Aug 25, 2021
Went to the first Saturday Bronco Off Rodeo in Nevada, 16 Sasquatch Badlands 4dr (lifted, 35s with enhanced shocks) Broncos in two groups on private trails for 10 hours of instruction, trails and food. Way better than I expected. Trails were initially fairly easy and then we ended with a technical wash that did minor damage to a couple vehicles. Surprised Ford had green drivers climbing over some largish rocks. Excellent instruction for beginners and some good techniques for the experienced. I was just hoping for some seat time and received a lot more. Instructors were super friendly, clear spoken with obvious trail experience and overly tolerant, I would have dropped several WTFs... and just one of the reasons why I am thankfully not an instructor. The renovation of a Boy Scout camp is superbly executed to trade show levels, metal logos on distant water spouts, unique branded lighting, veneers, displays and signage and with great food/spaces.
Bronco felt very similar to 2" lifted FJ, similar tipping points, wider and 4dr longer. Intentionally hit some deep sockets at speed to stuff the suspension and find the stops, very compliant ride with good shock rate increasing resistance until hitting stops without slamming, not crazy soft/jarring event like stock FJ suspension. Dropping off rocks the shocks were very controlled and predictable, trail assist amazingly smooth. Turn assist is the real deal, drag turns on trail switches is giddy smile inducing. Lockers engage instantly with clear indicators, easy button location (Toyota take notice). Releasing the swaybar provided similar articulation as and FJ with no swaybar. Operating lockers, disconnect, trail turn and swaybar disconnect was immediate and intuitive, GOAT modes take your eyes off the trail for a menu wondering search... The 4 cylinder was responsive and did not struggle.
Count me very impressed with the Bronco and the event.
Bronco felt very similar to 2" lifted FJ, similar tipping points, wider and 4dr longer. Intentionally hit some deep sockets at speed to stuff the suspension and find the stops, very compliant ride with good shock rate increasing resistance until hitting stops without slamming, not crazy soft/jarring event like stock FJ suspension. Dropping off rocks the shocks were very controlled and predictable, trail assist amazingly smooth. Turn assist is the real deal, drag turns on trail switches is giddy smile inducing. Lockers engage instantly with clear indicators, easy button location (Toyota take notice). Releasing the swaybar provided similar articulation as and FJ with no swaybar. Operating lockers, disconnect, trail turn and swaybar disconnect was immediate and intuitive, GOAT modes take your eyes off the trail for a menu wondering search... The 4 cylinder was responsive and did not struggle.
Count me very impressed with the Bronco and the event.
DesertEagle1776, bigbend4J
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Aug 25, 2021