Wrapping Up Jeepers Jamboree: One Wild Ride
The R1 Concepts crew just wrapped up Part II of our Jeepers Jamboree adventure, and we’re still feeling the heat. From camping at Buck Island to crawling up granite slabs, this trip had it all: fishing, BBQing, trail riding, and some of the most challenging terrain we’ve tackled yet.
If you’re into serious off-roading, Jeepers Jamboree is a must. It’s not just a trail run. It’s a full-on backcountry experience that brings together the off-road community. For us, it was also the perfect testing ground for our latest R1 Concepts brake upgrades.
Trail Recap: Buck Island to the Granite Bowl
We started the journey in Georgetown, fueled up, and hit the trail. After a quiet night of camping at Buck Island Lake, things picked up quickly the next morning. By 8 AM, the Jeeps were rolling in, and we met up with our crew to tackle the next section of the Rubicon Trail.
The trail quickly became tighter and more technical. While the first leg wasn’t too difficult, we still had to navigate some tight spots. OnX Offroad Maps helped us track our route and avoid unnecessary detours.
We’d rate this trail a solid 7 to 8 out of 10. Especially with a Gladiator, which feels more like a boat. In a JL, it’s a bit easier, but still plenty technical.
This section of the trail is definitely not for beginners, and that’s what made it the perfect proving ground for serious upgrades.
Why Upgraded Brakes Matter Off-Road
One of the key lessons from this trip was just how important your braking system becomes once you start adding weight and larger tires. Bigger tires and more gear mean more mass to control, especially when you’re descending or crawling through tight obstacles.
For this build, we upgraded with:
The benefits were immediate and noticeable:
- Improved downhill control
- Smooth, consistent braking through obstacles
- Reduced brake fade, even on extended descents
Whether you’re modulating your speed with two-foot driving or easing over rocks at a crawl, having the right brakes gives you more control and confidence.
This trip is a textbook case for why upgraded brakes matter. We’ve tested these pads and rotors in real trail conditions, and they perform.
Trail-Proven: Our Brakes Held Strong
Off-road braking isn’t just about stopping. It’s about control. When you’re running 40s or 42s with trail armor and gear, the added rotational mass puts real stress on your brake system.
We don’t just sell brakes. We put them to the test on real terrain. This trip was about showing what our gear can do under pressure, and the performance spoke for itself.
Final Stretch: Night Wheeling to Lake Tahoe
After days of dirt, heat, and elevation, we decided to finish strong with a night run to Lake Tahoe. While we gave up some of the usual trail views, we gained time and took advantage of cooler temps for the final stretch.
We exited early the next morning, feeling accomplished and confident in our setup.
Ready to Hit the Trail?
If you’re planning a trip like Jeepers Jamboree or even just gearing up for your next weekend adventure, don’t overlook your brake system. When your rig is loaded up and the trail gets technical, your brakes are one of the most important upgrades you can make.
We recommend:
- R1 GEO-Carbon Series Drilled & Slotted Brake Rotors or R1 GEO-Carbon Series Blank Brake Rotors
- R1 PERFORMANCE Off-Road/Tow Series Brake Pads
We’ve put them to the test on some of the toughest trails in the country. Now it’s your turn.
Want More?
Check out our full coverage and behind-the-scenes content from the trail on our social channels.
Instagram: @r1concepts
YouTube: R1 Concepts YouTube Channel
Let us know if you’re hitting the trail. We might just see you out there.
