April 2003 - Table Mesa

Trail Rating - Varies

Trip Leader: None

Photos submitted by Chris Villarreal

After 3 months of work the project was ready for a test run.  I am happy to say everything worked really well.  The rear suspension exhibits very little rear steer and is neutral during acceleration (no lifting or squatting of the rear).  There is quite a bit more body roll than before but I am going to try a few tweaks and get some more seat time before any big changes. 

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(Click for larger images)

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As you can see I have gained quite a bit of rear articulation.  Still debating if I need bump stops, the tire just barely touches the rear tubing at full compression.

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After exiting Raw Deal we came across this, a large cleared out area with lots of stakes.  There was also a large road bladed thru the desert with a gate (not locked or marked).  This can't be a good sign. 

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I was going to make a quick run thru Terminator but a group of vehicles was blocking the trail at the Z-turn due to a broken axle so I headed back out.  There's a lot of water back there still!