If you’re building a car that turns heads on the street but performs like it belongs on the track, brakes aren’t optional, they’re essential.
We recently had Desmond Simmons (@ayyodes) in the shop with his 2022 Turbo Toyota GR86 to talk about his build inspiration, turbocharged thrills, and his experience upgrading to an R1 Concepts Big Brake Kit (BBK).
Here’s why his GR86 is the perfect example of balancing daily drivability with serious stopping power.
Desmond knew exactly what he wanted from the start:
“I wanted a street daily but a car that looks like it should be on the track.”
Inspired by bold, race-inspired builds like the Hoonipigasus Porsche by Ken Block, Desmond transformed his GR86 into something aggressive, theatrical, and purpose-driven.
But aesthetics were only part of the equation.
With a turbocharged setup, the car delivers the sound, drama, and power he was looking for:
“I just want to hear that… the theatrics that come with a turbo.”
More boost means more speed, and more speed demands better braking.
Desmond didn’t initially expect to upgrade to a Big Brake Kit. But when the opportunity came, everything changed.
“Immediately after throwing on the big brake kit, you can tell a very significant difference… This is what stopping power should be like.”
That instant improvement is what a properly engineered R1 Concepts Big Brake Kit delivers:
For a turbo GR86 pushing more power than stock, the upgrade wasn’t just cosmetic, it was functional.
One thing Desmond highlighted was the customization process:
“The amount of options… I got emailed a whole list of different colors… down to the lettering. They were very open, whatever you want to do, we can do it.”
R1 Concepts BBKs allow enthusiasts to match their braking system to their build theme. From caliper color choices to custom lettering, your brake setup becomes part of the car’s identity, not just a performance upgrade.
For GR86 owners who want performance without compromising style, that flexibility makes all the difference.
The Toyota GR86 is known for its lightweight chassis and sharp handling. Add forced induction, and you dramatically increase the performance ceiling.
Here’s why upgrading your brakes should be a priority:
Turbocharged builds generate more speed, and repeated braking generates more heat. Larger rotors and multi-piston calipers help dissipate heat efficiently.
Performance braking systems reduce fade during aggressive street driving or track days.
Stronger, more predictable braking improves overall control and driver confidence.
A Big Brake Kit fills out the wheel space and instantly gives your GR86 a track-ready appearance.
For drivers not ready for a full BBK, R1 Concepts also offers performance rotor and pad upgrades such as:
These options provide enhanced bite, improved cooling, and reduced brake dust depending on your driving style.
One of the most powerful moments Desmond shared wasn’t about horsepower, it was about people.
“Just being in the shop with your friends, laughing and trying to figure things out… that’s something you can’t take away.”
Car culture is about community. It’s about late nights in the garage, shared struggles, and celebrating milestones together.
As Desmond mentioned:
“Big shout out to R1 Concepts for even taking a leap of faith in me.”
We’re proud to support builders who chase their vision and push their platforms forward.
Want to see Desmond’s Turbo GR86 and hear him talk more about his experience with the R1 Concepts Big Brake Kit?
Watch the full video now and see what real stopping power looks like.
If your goal is to build a GR86 that:
Then upgrading your braking system isn’t optional, it’s foundational.
Desmond’s build proves one thing clearly: When the power goes up, your stopping power should too.