The Tokyo Auto Salon is one of the premier vehicle customizations shows in the world. It also has a reputation for featuring some wild custom builds, many of which with a distinctly Japanese flair. The event happens every year, and damn it, someday I’ll get there. I’ve followed TAS for as long as I can remember. I mean, this event is right up Crankshaft Culture’s alley: Crazy-customized JDM 4WDs and vans? My heart be still.
Continue reading →Winter Road Trip Road Test: Toyo Celsius All-Weather Tires
As you know, we recently got a 1998 Honda CR-V. In fact, we drove it from Oregon to Wisconsin and back and only broke down once. (That’s a story for another time.) Before leaving for the frozen midwestern tundra, we put some all-weather Toyo Celsius tires on. No, not all-season, all-weather. If you’re not familiar,…
Continue reading →We Bought a 1998 Honda CR-V.
Most people know us as Mitsubishi people. And yes, we’ve owned our fair share. However, between Mercedes and me, we’ve owned 9 Hondas, ranging from a 1979 Honda Civic 1200, to a 2000 Civic DX hatchback. We recently returned to our roots, and purchased another Honda, this time a 1998 Honda CR-V.
Continue reading →Old-School Adventuring: Using a Suunto Global MC-2 G Compass
The advent of modern technology has brought about smartphones, tablets, and other gizmos outfitted with navigational programs. These include Gaia GPS or OnX Offroad for off-pavement usage or even Waze for on-road travels. However, carrying a compass with you, like the Suunto Global MC-2 G Compass can help you find your way when technology fails….
Continue reading →Crankshaft Culture Gear Garage: His-and-Hers Big Agnes Torchlite Camp 20° Expandable Mummy Bags
Andy and I spend as much time outdoors as possible. It’s our respite from the digital world we’re so attached to. Our latest build, the Travel Tractor Mitsubishi Delica van has allowed us to camp in comfort, no matter if we’re headed to overland shows via our makeshift sleeping platform or by moving the mid-row…
Continue reading →Volkswagen Entering the All-Electric ID.4 AWD Into the Rebelle Rally. Our Own Mercedes Lilienthal is the Driver.
It’s official: Our own Mercedes Lilienthal will be the driver for the AWD Volkswagen ID.4 in the 2021 Rebelle Rally! She, along with her navigator, Emily Winslow, will be representing the German automaker in the all-electric SUV during the event, which runs from October 7–16. Volkswagen officially dropped their press release today. Here it is:
Continue reading →My Latest Project: A Saab Story
Saabs have always caught my attention, from the movie and TV appearances of the iconic ’80s 900s, the 96’s rally pedigree, to the gorgeous and weird Sonett with its V4 engine, the brand has made some beautiful and interesting cars with a very distinctive look and feel. However, despite spending countless hours scouring the Internet…
Continue reading →Crankshaft Culture Gear Garage: Sea to Summit’s Aeros Ultralight Deluxe and Aeros Down Inflatable Pillows
We reviewed the Aeros Ultralight Deluxe and Aeros Down Sea to Summit inflatable pillows. Are they all they’re cracked up to be or are they filled with hot air? We take a deep dive into both pillow types and share our impressions of each model.
Continue reading →Crankshaft Culture Gear Garage: Nextbase 622GW Dash Cam
The Nextbase 622GW Dash Cam provides high-quality, crisp recordings and can give you added security when on the road. We recently received a Nextbase 622GW dash cam for review. At a tune of $399.99, it certainly isn’t the cheapest one on the market but it offers several bells and whistles in exchange for its hefty…
Continue reading →Crankshaft Culture Gear Garage: ARB Touring Awning Kit with Light
Australian-based ARB knows a thing or two about living in the Outback. From heavy-duty bumpers and off-road fridges to high-powered auxiliary lights and even awnings, the company has a long-standing reputation for quality, design, and longevity. We review the ARB Touring Awning Kit with Light to see if it stands up to its other products.
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