Monster Energy athletes remain a perfect eight for eight in Championship Off-Road Pro 4 competition thanks to yet another weekend sweep at Dirt City Motorplex. With both races held on Sunday due to averse weather conditions on Saturday evening, it was a pair of legends taking the checkered flags—Johnny Greaves for the 100th time in his illustrious career on Sunday morning, and Kyle LeDuc over CJ Greaves on Sunday afternoon.
Johnny Greaves’ milestone victory on Sunday morning was by no means an easy one. He had led the event early on before making contact with a tire and spinning around, but methodically climbed back into podium contention after the incident. When CJ Greaves slowed on the final lap, Johnny made the winning pass to ensure the victory stayed in the family. His first win of the season was also his third podium appearance of the year after dual podiums at Crandon International Raceway in June.
The dramatic afternoon race was another battle of attrition, with multiple drivers falling out of contention from either crashes or mechanical issues in the lead. LeDuc and CJ Greaves had been battling for second when the door opened, once again on the final lap, for a spot atop the podium. LeDuc would end up taking the trophy for the class-leading fourth time in 2021, but the race was decided by just .284 seconds with Greaves hot on his heels.
The battles at Dirt City have set up an exciting showdown for the remaining two events in the Championship Off-Road season. With three victories and a class-leading seven podiums in eight attempts, CJ Greaves holds a five-point lead over LeDuc for the top spot. Johnny Greaves remains well within the top five of the championship in fourth. Beyond all eight victories, the Monster-backed trio has combined for 14 podiums thus far in 2021, including back-to-back podium sweeps in the Crandon Brush Run.
Bark River International Raceway will host the penultimate event of the 2021 COR campaign, welcoming racers back for the first time since 2019 on August 14-15. The season will then conclude at Crandon as always, with the track’s iconic World Championship event celebrating its 52nd anniversary on Labor Day weekend.
About Monster EnergyBased in Corona, California, Monster Energy is the leading marketer of energy drinks and alternative beverages. Refusing to acknowledge the traditional, Monster Energy supports the scene and sport. Whether motocross, off-road, NASCAR, MMA, BMX, surf, snowboard, ski, skateboard, or the rock and roll lifestyle, Monster Energy is a brand that believes in authenticity and the core of what its sports, athletes and musicians represent. More than a drink, it’s the way of life lived by athletes, sports, bands, believers and fans. See more about Monster Energy including all of its drinks at www.monsterenergy.com.
New front winch bumper offers a rugged style, increased off-road capability, and added protection to Ford’s highly anticipated new SUV.
WARN Elite Series Front Bumper with Grille Guard Tube for Ford Bronco. The bumper is also equipped with a WARN ZEON 10-S winch and Epic Shackles, and Factor 55 Hawse Fairlead and FlatLink E Shackle Mount.
New bumpers for Ford Bronco are WARN winch-ready, and accept most WARN mid-frame winches up to 12,000 lbs. (5443 kg)
Pull-tested to stringent specifications by WARN engineers
Bumper includes welded eyelets for shackles; ports for OE or auxiliary lights; off-road jack tabs
Two versions available: With or without grille guard tube
State-of-the-art powder-coated finish for long-lasting corrosion/UV protection.
Clackamas, OR (7/21/21) – Hot on the heels of the Ford Bronco’s highly anticipated debut, Warn Industries has released its Elite Series Front Bumpers for the hot new SUV. These rugged bumpers allow Bronco buyers to add a winch for vehicle recovery, add extra protection to guard against trail hazards, and make Ford’s new Bronco even more capable.
Built For Life Off Road
The WARN Elite Series Front Bumper accommodates a host of WARN mid-frame winches up to 12,000 lbs. (5443 kg) in capacity.
The new Elite Series bumpers feature advanced geometry specifically made to increase approach angles and articulation further improving the vehicle’s off-road capability. Plus, they’ll accommodate oversized tires. The integrated winch mount is engineered and tested for the high stresses of winching. The mount will allow for mid-frame winches up to 12,000 lbs. (5443 kg) including the WARN® ZEON®, ZEON Platinum, VR EVO, M8, XD9, XD9i, 9.0Rc, and 9.5xp.
For even more vehicle recovery options, the bumper showcases ultra-strong precision-welded eyelets to accommodate shackles. There are also integrated jack points for lifting the vehicle using an off-road jack.
Additionally, the Elite Series bumper has recessed light buckets for either the OE fog lights or aftermarket units.
Two Versions
WARN Elite Series Front Bumper without Grille Guard Tube for Ford Bronco. The bumper is equipped with a WARN ZEON 10-S winch with a relocated control pack, WARN Epic Shackles, Factor 55 FlatLink E Shackle Mount, and Factor 55 Hawse Fairlead.
Warn is offering these Elite Series bumpers in two versions: One with a welded-on grille guard tube, and one without the tube. The stout tube offers additional protection to the winch as well as an aggressive look. However, Bronco owners with the forward-facing camera will probably want to opt for the version without the tube. They’ll also likely want to use one of the company’s winch control pack relocation kits (for ZEON and VR EVO). The sleek no-bar bumper and winch control pack relocation will keep that camera free from obstruction as the factory intended.
No matter which version buyers opt for, the Elite Series bumpers wear a state-of-the-art powder-coated finish with a five-step pre-treatment process and zirconium nanotechnology. This lets the bumpers stand up to rigorous 408-hour salt-spray tests and provides excellent UV protection to keep the product looking great for years.
The new Ford Bronco is one of the most highly anticipated 4WD vehicles to be sold in recent memory. Warn Industries’ dedication to durability, quality, and innovation ensures the company’s Elite Series front bumpers will give Bronco buyers the features they need and a look to complement the rig’s rugged style.
About Warn Industries
Warn Industries (warn.com) is the world’s most recognized brand in off-road products such as hub locks and vehicle recovery winches. The company designs, manufactures and markets a full line of off-road equipment and accessories that enhance the performance of four-wheel-drive and powersport vehicles. Warn Industries is headquartered near Portland, OR.
Clackamas, OR (June 1, 2021) – Warn Industries today announced the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Fabtech Industries, Inc., a leading manufacturer of aftermarket suspensions for light trucks, Jeeps, and SUVs.
Fabtech’s product offerings include suspension systems, shocks, and leveling kits. The company was founded in 1989 as a custom fabrication firm specializing in racing suspension systems and Prerunner builds, cages, bumpers, and other products. Today, the company has over 2,000 SKUs in their portfolio and the Fabtech brands, which include Dirt Logic and Stealth Shocks, are recognized as premium offerings in the off-road and performance segments.
Kyle Shiminski, Vice President & General Manager of Warn Industries, stated, “With strong brands and complementary categories to Warn’s truck, off-road, and overlanding segments, this partnership provides an opportunity to combine the premium brands of WARN, Factor 55 and Fabtech into a more all-encompassing solution for end-customers.” Shiminski added, “We have admired the Fabtech brand heritage and made in the USA mindset and are extremely excited to be able to align together. We look forward to working closely with the entire Fabtech team, and continuing their history of premium, innovative products while adding another premium brand to the Warn family.” Fabtech will operate as a division of Warn Industries.
Fabtech’s products are designed, tested, and manufactured in the United States, and utilize proprietary technology to fully integrate vehicles’ electronics and sensors with their systems.
Dave Winner, Founder and CEO of Fabtech Industries, Inc. commented, “We are excited to be part of the Warn Industries family, joining a company with highly-recognized, premium brands and a storied history. We are proud of what we have accomplished over our 30-plus year history, and we look forward to continuing our traditions, now as part of Warn and as such, being able to leverage resources available as part of a larger entity. We will continue to focus on developing innovative solutions for the off-road segment.” Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
About Fabtech Industries
Fabtech Industries (www.fabtechmotorsports.com) is a leading manufacturer of aftermarket suspensions for light trucks and SUVs. The Fabtech product offering includes suspension systems, shocks, and leveling kits. Fabtech brands, which include Dirt Logic and Stealth Shocks, are recognized as premium offerings in the off-road racing and performance segments. Fabtech’s products are designed, tested, and manufactured in the United States, and utilize proprietary technology to fully integrate vehicle’s electronics and sensors with their systems. Fabtech is headquartered in Chino, CA.
About Warn Industries
WARN (www.warn.com) is the world’s most recognized brand in off-road products such as hub locks and vehicle recovery winches. Warn Industries designs, manufactures and markets a full line of off-road equipment and accessories that enhance the performance of four-wheel-drive and powersports vehicles. Warn Industries is headquartered near Portland, OR.
Warn Industries also includes Factor 55 (www.factor55.com), a manufacturer of highly-engineered rigging hardware for CLOSED SYSTEM WINCHING™, a technique that uses rigging comprised entirely of closed link hardware to provide an additional layer of safety when operating a winch. The Factor 55 product offering includes: winch line and splice-on shackles, fairleads, pulleys, vehicle recovery kits and bags, recovery straps, rope, and other specialty products. Factor 55 is headquartered in Boise, Idaho, and their products are designed and manufactured in Idaho.
Clackamas, OR (3/18/21) – Oregon-based Warn Industries has released a number of exciting new products into its ever-expanding lineup of truck accessories. This includes new applications in the company’s growing array of bumpers and mounting systems as well as a new line of ultra-rugged forged offset fair leads in the company’s expansive Epic line of accessories.
Added Ascent Applications
Warn Industries is continuing to expand its offerings of Ascent XP front bumpers. These bumpers are for truck buyers who want the aggressive style and rugged protection of a one-piece welded steel bumper, but don’t need to mount a winch.
Remarkably durable, Ascent XP has one-piece construction made from 11 gauge and ¼” steel for extra front-end protection. There’s a built-in slot to accommodate a 30” light bar (not included). Additionally, there are integrated dual light ports to mount auxiliary flood or spot lights (not included). For even more front-end resilience, Ascent XP showcases a welded-on Baja style grille guard tube. New applications include:
Ascent XP for 2017–2020 Ford Raptor
Ascent XP for 2020–Current GMC Sierra HD 2500/3500
Ascent XP for 2019–Current Ram HD 2500/3500
Additionally, there is a new Ascent Rear bumper application for the 2020–current Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500/3500 and GMC Sierra 2500/3500. Ascent Rear Bumpers feature a low-profile design and help to maximize departure angles when off road. They have integrated corner steps for easy access to the truck’s bed, mounts for auxiliary lights, and accommodate sensors where applicable. They also retain the factory tow hitch, electrical plugs, and license plate lights.
All Ascent bumpers wear a durable black textured powder coat over 11-gauge steel that also withstand rigorous 408-hour salt spray testing, delivering up to 2X corrosion protection. They’re designed, tested, and precision made in the USA.
Epic Offset Forged Billet Aluminum Hawse Fairlead
Certain bumper applications require the use of an offset fairlead in order to run synthetic rope. Warn Industries now has fairleads to address this issue and they’re part of the company’s Epic line of accessories.
Made from exceedingly durable forged 6061-T6 billet aluminum, these unique offset fairleads are corrosion, impact, salt, weather, and UV-resistant for the ultimate in strength. Buyers can choose between a black or gunmetal type-III hard-anodized finish for years of good looks. The fairleads have a smooth, large radius to help maximize the life of the winch’s synthetic rope, and are for use with mid-frame winches that mount in a feet-forward position. The design language also matches existing items in the WARN Epic array of accessories.
New Trans4mer Gen III Application Rounding out Warn’s latest products is a new application in the ever-popular modular Trans4mer® Gen III mounting system line. Owners of 2020–current Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500/3500 trucks can now equip their rigs with this versatile mounting system.
The new application is designed to accommodate mid-frame WARN winches up to 12,000 lbs. in capacity including the popular VR EVO, ZEON®, or ZEON Platinum winches as well as a host of the company’s Classic Series products.
The Trans4mer Gen III system is a simple, customizable, and modular way to attach a winch to a pickup. Buyers can customize the product to add optional brush guards (sold separately). This application includes heavy-duty brackets and a mid-frame winch carrier, provisions to mount 3″ cube lights, J-hooks for recovery, and a durable, high-tech powder-coated finish to stand up against corrosion. Like all WARN mounting systems, Trans4mer has been thoroughly tested and is made in the USA.
About Warn Industries
Warn Industries (warn.com) is the world’s most recognized brand in off-road products such as hub locks and vehicle recovery winches. The company designs, manufactures and markets a full line of off-road equipment and accessories that enhance the performance of four-wheel-drive and powersport vehicles. Warn Industries is headquartered near Portland, OR.
MOAB, Utah., March 30, 2021 – Accessory manufacturer, ARB announces a strategic collaboration with Ford Motor Company to develop a full suite of premium, aftermarket products for the all-new Ford Bronco. For the last few years, ARB has been working hand-in-hand with Ford designers and engineers to ensure each ARB accessory not only complements the Bronco’s heritage and performance, but is fully integrated into the original vehicle design.
This strategic collaboration consists of ARB engineers and designers working together with their counterparts at Ford Motor Company. Chassis structural design, roof load-carrying capacity, suspension travel, snorkel air intake, air systems routing, fridge/freezer wiring, and other salient details necessitated not only CAD and vehicles, but more critically, access to the subject-matter experts who made the new Bronco a reality. The working relationship between Dear born and Melbourne has driven a portfolio of innovative accessory solutions for Bronco customers ready for vehicle launch.
Early in the rebirth of the Bronco, Ford Motor Company called in a panel of industry experts, including ARB USA President, Doug Pettis.
“Ford took a completely new approach to customer-centric design with the Bronco,” said Pettis. “Personalization and customization is in the DNA of this project. Ford went the extra mile to ensure the Bronco was built to be accessorized, modified, and personalized to suit the demands of the consumer; especially the overland traveler.”
“ARB’s manufacturing expertise, powered by innovative engineering and design, has been the driving force behind our growth for over four decades,” said Pettis. “The unique combination of ARB’s aftermarket presence and our 35-year history working with OE’s as a tier-one manufacturer, was the primary driver of Ford’s decision to onboard ARB.”
The full suite of Bronco accessories from ARB will be available to new Bronco customers this summer through over 1,000 Ford dealerships and authorized ARB retailers throughout North America.
ARB is Australia’s largest manufacturer and distributor of 4×4 accessories. We also have an international presence, with an office in the US and an export network that extends through more than 80 countries around the globe. Our philosophy, however, has never wavered from its original course –quality, reliability, and practicality above all else.
Randy Slawson Wins The World’s Hardest One Day Off-Road Race & Takes Home His Third Crown
February 8, 2020 (Hammertown, CA)- King of the Hammers has a reputation as the most difficult one day off-road race in the world, pushing team and machine to their breaking point, and beyond. Attrition in 2021 was as high as ever, with only 37 of 84 competitors reaching the finish line within the 14-hour time limit. There were numerous lead changes, mechanical carnage, and drama as the race unfolded over 190 miles of unforgiving terrain in Johnson Valley, the largest Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) area in the United States. In the end, Randy Slawson and his cousin Dustin Emick edged out JP Gomez and Marcos Gomez to join Shannon Campbell and Jason Scherer as three-time winners of the event. For his efforts, Slawson took home a $65,000 pay check and a brand-new Ford Bronco. “My year begins and ends in February. It’s not in January, like everybody else’s,” Slawson explained. “This is the only thing that I live eat, breathe sleep, dream – King of the Hammers.”
While many of the top teams have adopted independent front suspension (IFS) for faster speeds in the desert, Slawson has stayed loyal to the Spidertrax solid axles under his Bomber Fabrication buggy. And unlike other forms of racing where the driver writes a check to buy a race car, Slawson crafted the buggy with his own hands, building not only his own winning car but Chayse Caprara’s Bomber that won the 4WP Every Man Challenge (EMC) the day prior. “The last time I had one of my customers win the Every Man Challenge I won the 4400 race the next day. I was like, just taking it as an omen,” Slawson revealed at the finish line. “And right then Jason Scherer rolled by, and he waved me over to his car, and he gave me a fist bump. He said, ‘you’re gonna win it this year.’”
Fast qualifier JP Gomez and his brother Raul Gomez rounded out the podium in their single-seat UFO Fabrication cars. “I don’t want to start on the pole again, it sucks!” JP joked after crossing the finish line. “It took me about a lap and a half to finally calm down. Just slowly catching up my pace. And then that’s how I went the whole rest of the day.” Raul stopped to assist Tom Wayes after Wayes suffered a violent rollover in the desert, valuing the safety of his rivals over his own success on the track. “When I pulled up, I turn my car off and I yelled for him to see if he was okay. And he didn’t say anything so then I radioed the pit and couldn’t get him out,” Raul Gomez recalled. “Then Cameron (Steele) and Wayne (Isrealsen) pulled up and Tom told us to keep racing.”
Bailey Cole finished in fourth place for the second year in a row, matching his finish on the prior day in the Every Man Challenge the day before. “We really stayed in the zone all day,” Cole shared. “We wanted to just go out and get the hard rocks out the first lap when the car was healthy so we did Backdoor on Lap One. And then we just continued our pace with the desert and we picked off probably ten cars in that desert loop, the car was handling great.” Drift racing superstar Vaughn Gittin Jr. finished in fifth place in his Ford Bronco buggy.
Gittin’s Ford teammates Jason Scherer and Loren Healy finished 9th and 13th respectively, with all three Ford Broncos racing taking the checkered flag. “This race is gonna have like a 70% attrition rate and three out of three Broncos finished,” Scherer exclaimed. “It’s like batting a thousand.” Scherer and desert racer Cameron Steele shared the lead early on in the race, but both had issues that pushed them back in the standings. Fuel management was an issue for not only Scherer but contender Wayland Campbell as well. Scherer’s navigator Jason Berger, known for his physical fitness, ran into the main pit to retrieve fuel, and Andrew McLaughlin pulled Campbell in to the pit. King of the Hammers is a “no chase” race, meaning that racers can help each other but can’t receive other assistance outside of the designated pit locations. Perhaps most amazing is that UTV winner Kyle Chaney and last year’s UTV winner Hunter Miller finished 11th and 12th overall in their Can-Am Maverick X3s against a field of unlimited cars with V8 engines and 40-inch-tall tires.
The OPTIMA Batteries King of the Hammers Presented by Lasernut is the grand finale of nine days of racing in Johnson Valley in front millions of online viewers watching unparalleled life coverage from the desert. The event started with the Toyo Desert Challenge Presented by Monster Energy with $285,000 up for grabs. The event then added rocks to the mix with the All Balls Racing King of the Motos, Can-Am UTV King of the Hammers Presented by PROGRESSIVE, and the 4WP Every Man Challenge. King of the Hammers races combine punishing desert terrain and huge boulders in the notorious Hammer trails. The unlimited 4400 class runs the same two laps as the UTV and EMC races, but ups the ante with a third lap adding even harder trails with ominous names such as King’s Graveyard and Hell to Pay.
Missed the action or want to watch it again? Replay the live broadcast shows at YouTube.com/ultra4racing.
