The Trucks! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Whether you call it a hillclimb, a drag race, or an ice race, Ice King in Germany is one ultra cool event. Last year was the first year for this event, and we shared awesome video then. The crazy thing is that as fun as las year was it is nothing compared to this year. There are tons more cars, lots more power, and everyone knows what to expect this year so the competition is hotter and heavier by far. Held in Schöneck, Germany on a giant ski slope, this even promises to intimidate a lot of folks AND be a great show. Watch these two videos below and let us know what you think. The post 1000+ HP CARS RACING ON A SKISLOPE! – ICE KING 2026 May Be The Craziest Winter Drag Racing Event in the World! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Catching all the testing action from Gainesville Raceway on March 3-4 right here, ahead of the legendary season-opening Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals on March 5-8 at the historic racing facility. It still feels weird that the NHRA season starts anywhere beside Pomona, but I get it. Lucky for us, NHRA will be live streaming all the testing action Tuesday and Wednesday, so we can see who’s doing what and what the new cars all look like. We’ll get to see some debuts and see who’s showing all their cards during testing. This is the start of the 75th anniversary year of NHRA Drag Racing and we’re stoked to see how it all shakes out! The post Free Drag Racing Livestream: NHRA Division 2 Testing For The Season Opening GatorNationals at Gainesville. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

If you still think the only 4.3L V6 is the one that came in a bunch of C1500 and S10s in the 1990s and 2000s then you are in for a treat! This one here is the newer LS/LT based 4.3V6 and as you can imagine that combo will support some serious power given how happy LS and LT combos are with boost. This particular one right here is coming to you from Scoggin-Dickey Parts Center, where our friend Kurt Urban runs the R&D program and has been not only pushing the limits of his own 4.3L power Camaro but also some interesting dyno mules. This combo here was used for LOTS of development work, and it ultimately made 1400! This is awesome. I mean who doesn’t love an engine making 4 digit power, and anything with twin turbos is great anyway. Video Description: Project Danny LVito clicked off a monster pull on the dyno, almost 5x what it makes in stock NA form with a stock block and crank! The post Awesome Dyno Video: 1400HP DYNO RECORD with a Twin Turbo 4.3L V6! All the Dyno Pulls and Deep Dive into This Combo! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Vans have increasingly become a core component of overland adventuring. With their growth in popularity, it has brought both high-end builders and an ever-increasing set of options for the DIY builder. We’ve gathered a group of manufacturers and products that represent some of the best available for this month’s Gear Showcase. AEONrv — AEONrv 2025 Model AEONrv is an all-season, electric cabin adventure RV built for off-road travel and extended off-grid stays. It uses modern and green technology, higher quality materials, and a fully insulated composite cabin engineered for true four-season capability. The composite structure, constructed using fiberglass reinforced panels, provides strength, thermal efficiency, and durability in extreme environments. The fully electric cabin removes the need for propane or generators, creating a cleaner and quieter camping experience. An 800-watt solar array paired with a robust lithium battery system allows travelers to stay out longer without hookups while maintaining modern comforts. This is a purpose-built RV, not a van conversion. Built on a Ford Transit AWD 1-ton chassis with a 3.5L EcoBoost engine and 10-speed transmission, AEONrv combines factory intelligent all-wheel drive with a Van Compass 2-inch lift, upgraded suspension, and BFGoodrich KO3 all-terrain tires. The result is a compact 22-foot platform that remains maneuverable while capable of serious backcountry travel. The 24-volt electrical system includes a 10.9kWh lithium battery bank, upgradeable to 13.6kWh, a 3,000VA Victron inverter system, alternator charging, and integrated solar. Inside, the insulated electric cabin features dual-pane acrylic windows, a 60 x 80 inch queen bed, convertible dinette, 6.8 cubic foot refrigerator with separate freezer drawer, induction cooktop, and private bath with inside and outside shower options. With 59 gallons of fresh water, heated gray tank, PEX-A plumbing, 9K BTU mini-split heat pump, and Espar heater, the interior is designed for comfort in snow, desert, or high elevation conditions. Over 65 cubic feet of heated garage space provides secure storage for bikes and gear. The result is a high-tech, all-season adventure vehicle engineered for travelers who want capability, comfort, and independence in one integrated platform. Starting at $224,500 + options & taxes BUY NOW Aluminess — PowerLift Bike Rack for Sprinter and Transit Vans The Aluminess PowerLift Bike Rack was engineered to solve one of the most common challenges faced by adventure van owners: safely loading and unloading heavy bikes — especially e-bikes — at the rear of the vehicle. Designed with real-world use in mind, the PowerLift keeps bikes up safe and secure from road traffic, wandering hands, and opportunistic minds. Built specifically for adventure vans such as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (2025+) and Ford Transit, the PowerLift integrates with Aluminess’ rear rack systems for a complete transport solution. Its battery-assisted lift mechanism raises and lowers bikes with smooth, controlled motion, taking the physical strain out of the task while minimizing the risk of damage to equipment or vehicle. With a robust 155-pound load rating and a practical 36-inch load height, the PowerLift accommodates most modern e-bikes and manual bicycles with ease. Structural-grade aluminum construction delivers strength where it is needed while keeping overall system weight low, preserving vehicle handling and suspension performance — a priority for fully loaded adventure builds. The PowerLift features a thoughtfully engineered interface that maintains rear vehicle access and works harmoniously with existing rack and bumper components. Installation is bolt-on, and operation is simple through the up and down toggle button, making it ideal for users who want capability without complexity. Proudly manufactured in the USA, the Aluminess PowerLift Bike Rack reflects the brand’s commitment to durability, function, and intelligent design. Whether supporting weekend trail rides, multi-day tours, or cross-country expeditions, the PowerLift gives adventurers a safer, easier, and more enjoyable way to transport their bikes. MSRP: $3,100.00 BUY NOW La Mesa – RecVan Screenshot The Winnebago Revel is built for travelers who view every mile as an opportunity for discovery. Designed on the proven Mercedes-Benz AWD Sprinter chassis, the Revel blends rugged capability with refined performance, delivering confidence across highways, dirt roads, and remote landscapes. Its high-output turbo-diesel engine, paired with a responsive 9-speed automatic transmission, provides smooth power delivery, efficiency, and stability. Measuring approximately 19 feet 7 inches in length with a 144-inch wheelbase, the Revel maintains an agile driving profile without sacrificing durability or interior functionality. This balance of maneuverability and strength defines the Revel as a true adventure platform—purpose-built for explorers who demand versatility from their vehicle. Inside, the Revel transforms compact space into intelligent living. The flexible Power Lift bed system rises effortlessly to reveal a spacious gear garage below, allowing owners to transport bikes, boards, and oversized equipment while preserving comfort. The streamlined galley features a compressor-driven refrigerator, induction cooktop, and stainless-steel sink, delivering practical utility for life on the move. A multifunctional wet bath and gear closet maximize efficiency, while integrated storage solutions ensure every inch serves a purpose. Designed for two occupants, the Revel’s interior prioritizes usability, clean design, and durability—qualities that resonate with travelers seeking both simplicity and comfort. Engineered for extended off-grid travel, the Revel incorporates a high-capacity lithium battery system supported by roof-mounted solar panels and alternator charging, providing dependable power wherever the journey leads. Efficient climate controls, a continuous-flow water heater, and thoughtfully designed water systems ensure comfort across diverse environments. With towing capability up to 5,000 pounds, the Revel expands possibilities for additional gear or recreational equipment. Available through La Mesa | RecVan dealerships, the Winnebago Revel represents more than a camper van—it is a modern, mobile basecamp designed for those who pursue adventure without compromise. Starting at $261,808 BUY NOW Terrawagen — Desert Defender Classic Fender Flares for 2019+ Mercedes Sprinter The Terrawagen Desert Defender Classic Fender Flares are built for Sprinter owners who move to oversize tires and wheels and quickly run into the same bottleneck: the factory wheel openings leave very little margin once the van is actually used off pavement. When a Sprinter is loaded for travel and driven on uneven terrain, the tires can tuck into the opening during suspension compression, and rubbing can show up during steering, full lock turns, or sharp bumps. The Desert Defender Classic Fender Flares are designed to create additional space at the wheel openings in a controlled, repeatable way, helping reduce interference while giving the van a finished, intentional look that fits the Sprinter platform. Developed and manufactured by Terrawagen in Portland, Oregon, these flares come from an in-house design team that focuses on vans, not generic vehicle fitment. Terrawagen’s process is hands-on from concept through production, and the Desert Defender Classic reflects that approach: practical, Sprinter-specific, and built around the real constraints of the chassis. One of the most important of those constraints is the sliding door path, and the Desert Defender Classic is shaped to maintain proper clearance where the door travels, avoiding a common issue seen with flare designs that interfere at the slider. Each kit is thermoformed in the USA from durable TPO plastic and built to handle debris, abrasion, and real-world off-road use. Installation requires trimming the factory fender opening to create the additional clearance, then securing the flares with mechanical fasteners and 3M VHB tape for a long-term hold. Once installed, the flares help open up the wheel area for more capable tire setups while protecting the modified opening and cleaning up the finished edge. MSRP: $750.00 BUY NOW READ MORE: The Overland Expo Foundation: Huge Accomplishments in 2025 Front Runner — Slimpro Van Rack Expand your van’s carrying capacity with the Slimpro Van Rack Kit by Front Runner. The racks are available for a wide variety of popular overlanding van platforms, and the horizontal slats can be customized to fit around your current roof accessories, such as AC, vents, and skylights. The epoxy powder-coated aluminum racks are installed using factory mount points and can be fitted quickly and easily. The rack unlocks Front Runner’s expansive collection of accessories for their rack system, ranging from kayak and canoe carriers to awning mounting kits, water tank mounting, and bottle openers. MSRP: $2,999.00 BUY NOW Guzzle H2O — Overland Bundle The Guzzle H2O Overland Bundle includes all the components needed to pump, filter, and purify water for your overland van build. The kit includes the Stream battery-powered pump, filter, and purification system as well as a replacement carbon filter and a 30-foot hose. The system is available with a 120v or 12v charging system as well as an optional pre-filter and carrying bag. The Stream’s LED UV-C purification is 3rd-party tested to inactivate 99.99% of bacteria, protozoa, and viruses, and is NSF 55 listed. The 0.5 micron Activated Carbon Block Filtration is highly effective at reducing sediment, chlorine taste and odor, VOCs, NSF 41 emerging contaminants, lead, mercury, and other chemical contaminants (though not heavy metals or toxins). The pump operates at about .75 gallons per minute and will pump, filter, and purify 35 gallons on a single charge. The system is designed and assembled in the USA, and testing information is available on their website. MSRP: $1,098.00 BUY NOW REDARC — 120W SOLAR PANEL Looking for the best 120w solar panel for camping? REDARC’s monocrystalline flat panels are highly efficient with a robust design. A tempered glass coating and a sturdy aluminium frame ensure that our panels will withstand harsh road conditions and extreme weather conditions. These are designed for a fixed installation, typically on the roof area of RVs, motorhomes, as well as some camper trailer and 4×4 vehicle applications. Featuring an anodised aluminium frame and tempered glass coating, they are well-suited for outdoor use and employ MC4 style connectors for easy installation. Fixed Solar Panels feature a weight improvement and a smaller footprint design for their power output, effectively contributing to a lighter, smaller design with greater cell efficiency. MSRP: $385.00 BUY NOW Scanstrut — Ventura Series 125V 20A AC Outlet With its adventure-ready design, the Ventura 125V Outlet delivers instant mains power outside your RV, perfect for electric grills, BBQs, outdoor coolers, and all your favourite home comforts. Whether you’re lounging at the beach, exploring the mountains, or camping with friends, you’ll always have access to reliable outdoor power. Using the Ventura outlet is effortless. Just park, lift the waterproof lid, and plug-in – power is at your fingertips. Engineered with Scanstrut’s renowned marine-grade innovation, this outlet is rigorously tested for UV resistance and meets IP68 & IP69K waterproofing standards (with the lid closed). Built with 316 stainless steel components, it ensures durability and long-lasting performance in any environment. The Ventura Series is the result of extensive research, testing, and development, offering a sleek, compact design that seamlessly integrates with the other products in the range, including exterior sockets like power, water, and solar. Upgrade your RV’s exterior with a clean, sleek finish that enhances both aesthetics and usability. Key Features Compatible with flat and round cables   IP68, IP69K Waterproof (with lid closed) Premium click-to-close design Marine-grade 316 stainless steel hardware  Durable matte black plastics  Built-in gaskets for a watertight seal  Corrosion-resistant design  Commercial-grade receptacle included  Built-in strain relief  Starting at $63.49 BUY NOW Triple R Lights — Fog Light Upgrade Kit Compatible with the Mercedes Sprinter (W907/W910), Triple-R Light’s Fog Light Upgrade Kit features a pair of Carbon-2 ‘DRIVE’ LED lights, elevating the Sprinter’s lighting capabilities to deliver a dynamic, safer, more enjoyable night driving experience. Supplied pre-mounted into left-hand / right-hand lamp holders, on the one-hand the Carbon-2 lamps deliver a supplemental high beam driving light, and at the flick of a switch, a supplemental yellow dipped beam light output. The lamp holders themselves feature Triple-R’s grain texture finish, which gives the kits a rugged and tough appearance, without needing to be additionally painted. With a combined 6,240 raw lumens (high beam mode), the Carbon-2 lights bring cutting-edge motorsport tech to the road and off-road. Recent upgrades to the lamps allow for: an SAE/DOT-compliant high beam function for additional driving light performance, an SAE/DOT-compliant fog light in the dipped beam mode (in yellow light) that helps cut through adverse weather conditions such as fog, dust, or rain. In addition, an ‘off-road only’ white and amber backlight functions are included with the lamps. MSRP: $950.00 BUY NOW View the full article