I bought my Rubi because it came from the factory with all the off road capability I needed and then some. I don't plan on lifting it ever... i may, once I wear out the stock tires, buy 33s but I will never lift it for 35s.

I will use mine behind my Motorhome, take on colorado trail rides for the scenery and fun of climbing hills and muddy trails. I am not a rock crawler type person, just a get out side and see the world kind of person. I love the stance of my jeep and the ride is fantastic compared to friends jeeps. The Rubi feels like it came from the factory with a lift and tire upgrade compared to older jeeps so I feel like Mopar did everything for me.

To each their own and lifted jeeps look great but I bought what I wan't already.

If you get your jeep and you find that you just can't do what you want and are limeted by your jeep then its time to upgrade. If you are just looking for looks then just do it and don't worry about its capability.

Good luck and happyy Jeeping...

 

If you plan on trails with a lot of rocks, like the Rubicon, then you can't go around them. You have to go over them. Bigger tires definately makes it easier, and when it is easier, you tend to break less equipment.

 

Thanks for all the input! Yes, there are times on the trail I wish I had lift and/or bigger tires... but so far I was able to manage it without... get some dents, scratches etc. though...that's part of Jeep thing!

I researched more about Canada - Mexico off-road route, it doesn't look like it requires lift. Nothing seems worse than I've done already. It just a long trip (20 days and more if I decided to go some hike/climb along the way) and needs a lot of essentials... good thing I got Unlimited! It got a lot of space! I've done 16 day trekking in Patagonia (Argentina - Chile), 12 day trekking in Denali, Alaska and compare to that, it's like luxury trip!? At least easier on my back and legs! Well, it's definitely different adventure than I normally do. I'm very excited!

Rubicon trail looks fun but it seems a bit too crowded for me... How is it like in off season (in winter)? Too much snow? I like the solitude...especially if you are going to wilderness.

 

sounds like a great trip. you should be fine with the stock rubi. choosing a good line, decent tires, and driving experience make most of the difference off-road.

i strongly caution against doing it alone though. if i was there, i'd wheel it with you...but as it stands, i'm going to have to stick with my pyrenees trip...

 

Where can I find info on this? Sounds cool!

 

My TJ was lifted and it was great while I lived in rural America. I've since moved to the big city and have a daily commute. I for one, am not pllanning on lifting my JK Rubi. While some off-roading is in my future, I think that it's capable for just about anything I'll be tackling.

Look at where you'll be driving and the economics of lifting it. Weigh your options and go from there.

 

I found it on National Geographic ADVENTURE magazine - August 2004 issue. You might be able to find the magazine on eBay.

For more details, I've got various topo maps, info from NPS, NFS and BLM (regional offices send you info of route, condition etc.), various books (mostly hiking/backpacking books which gives 4wd trail info). i don't think there's any one book that is dedicated to this route though.

 

The only area I've spent alot of time in is the Steens Mtn area on the Alvord desert side. Awsom place. Our family owns some property over looking the south end of the dry lake bed. Will you be going down the Follyfarm Rd to Fields?

 

Yes, I think I'm going to drive along Crowley Rd - Folly Farm Rd - Fields-Denio Rd to OR-NV border town Denio (and then to Soldier Medows Ranch to Black Rock Desert...). Of course, i'll go off and check out Steens Mtn. overlooks and Alvord Desert! I've never been to Steens Mtn area but Alvord Desert looks like Black Rock Desert in NV. Is it possible to drive in the Alvord Desert? It sure looks beautiful place!

 

Hey , yes you can drive on it. I'm headed for bed right now, but I can give you alot of info. on it tomorrow. Places to see how to get the lake bed, hot springs, old mines. etc. Everything is easy to find. I can PM you or we can hook up on the phone or what ever. later. David