Georgia Trail Riders Forum
MEMBERS DISCUSSION AREA => General Discussion => Topic started by: wideload on February 25, 2011, 07:13:45 AM
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I see we have set some minimums on this matter but my question is this.
I have 35s
Locked f/r
pull points f/r
winch
But axles such as 35 and 30.
I know these are NOT by far the most suited for hard core #3 but are you placing restrictions on the axle due to lower ability vs. max performance?
Use our own judgement?
How do you guys see this?
I've been wheeling since...Hmmm...1964 so have some experience to know what I can and can't and what I should or should NOT do.
Just wanted clarity plz.
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not to rain on parades--- but i would say for people to ride with teir 3 and not go home with snaped axle tubes, or holding others up on trails due to snaped safts-they should have at least D44 and up-
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Certainly not raining on my parade...! {toast}
Those are the same points I was hoping to bring to light.
In my humble opinion the statements you espoused are a point of conversation the decision makers may wish to address as part of the parameters just as important as all other aspects.
I would NOT do all the things that Mark or Ryan would attempt for obvious reasons.
I would not enjoy the weakest link status to tie up those who came to hammer down so to speak!
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Why 44s have the same axle ujoint as a 30? They said you must be able to keep up and have the experience. {toast}
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well , buy CTM's - the rear is def. better than a C-clipped D35
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I hear you guys, and this is a tough one. it's all about driver capability, and style. We like to call it finesse.
We have all seen the stock Jeep with Mud Terrains open-open trying to get up a a small rock laden hill with rpms up about 5000, and a tire lands and snap.
We all know Ben, and are sick of hearing about him :D, but he takes on some of the hardest obstacles on 33's locked front and rear Dana 30 and 35 with a super 35 kit. He has serious clutch driving krawling skills, and I've done some hard trails with him, and seen him take his time and work an obstacle, even slippery nipple last weekend, until he gets up it without a winch, and never bounces or revs it high. I've met others like him as well.
THIS IS WHAT WE WILL BE TEACHING.
So I think we could go to a 44 minimum, and exceptions can be made by the Staff, or ride leader, as he wishes, based on our knowledge of driver skills. We could all approve Ben today, and a few more of you, but if you are running 37's on a Dana 30 and are known for breaking joints, maybe you're not ready to be in tier 3.
Sound reasonable?
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Does to me...!
I just think that the validity of not holding a whole group attempting to do what their set up is designed for is NOT bogged down by someone who wishes or just thinks they can be a big toy follower.
Being hospitable to fellow off roaders is one thing but knowingly placing a possible hardship case on the backs of others to bolster your ego or wanna be staus is wrong.
I for one would just suggest that certain trails and their rates of difficulty be limited for less capable units using reasonable consideration for others and the safety of those in question.
This just makes sense to me in knowing what is at stake!
Just my $00.02..... {boohoo}
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iws {salute}
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I think driver skill is more than the rig! I use to follow a lot of people in a 2dr JK on 35's, 2.5" of lift open/open. I also went plenty of places in a 4dr rubicon with only 2.5" of lift. Lockers, 37's, low gears, suspension travel doesn't do you much good if you cant pick a line.
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I say minimun 2 lockers & 33s. Axles muddy the water a bit. I think this is where experience comes in. When I had the D35, I did not leave the house with out spare shafts, RTV, & lube. I also knew how to do the repair myself. So I could lay on my back for a couple hours while everyone else still could go ride. If you dont know how to do your own repairs and dont come prepared, then you might not be quite ready for Tier 3. Experience is a big part of those rides. I would say ride Tier 2, gain some more experience, techniques, stay behind & help some people get fixed on the trail, before you decide to step up.
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These are all good points and good questions. I have ridin with alot of people and have seen it all. We used to have a guy on here named Travis who made slickrock open open in an xj on 33's! He was a great driver. Now, to me, it should be based alot on driver skill and their accomplishments. I have also wheeled with guys who say they are locked f/r and know how to wheel make completed fools out of themselves! I am a firm beliver, no matter how well your rig is built, you need to learn how to drive 1st! Now, I am not saying I can do anything as I am limited by my set up. I can't get up rattlerock or get thru the lions den at Harlan! Would I try them, no! I know my rigs capabilities and each one of us here needs to find that out on there own. This group we are forming will help you to do just that. Learn how to wheel properly without killing someone, yourself and your rig and learn your breaking points. For some, a 20% side slope may be poop in the pants time, while others a 45% is a walk in the park! We will not classify anyone here but you had better know your rig, the capabilities of it and your limits before you get into to something over your head. {toast}
Doug {nln}
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...putting aside your ego as well. I have video of Ben spotting me back on a Tellico trip. Listen to your spotter, they see more than what you do from the outside looking in. Funny thing, I drive all the time here in bad situations. I know by personal experience, I don't get enough stick and seat time off road. Rig is one thing, experience will win in the end...
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Its been said in one way or another a couple times here, but I think the biggest concern with this debate is seat time. Having a caged out XJ on full widths and 36s doesn't make me a better wheeler than having my old XJ on 32s and a locked front. It does open doors as to larger and more dangerous obstacles, but without experience it is just that. What has made me a better wheeler is that seat time, listening to your spotters and those that have been there before, and putting those things into practice.
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I agree with most everything said already about it being more about your driving experience and not your rig setup. Though that goes into play with common sense too meaning hopefully nobody would plan on going on a tier 3 ride in a straight of the lot none equiped jeep. I think a good way to look at if your ready for a tier 3 ride is to ask yourselve would you feel comfortable enough to lead your family and friends on a more extreme ride and beable to guide,spot,fix,and treat them to an exciting time. If your not sure just leave the rig at home on the first one and hop in the seat with someone else and get a feel for it. {toast}
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I need a seat so I can figure out how to wheel. {toast}
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I need a seat so I can figure out how to wheel. {toast}
Me too. The jeep is currently seatless...
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you really do, its been like 3 years since you've driven that danger-ranger {hihi}
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I'm pretty sure I ride level 3 95% of the time . Guess what with .....a xj with a d30 up front and a 8.8 in the back with 36's . I feel it's at least 75% driver and 25% rig .
before anyone starts running me down the road ...i ride with (lt99ls1 , zukbilly , etc ) ok ..thats tons , 40's and a buggy on 42's .
YOU HAVE TO KNOW WHAT YOUR RIG WILL DO AND HOW TO FIX IT ON THE TRAIL ! WITH PARTS TOOLS ON HAND !
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and how to roll it {hihi}
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I have a Tacoma on 31's but i don't have those locker things but i have a winch.....can i ride teir 3?
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I have a Tacoma on 31's but i don't have those locker things but i have a winch.....can i ride teir 3?
:o , ok , this is getting silly, -- common sense guys, teir 3- would you go through Rathole? , and i dont mean, "ill try to pull in" , and get stuff on the first rock --- come on, im going to be rolling teir2 alot, jsut because its more people and more fun with friends, teir 3 will be with the big boys, and im sorry to say probly will be mainly 1 ton guys- ones who want to go out and hammer hard - slamming into sthit--- trails like 1410, ........... im on tons/40's/doubled/full hydro/and mosty hung over=---- and IMO- i still cant hang with what i would concider and real teir 3 - i dont care if you been crawling 40 years like Mark has, if your not built your not going to make it!
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{agree}
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I think Alex was just kidding....
I have no discussed this with mods but it is pretty easy to figure out:
Tier 1 is forest road type stuff where 4x4 is probably needed but air down / disco isnt. Slow pace, learning, getting to put your vehicle in 4x4, lots of stops.
Tier 2 is like most off road parks EXCEPT the crazy trails as mentioned by drich like Rathole. This is where the big guys and beginners can mix, ride seperate trails but be at the same park (or ride the same trails depending on group size). 4x4 LOW, air down, disconnecting the sway bar all would be a great idea, lockers, off road tires, lift, armor, ect all would be better.
Tier 3: You should have a trailer, a rig you don't mind taking body damage on, armor, lockers, driver skill, parts, skills to fix those broken parts the list goes on but the normal DD / weekend warrior rig isnt going to make this ride without a lot of work.
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^^^I somewhat understood Ryan's post!! Good summary Jeremy... {toast}
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{agree}
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I have a Tacoma on 31's but i don't have those locker things but i have a winch.....can i ride teir 3?
:o , ok , this is getting silly, -- common sense guys, teir 3- would you go through Rathole? , and i dont mean, "ill try to pull in" , and get stuff on the first rock --- come on, im going to be rolling teir2 alot, jsut because its more people and more fun with friends, teir 3 will be with the big boys, and im sorry to say probly will be mainly 1 ton guys- ones who want to go out and hammer hard - slamming into sthit--- trails like 1410, ........... im on tons/40's/doubled/full hydro/and mosty hung over=---- and IMO- i still cant hang with what i would concider and real teir 3 - i dont care if you been crawling 40 years like Mark has, if your not built your not going to make it!
I have been though rathole many of times just not with the yota. Again it was obviously a joke but i think that driving experience/ability is the biggest thing. Sure, tons and 40+ tires are great but if the driver doesn't know what he is doing then it is pointless. Anyone can though tons under there junk but learning how to drive is a whole different ballgame. A well built jeep with dana 44's and a good driver can hang with just about anyone. Just cant be afraid of body damage {nln}.
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understood - not to be pointing the fingre @ you alex, i was just summing up the whole thread- and yes a rig with 44's could follow - but i generally think of tier 3 as being associated with atnea style buggies- IMO- i know , i joked around at the start of this thread would what tier i would fall in, but some are really questioning where they should be, and want to attend tier 3 rides and i dont blame them, those type of rigs are fun as hell to watch, but some should not even try to follow on those events, cause you and i and everyone else wuld agree, if i were to show up just to watch even with buggies rolling around, my Balls grow and i'd try somthing that i would otherwise question- "but man, that mildly-looking rig just crawled right up it, man my welded c-clipped D35 should have no problem!!" ..... {hihi} im just saying... Im not trying hurt anyones feelings or shun them away from going to a tier 3 ride to even watch- just dont do anything stupid/questionable that would cause everyone else riding to stop and help your(not implying anyone-God knows people will get their panties all in a wad if you think im personally attacking them) dumb a$$. my $.45
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..I'll drop my own name...I need all the seat time I can get. Driving here is dangerous but not nearly as technical as crawling...Good point though...
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IMO, trying to offend anyone though- i still need seat time myself, its been like 4 months since my last ride.
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..I'll drop my own name...I need all the seat time I can get. Driving here is dangerous but not nearly as technical as crawling...Good point though...
yeah Glen, but the last time i saw you crawling behide jimmy ( {hihi} ) , you did damn well, nice, easy, slow and listined to your spotter- to be honest- i didn't thing your rig was going to make it up that near tiger trap- but the line was good, and you hardly slipped a tire..... {toast}
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..yeah, I remember that one. My locker(rear) was not working...I would really like to see River Rock one more time before a final call on that place...you could use RR to demonstrate "Tiers" 1-3....That park would be perfect!! Wishful thinking I guess...
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I have said it before.... its the driver not the rig... u could have the badest buggie in the world but if u dont know how to driver/listen then ur a fool that doesnt need to be on the trail,,,, i am open open. And have made it up some trails others havent... i listen to my spotter and gave it hell when i needed to right jimmy,, lol, ,, so my penny thought here is this,,, it would have to based on the driver more then his rig... but at the same time common sense would have to play a part too...
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Mountainside is a great 1-3 tier park. At some places the differance may be 50 feet apart on the same rock wall. Make it up one slide over till the next one.
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Designating a park with different "tiers" would probably help dispel all the wonder. Sounds like a GATR learning seminar!!
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I'm pretty sure I ride level 3 95% of the time . Guess what with .....a xj with a d30 up front and a 8.8 in the back with 36's . I feel it's at least 75% driver and 25% rig .
before anyone starts running me down the road ...i ride with (lt99ls1 , zukbilly , etc ) ok ..thats tons , 40's and a buggy on 42's .
YOU HAVE TO KNOW WHAT YOUR RIG WILL DO AND HOW TO FIX IT ON THE TRAIL ! WITH PARTS TOOLS ON HAND !
{letseat} I just have a quick 2cents. I would say more by what you can fix on ur rig not sure about what tier I would be but I would look into the mechanical side. I dont care how good u can drive or how well your rig is built they all break and if you cant fix it yourself you will hold people up {btt}
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A lot of good comments. It's really not that complicated.
Most parks have all tiers. It's not a park that is tier 1, 2 or 3. It's a ride that is tier 1, 2 or 3.
We will have rides for everyone, just not always at the same time at the same park. A Tier 3 ride will be for more capable rigs and drivers to enjoy a day or weekend of like sized rigs. A good example might be a Tier 1 ride on Forest Service roads on the same weekend as a Tier 3 at Golden Mountain in TN.
The CORE members comments are taken with high regard. We are very serious about listening to the members and having rides that provide the biggest enjoyment, time on the trail, seat time, etc.
We want to have CORE members on all levels, stock Jeeps open/open, small builds with open/lockers, and highly modified rigs. There will be rides for everyone, and if you just have to watch the Tier 3 guys and you rig is not ready, grab a seat, and HOLD ON!
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..I'll drop my own name...I need all the seat time I can get. Driving here is dangerous but not nearly as technical as crawling...Good point though...
yeah Glen, but the last time i saw you crawling behide jimmy ( {hihi} ) , you did damn well, nice, easy, slow and listined to your spotter- to be honest- i didn't thing your rig was going to make it up that near tiger trap- but the line was good, and you hardly slipped a tire..... {toast}
Now that is what we are talking about! Taking a well built rig like Glenn's and making it do things you otherwise think are impossible. That is the entire point of this group. Tier 3 is not just buggy stuff man. I would say tier 3 would be for the guys who have good seat time and expierience and a well built rig. Now my little jeep is not hardcore by any means but you can do amazing things with some serious seat time and listening. Heck, Glenn has come along way since this...
/> :D
I have been to quite a few parks and have done some crazy crap in my little jeep and have come out almost unscathed each time. It is more driver expierience than the rig. Tier 3 is not something to be afraid of. And as far as listening to your spotter goes, it is your rig, your $ and if you think there is a better line, go for it (within reason). This was Doug and I at Moab 2 years ago (newbs ;D) Doug chose the spotters line, I chose my own. Nothing against doug in anyway. Just trying to prove my point of seat time and being able to choose your own way! Doug, he did put you in a BAD line! ;)
/>
I will be on tier 3 rides with my 30, 35 on 33's. Don't be skeered! ;D
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awe man!! throw me under the bus!!! I can hear the wife trash talking in the background!!!LOL!!
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:D no, not throwing you under man. Showing the progression. You were a greenie on that trip! That was a tier 3 ride for sure. Now look were you're at. {toast}
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:D no, not throwing you under man. Showing the progression. You were a greenie on that trip! That was a tier 3 ride for sure. Now look were you're at. {toast}
Back to Tier 1 because he's not strong enough to turn his steering. Man up "G" {hihi}
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man!! this is a tough crowd!!! {btt} Experience, vehicle ability to make repairs and get off the trail...is this what we are talking about? Just seems to deviate off topic...
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man!! this is a tough crowd!!! {btt} Experience, vehicle ability to make repairs and get off the trail...is this what we are talking about? Just seems to deviate off topic...
{toast} Couldn't resist.
Experience
Driver ability
Vehicle ability
Being able to get you're broken rig off the trail
Would all play a part.
Right now I'm struggling between Tier 2 and 3 myself, even with the upgraded front, I still have axle wrap that kills the rear pinion yoke, yes I know how to fix it, just been putting it off thinking that I'm almost done with ole red.
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Tier 1 right here {toast}
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Tier 1 right here {toast}
and 2.
;)
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choice C... all of the above ;D
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A lot of good comments. It's really not that complicated.
Most parks have all tiers. It's not a park that is tier 1, 2 or 3. It's a ride that is tier 1, 2 or 3.
We will have rides for everyone, just not always at the same time at the same park. A Tier 3 ride will be for more capable rigs and drivers to enjoy a day or weekend of like sized rigs. A good example might be a Tier 1 ride on Forest Service roads on the same weekend as a Tier 3 at Golden Mountain in TN.
The CORE members comments are taken with high regard. We are very serious about listening to the members and having rides that provide the biggest enjoyment, time on the trail, seat time, etc.
We want to have CORE members on all levels, stock Jeeps open/open, small builds with open/lockers, and highly modified rigs. There will be rides for everyone, and if you just have to watch the Tier 3 guys and you rig is not ready, grab a seat, and HOLD ON!
I really like this, this alone could really help change this club! {salute}
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It was in small text except Ryan.
A lot of good comments. It's really not that complicated.
Most parks have all tiers. It's not a park that is tier 1, 2 or 3. It's a ride that is tier 1, 2 or 3.
We will have rides for everyone, just not always at the same time at the same park. A Tier 3 ride will be for more capable rigs and drivers to enjoy a day or weekend of like sized rigs. A good example might be a Tier 1 ride on Forest Service roads on the same weekend as a Tier 3 at Golden Mountain in TN.
The CORE members comments are taken with high regard EXCEPT RYAN. We are very serious about listening to the members and having rides that provide the biggest enjoyment, time on the trail, seat time, etc.
We want to have CORE members on all levels, stock Jeeps open/open, small builds with open/lockers, and highly modified rigs. There will be rides for everyone, and if you just have to watch the Tier 3 guys and you rig is not ready, grab a seat, and HOLD ON!
I really like this, this alone could really help change this club! {salute}
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{ehm}
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quote it you will see it. ;D
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wow...who started this thread anyway?....what a can of worms! ::) ;D {boohoo}...
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{ehm}
EXCEPT RYAN.
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{nln}
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wow...who started this thread anyway?....what a can of worms! ::) ;D {boohoo}...
Someone with oldtimers disease? ;D
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Off with his head! :hlp
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wow...who started this thread anyway?....what a can of worms! ::) ;D {boohoo}...
Someone with oldtimers disease? ;D
Or would that be sometimers disease? ::)
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wow...who started this thread anyway?....what a can of worms! ::) ;D {boohoo}...
Someone with oldtimers disease? ;D
lol. I had to look and see who did start it.
I hope you wheel with us soon. {letseat}
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and how to roll it {hihi}
Ouch! Stop reminding me. ;D
I have stayed out of most of these talks becasue I know that most of how the club operates is not really going to change at heart. How the club rides operate is the only real thing will change. Everybody is still going to be helping everybody out on the forum, on the trail and in real life.
I don't do FS rides with the Tj. My rig is too modded and towing sucks for a fs ride.I did do a couple of FS rides when I had my DD XJ. Most of the parks have 1-3 tier stuff. So not a big deal to have mixed ride. Mayhem comes to mind for a tier 3 only ride and forget going when it is wet.
My Tj is built like it is because I have to try and keep up with Eric, Zukbilly and I break shit.Lock me in a padded room with an Anvil and it will be broken in two pieces when you come back. I learn something new about myself, my rig and the people I ride with every trip.
Sorry for the rambling.
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Larry, you speak from experience... and alot of broken stuff! :D
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If'n some of you fellas would show up on one our rides, you would see how silly this teir stuff CAN be.
Ask Zukbilly. We went to Hale Mtn last weekend. Plenty of carnage. A really broad range of rigs including axle and tire and engine sizes. Go ahead ask Billy who broke what? (I'll tell you, a little bit of everyone! But be sure there were 60s AND Rockwells on the list. And you know what, a sharp rock don't care if that tire is a 31 OR a 44.)
When we ride we sometimes get a literal mob of people, but generally break up into smaller groups. IMO anything more than 5 or 6 in a group, and this turns into a spectator sport. Not saying that is bad, but it is the truth and I am going to ride, not watch.
I wheel almost 100% of the time with rigs on tons or bigger and 42" and up tires.
My rig is on D44s (alloys, detroits, 4.88s) and 39.5" Pitbulls. Yes I have to drive with some sense, no I can't take the same lines, yes my winch gets a bit more use, and occassionally things break. But almost without fail it is usually the BUILT rigs that suffer the most carnage. Makes sense since that is generally why it was built, so it could get hammered on.
Point of this rambling is as stated earlier.................respect for the abilities of your equipment is #1, going hand in hand with driver skill/exp.
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If'n some of you fellas would show up on one our rides, you would see how silly this teir stuff CAN be.
All due respect, we have been doing this for years. We have large turnouts, from stock to buggy, we dont need to go on anyones' rides to see what is best for our club or how things work on the trail. This is the direction we want the club to go. Its not about exclusion, its about giving our members the proper time and experience they deserve, at the same time introducing the sport, in a safe, responsible, non pressure manner for new comers.
Point of this rambling is as stated earlier.................respect for the abilities of your equipment is #1, going hand in hand with driver skill/exp.
I agree 100% with that statement.
Someone with 31" tires and never been offroad before does not need to try and follow someone on tons and 40s on a difficult trail, not knowing what to expect. Alot of times these new guys feel like they were led into a bad situation and might break something.
Someone that spends several hundred dollars to trailer their rig to a ride, is not going to have much fun sitting behind someone winching up something they probably shouldnt be on. This is a complaint from both sides and now its being fixed.
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I actually agree with the effort. I just wonder about the "criteria". Seems to be more of a communication issue if folks are getting over their heads. Heck, how many of the places we have to wheel would be considered a certain level? More likely to just have a couple of obstacles that make the difference.
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I actually agree with the effort. I just wonder about the "criteria". Seems to be more of a communication issue if folks are getting over their heads. Heck, how many of the places we have to wheel would be considered a certain level? More likely to just have a couple of obstacles that make the difference.
Are you gonna join up and be a CORE member?
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I actually agree with the effort. I just wonder about the "criteria". Seems to be more of a communication issue if folks are getting over their heads. Heck, how many of the places we have to wheel would be considered a certain level? More likely to just have a couple of obstacles that make the difference.
The area doesnt make the Tier level. Many areas will support all three types of rides, most rides will be Tier 2. The label is to help the driver understand what he is going to experience when he comes out to ride.
You should join one of our rides to see how we do things, since you seem to be concerned with the changes. {toast}
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Sorry guys (hangs head in shame), I've tried to hook up with more than one group, and my insane work schedule doesn't allow for the commitment I think a somewhat organized club deserves.
Really just trying to contribute. :(
But this is definately important stuff to settle before someone joins and becomes a CORE member...........isn't it?
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Sorry guys (hangs head in shame), I've tried to hook up with more than one group, and my insane work schedule doesn't allow for the commitment I think a somewhat organized club deserves.
Really just trying to contribute. :(
But this is definately important stuff to settle before someone joins and becomes a CORE member...........isn't it?
I am pretty sure its settled. What each tier is, is posted in a couple areas.
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Funny how we seem to have the same questions coming out from the ones who never or very rarely ride with us. hhhhmmmmm {ehm}
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Where do these silly posts keep coming from. Its pretty simple. If you want to be a part of GATR then this is the way ITS GONNA BE. No exceptions, not debateable. I think Matt covered pretty much everything you need know in the new members area. Please take a minute to read it.
http://www.gatrailriders.com/GTRForums/index.php?topic=7319.msg122842#msg122842
ANNOUNCING GATR C.O.R.E. MEMBERSHIP
GA Trail Riders was started 4 years ago this month as a way to bring folks together that shared the interest in off-roading and trail riding. We never dreamed it would grow to over 1500 registered members, more than 110,000 posts, and almost 5.5 million views.
As Owners and Co-founders of GATR, we have been listening to the most active members, and are creating a CORE group. It could be said to stand for “Crawling Over Rocks Everywhere” or "Crawling Obstacles for Recreational Enjoyment", but it is designed for our most active and dedicated members, although anyone can join.
Charter membership is only $40 and with initial registration, you will receive all of the following:
- GATR CORE Status
- Access to the GATR Exclusive C.O.R.E Section on the GATR Forum & Unlimited PMs
- Access to GATR ride and event threads
- GATR Shirt
- GATR State Sticker
- GATR Windshield Banner
- Cookout at GATRFEST
- @gatrailriders.com Email Address
CORE Renewals are only $30 per year. Our calendar year will be from March 31, 2011 to March 31, 2012. We will be accepting new members year round. For members joining later in the season (After October 31st) the initial membership rate will be reduced to $25. Renewal dues will still be due the following calendar year by March 31st. If you do not renew by March 31st, you will have to rejoin at the new membership rate of $40.00. Our March ride at Gulches Off Road Park with be the last ride for non-members.
Monthly CORE rides will fall into 1 of 3 categories. Expedition, Intermediate, and Hardcore. Each level is based on driver and rig capability. The 3 tiers will allow you to attend rides that are best for your rig and personal driving skills, and encourage development of your skills at your own pace. Each GATR ride will be designated as one of these tiers:
TIER 1 – Expedition: Rides that are based on a stock 4x4 chassis. Fun for the whole family. These rides will be a good way to introduce you and your vehicle to the sport. Get your feet wet and gain some experience behind the wheel off-roading. These rides will not be challenging in anyway. Minimal/No damage expected.
TIER 2 – Intermediate: Rides that are open to all 4x4 vehicles. There will be challenges for stock to fully built rigs. Plenty of bypasses for lesser built vehicles. Some damage/Broken parts can be expected, depending on how far you want to push your vehicle. You will have a chance to gain a lot of off-road experience on these rides.
TIER 3 – Hardcore: Rides for fully built rigs. These rides will not be for the faint of heart. You must meet the vehicle requirement set by GATR STAFF to join these rides. These rides are for the most experienced drivers. Most trails on these rides will be hard.
Join up, and we look forward to seeing you on the next ride!
Lots more changes are on the way, more rides & more events for the members. We are also officially now a non-profit organization.
Click this link to start your CORE Membership.
http://www.gatrailriders.com/GTRForums/index.php?action=paypal
Ok. I cleaned this up. Tried to take all legitimate questions we have had so far about C.O.R.E. and add them in this list below. If I missed something, ask, we will get it added to this list with an answer.
1. What will the dues go to?
-Site Maintenance & Improvement
-Materials for events/shows such as trophies, raffle tickets, GATR banners, etc.
-After ride meals when possible
-Park rentals when possible
2. How will being a part of C.O.R.E. change my offroading experience?
We are offering you the ability to gain experience from the ground level and work you up to what ever level you want to be at. These rides are designed to give each level of driver a unique and fun experience. You will find the best wheeling group, trips, and experience anywhere in the South. Memories, Experiences, and Bonds will be made on every ride. Our staff & members will take the time to give you advice and help you with any offroad situation. We practice tread lightly.
3. Can I still join C.O.R.E. if I have a stock vehicle or little to no offroading experience?
Yes, we are focusing on making your experience here less intimidating and more enjoyable. Our staff will introduce you to the sport, and help get you started learning safe & responsible wheeling right away. We have plenty of Tier 1/Tier 2 rides to get you on the trails.
4. Will the Tier system keep me from riding with my friends?
No, there will still be plenty of Tier 2 rides that will have all vehicle types. If a Tier 1 ride is posted a Tier 3 ride will be posted the same month, maybe the same weekend. You can always grab a seat with a buddy on a Tier 3 ride if you are not up for the challenge. Tier 3 can always take an easy weekend and enjoy a Tier 1 ride.
5. What happens if I do something horrible and have to leave the club?
That is completely your choice, no one will stop you. However if you are caught in violation of rules like drinking & driving, riding on illegal land or representing this club in a dishonorable way, you will be removed from the club and forfeit any dues paid.
6. How do I know what Tier I should be in?
This all depends on what your looking to get out of this club. You can start on a Tier 1 ride (slow paced, easy trails, little damage, no experience required-but it will be gained) and work your way up to Tier 3 (fast paced, difficult trails, body damage possible, experience required).
7. Can I still post ad-hoc rides on this website? Is there still going to be a Trail Rides & Events section for the open rides?If you are a C.O.R.E. member you can still post open ad hoc rides on the non-member forum, on non GATR ride weekends. We will also post invitational information here and other open events. Non-member ride threads will be deleted.
8. Will this cover any park entry fees or offer a reduced price to enter?
We are going to be working closer with the local parks as well, to see about getting better rates for the CORE, when we book our rides. If possible we will try and rent a park out to give C.O.R.E members a free ride weekend.
9. Are there any vehicle restrictions for Tier 3? REVISED
This is really dependent upon the driver's experience. There are restrictions on vehicles, your vehicle must have 2 lockers and 33" tires. We all know things happen like breakage and getting stuck. Just be aware that these rides will be at difficult trails and you will need a heavily equipped vehicle. If you are unsure, grab a seat with another member and check a ride out from the passenger seat first.
10. How long do I have to join C.O.R.E?
There is no time limit, we accept members year round. Dues are due each March. Membership is offered at a reduced rate of $25.00 after October 31st. If your not sure about joining, watch on the forum for post ride photos & discussion, and attend a GATR invitational event (1 to 2 per year), then make your decision. There is no rush.
11. Will I still have access to the forum if I do not join C.O.R.E?
Yes, the majority of the forum will still be non-exclusive, including the classifieds and shop talk sections. You will not have access to the rides information, trail information and some other threads. You do not have to pay the C.O.R.E membership, to have access to the shared knowledge on this forum.
12. I am new why should I spend $40.00 to join C.O.R.E
When you are new to a hobby like this you want to learn the correct and legal way to enjoy this sport. C.O.R.E is dedicated to showing you the correct techniques of picking lines, spotting, winching, trail repairs, tread lightly etc. We have all started where you are at and thanks to this awesome group we have all grown tremendously. You will never be led astray, left behind on the trails, or put in a dangerous situation. If you attend your very first ride with C.O.R.E and decide this sport is not for you, we will refund the dues you paid. You will not receive your new membership package until after you have made your decision. We know that you will be hooked the very first time with C.O.R.E.
13. Is C.O.R.E. an elite group that promotes exclusion.
No, we are not an elite group, we all were new once. We believe that a stock jeep can be just as fun as buggy. By being a member you are treated to some exclusive rides tailored to your riding style.
14. When do I get my swag?
This can be picked up at your first ride with C.O.R.E.