Some thoughts/suggestions regarding the Moab VX ONLY run....

[pbkid]

Well, I can see both sides of the coin here. It is nice to have a 'spur of the moment' so that we can spend stoop time conversing....but to be honest, thats not what the lack of organization is about. I hope you dont take my honesty here as egotism or elitism.
For guys that want to do more 'gnarly' or aggressive trails, it can commonly be difficult to explain to others that their vehicle, or driving skills are not yet experienced enough to complete these trails. Yes, the VX will get through just about every trail there, but sometimes if the VX isnt equiped enough, it can be difficult and damaging.
I'm not saying you were in this group, because I, unfortunately, did not get to catch a trail with you. But, historically, there has been new guys that dont understand the scope of difficulty and damage these trails can do.

Obviously, it just needs to be explained, but you dont want to offend a first timer, ya know?

Clearly, I lean more towards the same side as you, ashley. It would be great to have some form of organization, because it really sucks to not be able to get moving towards the trail until 10 or 11 am, that really doesnt work well if you want to do any kind of serious trail, or know whats going on.

I can tell you that it was extremely frustrating for me this year and I was only there for 3 days.
Ash, generally, there are 4 or 5 guys who are just kinda the experienced guys of the group and they just say, im headed to mcdonalds at 8 am, whoever wants to run gold bar rim, meet there, we leave at 8:15.

This next year, I'm going back to that approach again. I dont really consider myself an experienced wheeler. Especially when you look at guys that have been there for 10+ years. But apparently the majority of the guys who lead these trails weren't there, or not wanting to lead them. So I will try my best to take a lead spot, but dont be angry if I take us down a few wrong turns.

Again, i hope it doesnt seem elitist, but.... you asked

[pbkid]

Now, also understand that there are MANY guys in moab who know and understand that they dont want to beat up their vehicle, and they understand as well which trail leaders do easier stuff, and which ones challenge themselves.

But, thats a hard thing to explain to a first timer, I think because when they do the first day and they see the capabilities of their little VX, they want to see it do more and more.... until something breaks, then its really a bummer. So, I dont want to lead someone into something where they are going to break their vehicle, and not be able to get home without spending $$$$$$$$$$.

I think mark hit the nail on the head. I think the best advise for a first timer might be to ask around and see which trail leader they should be following that does a trail at their skill level. Good advise for the upcoming years (thanks ash)

[Dumke]

... or driving skills are not yet experienced enough to complete these trails. Yes, the VX will get through just about every trail there, but sometimes if the VX isnt equiped enough, it can be difficult and damaging.
.... But, historically, there has been new guys that dont understand the scope of difficulty and damage these trails can do.

Um note to self its really hard doing Cliffhanger in 2wd

Again, i hope it doesnt seem elitist, but.... you asked

You are forgiven

Now, also understand that there are MANY guys in moab who know and understand that they dont want to beat up their vehicle....

.... until something breaks, then its really a bummer. So, I dont want to lead someone into something where they are going to break their vehicle, and not be able to get home without spending $$$$$$$$$$.

Hmmm I knew I shouldnt have had Kenny behind me... Twice now

Or the wrong trail all together!

HAHA x 2

[Dumke]

I do agree that the VX only run should be retired. I would also like to suggest that next year we label it "Beginners run"... If you haven't done a trail or want a easy trail to freshen up on your wheeling then by all means. I still think it should be voted on with whatever trail, leader and caboose that wants to volunteer. I agree with Giz on leaving on time. Whoever is going on a trail if you cant make a effort to show up then you may/will get left behind. Some trails take "longer than expected" and no one wants to get back at to the Stoop too late . This was the first year I filled up with gas the night before and what a difference it made because I wasn't as rushed in the morning. Another reason I like the idea of retiring it, because too many vehicles on one trail makes for a "even longer" day.

Ashley having kids myself I understand how organization is needed. Also not staying at the Stoop can make it some what difficult figuring out what tomorrows plans are. Hey boss man is there any way to make a "Sticky thread" for that week on the boards? That way it can be posted what run is being done that day and who is leading it.