Gaurav

I agree with Simon that doing the rotation is better than not doing it. I have been doing rotation on all 3 sets of Geo G012 and each set lasted 3 years with 40 -50k kms. For the fourth set of Geo G015, I was lazy or forgetful and had barely 15k-20k before 3 punctures. Yes, it could be coincidental that G015 wasn't as good as G012 (Made in Japan), but still, I believe doing the tire rotation is better.

Congratulations @george charbel for reaching the Fewbie Plus Level with Carnity Offroad Club. Looking forward to seeing you growing further and helping others to learn the art of offroading in a safe environment. Please make sure your Carnity user profile is always updated with all the latest Emergency contact details. P.S. Trip lead might deny your participation if you don't have required off-road gear. FEWBIE PLUS Drives Attended (Indicative) Minimum 10 Fewbie drives are required within last 6 months for Fewbie Plus promotion. What you'll learn Advance dune and sand reading Advance recovery techniques Rocking and crawling to make path Learn to flatten/compact soft sand patch Self recovery from crest Advance side sloping and long hill climb Advance ridge riding and criss crossing Advance control over technical dunes Slightly faster pace desert driving FULLY control and avoid fishtailing Never fight or challenge gravity Skills required Enthusiastic and positive attitude Willingness to learn and help others Extremely attentive and focused while driving Car Worthiness Any 4x4 vehicle with low range gearing Suitable approach and departure angle Bash plate and skid plate protected Off-road gear required Safety flag, tire deflator, tire pressure gauge, shovel, fire extinguisher, medical kit, radio (walkie-talkie), air compressor. Drive teamwork Manage second lead and sweep positions upon request Intuitive and proactive to support Trip Lead Observe recoveries and offer help, when needed Drive Joining Join Newbie, Fewbie and Fewbie Plus drives Forum participation Active participation on the forum Share drive experience + feedback Share drive pictures in the gallery Post trip report after the drive

Or rather you meant "It's not ONLY about the bike" As in off-road power-weight is king, followed by skills and experience.

This is a million-dollar misconception. Let me explain to you why. I have been under the same influence (in 2006) and bought Land Cruiser - thinking, it was a king of desert as all desert safari companies are using it. After the first few drives realized its boat size was heavy and long and not practical for any good dune bashing. Why Desert Safari companies use it because it's the most forgiving and economical car for their daily business - which require a 15 min - 30 min desert trail in a 5 km radius for tourist to show sand splash, few sideys and moderate climb at sunset point. This train track route is miles away from what weekend offroaders do - explore, push the limits, and cross the desert from one side to another. Fast forward two years, after seeing so many Patrols flying thru the dunes - bought a SWB patrol in 2008. It was much better than LC but still unable to fly through anywhere. The simple reason was Patrol used by local and racers boys has been heavily modified with a buffet menu of 400 HP - 800 HP - 2000 HP depending on how deep your pocket and wasta. Now, if we buy a new car and are scared of voiding the warranty, we have to limit our reach and find peace somewhere in between. Why ppl love Patrol to be modified is the core reason that it has a huge engine bay with the smallest engine size, that can fit a hell of a mod, turbos, fans, and headers and still disguise as regular Patrol. If you really wanna base your offroad car purchase, go to any offroad club drive starting point and see you will find: 75% cars with a mix of Wranglers, FJC, Patrol (SWB) and Xterra (older model) 20% Land Cruisers, Patrol Safari LWB, Prado and Pajero's 5% Patrol Y62, Grand Cherokee, Discovery, Liberty, Fortuner etc.

Let me shed some more light so your choice can be realistic. If you own a Pajero, then it can be a good offroader with little love and care, but if you are thinking of buying "dedicated offroader" Pajero will be the last on the list - no offense. And when you are viewing the signature edition, that car will drop its front and rear bumper on the roadside sand, let alone dunes. Same story with Y62, you can force them to be an offroader with a lot of tinkering (which I personally don't like now), other than that they are awesome mall crawlers. Heavier or larger the car it will slow you down in the desert, and you need a bigger learning curve to master driving that size of the beast in the sand. FJC, visibility means how the driver views ahead and side of the car while driving is a little tight due to smaller windscreen and side windows. It is not a deal breaker and if you drive one, you can get used to it within a week's time. Nothing alarming about that comment, I just raised that as many new buyers make a big deal out of it. BIGGER ISSUE: What I think is you are mixing two different needs and eventually might end up making a bad choice tbh. What a wife would like with all bells and whistles and creature comfort will never serve you as a rugged offroader. And wifey will not like rugged offroader - looks, comfort, features. So, you can split the budget and let her get whatever she wants (newer model), so that you can make a pure offroader choice (little older model).

As your profile shows you have X5 for office and mall duties, so better buy a dedicated desert toy to not have a regret later on after a few drives or a year. For that sake: Options 1 and 4 are straight out. Wranglers are awesome from the factory floor to tackle any level of offroading you wish. Worth the buy (any trim), but if you can stretch the budget for Rubicon trim, it's worth the extra features (bigger tires, lift, diff lock, etc). Patrol super safari is over-rated for true desert toys, as they are heavy and long (unless you wish overlanding vehicle). If you like Patrol, then as Fredy mention, opt for SWB for maximum fun, or else be ready to spend another 20-50K on LWB to make it a climber (which they are not from the factory floor). More options to consider: FJ Cruiser: Rock solid offroader from factory and capable - if you can live with tiny visibility issue. I would prefer FJC over Wrangler simply because of Toyota's reliability. Prado: Same as FJC, but with more features and comfort and a tad heavier and longer than FJC, but totally manageable. You need little bumper trim and lift (beyond FB+ level) it will serve you for years with the performance, comfort and reliability of Toyota.

Congratulations @Saverio Arena for reaching the Fewbie Level with Carnity Offroad Club. Looking forward to seeing you growing further and helping others to learn the art of offroading in a safe environment. Please make sure your Carnity user profile is always updated with all the latest Emergency contact details. P.S. Trip lead might deny your participation if you don't have required off-road gear. FEWBIE Drives Attended (Indicative) Minimum 5 Newbie drives are required within last 3 months for Fewbie promotion. What you'll learn Basic dune and sand reading Self-recovery techniques Shoveling at right place Crawling out of difficult situations Blip Blip - Coordinate steering and gas control Basic side sloping and hill climb Basic ridge riding and criss crossing Basic control over technical dunes Slightly faster pace desert driving Ability to manage stuck/refusals with radio Learn to control and avoid fishtailing Never fight or challenge gravity Skills required Enthusiastic and positive attitude Willingness to learn and help others Presence of mind and attention to detail Car Worthiness Any 4x4 vehicle with low range gearing Suitable approach and departure angle Off-road gear required Safety flag, tire deflator, tire pressure gauge, shovel, fire extinguisher, medical kit, radio (walkie-talkie), air compressor. Drive teamwork Manage second lead and sweep positions upon request Intuitive and proactive to support Trip Lead Observe recoveries and offer help, when needed Drive Joining Join Newbie and Fewbie drives Forum participation Active participation on the forum Share drive experience + feedback Share drive pictures in the gallery Post trip report after the drive

Congratulations @Gary F for reaching the Intermediate Level with Carnity Offroad Club. Looking forward to seeing you growing further and helping others to learn the art of offroading in a safe environment. Please make sure your Carnity user profile is always updated with all the latest Emergency contact details. P.S. Trip lead might deny your participation if you don't have required off-road gear. INTERMEDIATE Drives Attended (Indicative) Minimum 10 Fewbie Plus drives are required within last 6 months for Intermediate promotion. What you'll learn Basic GPS and navigational skills Basic tow rope and winch recoveries Extreme side sloping and long hill climb Tall dunes ridge riding and criss crossing Precise control over technical dunes Fast pace desert driving Clear radio communication skills Advance recovery skills Self recover from dune crest Soft sand recovery Pop-out fixing Skills required Adventurous and thrill seeker but in a safe manner Level headed under stressful situations Responsible, dependable and accountable Car Worthiness Capable 4x4 vehicle with low range gearing Suitable approach and departure angle High profile tires Off-road gear required Safety flag, tire deflator, tire pressure gauge, shovel, fire extinguisher, medical kit, radio (walkie-talkie), air compressor, tool kit, rated recovery rope and 2 rated shackles, GPS. Drive teamwork Manage center forward position with Trip Lead’s permission Learn/assist recoveries under Trip Lead’s supervision Re-route convoy and coordination, when needed Learn to lead small portion of Intermediate drive under Marshal supervision Drive Joining Join Newbie, Fewbie, Intermediate and Exploration drives only Forum participation Active participation on the forum Share drive experience + feedback Share drive pictures in the gallery Post trip report after the drive

Nicely summed up @Gary F this was my third car locked-out experience. It seems I need to write a manual on opening locked-out cars in the desert with sheer teamwork, patience, and precision. @Bravoecho time u stick a spare key under your car or behind the spare wheel with zip ties, or better add one with a safety flag, so at least while off-roading you can quickly reach. Totally agree, @Gary F @Beide Worku and @MMansoor were real men to brave Faqa adventures with LWB vs boys with SWB.

Convoy updated. As part of the new Environment Policy let's start carrying garbage liners and gloves in your car, if we spot any dirty area tonight, we will clean it. @Bravoecho @Stumpy Paj @Gary F @Benjamin @Krishna R @Beide Worku @MMansoor Gaurav Silver Pajero Krishna R Red Xterra Bravoecho White Patrol Stumpy Paj Pajero Gary F White Gladiator Benjamin Silver Wrangler Beide Worku Blue F150 MMansoor Patrol Y62

Please find the convoy number. We will use Radio Channel: 4 @Senthil Kumar @Bravoecho @Stumpy Paj @Gary F @Benjamin @Krishna R @Beide Worku @MMansoor Gaurav Silver Pajero Senthil Kumar Red Wrangler Bravoecho White Patrol Stumpy Paj Pajero Gary F White Gladiator Benjamin Silver Wrangler Krishna R Red Xterra Beide Worku Blue F150 MMansoor Patrol Y62

Tell me which one you need.

Done, check ur WA

You seem to be a pretty genius to reach this far to test. If still not sure, if it's a starter or not, you can pick one from scrap for 200 dhs to test it. If that works, order a new one. If you need the Pajero scrap guy's number, lemme know.

Most welcome @Benjamin if by tomo EOD there is still a place then on Thu 00:00 you will be automatically moved to the RSVP list with an email confirmation. Looking fwd to seeing you too, heard a lot of good stuff about you.

Congratulations @Frans M for reaching the Fewbie Plus Level with Carnity Offroad Club. Looking forward to seeing you growing further and helping others to learn the art of offroading in a safe environment. Please make sure your Carnity user profile is always updated with all the latest Emergency contact details. P.S. Trip lead might deny your participation if you don't have required off-road gear. FEWBIE PLUS Drives Attended (Indicative) Minimum 10 Fewbie drives are required within last 6 months for Fewbie Plus promotion. What you'll learn Advance dune and sand reading Advance recovery techniques Rocking and crawling to make path Learn to flatten/compact soft sand patch Self recovery from crest Advance side sloping and long hill climb Advance ridge riding and criss crossing Advance control over technical dunes Slightly faster pace desert driving FULLY control and avoid fishtailing Never fight or challenge gravity Skills required Enthusiastic and positive attitude Willingness to learn and help others Extremely attentive and focused while driving Car Worthiness Any 4x4 vehicle with low range gearing Suitable approach and departure angle Bash plate and skid plate protected Off-road gear required Safety flag, tire deflator, tire pressure gauge, shovel, fire extinguisher, medical kit, radio (walkie-talkie), air compressor. Drive teamwork Manage second lead and sweep positions upon request Intuitive and proactive to support Trip Lead Observe recoveries and offer help, when needed Drive Joining Join Newbie, Fewbie and Fewbie Plus drives Forum participation Active participation on the forum Share drive experience + feedback Share drive pictures in the gallery Post trip report after the drive

Drive Plan The plan is to avoid any existing tracks and make it as exciting as possible by finding the hidden sweet spot for the true flavor of Faqa. MUST READ AND COMPLY Environmental Policy Offroad Flag Guideline Two Way Radio Guideline Off road Driving Etiquette's Emergency details for all off-roaders Off Road Driving - Roles & Responsibilities Drive Details Level: Fewbie Plus and above Meeting time: 7:00 PM (SHARP - Without any exceptions) Meeting Point: https://goo.gl/maps/UEwjVq4sQmKoT4Cp8 Type of Car: Any proper 4x4 with front and back tow hooks and 8-10 inches of ground clearance. What to bring along: Loads of water, snacks (for yourself), smiles, face mask, rubber gloves, enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Approximate finish time: 11 PM P.S. Only join if you have a compressor to inflate your tires after the drive. LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE: Limited to 10 cars maximum. RSVP will close on Friday - 5PM. If the RSVP is full and you wish to join, please mention your name on the drive thread to add on the waiting list Latecomers will be returned back - without ANY EXCEPTIONS. Members without RSVP will be returned back - without ANY EXCEPTIONS. Members that do not confirm the terms of the COVID requirements will be removed from the RSVP list. Please withdraw your RSVP, if you aren't joining, so your spot can be taken by others. Repeated no-show members after RSVP will have their account suspended for a month. Please RSVP on below calendar

Congratulations @Simon D for reaching the Advisor Level with Carnity Offroad Club. Looking forward to seeing you grow further and helping others to learn the art of offroading in a safe environment. Please make sure your Carnity user profile is always updated with all the latest Emergency contact details. ADVISOR This Advisor level is the cornerstone of the Team Carnity Structure as you will always remain an "Advisor" first even when you attain a Marshal rank. As an advisor, you will constructively help, support, and advise other advisors with "respect" being part of this big multicultural family. You can discuss or even question ideas at any level but respectfully and professionally by keeping all the dialogue exchanges confidential for internal use only. Your biggest transformation from an off-roader to a leader will be done at this level. With solid experience in supporting drives and handling recoveries, you will join the most comprehensive and power-packed Leaders Lead sessions. The Leaders Lead Sessions, which consist of 3 drives and significant homework and preparation in advance of the drives, will eventually teach you all about leading and navigating in the desert, extreme recovery scenarios, and learning to lead the convoy in the various terrains UAE has to offer. These sessions are conducted by a crew member, tailored specifically for you, and be done for a handful of members only at a time. This is invaluable information and exclusive training that you will only receive at the Advisor level with Carnity. You will be learning the basics of leading the convoy in the desert in three different steps: Advance sand reading, planning your lead, terrain, level, and emergency exits. Lead with navigational software to systematically scale the lead for all the cars in the convoy. Ability to lead, recover and manage the convoy in the most extreme desert available in the UAE. Once you complete these 3 sessions then you will be eligible to lead drives under supervision: Minimum two partial leads for any daytime Fewbie drives under Expert/Marshal/Crew supervision. Plan, post, and a lead minimum of four daytime Fewbie drives under Expert/Marshal/Crew supervision. You can extend above two partial or four full leads if you need more time to develop confidence. Once you successfully, complete the minimum of two partial and four full leads under supervision, then you will be eligible for your Expert promotion. Carnity Contribution Committed to driving with Carnity off-road club only. Lead/Support: Minimum 6 drives per quarter (3 months). Forum contribution to earn Carnity points. Skills required Meticulous planning and preparation. Ready for new challenges or unexpected situations. Leadership skills to always put the team before yourself. Car Worthiness Capable 4x4 vehicle with a low range gearing. Suitable approach and departure angle. High profile tires. Off-road gear required Safety flag, tire deflator, tire pressure gauge, shovel, fire extinguisher, medical kit, radio (walkie-talkie), air compressor, tool kit, rated recovery rope and 2 rated shackles, GPS, Floor jack and jack board, tire repair kit, toolbox, tie-down straps, fluids. Drive Joining All Levels. Forum participation Active participation on the forum. Share drive experience + feedback. Share drive pictures in the gallery. Post trip report after the drive.

Congratulations @DP1011 for reaching the Advisor Level with Carnity Offroad Club. Looking forward to seeing you grow further and helping others to learn the art of offroading in a safe environment. Please make sure your Carnity user profile is always updated with all the latest Emergency contact details. ADVISOR This Advisor level is the cornerstone of the Team Carnity Structure as you will always remain an "Advisor" first even when you attain a Marshal rank. As an advisor, you will constructively help, support, and advise other advisors with "respect" being part of this big multicultural family. You can discuss or even question ideas at any level but respectfully and professionally by keeping all the dialogue exchanges confidential for internal use only. Your biggest transformation from an off-roader to a leader will be done at this level. With solid experience in supporting drives and handling recoveries, you will join the most comprehensive and power-packed Leaders Lead sessions. The Leaders Lead Sessions, which consist of 3 drives and significant homework and preparation in advance of the drives, will eventually teach you all about leading and navigating in the desert, extreme recovery scenarios, and learning to lead the convoy in the various terrains UAE has to offer. These sessions are conducted by a crew member, tailored specifically for you, and be done for a handful of members only at a time. This is invaluable information and exclusive training that you will only receive at the Advisor level with Carnity. You will be learning the basics of leading the convoy in the desert in three different steps: Advance sand reading, planning your lead, terrain, level, and emergency exits. Lead with navigational software to systematically scale the lead for all the cars in the convoy. Ability to lead, recover and manage the convoy in the most extreme desert available in the UAE. Once you complete these 3 sessions then you will be eligible to lead drives under supervision: Minimum two partial leads for any daytime Fewbie drives under Expert/Marshal/Crew supervision. Plan, post, and a lead minimum of four daytime Fewbie drives under Expert/Marshal/Crew supervision. You can extend above two partial or four full leads if you need more time to develop confidence. Once you successfully, complete the minimum of two partial and four full leads under supervision, then you will be eligible for your Expert promotion. Carnity Contribution Committed to driving with Carnity off-road club only. Lead/Support: Minimum 6 drives per quarter (3 months). Forum contribution to earn Carnity points. Skills required Meticulous planning and preparation. Ready for new challenges or unexpected situations. Leadership skills to always put the team before yourself. Car Worthiness Capable 4x4 vehicle with a low range gearing. Suitable approach and departure angle. High profile tires. Off-road gear required Safety flag, tire deflator, tire pressure gauge, shovel, fire extinguisher, medical kit, radio (walkie-talkie), air compressor, tool kit, rated recovery rope and 2 rated shackles, GPS, Floor jack and jack board, tire repair kit, toolbox, tie-down straps, fluids. Drive Joining All Levels. Forum participation Active participation on the forum. Share drive experience + feedback. Share drive pictures in the gallery. Post trip report after the drive.

The numbers 2, 6, 9.2, 9.3 and 15 need research on whether JL has a known issue or maintenance needed after a certain km. If not, I will stay away from such a car, simply because it points to excessive past abuse, either by driving badly or skipping maintenance. Both ways it will soon backfire on you. Rest all are pretty basic maintenance and consumable items.

Hope everyone reads this...!

Please find the convoy numbering for tomorrow's drive. We will use Radio Channel 4 @Klaus Pedersen @Thomas Collins Jayakumar @essam ibrahim @Thejas Uthran @Srikumar Gaurav Silver Pajero Klaus Pedersen Grey Toyota Prado Thomas Collins FJ Cruiser 2023 essam ibrahim White Land Cruiser Thejas Uthran Chevrolet Trailblazer Srikumar Green Cherokee

Very nice idea @Looper to have one dedicated place to have all drive videos. Easy to enjoy while having a break and handy to refer back to in the future. Good thinking.