DUB Magazine's LFTD&LVLD, Issue 24

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DISPLAY UNTIL FEBRUARY 10, 2020

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DISPLAY UNTIL FEBRUARY 10, 2020

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UPSIZE

YOUR INFOTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN CONTROL CENTER 8” capacitive touchscreen designed to upsize and upgrade your car with many of the latest smartphone connectivity features.

MODULAR SOLUTIONS Pioneer’s Modular Solutions receivers are designed for installation flexibility by physically separating the LCD touchscreen display from the sub-chassis that contains the CPU, control system, terrestrial radio tuner, amplifier and input/output connections. To simplify installation and increase vehicle applications, Pioneer and Metra Electronics are partnering to develop vehicle-specific Radio Install Kits* that make the Pioneer Modular Solutions receivers both cosmetically integrated and simple to install.

Vehicle Specific

DON’T BREAK UP WITH YOUR CAR

UPGRADE IT

DMH-C5500NEX

4

pioneerelectronics.com

* Installation may require either the RD-RGB150A or CD-RGB150E accessory, sold separately. Metra Electronics Radio Install Kits sold separately through Authorized Metra Electronics Dealers. Visit www.metraonline.com. ©2019 Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. PIONEER and the Pioneer logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Pioneer Corporation. Android Auto is a trademark of Google LLC. The Works with Apple CarPlay logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Bluetooth® and associated logos are trademarks of Blueeoth SIG, Inc. The HD Radio logo is a proprietary trademark of XPERI Corporation. The Spotify logo is a trademark of Spotify AB used with permission. The Pandora logo is a trademark of Pandora Media, LLC. The SiriusXM logo is a trademark of SiriusXM Radio Inc. The Metra logo is a registered trademark of Metra Electronics Corporation.

2016 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (JK) BEFORE

AF TER

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Forged Truck Wheels. No Wait Time.

Black Rhino Forged truck wheels are in stock and ready to ship.

Unlike most other forged wheels, there is no need to delay your truck build for months waiting on wheels to be manufactured.

Black Rhino Forged wheels are fully built and finished; no additional production or wait time required. www.blackrhinowheels.com ww @blackrhinowheels 6

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EDITOR’S NOTES

T

he LFTD&LVLD scene is at an all-time high (literally) if SEMA 2019 was any indication. It seems that lifted trucks and Jeeps, especially with the new Gladiator, are as hot as ever and builders are pushing the limits when it comes to their ideas.

Take, for example, Tim Dunaway and his monstrously sized Can-Am Maverick nicknamed “Project Atlas.” It’s seriously unlike anything out there. He’s known for his trend-setting builds and went for the shock value which is exactly what he got when it was unveiled at SEMA. CJ “Skoop” Dunlap’s latest creation is his 2017 Ford F-350 tow truck show truck he calls “The SMG Hauler.” The dual purpose rig is built to look badass as much as it is meant to work hard,

ISSUE 24

but the finished product was anything but easy.

Read about it here and keep a look out for the episode of Texas Metal where the SMG Hauler makes an appearance.

JD Davis knew his shop Richline Motorsports needed something grand to help advertise his business and Copper Dreams came into fruition. The Chevy 2500 only took three short weeks to become a magazine-worthy ride that’s easy on the eyes and a great example of their customizing capabilities.

For Gabe Sanchez, his Jeep Wrangler was a product of the streets he rolled through. He wanted his ride to not only sound right, but also look right, when sitting next to exotic whips in L.A. traffic.

The Black Knight Chevy Silverado is more than a truck, but a tool for doing good thanks to Damion Santiago and his family. What started as a complete headache ended up as a machine that does good thanks to his persistence and the help of some great people.

Omar Becerra’s Project Light Knight is an impressive Denali HD with its clean white exterior and dominating presence. Light Knight is a staple in the Texas truck scene.

These are just a few examples as to why the scene is so lit right now and if this is the case, 2020 is going to be even better!

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COMPANY INFORMATION DUB Magazine/DUB Magzine’s LFTD&LVLD is published 8 times per year. Subscriptions for all 8 issues is $35.00 or 4 issues of either DUB Magazine or LFTD&LVLD for $20.00. DUB® is the Original Automotive Lifestyles Magazine™ and is published by DUB Publishing, Inc. in Santa Fe Springs, CA. DUB® Magazine was established in the year 2000.

To place an ad in LFTD & LVLD and DUB Magazine, please contact the Ad Sales department at (562) 228-1737 The 16th annual DUB Show Tour Custom Auto Show & Concert features the nation’s best custom cars and also features an all-star line-up of performers. For more information, visit www.dubshowtour.com

DUB PUBLISHING, INC. LOS ANGELES : WORLDWIDE PUBLISHER Myles Kovacs myles@dubmagazine.com EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Haythem Haddad haythem@dubmagazine.com PROMOTIONS DIRECTOR John Ramos | john@dubmagazine.com

DUB® is also a design, marketing and promotions team, responsible for the development and marketing of many licensed automotive goods, collectibles, and apparel, as well as our sponsor’s key products. Contact: marketing@dubmagazine.com

Get the word out and get free stuff! For more info, email: john@dubmagazine.com BRING ON THE LETTERS! We’re now accepting letters to DUB Magazine. Send your rants or raves to intake@dubmagazine.com.

Your letter may end up in an issue of DUB!

National & International Newsstand Distribution:

Curtis Circulation Company

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Rich Calbay rich@dubmagazine.com MANAGER OF FINANCE / TALENT RELATIONS Cynthia Tran-Kovacs cynthia@dubmagazine.com FINANCE Kiani Tran-Boutros | kiani@dubmagazine.com ART DIRECTOR Jonathan Rodrigues jonrod@dubmagazine.com FEATURES / COPY EDITOR Kristie Real kristie@dubmagazine.com DESIGN Steve Cuevas | steve@dubmagazine.com Armando Garcia | agarcia@dubmagazine.com ADVERTISING : (562) 228-1737 Ricardo Gonzalez | ricardo@dub-digital.com Omar Rojas | omar@dubmagazine.com DUB TEAM Victor “Peeps” Herrera, Walter “BeeZee” Segovia, Ricky Ramirez, Andrea Cazares, Lisette “Quiet Storm” Carrales, Johnny “The Hammer” Espinosa, Hector “Paisa” Gutierrez CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brian McGee, Brandon Burrell, Phil Gordon, Fernando Deanda, Clinton Lum CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brandon Burrell, Phil Gordon

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced without written permission. This book is purchased with the understanding that the information presented is from many varied sources from which there can be no warranty or responsibility by the publisher, as to accuracy or completeness. ©Copyright 2019 DUB Publishing, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED • PRINTED IN THE USA

EVENT CONTACTS Sponsorship & Event Planning Myles Kovacs: (562) 228-1737 myles@dubmagazine.com Car Show Planning/Media Information/Vendor Booths John Ramos: (562) 228-1737 john@dubmagazine.com All Other Inquiries info@dubmagazine.com | (562) 228-1737

LFTDXLVLD.COM TRUCKS | JEEPS | WHEELS | SUSPENSION DUBMAGAZINE.COM CARS | CELEBRITIES | GEAR | FASHION DUBSHOWTOUR.COM DUB CUSTOM AUTO SHOW & CONCERT TOUR DUBSHOP.COM BUY DUB MERCHANDISE AND MORE

YOUTUBE.COM/DUB

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®

FACEBOOK.COM/LFTDXLVLD FACEBOOK.COM/DUBMAGAZINE

@LFTDXLVLD @DUBMAGAZINE

SUBSCRIBE

DUBMAGAZINE.COM OR CALL (562) 653-4529

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INTERIOR

ISSUE 24

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34 PROJECT ATLAS: 2017 CAN-AM MAVERICK X3 MAX TURBO R 40 SMG HAULER: 2017 FORD F-350 DUALLY 48 PROJECT LIGHT KNIGHT: 2015 GMC DENALI HD 56 BLACK KNIGHT: RAIZED UP 2017 CHEVY SILVERADO 62 EL KUKUY: BOOSTED 2017 JEEP WRANGLER SAHARA 68 COPPER DREAMS: RICHLINE MOTORSPORTS’ 2019 CHEVY 2500HD

48 56

TRI-FOLD COVER THE INDUSTRY’S FIRST

PAINT-TO-MATCH TRUCK BED COVER

CAPS, COVERS & ACCESSORIES FOR TODAY’S TRUCKS. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO LOCATE YOUR NEAREST A.R.E. DEALER VISIT 4ARE.COM 13

INTERIOR

ISSUE 24

18 16 @LFTDXLVLD 18 PERFORMANCE & ACCESSORIES 24 WHEELS & TIRES 32 AUDIO 74 THE SCENE: BATTLE GROUNDS HOUSTON, 2019 SEMA SHOW 86 GEAR

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DEEPEST STRONGEST HARDEST WHEELS ON THE PLANET

For more info on The Punisher truck shown above visit: www.handjacked.com

NEW: 4PLAY FORGED SERIES IN STOCK JANUARY 2020 / ORDER NOW PHONE: 1-844-793-7504 E: SALES@4PLAYWHEELS.COM WWW.4PLAYWHEELS.COM SOCIAL: @4PLAYWHEELS 15

@LFTDXLVLD

RENDERS TO REALITY @1ton_patriot After a long year, a lot of anticipation, and a whole hell of a lot of stress... Here she is. Unfortunately my truck will not be shown at 2019 SEMA show. On the drive into Las Vegas, we suffered a broken driveshaft and it broke the transmission, so the truck was unable to complete the journey and reach it’s debut... We are hoping for a quick repair after the damage is assessed and she will be back for the 2020 show season. Thank you to all of the companies who have partnered in on this build and all the hours and hard work that went into getting her finished. I wish this was better news or a joke, but things happen... @semashow @_SR.Designs_ @StrykerOffroadDesign @RhinoHitch @TrueSpikeLugNuts @C4Offroad @SordShocks @HornBlasters @FlogIndustries @Infiniterule_Security @SupremeRetroz @TristarFab @OfficialBadFlag @RamAirHood @hereticStudio @ sinisterdiesel @KCActionTrax @DBCustomzFab @tact.ilian @OdysseyBattery @sctperformance @BanksPower #RenegadeProductsUSA @Innov8DesignLab #FlogIndustries #TrueSpikeLugNuts #RhinoHitch #SORDshocks #HornBlasters #StrykerOffroadDesign #C4Offroad #KCActionTrax #SRDesigns #SRDArmy #SRDFamily #infiniterule_security #SupremeRetroz #TriStarFab #OfficialBadFlag #RamAirHood #HereticStudio #TeamRenegade #BanksPower #renegadesematakeover #DBCustomzFab #Tactilian #OdysseyBattery #Innov8DesignLab

@_sr.designs_ @jl.doitall with his monster JL coming in hot with his new setup for @dropstarswheels and @lftdxlvld Come check this gorgeous Jeep out in the DUB booth #62230 #teamsrdesigns #srdesigns #teamsrd #srdarmy #srdfamily

@_mobdmax_ My little version from the shoot yesterday #itry #amatuer #drylakebed #semashow2019 #lasvegas #nevada #4fiddy #bigbooty #pandabear @big_booty_4fiddy

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In Issue 23 we featured renders of these vehicles as they prepped for SEMA, here’s how badass they turned out!

DELINTETIRES.COM #DELINTETIRES

NDIT

T

THE NEW BANDIT R/T JOINS THE COLLECTIVE OF OFF-ROAD TIRES BY DELINTE. BANDIT

M/T

BANDIT

A/T

50K+ ROAD HAZARD

BANDIT

R/T

BANDIT

M/T

NEW

BANDIT

A/T

50K+ ROAD HAZARD

BANDIT

BAND

R/T

M/T

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PERFORMANCE & ACC.

Check out these performance upgrades and aftermarket accessories that will complete your custom rig.

ANDERSON COMPOSITES CARBON FIBER FENDER FLARES FOR JEEP JL AND JT 626.333.7024 ANDERSONCOMPOSITES.COM /ANDERSONCOMPOSITES @ANDERSONCOMPOSITES

New carbon fiber Rubicon front flares are interchangeable for the Wrangler and Gladiator, while the rear flares are different by design to fit the accommodating body style. The flares feature a new production process called, Armored Carbon. This new process includes an added layer of proprietary protective coating to the underside of the fender flares to help reduce road abrasion and rock impacts. The added protective coating does not affect fitment to the vehicle. Flares sold in pairs. $1,499.00

BDS SUSPENSION 6” IFS LIFT SYSTEM FOR 2019 FORD RANGER 4WD 512.279.2139 | BDS-SUSPENSION.COM |

/BDSSUSPENSIONS |

@BDSSUSPENSIONS

After much anticipation, BDS Suspension is now shipping complete 6” IFS Lift Systems for the 2019 Ford Ranger. These kits have been designed, tested and manufactured right here in the USA to a higher standard to ensure quality and durability. From the rocks of Moab to the Nevada desert, thousands of miles across country and on the track for FMVSS No.126 compliance certification, this 6” IFS system has been thoroughly tested and refined to be the best out there for your new Ranger. These new 6” IFS systems join the current 2.5” and 3.5” lift systems to offer a wide range of lift options for the late-model Ranger. As with all BDS lift kits, these new 6” lift systems are backed by Factory Protection Plus for peace of mind wherever your adventures may take you. Factory Protection Plus includes BDS’s exclusive No Fine Print Warranty, ESC system compatibility and a 5-year 100,000-mile drivetrain warranty. $2,209.11

BESTOP ELEMENT DOOR FOR JEEP WRANGLER JL AND GLADIATOR JT 800.845.3567 | BESTOP.COM /BDSSUSPENSIONS | @BESTOPTEAM

Bestop has re-engineered the classic “Element Door” to fit the Wrangler JL and the Gladiator JT. The HighRock 4x4 Element Door is built for adventure. Classified as a “high-strength tube door,” they provide unbeatable on-trail visibility and protection. The doors can be purchased in a matte black 2-door-or 4-door option, equipped with automotive-rotary paddle handles. The doors also boast fully-welded construction with retention straps and mounting points for Bestop’s HighRock 4x4 Mirrors for bolt-on convenience. $411.99 per pair

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BOLT AND MONSTER HOOKS LOCKING RECOVERY HOOK 844.972.7547 | BOLTLOCK.COM /BOLTLOCK | @BOLTLOCK

BOLT Lock has joined with Monster Hooks to provide their “Breakthrough One-Key Lock Technology” on a new swivel hook. Sturdy swivel hooks produced by Monster Hooks are crafted from aircraft grade 6061-T6 aluminum, but the BOLT Lock technology will bring added security by supplying a lock specifically programmed to the vehicle’s ignition key. The addition of the BOLT lock located on the hook itself prevents the pin used to attach the hook to the vehicle from moving freely when locked. Using BOLT lock technology, the new Locking Recovery Hook will be the first locking hook on the market.

Call for pricing

CURT BETTERWEIGH MOBILE TOWING SCALE 715.838.4041 CURTMFG.COM/BETTERWEIGH /CURTMFG | @CURTMFG

CURT has introduced a Bluetooth-enabled, smartphonecompatible mobile towing scale called BetterWeigh. This innovative, compact device plugs into your vehicle diagnostic port (OBD-II) and measures the real-time weight of your vehicle and trailer, cargo / payload, tongue weight, pin weight, weight distribution and trailer brake gain, displaying them right on your Apple or Android phone. $130.00

HORNBLASTERS WRANGO AIR HORN KIT 877.209.8170 | HORNBLASTERS.COM | @HORNBLASTERS

/HORNBLASTERS

Jeep JKU owners your day is here! Wrango horn kit with onboard air for use with Jeep JKU 4WD models. This super loud Wrango Air Horn includes a constant duty compressor, custom brackets, two-gallon tank, air source relocation kit, 30’ coil hose, tire inflation gun, fittings, airline, hardware, and instructions. Everything is included, right down to the zip ties. Application is only for 2007-18 Jeep JKU 4WD as of right now. $719.99

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PERFORMANCE & ACC.

KLEINN BOLT-ON TRAIN HORN KIT 529.579.1531 | KLEINN.COM |

/KLEINNAUTOMOTIVEAIRHORNS |

@KLEINN_AIR_HORNS

The Kleinn Air Horns GMHD-734 vehicle-specific train horn system for GM 2500HD and 3500HD trucks is a direct fit, 100% bolt-on installation. The custom mounting brackets require no cutting or drilling to install the kit. It also includes the Demon 157.8 dB steel triple train horn, 3-gallon tank and waterproof compressor that can inflate 37” tires, power small air tools and inflate air bags.

Includes tire inflator with storage bag and all the necessary hardware for a professional installation. $1,599.95

ORACLE LIGHTING FORD F-150 LED OFFROAD SIDE MIRRORS 800.407.5776 | ORACLELIGHTS.COM /ORACLELIGHTS | @ORACLELIGHTS

The innovative Oracle Lighting Ford F-150 LED Off-Road Side Mirrors feature a set of high powered LED light bars integrated into the factory-style side mirror caps of 2015-19 Ford F-150 and Raptor models. This integration allows for easy installation and a clean, almost OEM look while providing functional peripheral illumination for the driver. The LED light bar is a custom design that features a total of 24 powerful Cree LEDs, providing increased overall visibility. $399.95

RANCHO PERFORMANCE 3” SUSPENSION SYSTEM FOR 2014-20 FORD F-150 800.325.8886 | GORANCHO.COM |

/RANCHOSUSPENSION |

@RANCHOSUSPENSION

The Rancho performance suspension lineup now includes a new 3” suspension system for 2014-20 Ford F-150 pickup trucks. Featuring a 100% bolt-on design and providing an aggressive, leveled stance to the latest F-150 truck. The completely bolt-on Rancho Ford F-150 suspension system includes a set of durable, tubular upper control arms specifically engineered to allow the ball joint to perform in its normal operating range; two sway bar spacers and mounting hardware for easy install; and 1.5” rear blocks.

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PERFORMANCE & ACC.

RECARO AUTOMOTIVE SEATING CROSS SPORTSTER ORV AND PRO RACER SPG XL ORV 800.873.2276 | RECARO-AUTOMOTIVE.COM |

/RECAROAUTOMOTIVE |

@RECAROAUTOMOTIVE

The new performance car seats are the first off-road specific products from Recaro, with the Cross Sportster ORV made for street-legal off-road rigs and the other for off-road race cars. The Cross Sportster ORV features a snug, supportive seat structure and side bolsters are designed for excellent shoulder and torso support. They stabilize the body against lateral forces, cocooning it like a second skin. The Pro Racer SPG XL ORV is ergonomically designed to provide outstanding support and protection for the back and neck against all the forces of a dirt track. The specially designed head surrounding for better visibility, the friction grip surface around the shoulders, and the highly-effective energy-absorbing cushion foam are essential when pushing off-road race cars to the limit.

RUGGED RIDGE AMFIB SNORKEL SYSTEM 770.614.6101 | RUGGEDRIDGE.COM /RUGGEDRIDGE | @RUGGEDRIDGE

Just one look at the Rugged Ridge AmFib Snorkel System for Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT models and you know this is not your typical snorkel. They designed the Low Mount Snorkel to make a visual splash by devising a base that blends seamlessly with the factory cowl panel and then topped it off with a low air intake that instantly becomes the focal point that you can’t take your eyes off of. While making such a big splash is great, their quest for a superior snorkel went far beyond the visual and they engineered the entire AmFib snorkel inside the Jeep to literally make waves, by designing a system that is over-engineered to be less invasive, performs better and installs easier than any snorkel we’ve ever built before. The entire system and its components look “at-home”, as though they were part of the Jeep’s original design. $499.95

STEELCRAFT AUTOMOTIVE JEEP WRANGER JL/JK TUBULAR DOORS AND FENDER FLARES 888.261.4537 | STEELCRAFTAUTOMATIVE.COM |

/STEELCRAFTAUTOMOTIVE |

@STEELCRAFT_AUTOMOTIVE

Steelcraft has the accessories your Jeep Wrangler JK/JL needs, including their newly released tubular doors and fender flares. Steelcraft’s new Wrangler JL doors are constructed of 1.25” tubing for strength, equipped with a heavy duty striker latch that will be durable and dependable for many years. Steelcraft’s fender flares are made of heavy duty steel for strength and durability, and come with a DOT-approved turn signal, driving light and additional side marker light, which will keep you legal and safe.

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WHEELS 4PLAY WHEELS 4PF5 884.793.7504 | 4PLAYWHEELS.COM /4PLAYWHEELS @4PLAYWHEELS AVAIALBLE IN DIAMETERS : 20X9, 22X10, 24X14 AVAIALBLE IN FINISHES : MATTE BLACK CENTER W/ GLOSS BLACK BARREL, BRUSHED GUNMETAL CENTER W/ POLISHED BARREL, BRUSHED CENTER W/ POLISHED BARREL

BLACK RHINO GRIMLOCK (ROTARY FORGED) 800.578.4879 BLACKRHINOWHEELS.COM /BLACKRHINOTRUCKWHEELS @BLACKRHINOWHEELS AVAIALBLE IN DIAMETERS : 20X9.5, 20X11.5, 22X11.5, 22X14, 24X14 AVAIALBLE IN FINISHES : GLOSS BLACK W/ MILLED SPOKES

CALI OFF ROAD SUMMIT 866.894.3351 CALIOFFROADWHEELS.COM /CALIOFFROAD | @CALIOFFROAD AVAIALBLE IN DIAMETERS : 20X9, 20X10, 20X12, 22X12, 22X14 AVAIALBLE IN FINISHES : BRUSHED & CLEAR COATED, GLOSS BLACK W/ MILLED SPOKES, AND POLISHED

DROPSTARS 657BMR 877.283.9433 | DROPSTARS.COM /DROPSTARSWHEELS @DROPSTARSWHEELS AVAIALBLE IN DIAMETERS : 22X12 AVAIALBLE IN FINISHES : CUSTOM FINISHES

GRID-OFFROAD GD14 866.591.0723 | GRID-OFFROAD.COM /GRIDOFFROAD | @GRIDOFFROAD AVAIALBLE IN DIAMETERS : 17X9, 20X9, 20X10, 22X12, 24X14 AVAIALBLE IN FINISHES : GLOSS BLACK W/ MILLED ACCENTS, GLOSS BLACK W/ RED ACCENTS, GLOSS BRONZE W MATTE BLACK, MATTE ANTHRACITE W/ MATTE BLACK

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TESTED TO THE HIGHEST STANDARD OF PERFORMANCE, ON AND OFF ROAD.

BUILT FOR ENTHUSIASTS, BY ENTHUSIASTS. From the challenging terrain of Moab, Utah to the sand hills of Michigan to the jagged trails of Hot Springs, Arkansas, we take our products through extreme testing to ensure you the ultimate in durability and protection.

LIFT KITS • LEVELING KITS • STEERING SHOCKS • SUSPENSION COMPONENTS

SUPERLIFT.COM • 800-551-4955 25

WHEELS HARDROCK OFFROAD H502 PAINKILLER XPOSED 626.813.2500 | HARDROCKOFFROAD.COM /HARDROCKOFFROAD @HARDROCKOFFROAD AVAIALBLE IN DIAMETERS : 24X14, 22X12, 20X12, 20X10, 20X9 AVAIALBLE IN FINISHES : CHROME, GLOSS BLACK MILLED

RACELINE FORGED RF104 STAMINA 714.893.4160 | RACELINEFORGED.COM /RACELINEWHEELS @RACELINEFORGED AVAIALBLE IN DIAMETERS : 22X12, 22X14, 26X14 AVAIALBLE IN FINISHES : GLOSS BLACK MILLED & POLISHED

TIS 547BM 877.283.9433 | TISWHEELS.COM /TWENTYINCHESSTRONG @TISWHEELS AVAIALBLE IN DIAMETERS : 22X12 AVAIALBLE IN FINISHES : CUSTOM FINISHES

ULTRA MOTORSPORTS ULTRA 236 APOCALYPSE TRUCK WHEEL 800.321.4456 | ULTRAWHEEL.COM /ULTRA.WHEEL | @ ULTRAWHEELCOMPANY AVAIALBLE IN DIAMETERS : 18X9, 20X9, 20X10 AVAIALBLE IN FINISHES : DARK SATIN BRONZE W/ MILLING AND SATIN BLACK LIP, GLOSS BLACK W/ MILLING

XD WHEELS XD846 DOUBLE DEUCE 714.423.9280 | KMCWHEELS.COM /XDWHEELS | @XDWHEELS AVAIALBLE IN DIAMETERS : 20X9, 20X10, 20X12 AVAIALBLE IN FINISHES : STAIN BLACK W/ DARK TIN AND SATIN BLACK FINISHES

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THE NEWEST ADDITION TO THE ROAD ARMOR FAMILY OF PRODUCTS SO YOU CAN

HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE UNIVERSAL FIT FOR 5’ BEDS MODULAR & CUSTOMIZABLE

PATENT-PENDING SPARE TIRE RELOCATION SYSTEM HIGHLY CAPABLE & EXTENSIBLE PLATFORM

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TRECK MODULAR BED RAIL SYSTEM AT

ROADARMOR.COM/TRECK 877-294-2726 8AM - 5PM CST / MON-FRI MADE IN DALLAS, TX

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/RoadArmorBumpers

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road_armor

#roadarmor

#ruletheroad

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TIRES

Off-road truck tires know no limits. Are you planning to take your rig on rutted roads, muddy bogs, or snow-covered trails? There’s a tire that will get you there and take you back home in one piece. All-terrain and mud-terrain tires come in traditional 15” to 17” wheel diameter sizes, but now also come in unique fitments that will go on 18” to 30” wheels!

AMP TIRES TERRAIN ATTACK M/T 866.894.3351 | AMP-TIRES.COM /AMPTIRES | @AMPTIRES

The AMP Terrain Attack M/T was designed to perform in the most extreme conditions while offering improved grip and handling for better on-road performance. The 3-ply “A” logo side wall provides biting edges that provide outstanding grip in mud, rock, sand, snow and more. A full range of sizes up to 40 inches tall, the Terrain Attack M/T will conquer anything in its path.

COOPER TIRES EVOLUTION M/T 419.423.1321 | COOPERTIRE.COM |

/COOPERTIRE |

@COOPERTIRE

Cooper’s Evolution M/T is a purpose-built tire that gives you confidence to power through mud, tackle dirt roads and almost anything else you can throw at it. Its bold tread pattern is designed to tackle mud with enhanced traction, using its earth digger blocks with mud scoops that forcefully dig into the terrain. It also features mud slinger trenches that clear mud from the tire and trail grip sidewall to help it power through obstacles by grabbing onto rocks, sticks and stone barriers. The tire also has ridges designed to help protect against damage from sharp rocks and expel lodged stones.

DELINTE BANDIT R/T 305.621.5101 DELINTETIRES.COM /DELINTETIRES | @DELINTETIRES

The new Delinte Bandit R/T represents rough terrain capabilities without giving up comfort and the cool factor. This tire represents The Collective of light-truck tires by Delinte that includes the Bandit H/T, A/T, R/T, and M/T. Complete with relentless 12-ply construction for durability and F-rating for higher carrying capacity the Bandit R/T is built to perform. The Bandit R/T comes in a range of popular 16” to 24” wheel diameters and is ready to prove itself on the street or on the trail.

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TIRES

LEXANI TIRES TERRAIN BEAST AT 877.453.9264 | LEXANITIRES.COM /LEXANIWHEELCORPORATION @OFFICIALLEXANITIRE

The latest and best technology have been synergistically combined to create the newest addition to the innovative and expanding Lexani Tire line! Introducing the Lexani Terrain Beast. This tire lives up to its name with exceptional All Terrain Performance while maintaining a smooth, quiet ride while on the pavement. There is no compromise when you can experience the best of both worlds.

RADAR RENEGADE RT 855.906.6646 OMNI-UNITED.COM/BRANDS/RADAR /RADARTIRESOFFICIAL @RADARTIRES

The Renegade R/T is designed to give exceptional offroad performance, coupled with on-road comfort and sophistication. On-road, this tire gives drivers superior handling with a quiet and smooth ride, while off-road it has the capability to go anywhere that a pure M/T tire can. All sizes come with a Dual Sidewall design that gives drivers a choice of either the mud penetrating sidewall with dagger shaped side biters or the flaming demon design with wedgeshaped side biters.

YOKOHAMA GEOLANDAR X-AT 800.423.4544 | YOKOHAMATIRE.COM /YOKOHAMATIRE @YOKOHAMATIRE

Named “Best New Tire” at SEMA, the GEOLANDAR X-AT extreme all-terrain tire delivers it all: gripping off-road traction, durability, long tread life and a quiet, comfy ride. Available in 27 sizes, ranging from 15” to 22”, It’s backed by a 45,000-mile limited treadwear warranty and includes load range F-sizes for heavier carrying capacities. Plus, the X-AT features a dual sidewall design, which allows you to choose the appearance you like the best.

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UPGRADE AND UNPLUG C O N N E C T I N G TO YO U R S M A RT P H O N E H A S N E V E R BEEN EASIER

The AVIC-W8400NEX and AVH-W4400NEX in-dash receivers feature Android Auto™ Wireless connectivity, specifically designed to support a cable free connection between your Android™ smartphone1 and your car. Both units also support a wired USB connection for Android Auto in case you need to charge while you drive or use additional smartphone connectivity options.

PIONEERELECTRONICS.COM/CAR FACEBOOK.COM/PIONEERNORTHAMERICA INSTAGRAM.COM/PIONEERCARAUDIO YOUTUBE.COM/PIONEERELECTRONICS

Read all safety instructions in the product documentation before use. Distracted driving can result in serious injury, or death. Only use a function when it is safe and legal in your location, pay attention to the road and your surroundings, and obey all traffic rules.

Android Auto requires the Android Auto app on Google Play and an Android compatible smartphone running Android 8.0 (“Oreo”) or higher for Android Auto Wireless or Android 5.0 (“Lollipop”) or higher for Android Auto wired. Android Auto Wireless or Android Auto may not be available on all devices. Visit support.google.com/androidauto for more information.

PIONEER and the Pioneer logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Pioneer Corporation. Android, Android Auto, Android Auto Wireless, Google Play and other related marks are trademarks of Google LLC.

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AUDIO

Upgrade any stock stystem for better sounding tunes and the newest technology. Check out the latest offerings from some of the top manufacturers in the industry.

ALPINE 6.5” INE-W970HD UNIVERSAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM 310.326.8000 | ALPINE-USA.COM | @ALPINEUSA

/ALPINEUSA

The INE-W970HD has reliable, built-in navigation as well as added infotainment features for a drive that’s exciting from the start of the engine to the destination. The INE-W970HD has a 6.5” WVGA display and Swipe Graphical User Interface that’s optimized for in-vehicle smartphone use so drivers can access Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for music, messages, and navigation while keeping their eyes on the road. A built-in Bluetooth external pre-tuned microphone is also available so you can answer phone calls or play your music hands-free using voice commands. $799.95

KENWOOD DNX996XR MULTIMEDIA RECEIVER 602.315.0157 | KENWOOD.COM/USA/CAR | @KENWOODUSA_OFFICIAL

/KENWOODUSA

KENWOOD eXcelon Reference multimedia receiver features KENWOOD’s best audio components, Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto support and a HD touch screen. This is KENWOOD’s flagship receiver. $1,600.00

ROCKFORD FOSGATE R2-1200X1 480.517.3107 | ROCKFORDFOSGATE.COM |

/ROCKFORDFOSGATE |

@ROCKFORDFOSGATE

The all-new Rockford Fosgate PRIME R2 line of amplifiers includes multi-channel and mono-block models for system design flexibility. Many of the design innovations that Rockford developed over the years, from how to deal with heat to maximizing the efficiency of the power supply, have made their way into these new R2 amplifiers. They have also included smart features like their C.L.E.A.N. technology for fast and accurate setup. Overall it’s a line that is high in quality and affordable. $379.99

SSV WORKS JP1DS10 10” SUBWOOFER ENCLOSURE 818.991.1778 | SSVWORKS.COM /SSVWORKS | @SSVWORKS

The JP1-DS10 is a driver side rear cargo mounted 10” subwoofer enclosure designed for the Jeep Wrangler JL Unlimited 4-door. It doesn’t require any drilling and it comes with a stylized ABS speaker grille designed to nicely match Jeep’s aesthetics. Made of 100% fiberglass for the best sound quality and bass response. Also, a reinforced plate mounts along the bottom half of the enclosure, protecting it from any loose objects that could be sliding around in the back of the vehicle. $449.95

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FEATURE

WORDS: KRISTIE REAL | PHOTOS: BRIAN McGEE

2017 CAN-AM MAVERICK X3 MAX TURBO R

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H

aving matching custom vehicles is nothing new. Tim Dunaway of Dunaway Garage was no different and built his Can-Am Maverick to match his game-changing Ford F-250 that actually won the LFTD&LVLD “Best Truck of Show Presented by AMSOIL” at SEMA 2018 and featured on the cover. Tim is known for having custom rides that go beyond the industry standard, which is why he created something that had never been done before with a CanAm. “My background has always been to push the envelope of anything I do,” he mentions.

“There’s never been an SXS done up like a monster truck before.”

One look at the Maverick, and you’ll immediately see the massive tires and lift, which make the beast look like a monster machine. The highlight of it all is the lift kit fabricated by Sycotic Fabrication and 3P Offroad. It’s also the first SXS to have custom Stryker Offroad track bars installed. All powder coating was done by Advanced Powder Coat and blasted to match the custom paintwork on the body panels which were painted by Ultimate Auto. A fully custom center cradle folds open to drop down and lift passengers up to make getting in and out of the Maverick possible.

Then there’s the 4-wheel hydraulic steering that Tim mentions will get him around tight spots when needed.

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“My F-250 has a full ride height of about 27” if pushed to the max, but the Can-Am has a height of about 45” to 50”, towering over the truck,” he says. “It drives over other cars and trucks all the time. Ultimately, it came about after “a little ‘Redneck’ engineering, late nights drinking beer, and lots of powder coat, custom paint and chroming.” With some help from the guys over at 3P Offroad and six months worth of hard work and time, Tim was able to exceed his expectations and get out of his building comfort zone.

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Project Atlas was awarded Jada Toys’ Fast & Furious Best of Show at DUB Show Live! at the L.A Autoshow.

While the Can-Am is fully functional, Tim does admit it can be obnoxious to many. The insane build isn’t everybody’s cup of tea, but the majority of feedback that Tim gets is positive.

“The response from the public was exactly what we were looking for - complete shock and amazement from what we created,” he says.

“Most people were very excited and surprised to see a Can-Am of this magnitude and size. It is definitely a sight to see. That’s what the SEMA Show is all about, right? It’s about pushing the envelope and bringing the creativity back to the car/truck industry.”

Super pleased with the result, Tim’s already planning to do more for next year. “I plan to take it to many shows, parades and anywhere I can show it off. The SXS build was a first for me, but it was definitely on par with all of my other current and previous SEMA builds.”

GEAR: 2017 CAN-AM MAVERICK X3 MAX TURBO R WHEELS/TIRES • 26X16 TIS Forged F51 wheels • 23.1-26 BKT TR-270 tires PERFORMANCE • Driveline mounted hydraulic disc brake system • 3P Tuning reflash • Boondocker exhaust • STM Rage 3P primary clutch • STM G2 secondary clutch • 2.5-ton Rockwell axles • SCS transfercase SUSPENSION • 4-line front and rear custom suspension • FOX coilovers • Stryker Offroad Design link bars • Sycotic Fabrication cradle • Hydraulic front and rear steering EXTERIOR/ARMOR • SDR Motorsports cage • SDR Motorsports doors • SDR Motorsports rear bumper RECOVERY • KFI front and rear winches • KFI TigerTail recovery system LIGHTING • Heretic Studio headlights • Heise LED light bars • Heise LED rock lights 38

ACCESSORIES • Custom hydraulic lifting side steps • Shuriken battery BT-100 INTERIOR • (4) Recaro Pole Position seats AUDIO • 2XM1000/1V2 JL Audio amplifier • 2XM600/6.6CH JL Audio amplifier • 1X M800/8V2 8-channel JL Audio amplifier • JL Audio MediaMaster MM100S-BE • (4) JL AUDIO 8.8 tower speakers • (4) JL AUDIO 6.5 speakers • (4) JL AUDIO 7.7 speakers • (3) 8” JL AUDIO W7 subwoofer • Mob Armor iPad Mount • Mob Armor GPS App

SOURCES: DUNAWAY GARAGE

@DUNAWAYGARAGE

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FEATURE

WORDS: KRISTIE REAL | PHOTOS: BRIAN McGEE

2017 FORD F-350 DUALLY

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CJ

“Skoop” Dunlap has filled these pages with his various builds many times before. His latest venture might look as good as his previous builds, but this 2017 Ford F-350 gave him a run for his money. The SMG Hauler is built to look badass as much as it is meant to work hard, but the finished product was anything but easy. “For the last couple of years, people have seen this truck go through hell and back,” CJ admits. “It’s come a long way since then! Most people would have given up after all the setbacks I faced.”

Not one to give up lightly when things get tough, CJ was committed to completing the F-350. It needed to not only haul his other show

queens to shows, but it also needed to look like one. Although CJ usually plays it safe when it comes to the theme and colors of his past builds (think, black, white and silver), he went with a different style of livery to really stand out. Originally, the truck was wrapped and parts were powder coated blue, but CJ felt it was too loud and decided to tone it down a bit, breaking up the bold blue with some camo accents, which he added days before the 2019 SEMA show.

Since CJ’s company, SMG, works with some of the biggest and most reputable companies in the industry, he wanted parts on the truck that would help him accomplish the goal of being “able to put in work, ride good and look good doing it.”

FOR THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS, PEOPLE HAVE SEEN THIS TRUCK GO THROUGH HELL AND BACK. IT’S COME A LONG WAY SINCE THEN!

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With his goal set, the process wasn’t as easy as CJ expected. Instead of being a seamless build like his others, he faced challenge after challenge from the moment he started customizing the truck. “The biggest obstacle was with the shop that was supposed to complete the truck for SEMA 2018. The truck ended up leaving their shop on a wrecker after

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they neglected to finish the build because they were closing their doors due to the bad publicity and screwing over multiple people in the industry and lying to customers. Not only was the truck not even completed, it was unsafe to drive and the way the truck was put together was a complete death trap.”

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But luckily, he found two great shops that fixed all the previous shop’s poor work and got the truck up and running again. Once the shops got their hands on the Ford, it was all smooth sailing from there. A full build from the inside and out, some of CJ’s standout mods include the Bradford-built flatbed and the tool box/fuel box/boom box combo from The Fuel Box. “But the blue camo really helped set this build above the rest as well as the custom-built suspension

by Ekstensive Metal Works that features a coilover front suspension with triangulated full air ride, FOX coilovers with triple bypass shocks, Signature Metal Fab torsion sway bar, Air Lift air management, Weaver Fabrication high steer kit and PSC hydraulic assist.

The overall design has been a hit, with CJ receiving positive feedback on social media and tons of admiring stares on the streets. “I think the new look with the blue camo really grabs even more attention than I originally expected.

Now the truck is putting in work and will be spending about 70% of its life hooked up to a trailer as it travels across the country, hauling his other show trucks from show to show. “All my builds have equally been great in their own way, but this one definitely outdoes them all with workability and comfortability.” Be on the watch as it’s set to be featured on Ekstensive Metal Works’ TV show “Texas Metal.”

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GEAR: 2017 FORD F-350 DUALLY TIRES/WHEELS • 26x14 American Force Super Dually Quakes • 37x13.50R26 Tri-Ace Black Bear M/T tires PERFORMANCE • SSBC B8 Barbarian brake kit • Performance Chaos tuning • EZ Lynk • 5” Jamo exhaust • S&B Intake • Mishimoto radiator, intercooler, boost kit and high temp thermostat • Stealth Performance module SUSPENSION • Ekstensive Metal Works / front coilovers and triangulated full air ride rear • Fox coil overs with triple bypass shocks • Signature Metal Fab Torsion sway bar • Weaver Fabrication High Steer kit • Air Lift air management • PSC Hydraulic steering assist EXTERIOR • Pixelwerks camo wrap • Bradford built flatbed • RK Sport hood • RazerRack roof rack

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• • • •

Armadillo bedliner Overkill Fab illuminated grille and side emblems Color-matched mirrors Fusion bumper

RECOVERY • GenY Hitch 15” drop • Freedom ropes • Bolt Locks • Speed Strap ratchet straps LIGHTING • Heise LED lighting • Morimoto XB Headlights painted by plainANsimple • (26) MWCustoms rock rocklights • RECON cab lights and mirror lights ACCESSORIES • Warn 12K winch • Ride Controller RC Pro • Hornblasters ShockerXL train horns • True Spike lug nuts • One Ten machining floating caps • The fuelbox in bed tank • Bull Ring tie downs • G2 Axle diff covers • Renegade Products SMG SEMA truck maintenance kit • Warn 4WD hubs • Odyssey batteries

INTERIOR • Roadwire leather • Wrapped interior pieces • Lock’erDown safe • BlackVue dash camera • US Speedo gauges • P3 gauges • DUB IR Luxury Tint AUDIO • (3) Wet Sounds Sinister SDX4 Sinister Series amplifiers • (1) Wet Sounds SYN-DX-4 amplifier • (4) Wet Sounds REVO CX-10 10” speakers • (8) Wet Sounds REVO 8 speakers • (4) Wet Sounds REVO 6 speakers • Wet Sounds Surge 6 soundbar • (4) Wet Sounds Revo 12 HP subwoofers • Wet Sounds MC-1 media center

SOURCES: SKOOPS MARKETING GROUP @SKOOP_SMG POWER STROKE ENGINUITIES PSEHOUSTON.COM EKSTENSIVE METAL WORKS EKSTENSIVE.COM

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FEATURE

2015 GMC DENALI HD WORDS | PHOTOS: PHIL GORDON

B

uilding a brand takes hard work, dedication and, of course, time.

Nobody opens their eyes one morning and decides to create a successful brand. Omar Becerra grew up in Port Arthur, Texas, but it wasn’t until he relocated to Lumberton (a bit further north in Texas) that he realized his potential. As an industrial worker, Omar is a pipe welder and has been for almost three years now. One of the staples common for the industrial worker is owning a truck. Omar fit right in when he bought a 2007 Chevy Silverado, but it still didn’t live up to his expectations.

Although he added a modest lift to the Chevy, he decided to trade it in for a newer 2016 GMC Sierra.

The GMC was newer and nicer, but as any truck owner knows, diesel is where it’s at. Once again Omar made an executive decision and traded the 2016 in for a 2015 GMC Denali HD Duramax diesel. Both previous trucks were solid white, so it made sense to keep that white color going when the diesel was purchased. The HD was mint and the decision to go bigger and better than he ever had before started with a simple email to “Truck Guru” Cris Payne. Omar asked for just a simple rendering to see what the possibilities could be.

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Once the rendering came back, something in Omar just snapped and the project was on.

With Cris’ guidance, Omar took the Duramax to McIntosh Motorsports, where owner Cory McIntosh took control of the reins. “But I still had 100% control over what went on the truck and how it was added,” Omar mentions. While the prep work was being done, all the parts were ordered and a custom 18”-24” one-off 4-link suspension was mounted to the GMC. Tons of grinding, cutting, fabricating and welding were done, including taking the body off the frame for sandblasting and powder coating.

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The frame was put back together along with custom fabricated traction bars and a center cradle, front and rear trusses, panhard bar and SORD hydraulic coilovers and King Shocks, making the suspension adjustable via Bluetooth

by RideController. Now that the frame and suspension were complete, the Gravel Empire grille was installed with a “Spooled Out Fundoughmentals” emblem, which is Omar’s brand. Road Armor iDentity series bumpers were mounted for a sleeker look and plainANsimple added their touch by assembling custom headlights with Klearz Lenses and RECON tail lights. An RK Sport hood was added for a more aggressive look for the HD Duramax.

Omar was set on a Jamo Performance exhaust with a 5” TOS Fab 8 exhaust tip to give it a distinct look and sound. The 6.6L Duramax LML was given a PPEI tuning with EZ-LYNK module and an aFe cold air intake was mounted for smoother airflow. For Omar’s towing needs, a Rhino Hitch with a 13” drop was added to the rear. Other mods include BOLT Lock security pins and Amp Research PowerSteps to make climbing in and out much easier. A Wilwood big brake kit increases stopping power of the powerful Denali.

When it came time for the massive white truck to shine at night, Omar had more than 40 Twisted Pro rock lights added throughout the undercarriage. For wheels, Omar decided to go a different route than most of the lifted truck builds. Instead of going with the wheel choices that were filling the truck industry, he opted to use 26” Forgiato Inferno-T painted in Summit White and paired them with Fury tires.

Omar continues to drive his GMC Denali on a daily basis around the Texas area and to shows outside the state with his truck club Team Billet.

Project Light Knight was a huge hit at all the shows it has attended and will be a force to be reckoned with for many years to come.

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Omar wishes to thank everyone who had a hand in making his dream come true and who helped him build the biggest and baddest truck he could have imagined. “A special thanks to Cory McIntosh, the owner of McIntosh Motorsports, and the entire team there. Thanks to the Truck Guru Cris Payne for his leadership and guidance.

A special thanks to Brandon Varn, the marketing director for Road Armor, Blake Saffell at ATS Diesel, Kyle the owner at SORD Shocks, Clint the owner of Rhino Hitch, Sean from Twisted Pro, Del Karloz the president of the Houston chapter of Team Billet for all his help and Eden at Ground N Pound for everything he assisted with.”

GEAR: 2015 GMC DENALI HD WHEELS/TIRES • 26x16 Forgiato Inferno-T wheels with True Spike lug nuts powder coated white • 42X15.50R26 Fury Offroad Country Hunter MT tires • Shifted Industries wheel spacers PERFORMANCE • Wilwood Disc Brakes 6-piston big brake kit • Fully brushed 5” Jamo Performance exhaust • Custom stainless steel 8” TSO (Tristar Fab) tip with colormatched overlays • aFe cold air intake • ATS Diesel front and rear differential covers and transmission pan • PPEI Tuning with EZ-LYNK module SUSPENSION • Custom 18”-24” one-off 4-link suspension • SORD Performance Shocks hydraulic coilovers • King Shocks 54

EXTERIOR • Road Armor iDentity Series front and rear bumpers • RKSport hood • Prismatic Powders powder coating • Rhino Hitch color matched hitch • Custom Gravel Empire front grille with ‘Spooled Out Fundoughmentals’ emblem LIGHTING • plainANsimple custom headlights with Klearz Manufacturing lenses • GoRecon custom painted tail lights, side mirror, and third brake light • Twisted Pro bumper lights and pods • (40) Twisted Pro rock lights ACCESSORIES • Lock’er Down USA center console vault • RideController module

SOURCES: OMAR BECERRA SOFFORJADO.COM @OMAR_ST_CLOUD TRUCK GURU TRUCKGURU.CO MCINTOSH MOTORSPORTS MCINTOSHMOTORSPORTSLLC.COM @MCINTOSH_MOTORSPORTS1

TRAIL BLADE BOSS

WIDER. BADDER.

GET MORE TIRE. STAND MORE GROUND. The Trail Blade Boss Wide Series is the widest, boldest, most aggressive tire around.

Made for wheels up to 14-inches, the Wide Series gives your ride the extreme lifted look and an unmistakable Quartermaster knife blade tread. So go big and wide, from a tire company that always lets you Go Your Own Way. Get a custom fit for the way you roll.

Find your local Atturo dealer at

ATTURO.COM/BOSS 55

FEATURE

WORDS: KRISTIE REAL | PHOTOS: BRIAN McGEE

RAIZED UP 2017 CHEVY SILVERADO

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I

t’s all in the name for this black beauty.

Black Knight is aptly named first because of its exterior, and second for being a champion knight giving back to the community in which it was built for. Damion and Charlinda Santiago (and their son Phoenix) have always had it in them to give back to others at every opportunity. But when they started to build a somewhat basic lifted Chevy Silverado 1500 in 2016, they soon realized their truck was literally, and figuratively, a vehicle made to give back to those less fortunate. Using the truck as their flagship, they started a 501c3 non-profit organization named Raized Up to give back by raising up their community for the better.

Not long after the Santiagos established their non-profit and finished their initial build, their vehicle for giving back was suddenly taken from them by a distracted driver on the freeway. The driver was going more than 75 mph and collided with their truck while it was at a standstill.

Their Silverado was thrown onto the hood of the driver’s small sedan, and then catapulted across four lanes of traffic into a concrete barrier, slamming into it twice before finally coming to a rest.

The original Black Knight was considered a total loss and so was the Santiagos’ spirit. Thanks to the superior safety of their Silverado, the family of three was able to walk away from the accident with only minor injuries. However, their means of giving back was stripped from them by a stranger’s carelessness. After a month of recovery, Damion and Charlinda struggled with the decision to rebuild and continue what they set out to do, or to give up the cause all together.

Not wanting to allow the loss of their truck to stand in the way of their calling to help others, the Santiagos refused to give in and give up.

They decided to rebuild their truck in the form of a 2017 model, but this time bigger and better!

They knew the power the truck could have in the community with the more attention it received, so they pulled out all the stops. Damion’s history in the truck show scene and his previous award-winning mini truck was a huge influence while conceptualizing their new build. The only thing he hated about his mini truck was how often the truck would get damaged from being so low being bagged on a 4” body drop.

But he loved how fun having a truck with air ride and adjustable height suspension at the push of a button was. So, he enlisted the help of Dustin Meyer at Meyer Chassis in Murrieta, CA. He shared with Dustin his dream of having a lifted truck on a full functioning air ride suspension (front, back, side to side). Dustin got to work, cutting the original suspension and adding a custom 4-link to a brand new 2017 Silverado.

Dustin also used his creativity to find a way to add bags to a McGaughy’s adjustable lift. Damion then requested a custom spare tire mount in the truck bed not just for show but for the 24x14 Fittipaldi Offroad wheels he would be adding.

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Wanting to add an additional tank and compressors to the truck bed to support the truck’s weight and driveability, Damion and his wife Charlinda took a deep dive into air ride suspension systems and enlisted the help of AccuAir Suspension and VIAIR Corporation for product support. The couple plumbed, wired and installed the bed additions themselves.

Tires were in need so they reached out to Atturo Tires. Not knowing it at the time, this company became instrumental to the success of this build. Joe Gomez at Atturo Tires heard the Santiagos’ story and loved all of the philanthropic work they were doing, not only offering them a sponsorship, but also a ticket to the big stage of the 2018 SEMA Show.

When Damion got confirmation of the Black Knight’s attendance, he was ecstatic. He grew up knowing the SEMA Show as the Mecca of custom car shows, and to be invited to have his vehicle there was most definitely a check off on his bucket list. Given that the Santiagos make 58

a modest living, they reached out to companies for build partners and were able to represent Atturo Tires the very best they could. Companies jumped on board to offer support, believing in Black Knight and the Santiago’s story and mission. At their first SEMA Show, the Santiago’s found a way to give back and with the help of Atturo Tires, had three survivors of the Route 91 Shooting be their special guests and exit parade to SEMA Ignited. For SEMA Show 2019, Black Knight was escorted by a number of US veterans in the parade and SEMA Ignited.

Over the last couple of years, the truck has taken on a few looks, transforming into the beast it is today. According to Damion, Team Plus Bullet Liner, and the parent company Bullet Liner, stepped up big time with outfitting Black Knight with a full body, bumper to bumper liner. But one thing has never changed; how the Santiagos use Black Knight to continually give back and impact people wherever they go.

A HISTORY OF GIVING BACK •

Organized and held a car show fundraiser for California Highway Patrol Sgt. Steve Licon’s family that raised over $13,000. Sgt. Licon was killed in the line of duty by a drunk driver.

•

Every year during the month of December Damion dresses as The Grinch and visits with sick and underprivileged children and attends fundraisers and toy drives.

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The Black Knight chauffeurs sick and underprivileged children to car shows and events.

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Had survivors of Route 91 as the Santiagos’ guests at SEMA Show 2018 and ride with them in the parade to SEMA Ignited.

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Hosted cruise nights for displaced youth outreach.

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Hosted a cruise night to raise funds for the family of Krystil Kincaid, the pregnant wife and mother killed by a drunk driver.

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Provide Thanksgiving meals to veteran families every year.

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Provide holiday meals to veteran families every year.

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GEAR: 2017 CHEVY SILVERADO TIRES/WHEELS • 24X14 Fittipaldi Offroad FTF 15 forged wheels • 375/40R24 Atturo Trail Blade Boss tires SUSPENSION • Full independent air ride with AccuAir E-Level and dual VIAIR compressors • Custom 4-link and rear bag set up • McGaughy Suspension 9” Lift modified for adjustable air ride suspension height and travel • Custom lower A-arm to fit front dual Fox Shocks PERFORMANCE/ACCESSORIES • RK Sport Cowl induction hood • Razer roof rack with12 pod lights • Custom-painted Hornblasters Bandit Airhorn • Rock lights in all fender wells • LED light strips in bed • Mojave Parts custom shackles with Infinite Rule Pin Locks • Dual Odyssey batteries • Magnaflow exhaust • Custom bed display with two additional black VIAIR compressors, air tank and custom spiked Knight helmet • Engine dress up and paint • Custom Status grilles EXTERIOR • Front and rear Boondock Bumpers with custom-made front bumper tow rings, light bar with 4 LED fog lights • Custom in-bed spare tire mount • Full bumper to bumper Bullet Liner, including bed, fender wells and frame • Custom wrapped door and tailgate jams INTERIOR/AUDIO • Custom Roadwire Interior • Kicker Tower Speakers in truck bed on custom spare tire mount

Black Knight and the Santiago Family would like to thank the following for their continued support: Fittipaldi Offroad Wheels, VIAIR, Boondock Bumpers, Winje, TEAM Plus Bullet Liner, Awthentik Design Group, Razer Rack, Hornblasters, Cuztomz LED, Kicker, Mojave Parts, AccuAir, RK Sport, Infinite Rule, Sick Speed, Roadwire Interior, Status Grilles, Atturo Tires, Audio Evolution, Exclusive Autobody & Customs, Odyssey Batteries and everyone that has helped and followed along their journey!

SOURCES: BLACK KNIGHT @BLACKKNIGHT_1500 |

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/BLACKKNIGHT1500

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FEATURE

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WORDS: KRISTIE REAL | PHOTOS: BRIAN McGEE

2017 JEEP WRANGLER SAHARA

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orking in the automotive aftermarket industry has its perks. It means being involved in the latest trends, knowing what the newest products are and working with industry giants. You can say that it gives you a small advantage when customizing your own ride, or at least a better execution plan with an easier path to the final product.

Thus was the case for Gabe Sanchez, ad executive for this magazine and industry veteran. For his personal build, he wanted something functional that could easily be taken off-pavement, but also a ride with a lot of street style. The build plans were simple and Gabe didn’t need any elaborate plan or renderings to envision his jeep. Instead, he went off of nothing more than just an idea in his head.

“I wanted to start with a vehicle that didn’t have a ton of parts that needed to be removed in order to achieve the end goal,” he details.

“So the base model Sahara was the best choice to strip down and rebuild.” Since there’s a cornucopia of various mods and parts available for the platform, the process of narrowing it down to the ones Gabe wanted to use took some time. Asking around for recommendations and input, Rebel Off Road and the crew at LFTD & LVLD provided some solid advice.

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Spending most of his time on the Westside of Los Angeles, he was inspired by Ferraris, Lambos and other exotics that are often zipping through the streets, with their neck-breaking looks and sound. He opted for a Borla exhaust system that implemented custom, one-off carbon fiber exhaust tips and “sounds mean as hell.” “It looks amazing and I get complimented on them often. The same is true of the leather seats from Alea as they’re not only soft, but also extremely comfortable and set off the Jeep just right!”

Another highlight for Gabe is the dual sunroof from American Fastbacks, which he mentions adds a special touch, “giving the interior a special breeze and comfort on long drives.”

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The upgraded suspension comes courtesy of a Teraflex JKU Alpine CT4 suspension system that provides a modest 4” lift which was just enough to satisfy Gabe’s need for a lifted Jeep. Falcon Shocks JKU Series 3.3 Fast Adjust Piggyback shocks help provide a comfortable ride on asphalt and were also wrapped by DH Wraps for added flair. Power was added via a RIPP Supercharger system that utilizes a Vortech supercharger to give it the respectable extra power needed to stand with some of L.A.’s finest exotics.

GEAR: 2017 JEEP WRANGLER SAHARA WHEELS/TIRES • 22x15 TIS Forged F51 wheels • 38x15.50R22 FUEL Off-Road Gripper M/T tires PERFORMANCE • BAER Brakes System 14” Pro+ • RIPP Supercharger Wrangler JK Supercharger system, featuring the Vortech V3 self-contained centrifugal supercharger SUSPENSION • Teraflex JKU Alpine CT4 suspension system 4” Lift • Falcon Shocks JKU Series 3.3 Fast Adjust Piggyback shocks • Shocks custom wrapped by DH Wraps EXTERIOR • MetalCloak JK Wrangler Full Overland system, featuring JK Rocker Exo Skins, 4-door overland rocker base, rocker flip step, front and rear flare, aluminum inner fenders • VPR front and rear bumpers • Rugged Ridge performance vented hood • Rugged Ridge Nighthawk grille • Rugged Ridge hood catch kit INTERIOR • DUB IR Luxury Tint • Husky Liners Weather Beater floor mats • Carolina Metal Masters (CMM) grab handles AUDIO • Focal Car Audio Performance Expert Series PS 165F3 component speaker system • Alpine X409-WRA-JK head unit ACCESSORIES • Warn ZEON 12-S Platinum winch • Monster Hooks MH-SW1R • Factor 55 flatlink

SOURCES: PROJECT EL KUKUY @PROJECTELKUKUY

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When it comes to looks, Gabe wanted something that looked menacing and used MetalCloak’s JK Wrangler full overland system, with VPR front and rear bumpers. Rugged Ridge’s Performance vented hood, nighthawk grille and hood catches kit all add to the exterior façade of the Wrangler. Accessories include a Warn Zeon 12-S platinum winch, Factor 55 flatlink, and Monster Hooks to top it off. No Jeep build would be complete without an array

of lighting options, and Gabe chose to use J.W. Speakers lighting and complemented it with a Quake LED 50” light bar and 20” light bar on the hood. It rolls perfectly on a set of 22x15 TIS Forged F51 wheels paired with 38x15.50R22 Fuel Gripper M/T tires. The entire project took nearly four months to complete and it’s aggressive stance, appearance and growl justifies the Jeep being nicknamed El Kukuy, which in Spanish means Boogeyman.

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FEATURE

A SHOP TRUCK FOR SHOW

RICHLINE MOTORSPORTS’ 2019 CHEVY SILVERADO 2500HD WORDS/PHOTOS: BRANDON BURRELL

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W

hen you own a wheel, tire and accessory shop, having the right “in-yourface�advertising is a must.

Some choose flashy billboards, some choose commercials, but for JD Davis at Richline Motorsports in Independence, Missouri, he chose to build a custom truck that showcases what his team can do for their customers. Being his shop does a lot of parts installs and mods on a daily, he knew everything he needed for his rolling billboard was only a few steps out into the shop.

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Having access to a fully stocked facility with all the tools, accessories and employees you’d ever need makes building something for yourself easier for sure. And easy was what JD needed given he was just a few weeks away from his biggest audience - the grand SEMA Show. JD had to get the ball rolling if he was going to have a new project done in time, but with his expertise in the industry, taking on a project of this magnitude was second nature to him.

He started by picking up a 2016 Chevy 2500 crew cab 4WD as a base for this shop truck and a plan already in his head. Once the truck was in the shop, all the parts were picked and ordered. With the short time constraints, the Richline Motorsports crew didn’t waste any time transforming the stock truck to magazine worthy in just three short weeks.

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Knowing that the height of the truck would be the first thing people see when the truck pulled up, JD got with Bulletproof Suspension and ordered their 12” lift kit complete with the rear cantilever set up. After the lift was test fitted, the kit (plus a few extra parts) were all sent off to have the copper powder coating applied before the final installation. With the truck suspension dialed in, they had to pick the right wheel and tire combo to complete the look. For that, JD ordered a set of 26x16 Fuel Forged wheels and had them coated in the same powder to match the suspension before the 40x15.50R26 Fuel Gripper MT tires were mounted. To help the truck move down the road a little better with all the extra weight and rolling mass, he installed an aFe intake and 5” exhaust as well as a Gorilla Tuner.

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To visually add to the truck’s presence, front and rear Bodyguard Bumpers were installed in place of the stock units, complete with more copper colored accents to tie it all together. A Royalty Core grille also brought the front end look together. The addition of an M-Rack roof rack also enhances its presence. Heise LED Lights were added into both bumpers and the roof rack to make sure JD could see through the night with ease. Amp Research Power Steps make getting into the lifted truck a lot easier while a full set of HornBlasters train horns in a custom mount add for fun with unsuspecting bystanders. The most visual aspect of the truck is the custom wrap design by ECD Customs that accentuates the copper theme JD wanted. Having a flashy presence along with the towering height of a truck is sure to turn heads while parked in front of the shop as it draws in customers or when hitting the local car show.

GEAR: 2019 CHEVY 2500 HD WHEELS/TIRES • 26x16 Fuel Off-Road Forged wheels • 40x15.50R26 Fuel Gripper MT tires ACCESSORIES • Monster Hooks • M Rack roof rack • Heise LED lighting • AMP Research Power Steps • HornBlasters Shocker XL train horns • Smoked tail lights

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PERFORMANCE • aFe cold-air intake • aFe exhaust system • Gorilla Tuner SUSPENSION • Bulletproof Suspension 12” lift • Bulletproof Suspension cantilever rear suspension

EXTERIOR • Bodyguard Bumpers front and rear • Royalty Core grille • ECD Customs full wrap • Fab Fours ViCowl • Fab Fours Headache Rack with modifier • Custom rock sliders

JD would like to thank everyone that helped with the build including his list of sponsors: Fuel Wheels, Bodyguard Bumpers, Heis LED lighting, M-Racks, Amp steps, HornBlasters, ECD Graphics and Fuel Off-Road.

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THE SCENE

PHOTOS: FERNANDO DEANDA

T

exas truck culture is stronger than ever and our Battle Grounds Truck & Jeep Show fueled by Nitto Hoston stop proved it with massive attendance. Held at the NRG Center on Saturday, August 24th, our Houston stop sure didn’t disappoint with all custom rides on display. It was the first Battle Grounds event for the city and the people showed up in droves as curiosity and excitement fueled builders and enthusiasts alike to check out the show. The area’s hottest trucks, SUVs and Jeeps battled it out for braggin’ rights and $5,000 cash.

EKSTENSIVE METALWORKS

The Monster Energy booth drew a huge crowd for the free drink samples and a photo op with Monster Energy Girls Brianna and Janey. June Da Barber was on hand giving fans a fresh fade at the booth, too, while the Monster Energy BMX team delighted excited fans.

EXTREME OFF ROAD & PERFORMANCE

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ALL OUT

PROJECT LIGHT KNIGHT

SKOOPS MARKETING GROUP

PREMIER OFF-ROAD AMANI FORGED

TEXAS TRUCK WORKS

JADA TOYS AWARD WINNERS

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THE SCENE Texas Truck Works’ booth was lit with the most impressive Jeep on Nittos, which took home the “Best Jeep Of Show” trophy. Extreme Offroad & Performance brought out some heavy-hitters and won the “Best Truck of Show” award.

Complete Customs came all the way down from Dallas with some sick builds, while 713 Motoring went home with the award for “Best Booth.”

Bill and the team from Ekstensive Metal Works always do show-stopping work and brought out some of their crazy builds to the show. You can also catch Bill and his crew on Motor Trend’s channel with their popular show Texas Metal.

713 MOTORING

Other notable booths included those from All Out Offroad, LFTW, Str8up Offroad and Performance, Tire 45, Premier Offroad and Performance, Exclusive DTS, and Alpha Tire.

It was such a great show that we can’t wait to bring it back in 2020!

Thanks to our sponsors for helping make the show a success: Monster Energy, Nitto Tire, TIS Wheels, Dropstars Wheels, DUB iR, LFTD & LVLD, Jada Toys, All Out Offroad, and Warn.

TEAM BILLET

ALLOUT

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TEXAS HOLD EM

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THE SCENE

PHOTOS: CLINTON LUM

S

EMA 2019 was as explosive as expected. As the largest automotive aftermarket show in the world, everyone and anyone in the industry flocked to Sin City during the week of November 5th through 8th. Once a year the Las Vegas Convention Center becomes a Mecca where the world’s top builders make their yearly pilgrimage and bring builds they’ve been working on for months, even years. It’s a once a year gathering where builders and manufacturers flex their creative muscles and flaunt ingenious new products to corporate buyers, media, and industry professionals. It was another packed show this year, which is evidence of the industry’s robustness as a whole.

The LFTD & LVLD scene was as popular as ever, with lifted trucks and Jeeps still going strong. This year, the new Jeep Gladiator was the base vehicle of choice for many builders and aftermarket manufacturers new offerings. The Gladiator was dressed up in different iterations as everyone seemed to be showing off their new products for the highly anticipated Jeep truck.

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THE SCENE We’ve seen the overlanding scene grow outside of the SEMA Show for a number of years now and the trend finally caught on this year at the big show. It was tent city in the upper level of South Hall. Outside was no different as roof top tents dotted the adjacent lots around South Hall. Even in our area, overlanding styling and influence rubbed off on some of the LFTD & LVLD rigs we had on display as tents and recovery gear were mods integrated into these builds. We think the outdoor adventuring lifestyle will continue to grow in other subsegments of automotive culture, not just in overlanding as more people become more interested in nature, outdoors, adventure and exploring different locations across the United States.

Another SEMA Show year has come and gone and many builders are now on to their next project for 2020. What will be the next hot truck platform to build next year and beyond? Tesla Cybertruck? Well, we’ll have to wait until 2022 to see that. For now, we’ll have to see Ford’s final version of the highly anticipated new Bronco and hope that manufacturers support this new platform with aftermarket products.

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GEAR

Like adventure? Well check out this collection of brand new gear that will get your heart pumping! Here are a few ideas to help get you off grid in style.

EXOLUNG UNDERWATER BREATHING DEVICE EXOLUNG.COM

If SCUBA diving is your favorite hobby, you already know how hard it is to find something that’s comfortable and allows you to breathe underwater. Current SCUBA diving breathing gear options can be quite expensive, but a new prototype aims to change that. The EXOlung Underwater Breathing Device doesn’t rely on battery power or air tanks. Instead, it relies on your swimming motions to create air movement that keeps flowing as long as you’re swimming. The system is lightweight and only weighs about 8 pounds, and is still in development. But if it makes it to market, it can really change the game. Pricing TBA

LITHOLOGIE GRANULITE WHISKEY STONES LITHOLOGIE.CA

Whiskey stones are a storied thing of the past, but are great for keeping your favorite whiskey just the right temp. Not many carry such storied stones, but now you can order them. The Lithologie Granulite Whiskey Stones are taken from Hornblende, which is a 940-million-year-old stone that hails from the Trois-Rivieres region in Canada. Each stone is deep black in color and features a dark green translucence with bursts of copper colors. They’ll keep your whiskey just right without watering it down as regular ice does and look cool while doing it.

Each set of four comes in a special walnut case. $50.00

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MATADOR PACKABLE WATER BOTTLE MATADORUP.COM

Reduce waste and stay hydrated while you’re out and about with Matador’s Packable Water Bottle. The collapsible water bottle can hold up to 1-liter of liquid and is made from PVC and BPA-free TPU, comes with straw and lockable bite valve for easy sipping. The bottom zippers easily for fast refills and there’s a built-in handle for convenient carrying. When not in use, you simply collapse it down and throw it in your bag. $29.95

SUNSKI TREELINE SUNGLASSES SUNSKI.COM

When you’re out hiking or climbing, ultraviolet rays become more of a hazard the higher you get. Plus, in winter, rays reflect off the white snow, causing even more harm than on sunny days. The Sunski Treeline Sunglasses were made for climbers, but are ideal for anyone traveling through ice and snow. The sunglasses’ polarized lenses not only provide UV protection but also reduce the amount of glare, making images appear sharper, clearer, and more comfortable to your eyes. The removable magnetic perforated side panels further reduce UV damage to your eyes and glare to your peripheral vision while outdoors. The sunnies are lightweight and flexible, so you might forget that you even have them on. The rubber nose pads make sure that they won’t slip while you’re out on your adventure. $71.00

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NEURON T.ONE MODULAR UTILITY VEHICLE NEURONEV.COM

Electric pickup trucks are soon going to become the norm. L.A.-based Neuron is looking to be a big contender with their T.One modular vehicle that can be configured in several ways using the different modules that can be replaced. It can be a regular pickup truck, van, dump truck, or gooseneck trailer hauler. The look of the vehicle looks sort of like a spaceship, and the company hasn’t provided any powertrain information just yet. Inside, there’s a center-mounted operator seat that’s surrounded by various touchscreens to handle all the commands of the driver. Neuron is now taking reservations for the T.One. Pricing TBA

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ISSUE 24

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