The R1 Concepts crew hit the legendary red rocks of Moab, Utah to take on Top of the World, one of the most iconic and breathtaking off-road trails in North America. Partnering with Progressive Suspension, G-Force Off-Road, and Nitto Tire, we tackled steep ledges and dusty switchbacks in a high-heat, high-impact adventure that pushed both man and machine to the limit.
Spoiler: our brakes made the difference.
🔥 Top of the World isn’t just a name—it’s a true test of trust in your rig, your team, and your stopping power.
On this climb, the terrain demanded more than just horsepower. Steep inclines, technical ledges, and off-camber crawls meant precise control was everything—especially under heat.
At one point, a Jeep Gladiator running one-ton axles experienced serious brake fade, with air trapped in the rear lines and an undersized booster. With a soft pedal and limited stopping power, it became a lesson in how vital reliable brakes are in Moab’s extreme terrain.
Meanwhile, our team’s R1 Concepts-equipped rigs remained confident and controlled through every sharp descent and tricky climb. With R1 GEO-Carbon Series Drilled & Slotted Brake Rotors, stainless steel brake lines, and R1 PERFORMANCE Off-Road/Tow Series Brake Pads, we maintained optimal bite, consistent pedal feel, and total control—even hours into the trail.
Heat is the silent enemy of braking systems. After hours of crawling, especially on steep terrain, even well-maintained stock brakes can begin to lose their bite. Several drivers noted having to two-foot the brake just to keep things steady—a clear sign of fade and performance loss.
That’s why we run:
Built for heavy rigs and high-load trail environments, these components resist fade, dissipate heat quickly, and deliver consistent braking power no matter how long the day gets. With easy fitment and durability that holds up trail after trail, R1 makes off-roading feel like second nature.
✅ “Compared to mostly stock stuff that we’ve used—it doesn’t even compare. It just sticks when it needs to. I’m confident.”
Confidence. That’s what R1 delivers.
Moab’s otherworldly landscape isn’t just scenic—it’s a skill test. Trails like Hell’s Revenge demand smart driving, sharp reflexes, and equipment that won’t let you down.
Before hitting a trail, ask yourself:
Slow, steady, and strategic braking is the name of the game in Moab. Controlling your descent is just as critical as your climb, and the right brake setup ensures you stay planted and predictable when it matters most.
From fully built JLs to trail-hardened JKs, our rigs featured battle-ready brake systems trusted by serious off-roaders:
These aren’t exotic big brake kits or race-only parts. They’re smart, proven upgrades that give real off-roaders confidence, control, and long-term performance.
👉 Explore R1 Brake Kits online or through authorized dealers to upgrade before your next trail day.
Off-roading in Moab is a privilege—and protecting this landscape is a responsibility. We followed Tread Lightly principles throughout the trip: staying on designated trails, avoiding sensitive habitats, and minimizing our environmental impact.
Whether you’re climbing sandstone ledges or airing down for slickrock, respect for the land keeps Moab open for all. Reduce idling, perform regular maintenance, and encourage your trail group to leave no trace.
Some of the best moments in Moab weren’t on the trail—they were at the trailhead, helping each other out or swapping stories between climbs. Off-roading is a community, and whether you’re fixing a brake line mid-trail or guiding a new driver over their first ledge, you’re part of something bigger.
Forums, social channels, and local shops make it easy to stay connected and swap advice on everything from rotors and pads to trail tips. With world-class views and a community that lifts each other up, Moab is more than a destination—it’s a rite of passage.
Brake failures don’t give warnings—they show up when you’re inches from a ledge. Moab reminded us that braking is the difference between chaos and control.
Thanks to R1 Concepts, our team tackled the Top of the World with power, poise, and precision. Whether it was technical climbs or heat-soaked descents, our brake systems gave us the confidence to push forward—safely and boldly.