Rick Russell has been exploring the
backroads of California and Mexico for twenty years. Over the last
five years he has been publishing trails for others to follow with
SideKick Off Road Maps. Rick says, "The video series works hand in
hand with the maps to provide even more information about an area.
The viewer can ride along with us before exploring the area on his
own." General OverviewIt is without a doubt the most famous OHV trail in
the world. It is the standard by which all other hard core trails
are judged. It has given pride in accomplishment to many a driver,
and humbled even more. It's the Rubicon Trail. Located in northern
California in the Sierra Nevada mountains, "The Rubicon" runs
approximately 15 miles between Loon Lake and the city of Lake
Tahoe. This "4+" rated trail is open only 3-5 months per year
(depending on weather conditions), and sees several thousand OHV's
Mountain bikers, and hikers annually. Rick takes the viewer through the entire Rubicon, no
bypasses allowed, because as Rick says "We want to get as much
Rubicon as we can". With a group of capable vehicles, including
several Jeeps and 2 Hummers (yes you read that right, HUMMERS!)
Rick tackles the "Little Sluice", Big Sluice", "True Big Sluice",
water crossings, and "Cadillac Hill", with an overnight stop-over
in Rubicon Springs. Along the way, the group meets up with a group of
quads which are on a tour, and we get to see 4 wheelin' on the
Rubicon in a slightly different light. The little (in comparison)
quads have their own set of challenges and obstacles to contend
with that are far from trivial. Video HighlightsThe scenery of the Rubicon and surrounding areas is
worth the price of admission alone. Action along the trail is just what you would expect
of the Rubicon. Excellent camera angles and good narration keep the
viewer involved Correlation with the Sidekick maps adds a great deal
of "depth" to the video. Rick points out several "must know" facts
and points of interest along the way. Brief specs of each vehicle in the group,
demonstrating to viewer the kind of vehicle it takes to tackle the
Rubicon. Hummers on the Rubicon! There was a time when "they
said it couldn't be done", but as you will see, it is "done" and in
high style to boot! Fantastic footage of the Hummer's 3 wheeling
escapades, sidehilling and ...."crunch"....oops.... The hecklers of the Little Sluice. Warrior, choose
thy path carefully....or suffer the consequences. On trail breakdowns and repairs. The Rubicon is not
forgiving of the inexperienced, or the ill prepared Variety. In addition to the quads, hikers and
mountain bikers coexist nicely with the OHV's along the trail.
The Verdict - "4+"Rick's Rubicon video leaves little doubt as to what
the Rubicon Trail is all about. The video is well thought out,
informative and highly entertaining. Even the background music (my
pet peeve with many of Rick's videos) is tolerable, relying more
often on the sweet sounds of internal combustion to set the
mood. With awesome scenery, good camerawork, and of
course, great off-roading, This video is a must for the serious
enthusiast. even the "casual" 4 wheeler' will find much to enjoy.
If you are looking to add to your video
collection, this is money well spent.
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Road
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