The Dakar is a cross-country style rally and one of the most difficult motorsport events in the world. Cross-country rallies also known as “Rally Raid” events, consist of timed off-road stages called Specials and transit sections which move the competitors between specials and the service camp known as the Bivuoac. At several times during the event, the Bivuoac will move to different locations requiring the entire population of the rally including organization assets and team service vehicles to the new location. Check out the below gallery of scenes from the Dakar Rally.
The South Racing can-am team has become one of the most dominate in cross-country rallies. They field production based can-ams in the T4 SSV category for both professional and gentlemen (arrive and drive) drivers. 150+ men and women from all over the world work day and night to make sure athletes and vehicles are prepared and ready for the big race.
When they're not flying through the desert at full speed, Kaden Wells and his family operated Risq Racing team get some easy riding in with their Polaris Xpedition. Equipped with the ultimate all-terrain tire, the Regulator 2, and Method Race Wheels Bead Grip wheels, this upgraded Xpedition is ready to take on long rides and tackle any obstacle in it's path. Feast your eyes on this do-it-all UTV.
Chassis | Polaris Xpedition |
Builder/ Owner | Kaden Wells (Risq Racing) |
Tires | Regulator 2 (33") |
Wheels | Method Race Wheels 414 |
Windows | Tinted |
Wrap | UNION Graphic Co. |
Chupacabra Offroad hit the dirt to put their Speed UTV El Jefe RG edition to the test. This beast on wheels is equipped with cutting-edge features and top-of-the-line components. Tensor's Regulator 2 tires provide unrivaled traction and control across various terrains. This Speed UTV comes fully loaded with Chupacabra Offroad accessories, including premium side and rear view mirrors for enhanced visibility during thrilling off-road adventures. To illuminate the path ahead, the UTV is equipped with powerful Baja Designs lights. With its aggressive looks and high performance, this UTV is the ultimate off-road machine for thrill-seekers and enthusiasts alike.
Chassis | Speed UTV El Jefe RG |
Builder/ Owner | Chupacabra Offroad |
Tires | Regulator 2 (33") |
Wheels | Method Race Wheels 401-R High-Offset |
Accessories | Chupacabra Off-road (mirrors, light mounts, fire extinguisher) |
Lights | Baja Designs |
Bumper | Speed UTV |
Off-road racer Ethan Groom has established himself as top competitor in BITD and SCORE series with a lengthy winning record at a young age. His impressive racing skill set combined with the top tier performance of his Tensor Tire equipped Polaris RZR make him a formidable competitor in off-road racing. Ethan debuted his new Polaris RZR at the 2023 KOH and has his sights set on the always brutal Mint 400.
The Tensor DS "Desert Series" tires are specifically designed for challenging terrains and competitive racing, offering excellent durability, stability and traction. Reliability and excellent performance have made Tensor Tires the top choice for Groom and many elite racers in the sport.
Chassis | 2019 Polaris RZR XP1000 Dynamix Edition |
Builder | Jake Velasco Race Prep (JVRP) |
Tires | DS 33" |
Wheels | Method Race Wheels 412 Bead Grip |
Shocks | FOX Factory, RAD Internal Bypass, tune by Mike Kim |
Suspension | Cognito Motorsports Front, ID Designs Rear |
Steering | Shock Therapy & JVRP |
Motor | Benchmark Performance tuned XP1000 |
Transmission | Benchmark Performance modified Turbo S |
Cage | CageWRX (modified by JVRP) |
Body | Carbon Fiber by Ebbco Racing |
Lighting | Baja Designs |
Seats & Harnesses | Sparco |
Wiring | Tiedemann Racing Harnesses |
Custom Fab & Plumbing | JVRP |
Graphics | VISCID |
The first four wheel competition to take place at the 2023 King of The Hammers week saw 92 UTV racers participate in the 40-mile qualification round in the vast Johnson Valley desert. This segment was a portion of the next day’s course, and it determined the starting order for the race day. Additionally, the Prologue’s elapsed time was included in the total elapsed time for Sunday’s competition, which was 196 miles long. On the day of the race, the drivers not only faced the physical challenges of the terrain but also had to cope with the brutal winds that swept across California’s Mojave Desert. The race began at 8 a.m., and the drivers finished the 196-mile race anywhere from slightly under four hours to just over six-and-a-half hours from their start time.Despite the challenges that came their way, Branden Sims remained composed and determined on the course. His unwavering focus paid off as he and his team emerged victorious in the UTV Open class and secured the B3 overall title at the Toyo Tires Desert Challenge. Moreover, their incredible performance earned them a remarkable second place in the general classification. Running on Tensor DSR 33" tires, he bested the competition and conquered the brutal open desert of Johnson Valley. With this win and the victory at the Baja 1000 that makes it two in a row for Branden and his Polaris Pro R.
Builder | Branden Sims/ Lone Star Racing |
Chassis | 2022 Polaris RZR ProR |
Engine | Polaris 4 cylinder/ 2L/ 225hp |
Shocks | Fox 3.0 Live Valve |
Suspension | Lone Star Racing upper/ lower control arms |
Suspension | Shock Therapy tie rods |
Tires | Tensor Tire DSR 37in |
Wheels | Method Race Wheels 412 Forged Bead Grip |
A Can-Am Maverick X3 with 350hp? You’re not dreaming. We took Juan Llamas’ powerhouse sand beast out to Pismo Beach, CA and got to see it perform up close and personal. Whether it’s a full send jump or drag racing, this X3 dominates the dunes.
The Phoenix Speed Extreme Duner/ Race Engine and XR42 Xona turbo create a truly powerful setup. Tensor’s SS “Sand Series” tires help to maximize this power with Velocity Grid technology, providing added biting edges for superior handling, acceleration, and braking. Combined with the lightweight 2 ply, it also reduces rotating mass for maximum power delivery.
Builder | Juan Llamas/ Phoenix Speed Shop |
Chassis | 2021 Can-Am Maverick X3 |
Engine | Phoenix Speed Extreme Duner/ Race Engine |
Exhaust | Packard |
Suspension | Ben Porter |
Turbocharger | XR42 Xona Turbo |
Tires | Tensor Tire SS "Sand Series" Front & Rear |
Wheels | Method Race Wheels 413 Forged Beadlock wheels |
Gusset Kit | TMW |
Doors | TMW |
Bumper | TMW |
Lights | Baja Designs |
Cage | SS Fab Chromoly Cage |
Seats | Triple X |
Dash | Jeffries Performance |
Steering Wheel | Assault Industries w/ Geiser Switch Pro wheel mount |
Featuring our revolutionary patent pending Velocity Grid™, the SS tire is a true game changer for purpose built sand tires. Found on both the front and rear tires, the Velocity Grid™ technology provides added biting edges for superior handling, acceleration, and braking. Combined with the lightweight 2 ply, it also reduces rotating mass for maximum power delivery.
The front SS “Sand Series” tire weighs just 24.4lbs and is available in a 33x11-15 size. In addition to the revolutionary Velocity Grid™ design, the front SS also features dual apex turning ribs. These provide exceptional steering response, ensuring steering inputs translate to predictable vehicle rotation. The 33” tall diameter provides additional ground clearance for further capability.
Features:
Features:
Tensor's DS Tires already own a championship-winning track record. Like its 30" & 32" counterparts, the 33" DS features a lightweight, rigid nylon bias-ply construction with durable ribbed sidewalls to negate crawl out in deep two track ruts and reinforce puncture resistance. Developed specifically with competitive racing in mind, the new DS is an appropriately sized tire with decreased weight to unleash all the horsepower from your machine.
Weighing only 36.3 lbs, Tensor's 33" DS measures 10" wide and is available for 14" or 15" wheels. It’s open tread pattern delivers responsive and predictable steering with increased forward bite to keep you in control on the course or the trail.
The 33" DS is a purpose-built racing tire designed primarily for race UTVs, buggies, and pre-runners. Tensor's DS 33 offer race-proven performance for those who demand the best.
- Patented race tire developed specifically for competition
- Proprietary nylon bias ply with fiberglass belted construction saves weight over steel
- Decreased weight unleashes all available horsepower from your machine
- Open tread pattern delivers responsive and predictable steering with increase forward bite
- Multiple rubber compounds available to match racing surface conditions
- Extra thick tread blocks allow for custom grooving for increased performance
- Unique ribbed sidewall shoulder negate crawl out in deep two track ruts
Builder | Dennis Peterson |
Chassis | 1970 VW Bug |
Engine | 2332 Fat Performance |
Transmission | 022 Weddle Internal |
Shocks | King |
Steering | Saco Power Steering |
Tires | Tensor Tire DSR 35" |
Wheels | Method Race Wheels 103 Buggy Beadlock |
Trailing Arms | Tweed 4130 |
Lighting | KC Hilites |
Hubs | Jamar Front/ Pro Am Rear |
Brakes | Jamar Brake Discs |
Body Work | Pinhead Fabrication (Back Half) |
Seats | PRP |
Harnesses | PRP |
Switches | Switch Pros |
Navigation | Lowrance GPS |
Communication | Rugged Radios |
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Builder | Jake Velasco Race Prep (JVRP) |
Chassis | 2019 Polaris RZR XP1000 Dynamix |
Motor | Benchmark Performance Tuned XP1000 |
Transmission | Benchmark Performance Modified Turbo S |
Clutch | Benchmark Performance Tuned Turbo S |
Shocks | Fox Shocks & RAD Internal Bypass |
Wiring | Tiedemann Racing Harnesses |
Steering | Shock Therapy & JVRP |
Wheels | Method Race Wheels Foraged 412 Beadgrip |
Tires | DS 32x10-15 Soft Compound |
Front Suspension | Cognito Motorsports |
Rear Suspension | ID Designs |
Lighting | Baja Designs |
Body | Carbon Fiber (Ebbco Racing) |
Cage | Cage WRX (Modified By JVRP) |
Graphics | VISCID Designs |
Seats | Sparco |
Wheel | Sparco |
Harnesses | Sparco |
Navigation | Lowrance |
Communication | PCI Race Radios |
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Builder | Branden Sims |
Chassis | 2022 Polaris RZR Turbo R |
Engine | Stock Polaris RZR Turbo R |
Springs | Eibach Springs |
Shocks | Fox 3.0 Live Valve Shocks |
Wheels | Method Race Wheels 412 Forged Beadlock |
Tires | Tensor DSR 35 |
Lighting | Baja Designs |
Cage | Lone Star Racing Chromoly Cage |
Winch | Polaris 6,000 LB Winch |
Seats | Impact Racing |
Harnesses | Impact Racing 5 Point |
Switches | Switch Pros Auxiliary Power Panel |
Dash | Aim Data Acquisition |
The dominate Class 5 build is built by Jake's Fabworks on a custom 2018 006 chassis. With a 2.5 ecotec engine by Danzio and 6 speed Fulton sequential transmission this vehicle can compete with some of the fastest on the course. King Shocks, Ultra Wheels, ProAm hubs, and Tensor 37" allow the vehicle to glide over the harsh terrains encountered in desert racing.
Schweers' Class 5 build isn't just an eye catcher, it's a powerhouse machine with the winning record to prove it.
RACE RESULTS
• BITD Vegas To Reno: 1st in 2019, 2020, and 2021
• BITD Silverstate 300: 1st in 2018, 2019, and 2020
• BITD Parker 450: 1st in 2020
• BITD Laughlin Classic: 1st in 2020
• BITD Class 5 Open Championship: 2020
• SCORE Baja 1000: 1st (with Chase Motorsports)
RACER Q & A
Q: What is your normal preparation for a race?
A: "Personally, I work out one hour a day to keep fit for the long hours in the car. For the car it is fully prepped every race by Jake's Fabworks. Two weeks before the race we go out to Barstow to test. For the team we have a chase meeting one week before the race."
Q: Who is your support team and how have they helped you?
A: "Jake's Fabworks built and preps the car every race from day one. Our race team WTF Racing (Way Too Fast) is made up of family and friends from Drag Racing. We are sponsored by Jagermeister, the transmission is by Dave Folts, Engine by Danzio, and tuned by Nils Castillo."
Q: Why did you choose Tensor Tires and how have they performed for you?
A: "We picked Tensor Tires because of the weight, traction, and sidewall flex. The last two races in 2021 we have switched from 35” Tensors to the 37” tire. The 37” Tensor tire is a game changer for our race program. It is a completely a different car, just amazing! It has improved the handling of the car so much! Especially cornering, I can drive deeper into a corner and get back on the gas quicker!"
Builder | Jake's Fabworks |
Chassis | Jake's Fabworks 2018 006 Chassis |
Engine | 2.5 Ecotec Engine By Danzio |
Gear Box | Dave Folts 6 Speed Fulton Sequential Transmission |
Shocks | King Shocks |
Wiring | Performance Engineering |
Wheels | Ultra Wheels |
Tires | Tensor DSR 37 |
Hubs | ProAm |
Lighting | Baja Designs |
Seats | Sparco |
Harnesses | Crow Cam Lock Belts |
Electronics | MoTeC |
King of The Hammers takes place each year in February, on public lands in Johnson Valley, CA. The race has evolved from 12 teams racing for bragging rights and a case of beer, to more than 300 teams competing before more than 35,000 fans in person and nearly 500,000 watching online. Due to the incredible success of King of the Hammers, Hammerking has created an ULTRA4 Racing Series with seven races held throughout the country.
Each of these races is a qualifier for the King of The Hammers race each year. In addition to these races, Hammerking has established a racing class known as the ULTRA4 class. The defining characteristic of this class is that all cars must be capable of 4-wheel drive. Beyond that, the class is unlimited. These cars come in all shapes and sizes and are capable of speeds over 100+ MPH and still contain gear ratios as low as 100 to 1 for technical rock crawling.
Livestream:
Branden Sims:
Coming off of a 2nd place finish at the SCORE Baja 1000, Branden Sims looks to replicate his success at Ultra4's King Of The Hammers. Armed with a new Polaris RZR build and running Tensor's 35" DSR (Desert Series Race) tires, he is ready to make his presence felt in Johnson Valley, CA.
RESULTS:
• Desert Challenge - 6th
• UTV Hammers Championship - 6th
After securing his 3rd SCORE World Desert Championships (Pro UTV NA Class) in 2021, Kaden Wells of Risq Racing takes on a new challenge. With his Polaris RZR build, new livery, and fresh Tensor 32" DS (Desert Series) tires, he's looking to be crowned the new King Of The Hammers.
RESULTS: Unfortunately, Wells had an accident in the Desert Challenge costing him the race. He and his co-driver are thankfully OKAY, just a little banged up.
THE RESURRECTION OF A MASTERPIECE
Every once in a while, extraordinary things happen for all the right reasons. For Nick Tiedemann and his late father John Tiedemann, that is precisely what happened in 2006 when they hatched a plan to upgrade an aging Baja Bug into a nicer & prettier off-road platform. The goal was to keep the VW traditional while building the vehicle up with all the class, craftsmanship, and modern amenities that they could afford.
3 years later, their efforts produced a well-built 1968 Baja Bug that earned a "Masterpiece In Metal" feature in Dirt Sports Magazine 2009 August Issue #54 titled NEW SCHOOL RETRO VW. Beyond winning awards at local car shows and VW events, the car earned further recognition as Dirt Sports, "Best of the Best Top 10 Cars Ever Featured," published in 2013. To correctly highlight this very special Baja Bug, we must rewind and take a closer look at the car's history and who had their hands in helping shape this vehicle's origins.
But first, let's introduce Nick Tiedemann, owner and purveyor of TRH Wiring. Coming out of high school, Tiedemann began working for Craig Stewart at Stewart's Raceworks. After that, Nick went to work for Joey Davitian at Pro Wire USA. These opportunities inspired Tiedemann to learn the crafts of his professional trade, wiring and programming high-performance off-road race cars. These days, Nick gets a lot of knowledge and support from James Lin, who has helped take his skillset to the next level. After years of experience working with the best in the industry, TRH Wiring is regularly commissioned by Alumi Craft Race Cars, JimCO Racing, Jake Velasco Race Prep, Wilson Motorsports, RPI Racing, and many more.
Nick hails from San Diego's East County, widely known as an early hub of the off-road motorsports industry. Nick's father, John, had a larger-than-life passion for off-road racing and was one of the early adapters pushing for and advancing safety equipment. Which directly led to John's involvement in supporting various big-name teams and high-profile racers, such as; John Marking, Dave Ashley & Dan Smith, Ivan Stewart, Craig Stewart, Mark Newhan, and John Cooley, to name a few.
Switching focus back to the car, the 1968 VW was initially purchased by Nick's father in the late 70s as a standard bare-bones "Baja Bug." Common to the day and age, it was nearly all stock, no-frills, oddly streetable, and hosted admirable off-road capabilities. Equipped with the basic swing axle rear suspension and just some KYB shocks, John Tiedemann cruised up and down Baja California, for many years at hundreds of miles at a time.
Wanting to stretch a little more performance and improve the vehicle's safety, in the late 80s, John took it into JimCO for upgrades. The plans called for a beefed-up fabricated chassis roll cage and a rear suspension conversion to IRS with Torsion Bars. After these modifications, Tiedemann had something similar to a mild version of a 5/16 type car. At the time, John Marking (FOX Shocks) and John Cooley (Alumi Craft Race Cars) were both cutting their teeth and learning the ropes under the JimCO roof and they all poured their craftsmanship into what would eventually become a true "Masterpiece In Metal.”
It is no wonder that when little Nick grew into his own and developed an affinity for off-road racing and eventually a 2-1600 racing habit. Nick began using the aging family Baja Bug to prerun in the 2000s to support his program. Along with those off-road dirt miles came off-road abuse and needed repairs. When Nick sold the 1600 car (which became Luke McMillin's first race car), the Tiedemann's decided to pour the funds over into the Baja Bug for a proper restoration and started the complete rebuild in 2006. During this update, Nick enlisted help from his friends and fellow craftsman; Kurt from PRD Fab, Scott Kell from Alloy Studios. The three of them gutted the car and built from scratch everything from the floor pan to the cage itself. Only 2-3 tubes in the car are still original from the 80s and everything else has been meticulously fabricated to their professional standards. All the aluminum work was done by Scott, Nick and Clinton Pierce. Additionally, John and Nick did all the plumbing. It was essentially a brand new car.
As mentioned, three years into it, the car was finished to form and debuted in a 2009 issue of Dirt Sports Magazine. In 2014, Nick gave the car a modern electronic overhaul to provide the VW technically advanced wiring functions to help perfect his craft and promote TRH Wiring’s capabilities. Going from Auto Meter gauges, traditional switches & breakers to upgraded Motec electronics, PDM, keypad, Kustom Components AC, and a c125 color dash was just the final touch every wazoo off-road car needs. Completely street legal with working turn signals, license plates, power windows & locks, and now Air Conditioned. A retro-style Baja Bug with modern amenities that can blitz and bomb off-road at speed. In our eyes, it is the ideal Baja Bug, born with a proper pedigree, dreamy looks and well-performed craftsmanship inside and out.
A Father & Son worked tirelessly on an old VW Bug through several different evolutions of upgrades, ultimately generating this modern off-road gem we now have featured here. Nick enjoyed the car together with his father for many years until Johns passing in 2017 and still owns the Baja Bug with no plans to sell.
In fact, the upgrades are still being added. In 2017, Nick added a third seat for his son and in 2020, further enhanced the vehicle performance with VW Paradise of Escondido Turbo Charging the Type 1 2276 Motor. The car is estimated to crank out 200 HP and confirmed top speed 105 MPH.
With more ponies available, Tiedemann knew the best way to get the car to work better was by adding taller tires. Nick selected Tensor DSR 35" x 10.5" Tires for the rugged performance, soft compound, and comfortable ride quality. "These are great tires," Nick shared. "The taller tire helps so much to get through the bumps. The holes are getting huge and the 35s keeps us from riding on the skid plates all the time. With the VW power, we actually can move pretty good in part to the weight saving advantages from the DSR tires. As an added bonus, it is much nicer to have better ride quality and I know the Tensor will hold up to the rugged terrain. I prefer running 15-20 lbs. of pressure in the Southern California deserts and I don't ever have to worry about running a spare tire.”
Tiedemann continued, "I love how the car turned out. It's a treasure that allows me to cherish the times I spent with my father and now my family. I love the Baja Bug and even more with the Tensors. I like them so much; I purchased a set of them to put on my 4-seat dual-sport car."
Builder/ Owner | Nick Tiedemann |
Chassis | 1968 VW Bug |
Weight | 3000 lbs |
Wheelbase | 105" |
Trackwidth | 81" |
Engine | 2276 VW Type 1 Turbo Charged By VW Paradise |
Gear Box | VW Configuration Bus Box W/ Weddle Internal Gears Power Box Trans |
Brakes | CNC Disc Brakes, Single Piston fronts & Dual Rear W/ CNC Master Cylinders |
Fuel Cell | 20 Gallon Fuel Safe Cell |
Wiring | Tiedemann Racing Harnesses |
Wheels | 15x4 BTR Beadlock Wheels |
Tires | Tensor DSR 35x10-15 |
Front Suspension | 10" Over Beam, 4" Longer Arms - 12" Wheel Travel |
Rear Suspension | 3x3 Over IRS Arms - 17" Wheel Travel |
Lighting | Hella Hid Lights |
Seats | Custom Taylor Made, Built By John Tiedemann's Shop In 90's |
Shifter | Pro Am |
Interior | Friendly Auto Upholstery |
Amenities | Power Windows, Door Locks, & Wipers |
AC | Kustom Kompoents Electric AC |
Powder Coating | ECP Powder Coating |
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AJ Jones is running a South Racing built CanAm Maverick X3 for this years Dakar Rally. Running the Tensor Tire DS 30" (and DSR 33" for certain Stages of the rally) and Method Race Wheels 407s package provides maximum weight savings and unmatched handling. It also features a 195HP Rotax engine (restricted to 160HP) with original BRP powertrain and tuned CVTs. Safety is paramount with the extreme conditions at the Dakar, so a 100% chrome-moly chassis, OMP racing seats, belts and FIA FT3 fuel cell are integrated into the build. The suspension arms are made custom by South Racing and also sport Ohlins dampers and reinforced ball joints. Custom carbon fiber panels, a shatterproof windscreen, and aluminum skid plates top off the rally ready build.
"To win the Dakar or a championship you need to combine similar ingredients: a good car, a good navigator, a good team and lots of consistency. Once again there’s going to be some tough competition in our class from the likes of ‘Chaleco’ Lopez and my teammate Aron Domzala so a bit of that other essential ingredient ‘luck’ wouldn’t go amiss either!”
Builder | South Racing canam |
Chassis | 2021 canam Maverick X3 |
The Dakar is a cross-country style rally and one of the most difficult motorsport events in the world. Cross-country rallies also known as “Rally Raid” events, consist of timed off-road stages called Specials and transit sections which move the competitors between specials and the service camp known as the Bivuoac. At several times during the event, the Bivuoac will move to different locations requiring the entire population of the rally including organization assets and team service vehicles to the new location.
The 2022 Dakar Rally consists of 12 stages over 14 days and a staggering 5,204 miles (8,375 km). Drivers and riders must navigate vast chains of dunes, tracks, and rocky areas. The 44th edition of the Dakar will also double as the opening round of the FIA and FIM World Rally-raid Championships for cross-country rallying.
Austin "AJ" Jones:
Eighth on his first attempt in 2020, and second in 2021 after leading the race four days before the finish, Austin Jones continues to rise. The talented 25 year old American spent his childhood learning the ins and outs of racing from his father, Jesse, who has been competing in desert events for the past 20 years and runs the Jones Motorsport team. In 2018 Austin got behind the wheel himself after spending a year as his dad's co-driver. In his first full season, Austin teamed up with Bryce Swaim and took the SCORE International Championship by storm, claiming victories at the Baja 500 and Baja 1000 in the Trophy Truck Spec class. He took his first steps in rally raid towards the end of 2018 and quickly made his mark. Having just secured the FIM T4 World Cup, Austin now shifts his focus on winning one of toughest races in the world.
"To win the Dakar or a championship you need to combine similar ingredients: a good car, a good navigator, a good team and lots of consistency. Once again there’s going to be some tough competition in our class from the likes of ‘Chaleco’ Lopez and my teammate Aron Domzala so a bit of that other essential ingredient ‘luck’ wouldn’t go amiss either!”
Francisco “Chaleco” López Contardo is undoubtedly one of the greatest Dakar stars that South America has produced, who made his debut in 2007 when the rally took place in the African deserts. In seven participations in the bike category between 2007 and 2014, the Chilean idol twice finished on the podium with third-place finishes in 2010 and 2013. In 2011 he finished fourth, while the last four ended in retirement, totaling 11 stage victories. After a five-year hiatus, “Chaleco” returned to the Dakar in 2019 in a new category, the side-by-side, making a quick adaptation and winning the title in Peru. In 2020, now on Saudi soil, the native of Curicó finished third with two stage victories. In the last edition, “Chaleco” was dominant, taking five stage wins and winning both the light vehicle and SSV category. He took the lead on stage six, lost the lead due to a mechanical failure and regained it on stage nine. Once again, his navigator will be veteran Juan Pablo Latrach -who is making his ninth Dakar appearance after an intense year of competition- on the latest generation Can-Am XRS prepared by South Racing. Enthusiastic about a route that promises a lot of “off-road”, champion Chaleco Lopez comes to his eleventh Dakar to give his best, with his rough and tumble style, in one of the most competitive categories of the rally.
In 2022, Gerard Farrès will take part in his 15th Dakar, the fourth behind the wheel of an SSV. The Manresa native is one of the leaders of the category in Spain. In 2006, he made his Dakar debut in Africa on a motorcycle. He finished 16th among the 119 riders in that edition, which garnered him rookie of the year honours. Step by step he climbed up the ranks, after riding in support for some of the big names of the time, he made headlines in 2017, finishing 3rd overall in the motorcycle category with the Spanish HIMOINSA team. Two years later, and another top 5 finish, he swapped two-wheels for four to venture into SSV with South Racing and Can-Am. After his debut in 2019 with a sensational second place, he helped his team to victory in the following two editions, now in Saudi Arabia. This year, he severed ties with Armand Monleón and will have a new co-driver with whom he will make his debut on 1 January in the Prologue of the 44th edition of the toughest rally in the world. But Farrès arrives with his desire and enthusiasm intact. A competitor with a broad smile even on the darkest of days, after hours of repairs in the middle of the desert, to try to complete a stage. The Spaniard says he never thought he would be able to do the Dakar in a car, and his objective now is to gain more experience and help the South Racing Can-Am structure maintain its recent dominance in the T4 category (light production vehicles).
The Polish duo, Aron Domzala and co-driver Maciej Marton, enjoyed their best run to date in last year's rally, finishing third in the SSVs behind Francisco Lopez and Austin Jones. In 2022, all three crews will be competing under the banner of the Can-Am Factory South Racing team, but that won't stop them trying to outdo each other on the Saudi sands! Considering he only took up rally raid in 2015, the 32-year-old has quickly established himself as one of the best in the business. He began his driving career at the Barborka Warsaw Rally in 2008, going on to win the class 5 Lithuanian Championship in 2013 and compete in the Junior WRC in 2014. Once he went offroad, he won the T3 class at the FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies in 2016, then finished third in the T1 class in 2017. With his undeniable talent and growing experience, Aron clearly has what it takes to stand on the top step of a Dakar podium.
“It will be very interesting to see the internal fight on our team! There are lots of good drivers, especially with last year's podium: Lopez, Jones and us. They will be very strong, and there are a couple of other crews fighting for the win. We want to improve, for sure. The aim is first place, we're not interested in anything else!”
Molly Taylor:
Molly Taylor will be one to watch in the T4 SSV class as she attempts her first Dakar. At only 33 years of age, she’s travelled the world and competed in some legendary races. Starting with traditional rallies in her home country of Australia, Molly then raced in Great Britain, Europe (ERC), and WRC, before becoming the first female and youngest winner of the Australian Rally Championship. The Dakar will be a whole new world for Molly who will be part of the Can-Am Factory South Racing team. To prepare for the rally, the Sydney born driver took part in the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge and Rally Ha’il. A good learning experience alongside co-driver Dale Moscatt who returns to the Dakar after finishing 32nd in the rally back in 2016 with Peter Jerie.
“The Dakar is all new for me. It’s so different. It’s just a massive adventure and challenge. It’s exciting but pretty daunting. When I announced that I was doing the Dakar, the reception back home and from my fan base was amazing. It’s such an iconic event. Initially my goal is to get to the finish but we aim the podium. Having a mission to win would be naive even if I’m very competitive. The dynamic is very different driving a T4 SSV. It’s super fun and you adapt rapidly so it gives you confidence. I’m actually not too worried. Of course it’s a physical challenge but I’m super interested by the test.”
South Racing Canam:
The South Racing can-am team has become one of the most dominate in cross-country rallies. They field production based can-ams in the T4 SSV category for both professional and gentlemen (arrive and drive) drivers.
This year, South Racing is servicing and supporting 21 Can-Am's out of 121 participants (T3 & T4) which represents the biggest team at Dakar as well as the first-ever Can-Am Factory supported race team (4 vehicles). 160 men and women from all over the world are currently working day and night to make sure our athletes are prepared, comfortable, and ready for the big race.
The 54th annual SCORE Baja 1000 is this week with races starting Thursday, November 18th. It is billed as one of the most iconic, prestigious, challenging, and longest continuous desert races in world.
The race consists of 1,226.35 grueling, continuous, miles down Mexico's majestic Baja California Peninsula. It starts in Ensenada, Baja California and ends in La Paz Baja California Sur. Generally taking 22.5 plus hours for the fastest vehicles to finish, the Baja 1000 is as much an extreme test of endurance as it is speed and skill.
In addition to one of the toughest desert races in the world, the Baja 1000 also serves as the final round in the four-race 2021 SCORE World Desert Championship. One of the premier titles in off-road racing attracts some of the best competition in the sport.
Team Tensor racers Branden Sims and Craig Scanlon look to lock up a Baja 1000 win in the Pro UTV FI (Forced Induction) class. A rematch from 2020, Team Tensor racer Kaden Wells goes head-to-head with Kristen Matlock in a battle for the 2021 SCORE World Desert Champion title in the Pro UTV NA (Naturally Aspirated) class.
Branden Sims:
Coming off of a first place finish in his last SCORE race, the Baja 500, Branden Sims looks to repeat his success in the Baja 1000. Armed with a new Polaris RZR build and running Tensor's 33" DSR (Desert Series Race) tires, he is ready to make his presence felt on the Peninsula.
Race Results:
Brandon Sims takes 2nd place in the Pro UTV FI (Forced Induction) class! Time to finish was 27:39:50.957.
Follow Branden Sims' journey to Baja and behind the scenes on race day! The two part series is can be found on our YouTube channel or below:
Weapon of choice:
Kaden Wells:
After securing back-to-back SCORE World Desert Championships (Pro UTV NA Class) in 2018 and 2019, Kaden Wells of Risq Racing was beat out by veteran Polaris RZR Factory Racer Kristen Matlock. He returns to the Baja 1000 this year sitting first in points in his class with 321. Kristen Matlock closely trails with 308 points in an epic rematch.
Coming off of back-to-back wins in the Baja 500 and Baja 400 (winning the 400 in a 2016 RZR XP1000!), Wells is on fire. With a new Polaris RZR build, new livery, and fresh Tensor 32" DS (Desert Series) tires, he's ready to become a three time world championship.
Race Results:
Kaden Wells takes 2nd place in the Pro UTV NA (Naturally Aspirated) class, and secures his THIRD SCORE World Desert Championship! Time to finish was 30:09:24.616.
Check out the feature on RISQ Racing and Kaden Wells -> HERE <-
Weapon of choice:
Craig Scanlon:
Recent Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame Impact Award honoree and 4WP President Craig Scanlon returns to Baja in hopes of claiming victory in the Pro UTV FI class. After some bad luck in the last race, the Baja 400, he is determined to return to the form that saw him notch his first Pro class victory at the 2019 Baja 500.
Race Results:
Craig Scanlon checks in at 12th place in the Pro UTV FI class. Time to finish was 34:14:35.413.
Weapon of choice:
RISQ Racing has burst onto the off-road motorsports scene the past few seasons with authority. They won back to back SCORE Championships in 2018 and 2019, following that up with a second place finish in 2020. In 2021, they are hoping to lock up another SCORE Championship heading into the Baja 1000.
For RISQ, racing is a family affair. Based out of Southern Utah, the Wells family does 100% of their builds and prep in house at their shop. The brothers Kaden Wells and Corbin Wells pilot the race vehicles while Libby and Travis Wells (mom and dad) manage the chase and pit crews. A support group of amazing friends and family also pitch in at races and events.
They didn't start with UTVs, but the Wells family has always had a passion for the thrill of racing. Starting out in BMX racing, Kaden and Corbin eventually found their way to UTVs starting out in the WORCS series. Instantly hooked, the two brothers eventually traded in the track for the open desert.
The Wells family's operation has grown substantially in recent years. They have their own shop and now boast a fleet of vehicles that includes 6 race vehicles, 2 pre-runners, and a chase truck.
Approximately 500 hours go into each race vehicle they build, explaining the seemingly supernatural consistency and dominance the Wells brothers have enjoyed in recent seasons. RISQ Racing builds their own chassis and gusset kit to reinforce stock arms. A slew of aftermarket parts and accessories, including 32" DS Tensor Tires, help round out their race vehicles and make them some of the best in Baja.
TENSOR: How do you all manage two racers and a fleet of vehicles?
Libby Wells: Good question [lol]. We work a lot of hours, but it pays off when we all get to go to a race and do what we all love! It's a group effort and we all pitch in. We also have awesome support from our friends and family.
TENSOR: Who is your support team?
Kaden Wells: My parents for sure. My co-drivers Mitch, Arnie, and Manni. Our main shop dude, Troy. Our chase team. And of course our sponsors! Can't race like we do without the help.
TENSOR: What goes into your race prep?
Travis Wells: For a full race prep we install new suspension, motor, tans, front diff, clutches, belt and bolts, and all 4 corners. It takes approximately 4 days to a week. Minor prep includes changing fluids, bolts, clutches, belt, air filter, any wear and tear items, and greasing the wheel bearings.
TENSOR: What race series do you like best and are your future racing aspirations?
Kaden Wells: My favorite race series is SCORE. I like endurance races and seat time! Score races are usually more miles than the series in the States.
Corbin Wells: We chose Tensor Tire because they are incredibly light weight and durable! We can honestly say they are the strongest and best tire we've ever used!
Kaden:
2018 BITD Champion (1st)
2018 SCORE World Desert Championship (1st)
2019 SCORE World Desert Championship (1st)
2020 SCORE World Desert Championship (2nd)
2020 BITD Championship (2nd)
Corbin:
2019 BITD Championship (2nd)
2020 BITD Championship (3rd)
Builder | RISQ Racing |
Platforms | 2016 (x1), 2019 (x1) 2020 (x2), 2021 (x2) Polaris RZR XP1000s |
Chassis | RISQ Racing - Custom |
Tuning | DW Performance |
Wheels | Method Race Wheels 401-R Low Offset |
Tires | Tensor DS 32" Hard Compound |
Suspension | Alltech Motorsports/ Assault Industries |
Accessories | Assault Industries |
Lighting | Baja Designs |
Cage | RISQ Racing |
Livery Design | Union Graphic Co. |
Seats | Simpson custom seats |
Particle Separator | S&B Filters |
Oil | Liqui Moly |
Communication | 5x5 Communications |
Team Tensor athlete, Austin "AJ" Jones, sealed his FIA World Cup of Cross-Country Rallies title with his dominant finish at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge. He becomes the first American FIA Cross-Country champion.
The penultimate round of the FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies pushed competitors to the limit as they powered over some of the toughest and most dramatic terrain the world has to offer. Towering dunes in the famed Rub Al Khali, or Empty Quarter, characterize the largest uninterrupted expanse of desert on the globe. The legendary desert challenge is five stages across six days and 1,200 plus miles.
“The dunes here are scary. There are a lot of drop-offs and a lot of weird things that you have to deal with. You can never relax. You always have to be on the wheel watching. It’s so hard here. It doesn’t feel super hot but when you are in the car it is burning.” - Austin Jones
Jones and Brazilian navigator Gustavo Gugelmin suffered a little from road position on the first days of the event through the remote deserts of the UAE’s Empty Quarter but managed their pace well when it mattered and carved out a winning advantage of 11min 38sec with second place on the final stage.
They also finished in a stunning sixth place in the general classification behind five more powerful T1 cars.
Tensor Desert Series (DS) Tires are ideal for UTV platforms and hold up to the rigors of extreme off-road rallying racing. Cross country rally racing is brutal on equipment and the ultimate stress test for tires. Racing day after day is a true testament to the Tensor DS superior design and construction.
PILOT / CO-PILOT |
TEAM |
CAR |
TIME |
1. Austin Jones (USA) / Gustavo Gugelmin (BRA) |
Monster Energy |
Can-Am Maverick XRS |
19hr 29min 24sec |
2. Marek Gozal (POL)/Lukasz Laskawiec (POL) |
South Racing |
Can-Am Maverick XRS |
19hr 41min 02sec |
3. Aaron Domzala (POL)/Maciej Marton (POL) |
Monster Energy | Can-Am Maverick XRS |
19hr 45min 16sec |
4. Mansour Al-Helia (ARE)/Abdullah Dakhan (ARE) |
South Racing | Can-Am Maverick XRS |
20hr 09min 18sec |
ROUND/ EVENT |
TEAM |
PLACE |
CAR |
Andalucia Rally |
Austin Jones (USA) / Gustavo Gugelmin (BRA) |
P1 |
Can-Am Maverick XRS |
Rally Kazakhstan |
Austin Jones (USA) / Gustavo Gugelmin (BRA) |
P1 |
Can-Am Maverick XRS |
Rallye du Maroc |
Austin Jones (USA) / Gustavo Gugelmin (BRA) | P6 |
Can-Am Maverick XRS |
Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge |
Austin Jones (USA) / Gustavo Gugelmin (BRA) | P1 |
Can-Am Maverick XRS |
When you hear "overland", a tent topper on a Jeep or truck is generally what comes to mind. Recognizing that those vehicles can only take you so far off the beaten path, the thrill seekers at Godfrey Proof set out to build the perfect overland machine. Their platform of choice? A Polaris RZR Turbo S Dynamix.
A lot of thought went into designing the Godfrey Proof Overland RZR so that it could reach the most remote locations. Customized brackets were developed to run with snow tracks for winter trips. A dual battery setup with a built in inverter was installed so the vehicle could be run off a generator. Rock sliders and a 4500 lbs low profile winch keep it out of trouble on some of the trickier trails and conditions.
The build sports Tensor DSR 35" tires featuring ribbed sidewalls for enhanced puncture protection, a lightweight build, and proven performance in the harshest race environments. This makes them a top choice for most riding environments and conditions. In addition to the Tensor Tires, a slew of other great aftermarket parts, like a 72" HCR Elite suspension package and Trinity Racing dual exhaust, make the Godfrey Proof Overland RZR one of the best overland machines we've ever seen.
"We always felt like a tent topper was meant more for the UTV community than anything else. Throwing a tent on a Jeep or Truck was cool and all, but you were limited to how far off the beaten path you could actually get. With a RZR the trails and views are endless and we always wished we were able to camp in these exotic places without having to pack so much gear all the time. With that the first Godfrey Proof Overland build was born with the ability to rip through the trails at full capacity, then within 10 minutes have a full camp-site." - Chanler Godfrey
TENSOR: What is Godfrey Proof?
GP: From creating the worldwide brand known as Nitro Circus, Godfrey Proof is a new lifestyle brand whose goal is to re-engineer the perception of adventure and make it more accessible for everyone to "Discover Courage".
TENSOR: Where have you traveled to with the build so far?
GP: All over Utah mostly from the Uinta Mountains, to Moab, to CanyonLands National Park.
TENSOR: Why Tensor Tire?
GP: Best Damn Tires on the market. There are few products we put our "Godfrey Proof" stamp of approval on, and Tensor Tires is a no brainer for us.
Builder | Godfrey Proof |
Chassis | 2021 Polaris RZR Turbo S Dynamix |
Exhaust | K&T Charge Tube with Trinity Racing Dual Exhaust |
Battery | Dual battery setup with built in inverter to run vehicle off generator |
Wheels | Method Race Wheels 409 UTV Beadgrip Steel Grey |
Tires | Tensor DSR 35x10x15 |
Suspension | HCR Elite 72" kit |
Accessories | Assault Industries roof rack, grill, mirrors, & fire extinguisher |
Lighting | Heretic Studios pods, light bar, 10" bar, & BA-2's |
Cage | Vent Racing custom chrome alloy |
Livery Design | ECD Customs |
Seats | Simpson custom seats |
Harnesses | Camlock 4 point |
Sound System | SSV Works Phase 5-sound system |
Wheel | Assault Industries Navigator wheel with push-to-talk plate |
Communication | Rugged Radios 4 person intercom & 60W radio |
During the UTV World Championship, Polaris RZR debuted an all-new youth program that outlined rewards and support for the youth competitors. Ethan Groom won the Youth 570 Class and was awarded a RZR Factory Racing sponsorship & support package.
Looking back, it all started on a whim. An initial “trial by fire” was all it took for the Groom family to get the bug to pursue their racing aspirations by starting Groom Motorsports assertively. Within a short five-year period, young Ethan developed his racing acumen. He matured the drive to win, competing with various organizations such as the Lucas Oil Regional Off-Road Racing Series, The Dirt Series and WORCS.
Starting from the ground floor in entry-level competition, Groom climbed the ranks through different classes amassing a stellar race resume beginning in 2017 and earning 12 Championships through the end of 2020 and is currently racing in the Youth 1000 division.
Naturally, with these impressive results on the track, Groom Motorsports could attract an all-star lineup of industry partners to support the racing program. Ethan is aligned with Method Race Wheels and Tensor Tire on the RZR Rs1 and runs MR401 14x7 wheel and 30x10-14 DS tire package. The car itself was built by GSP Performance and features additional backing from Polaris RZR Factory Racing, Monster Energy, 4WP, Industrial Mechanical Services, Scanlon Motorsports Group, VP Racing Fuels, Maxima Racing Oils, Sparco, GMZ, Temecula Motorsports, Troy Lee Designs, Benchmark Performance, PRP, SC-14, Terra Dynamics, and Thrill Seekers.
The impressive resume continues with Groom’s academic efforts. In June of 2019, Groom graduated as Valedictorian of his middle school (Temecula Preparatory School), served as ASB middle school President for two years, made the Dean's List for his entire 12 semesters, and was voted Student of the Year twice. Ethan earned additional Virtue Awards and was recognized for Excellence in Math as well.
With outstanding on-track performance, a decisive racing program with select industry partners, strong family foundational values, and remarkable intellect, Groom has demonstrated a complete package destined for off-road greatness and determining success.
Groom Motorsports is finishing up a desert racing-based UTV platform with eyes on moving to Best In The Desert in 2022.
]]>Racing #1995 Polaris RZR XP1000 in the PRO UTV Normally Aspirated class, Kaden faced off against eight competitors in his division and was the sole driver of the car. His total time running the 400-mile course was 11 hours, 7 minutes, and 34 seconds for an average speed of 35.95 mph. This finishing time was the third-fastest overall of the UTV competitors.
Wells is undeniably fast compared to his competition. Early in the race, the #1995 Polaris stretched out a 25 minute lead over the next PRO UTV NA racer. At a bottleneck near Race Mile 203, that would all go flat. After getting through the bottleneck, Kaden regained that time and extended it, beating the second-place finisher by over an hour.
At the finish line, Kaden reported his Baja 400 experience: “The first half of the race, we took the lead. At the crossover road, we got bottlenecked and they caught back up with us. Then it was kind of like a restart and we ended up making some passes. I had a pretty good race with no issues and no flats. I want to thank my parents, my co-driver, Arnie, our pit crew, Method Race Wheels, Polaris, and Tensor Tire. We have a great car coming into the 1000." - Kaden Wells, #1995 Polaris RZR XP 10000 (Risq Racing)
Racing for only a short time, Kaden has adapted quickly to off-road desert racing. Wells only went South to run in Baja just three years ago and has already racked up huge accolades. After the 2021 back-to-back Baja 500 and Baja 400 wins, he has five Baja victories and two championships (2018 & 2019). Wells was also a three-time recipient of the SCORE-International Milestone award, a prestigious title that recognizes racers who finish every mile of every race during a single season.
Another stellar performance from Kaden Wells proves that capable equipment is directly related to race results. Kaden runs DS32 Tensor Tires on the #1995 Polaris XP1000 which has aided in his continued Baja racing success. Tensor Tire congratulates Kaden on his string of 2021 podiums and back-to-back victories.
Photography By: Bink Designs
]]>Sand season is that glorious time of year when UTV owners flock to their nearest sand dunes to shred through the fine sand. But what happens when summer is in full effect and touching sand can melt your skin? Off road parts manufacturer Knine Racing has been developing a solution that will bring creature comforts that are lacking in the UTV world. Enter the Knine Racing’s Mini Raptor.
The one you see here is owned by legendary off-road racer Jesse Jones and while at first glance may look like a Ford Raptor, it’s really a truck body on a Can-Am Maverick X3. It features a sealed cab fully equipped with air conditioning and heat as well as soundproofing for those extra-long days on the trail. On all four corners you’ll find Fox shocks and Tensor Tires DSR35 wrapped around Method Race Wheels 405 UTV Series.
In addition to the Vintage Air HVAC system and the body panels, Knine built the roll cage that perfectly fits the OEM chassis. The interior also gets a bit of truck styling with a truck-style dash that blends in the OEM Maverick X3 dash and a center layout perfect for Rugged Radios and HVAC controls. A combination of Sparco’s steering wheel, bucket seat and harnesses straps Jesse and his passenger comfortably for any dune session.
Jesse Jones says, “My favorite thing about the Knine is the uniqueness.”
It’s hard to beat something that will give you the best of both. Jesse Jones’ Knine machine blurs the line between off-road UTV capability and luxury. Now if we can only get Jesse to let use drive it down in Baja.
]]>Dallas' first taste for competition came in 2015 when he entered a Polaris RZR 170 at the 2015 UTV World Championships. He was only eight years old at the time and new to it all. Since then, Gonzalez has earned 15 major championships in the six short years, including 5X BITD UTV World Champion, 2X BITD Winter Nationals Champion, WORCS Series 250 & 570 Champion titles, and close to 40 podium finishes.
This year, Gonzalez moved into Best In The Desert's UTV Pro N/A Class and races in the WORCS Series 1000 Stock Class. It was not without massive sacrifice and investment to come this far. Dallas has become a true racers racer and eats, sleeps and breathes his craft 24/7. We asked Dallas a few questions about his career, how he got started, where he is going, and what it takes to be competitive.
TENSOR: What has it taken to get to this point?
DG: My first race was in a RZR 170 dune car at the UTV World Championships. I fell in love with the sport but realized we were not competitive and needed to modify a few things.
After two years, I moved into a Production 170. Every year, I kept moving up a class; 570 Stock, then 570 Production and now an RS1 1000. I tried a lot of different racing series, but we love desert racing the best.
TENSOR: What drives you and how do you gain a competitive edge?
DG: I typically drive about 30-50 miles every day in the desert behind our house with my play car, which is excellent practice and a lot of fun! I push myself to know everything about the cars, so I enjoy learning how to fix them and keep them running to the best we can.
TENSOR: What are your future goals?
DG: One day, I plan to race trophy trucks, race in the Dakar rally, and hopefully be a Red Bull Athlete.
TENSOR: Tell us about the current car and what makes it competitive.
DG: My desert car is a stock 2018 Polaris RZR XP 1000. My short course car is a stock Polaris RZR RS1 1000. Race prep and having a good team is the key to being competitive. Also, the parts we use, everything has to be reliable.
TENSOR: Tell us about the Tensor Tires and how they perform for your program.
DG: Tensor tires are lighter, rugged and reliable. We haven't experienced any problems and never had a single flat. They are all-around outstanding tires!
It is not all racing, and like most teenagers, Gonzalez is currently enrolled in online schooling. His mom, Jessica, says Dallas is not allowed to race if he does not do well in his classes. Knowing this, he exceeds the requirements and has scored a 3.5 Grade Point Average to keep him on the race track.
Carving out a career in off-road racing at a young age is no easy task. Dallas spent time climbing the ranks and raced in WORCS Series 2016-2021, all BITD Youth Events, Dirt Series 2017-2018, Lucas Oil Regionals (AZ) 2017, the 2020 Mint 400, and the UTV World Championships 2015-2020. That is a lot of track time and it certainly has paid off. Gonzalez now boosts an impressive list of supporting race sponsors, including Polaris, Method Race Wheels, Tensor Tire, 4WP, Got Sand Performance, Walker Evans Racing, PCI Race Radios, and Sparco Safety Lonestar Racing, Havoc Racing, Rigid Lights, SuperATV, and VP Racing Fuel.
Photography By: Bink Designs
2017 - UTVWC 250 Production
2017 - BITD Winter National 250 Production
2018 - UTWC 250 Production
2018 - BITD Winter National 250 Production
2018 - WORCS 250 Production
2019 - WORCS SXS WORLD FINALS 250 Production
2019 - WORCS 250 Production
2019 - WORCS 600 Stock
2019 - UTVWC 250 Production
2019 - UTVWC 570 Stock
2019 - BITD Winter National 250 Production
2020 - MINT 400 Youth 1000
2020 - UTVWC Youth 1000
2020 - WORCS Youth 1000
2020 - BITD Youth 1000
2020 - WORCS 650 Production 2nd place
]]>Adam Castaneda had the skill level to drive and compete, but his race vehicle left him wanting more. He commissioned the off-road vehicle specialist Glazzkraft to build him a race-ready Can-Am X3 and went down the rabbit hole to construct the epitome of UTV racing platforms.
Built from the ground up using a 2021 Can-Am X3 Max, Adam's new race car is a full tig welded chromoly chassis. Glazzkraft's Fab Division removed the stock frame but retained all factory pivot points from the X3 Max to stay legal per the Pro Production class specification.
Castaneda plans to campaign the car in the premiere series; Best In The Desert Racing Association and the SCORE International in 2021. Racing in the Desert UTV Pro Turbo class, vehicles built using production UTV's & allowing production or approved turbos means Adam will be facing the very best competition.
The T802, Castaneda's race number, is here and ready to battle. A lot of time and effort went into this car, and it shows. See the full build-out and picture gallery below, highlighting the extensive fabrication and detailed craftsmanship that went into the Glazzkraft Can-Am X3. Before we jump to the car, read along to learn more about Adam's background.
TENSOR: How and when did you get into racing?
AC: I got into UTV racing last year and we ran BITD's Parker 250. We had fun and got the bug to go racing. It has been my dream since I got my first RZR 800S back when they came out. Our first year was full of learning experiences. The only race we finished was the BITD Laughlin night race and we had to drive the last 7 miles on three wheels! Even though we had a rough go, we had fun every single mile and just learned along the way.
TENSOR: What are you most excited about with the new car?
AC: I feel that this car is completely tailored to us. We collaborated a lot with Glazzkraft and tried to bring a top-notch UTV into our corner. I tried to mimic the performance capabilities of an AWD Class 10. Glazzkraft nailed the build, and I am excited to have a car this unique. It will stand out in the crowd.
TENSOR: Tell us about the tires and how they perform for your program?
AC: I've been running Tensors on my play & race cars for the last four years. They are definitely the best tires out there. The lightweight, durable construction has proven itself time and time again. I prefer the round profile compared to a squared-off tire like some of the competitors. I've only had one flat while racing and it was 100% my fault. It means a lot to us to have Tensors support. Our goal is to bring the best care possible to the races, and it wouldn't be possible unless we were running the best tires as well!
TENSOR: What are your future goals?
AC: I would love to get into bigger cars like Class 1, Spec TT, or Trophy Trucks. But I also love the class we are in right now. It is so competitive; in every race, I feel like anyone has a chance to win. I hope to have some better luck this year and apply what we learned last season and prove what we can do. I am confident I have the speed to run in the top 10 at any race I go to. I need to put it all together.
Photography By: Bink Designs
Builder | GlazzKraft Fab Division |
Chassis | 2021 Can-Am X3 MAX |
Engine | Rotax Ace 900 CC Turbocharged |
Cooling | CBR Performance |
Exhaust | Custom GlazzKraft Fab Division |
Swaybars | Summers Brothers |
Brakes | Streamline |
Fuel Cell | Pyrotect 41 Gallons |
Axles | Summers Brothers 300M HD |
Steering | Shock Therapy |
Wheels | 15x5” Method 401R high offset |
Tires | Tensor DSR 33x10x15 |
Front Suspension | 72" Fifty6 Long Travel Kit w/ FOX 2.5" Podium Piggyback with Bypass |
Rear Suspension | FOX 3.0" Podium Remote Reservoir with Bypass |
Lighting | Baja Designs LP6 & RTL 30" Lightbar |
Body | GlazzKraft X3 Race Fiberglass & Carbon Body Kit |
Livery Design | Designed By Tony Lozza |
Seats | Impact |
Wheel | Impact |
Harnesses | Mastercraft |
Dash | GlazzKraft Carbon Fiber |
Navigation | Twin Lowrance HDS 7" & 10" GPS |
Communication | PCI Elite Intercom & Kenwood Radio |
In the world's largest landlocked country, Rally Kazakhstan was a demanding five-day endurance competition in the arid south-western deserts of Central Asia. Round 2 of the FIA Cross Country Rallies World Cup series was once again dominated by the South Racing Can-Am, going 1-2-3-4 in the T4 division. Most impressively, Team Tensor Austin Jones ran at an incredible pace to put his Monster Energy Can-Am into the winner's circle and also 5th overall in the entire rally on Tensor Tire DS30.
Kazakhstan has hosted the FIA World Cup three times before, but 2021 opened up a new challenge for rally racers. The stages would start and finish just outside the city of Aktau, which is located right on the shores of the Caspian Sea. New this year was a 250 kilometer Marathon Stage with a remote overnight stay where only the competitors would be allowed to work on their vehicles, forcing serious strategy into everyone's race.
The event started with an optimal finish for Austin (AJ) Jones on the first stage of 280.22km. A considerable lead put him well ahead of his category competitors and ranked Jones into the overall standings. The first stage of the rally must have transpired in the blink of an eye for AJ as he had recently logged 55 hours traveling from the USA to arrive in Aktau, Kazakhstan.
"It was excellent," Jones reported after completing the first leg. "Very, very fast tracks all day. The course was very uneven and a little sketchy if you are going fast. We got knocked around quite a bit, but it was fun. It is my first time coming to Kazakhstan and it's very exciting being here. We have a lot of momentum coming off of the Round 1 win. I am excited for what's to come."
With his lead now padded, Austin and his South Racing Can-Am team principles developed a strategy to preserve the vehicle while running in contention by time.
Austin stated at the end of the second stage. "We drove about 70%. We were conservative in some of the rocky sections. We did not want to do any work on the car when we got here so we tried hard to keep it in one piece. We did just that, the car is perfect and fast! Averaging 93 KM/hour in the Can-Am."
AJ again held the strategy the following two stages, staying on the pace of the T4 competitors and South Racing Can-Am teammates running it clean back to Aktau trouble-free. The South Racing mechanics were able to do a full service before the final stage.
With assistance from his Brazilian navigator Gustavo Gugelmin, Austin leveraged the huge opening stage win and parlayed that into an impressive fifth overall finish. Jones's total time on course was 17 hours, 57 minutes, and 22 seconds to compound this feat. And 30 minutes and 36 seconds quicker ahead of the second-place finisher.
When the rally had concluded, AJ shared his thoughts:
“The landscape has been stunning being able to race right on the coastal beach of the Caspian Sea. The plan came together perfectly and brought home our second win in a row and 5th overall! It was a great week in Kazakhstan riding on Tensor Tires." - Austin Jones Monster Energy Can-Am (South Racing Can-Am)
With another big win for Austin Jones, he now enjoys a comfortable lead over his teammate Kees Koolen in the FIA T4 Championship going into the next event, the Silk Way Rally. Overall, South Racing Can-Am is the dominant force in the T4 division, taking home the win and 3 Podium finishes over two categories for one strong weekend, all running Tensor DS30 & Method Race Wheels.
Tensor Desert Series (DS) Tires are ideal for UTV platforms and hold up to the rigors of extreme off-road rallying racing. Cross country rally racing is brutal on equipment and the ultimate stress test for tires. Racing day after day is a true testament to the Tensor DS superior design and construction.
PILOT / CO-PILOT |
TEAM |
CAR |
TIME |
1. Austin Jones (USA) / Gustavo Gugelmin (BRA) |
Monster Energy |
Can-Am Maverick XRS |
17hr 57min 22sec |
2. Eugenio Amos (ITA)/Paolo Ceci (ITA) |
South Racing |
Can-Am Maverick XRS |
18hr 27min 58sec |
3. Kees Koolen (NLD)/Mirjam Pol (NLD) |
South Racing | Can-Am Maverick XRS |
20hr 07min 03sec |
4. Diego Martinez (ARG)/Santiago Hansen (ARG) |
South Racing | Can-Am Maverick XRS |
21hr 19min 59sec |
Photography By: MCHPhoto
]]>UTV off-road racer Branden Sims, racing the #2969 Team Tensor Polaris RZR in the pro division with forced induction/turbo vehicles, captured the overall UTV win, beating out 57 total starters in four UTV classes. Notably, Sims was quicker than all of the Class 10 buggies. Placing 30th overall, Branden's total time on course was 12 Hours, 15 Minutes, and 53 Seconds. Sims had not raced in Baja for several years but recently earned a podium finish at the BITD Silver State 300.
Brandon reported his race at the finish line, "I started and finished on the same set of Tensor DSR 33 Tires. We had zero failures, and they performed amazingly in Baja's ever-changing terrain. From the miles of silt, the rocks in the crossover section, the hard pack dirt roads, to the sand of the Baja coast, the Tensor Tires were impeccable and got us to the finish line; for the win!"
Sims continued, "We started at the back of our class but worked our way up to the front pack and ran with them all day. I ran into a steering issue in the final 40 miles and had to get creative to get it together. We made it to the finish and that's pretty impressive considering the problem we had. We made a lot of passes and it was amazing to be on the top of the box."
Another Tensor Tire racer, off-road racing champion Kaden Wells won the Pro UTV category with naturally aspirated vehicles. There were 11 starters and 5 finishers, with Kaden capturing the victory in his #1995 Polaris RZR XP1000 in 13 Hours, 24 Minutes, and 54 Seconds.
“Our DS 32 tires worked awesome!” Commented Kaden. “I’m running just an XP1000 which most guys racing in the class have speeds around high 70’s low 80’s and at the 500 I reached 90.2 mph. I think the weight is a big deal especially with spin weight and our class only having 80 WHP. The tires worked really well on the hard pack, loamy and in the silt. I had a few mistakes hitting rocks and the tires held up. Overall these tires are the best tires I’ve ever ran.”
The race was a difficult challenge and one to be remembered by all the competitors. Running in a clockwise direction west to Ojos Negro, then south down the middle and then up the Pacific Coast side of Baja California, there were 240 official starters racing in 51 classes. Only 147 official finishers completed the course within the elapsed time.
Tensor Tires have proven to be superior for competitive UTV racing applications. The Desert Series (DS) and Desert Series Race Tensor Tires have racked up multiple wins and accolades by conquering the brutal and extreme conditions found in desert racing. Contact Tensor to consult about their tire products, or if you desire to become the next Baja champion, apply for the racer support program.
Photography By: Bink Designs
]]>Spain's southernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula played host to the rally as the region features Europe's second-highest mountain range and the continent's only desert. The uneven backcountry roads make for a great venue to host a rally. The event consisted of 4 days of stage competition all centered around Villamartin's magnificent Hacienda El Rosalejo. 1629 kilometers challenged the competitors, including 386 devoted to liaison and 1244 zoned for wide-open racing.
Austin Jones and co-driver Gustavo Gugelmin won T4 class overtaking his South Racing Can-Am teammate Khalifa Al-Attiyah who finished the rally in 2nd place. Jones' total time on course was 11 Hours, 31 Minutes, and 08 Seconds. Al-Attiyah led from the start and into Day 2, but Jones turned it up and secured stage wins on Day 3 and Day 4.
“The last stage was really good. It was technical. I took a long time to get through the first 100km. It was a fun stage, really challenging. The water crossings are something else out there, a full tsunami every single time. We are super happy with how our Tensor Tires performed in this rally. I had zero flats through 5 stages. Throughout the entire rally, I had amazing grip and traction around the corners. I could rotate the car and put it anywhere I wanted. I knew I had an advantage running the Tensor DS 30" Tires because we had no worries about punctures or loss of drive on the roads."
- Austin Jones Monster Energy Can-Am Maverick XRS (South Racing Can-Am)
Tensor Desert Series (DS) Tires are ideal for UTV platforms and hold up to the rigors of extreme off-road rallying racing. Cross country rally racing is brutal on equipment and the ultimate stress test for tires. Racing day after day is a true testament to the Tensor DS superior design and construction.
Khalifa Al Attiyah, the younger brother of 3x Dakar winner Nasser Al-Attiyah's total time accumulation, was 15 minutes behind the top podium finish. South Racing Can-Am's Kees Koolen finished in 3rd, with Hernan Garces and David Zille in 4th and 5th place. All of the South Racing Can-Am Mavericks XRS vehicles are equipped with Tensor DS 30" Tires and Method Race Wheels.
PILOT / CO-PILOT |
TEAM |
CAR |
TIME |
1. Austin Jones (USA) / Gustavo Gugelmin (BRA) |
Monster Energy |
Can-Am Maverick XRS |
11hr 31min 08sec |
2. Khalifa Saleh Al-Attiyah (QAT) / Xavier Panseri (FRA) |
South Racing |
Can-Am Maverick XRS |
11hr 44min 32sec |
3. Kees Koolen (NLD)/Mirjam Pol (NLD) |
South Racing | Can-Am Maverick XRS |
12hr 01min 57sec |
4. Hernan Garces (CHL)/Juan Pablo Latrach (CHL) |
South Racing | Can-Am Maverick XRS |
12hr 11min 36sec |
5. David Zille (ARG)/Bruno Jacomy (ARG) |
South Racing | Can-Am Maverick XRS |
12hr 13min 27sec |
Photography By: MCHPhoto
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