Class 1700
Jeepspeed Challenge Class 1700 Stock
This is the most popular and affordable class, often referred to as the Stock Class. Vehicles in this class must be Jeeps and use components readily available to the general public and are allowed limited options for modification.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Engine: Max 6 cylinders
- Tires: Max 33 inches
- Up to 33" tires
Suspension
- Front Suspension: Max 10" travel
- Rear Suspension: Max 12" travel
- One shock per wheel
Class 2700
Jeepspeed Cup Class 2700 Intermediate
New in 2017, this Intermediate Class for Jeep and Dodge production based vehicles fits between the limited Class 1700 and the unlimited Class 3700. Prizes and awards are assigned for this class.
SPECIFICATIONS
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- Any Jeep or Dodge production engine
- Forced induction on 4 & 6 Cyl Engines
- Up to 35" tires
Suspension
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- Front Suspension: Max 12" travel
- Rear Suspension: Max 14" travel
- Two shocks per wheel
View/Download 2700 Class Rules
Class 3700
Jeepspeed Outlaws Class 3700 Modified
This is the Open Class with the least restrictions. Vehicles in this class must be Jeep or Dodge sport utility vehicles and light trucks that are recognizable as a Jeep or Dodge by brand grill, hood and fenders. The larger wheelbase and engine limits allow several more recent models such as 4 Door Wranglers and Dodge trucks to participate.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Any Jeep or Dodge Modified Chassis & body
- Any make production/crate engine
- Up to 37" tires
Suspension
- Front Suspension: Max 15" travel
- Rear Suspension: Max 24" travel
- Shocks Open
View/Download 3700 Class Rules
Class 4700
Jeepspeed Trophy Class 4700 Open
This is the Open Class with the least restrictions. Vehicles in this class must be Jeep or Dodge sport utility vehicles and light trucks that are recognizable as a Jeep or Dodge by brand grill, hood and fenders. The larger wheelbase and engine limits allow several more recent models such as 4 Door Wranglers and Dodge trucks to participate.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Open Frame or Chassis
- Any make Production/Crate engine
- Up to 37" tires
Suspension
- Front Suspension: Max 18" travel
- Rear Suspension: Open travel
- Shocks Open
You can race Jeepspeed!
Check out our page on how to get started with your own vehicle! Start racing Jeepspeed today!!
Calendar
2023 Yokohama Tire Jeepspeed Race Series presented by KMC Wheels
Class 1700, 2700, 3700 & 4700
Race Date | Sanctioning Body/Title | Race | Location |
APRIL 20-22, 2023 |
Silver State "300" |
Jeepspeed Challenge | Alamo, NV |
AUGUST 16-20, 2023 |
"Vegas to Reno" the other way! |
Jeepspeed Challenge | Reno, NV |
OCTOBER 12-15, 2023 |
Laughlin Desert Classic |
Jeepspeed Challenge | Parker, AZ |
* Schedule as of 1/2/2023 (Subject to change, please check Best In The Desert website periodically)
Race Points
2022 Race Points
Driver Name |
Race Number |
Parker 425 |
Silver State 300 |
Vegas 2 Reno |
Laughlin Desert Classic |
Total (5) |
Position |
||
Challenge 1700 |
|||||||||
Biehl |
1714 |
46 |
78 |
46 |
86 |
256 |
1 |
||
Tichy |
1706 |
41 |
80 |
92 |
213 |
2 |
|||
Palmieri |
1776 |
80 |
41 |
82 |
203 |
3 |
|||
Raub |
1771 |
0 |
43 |
100 |
143 |
4 |
|||
Gieselmann |
1741 |
43 |
0 |
43 |
5 |
||||
Nissley |
1719 |
0 |
30 |
0 |
30 |
6 |
|||
Cup 2700 |
|||||||||
0 |
|||||||||
Outlaw 3700 |
|||||||||
Simonson, J. |
3769 |
77 |
30 |
90 |
197 |
1 |
|||
Thomasson |
3707 |
98 |
98 |
2 |
|||||
Shattuck |
3767 |
84 |
84 |
3 |
|||||
0 |
|||||||||
Trophy 4700 |
|||||||||
Harmonson |
4725 |
49 |
94 |
143 |
1 |
||||
Allred |
4793 |
77 |
42 |
119 |
2 |
||||
Owens |
4702 |
102 |
102 |
3 |
|||||
Dziernowski |
4714 |
88 |
88 |
4 |
|||||
Parker |
4721 |
84 |
84 |
5 |
|||||
Gobeli |
4734 |
82 |
82 |
6 |
|||||
Maister |
4744 |
45 |
45 |
7 |
Racing Docs
All forms are required at the time of racing.
You must be a member of Best in the Desert Racing Association to race in BITD events. Join here.
You must be a member of the Jeepspeed Racing Association to race in Jeepspeed events and complete the Jeepspeed Waiver:
Jeepspeed Membership Application
The Jeepspeed Membership Application can be completed online.
Class Rules
View/Download 2700 Class Rules
Mandated Decals
Order Stickers
We continue to partner with Sign Pros to provide a uniform and cost effective package that will ensure we meet the demands of our sponsors. Every team, new or old must have the current Sticker Kit. Class 4700 choosing not to run Yokohama tires must still purchase a new Sticker Kit but are not required to run the Yokohama's on the Fenders. Please refer to the text below for price and order information. Do not call to place an order, rather please email so that Sign Pros has a record of your order.
JEEPSPEED STICKER KIT
$85.00 + TAX & SHIPPING*
Order by Email: TIM@SIGNPROS.COM
You must include the following information:
JEESPEED NUMBER
WHICH FRONT FENDER & YOKOHAMA COLOR CHOICE (refer to the Sticker Kit)
NAME
ADDRESS
PHONE NUMBER
MUST BE PAID BEFORE IT WILL BE SHIPPED* OUT
*You can save shipping if you want to pick up at the Jeepspeed Booth during tech/contingency prior to the race but you must notify Sign Pros via email order.
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Saturday, 30 April 2022
Alamo, NV
The Yokohama Tire Jeepspeed series, Presented by KMC Wheels, headed to round two at the Best in the Desert, Silver State 300 race. The Silver State 300 has an interesting format. The course sits in a remote corner of Nevada that probably has more cows than people. It’s that remoteness, and the incredible terrain that makes it so different from other desert races. Depending on desert conditions, it may be the only time all year that racers have to contend with water crossings. It also has unique mountain roads that are more like trails; tight, twisty, and technical. When the racers are not crashing through streams or dodging trees in the mountains, they are flying at top speed through huge, open valleys interrupted with huge pocke
Jeepspeed Racers Enjoy The Journey At BITD Silver State 300
Alamo, NV
The Yokohama Tire Jeepspeed series, Presented by KMC Wheels, headed to round two at the Best in the Desert, Silver State 300 race. The Silver State 300 has an interesting format. The course sits in a remote corner of Nevada that probably has more cows than people. It’s that remoteness, and the incredible terrain that makes it so different from other desert races. Depending on desert conditions, it may be the only time all year that racers have to contend with water crossings. It also has unique mountain roads that are more like trails; tight, twisty, and technical. When the racers are not crashing through streams or dodging trees in the mountains, they are flying at top speed through huge, open valleys interrupted with huge pockets of silt. Oh, and don’t forget the rocks. It is the most diverse, and technical course in the Jeepspeed series, but also one of the fastest. It is a test for every aspect of the racers, and their vehicles.
Since there is a lack of hotels around the race course, pre-race activities take place in Las Vegas. On race day, the teams load up and take their operation to the starting line outside Alamo, Nevada, around a 2 hour drive. For some, the race is their favorite of the year. For others, the additional drive, and logistical challenges outweigh their desire to race. Turnout is typically light, and with high fuel prices this year, it showed. It’s a shame that some missed out on what was such a fun race. Those who did participate were glad they did, and enjoyed every bit of the journey.
Alex Littleboy would be driving the number 3769 Jeepspeed Outlaw class Jeep of Jerry and Kathy Simonson. They brought along Chris Mortensen to co-drive, and Stan Pier, Jessica Quackenbush, Danny Simonson, Chad Simonson, Travis Ronne, and Jim Lord for pit duties, moral support, and just to have fun. This crew is just as accomplished at having fun as they are racing. They are the defending Jeepspeed Outlaw class champions, and give credit to their sponsors Green City Heating and Air, Bunker Bar, Jeepspeed, Yokohama Tire, KMC Wheels, Rugged Radios, and GG Lighting for supporting their efforts. They are not strangers to the Silver State race, and know the challenges it can bring. Alex in particular has a storied past with one obstacle in particular, the silt. “I usually drive the last leg of the race,” says Alex. “I like the technical stuff, and love the scenery. Last year, I did not get along with the silt beds very well. This year we ran backwards so we hit the silt beds first. We got a good start, were running hard, and the Jeep was running awesome. We were making good time, and made a couple passes. When we hit some deeper silt beds the truck started getting hot. It’s never run hot before. We thought that it might have been the radiator. Once we hit the fast graded roads it cooled down so we were doing 70, but the truck was running funny. It started to lose power. It didn’t lock up, but eventually it just wouldn’t run. We stopped to check it out and saw oil coming out of the exhaust pipe. We think the engine sucked in some silt. If not for that, we could have had a great race. That silted has it out for me. Next year, I’m not driving through the silt. This is the first time we’ve been stranded in the Jeep; it’s been so good for us. Last season we rolled it, and it took two and a half hours to get going again. It was a tough race for us, but we finished. The Jeepspeed guys are always there for us when we need help.”
Chris Nissley showed up to race after a long hiatus from Jeepspeed. He raced several years ago, then put the windows back in his Cherokee and drove it to work. It was a really cool daily driver; one with a lot of capabilities. Now that his business is successful, he’s back racing with Jeepspeed again. “I’ve always liked this course,” said Chris. “There are not a lot of whoops so we can go fast. The mountains are really fun, they remind me of Mexico. We got a Jeep race motor from Mike Lesle. We took the race stuff off of it and put it on a stock bottom end from the junkyard. The Jeep was running great but we started to smell oil. I told my co-driver to grab the fire extinguisher, we might be on fire. It wasn’t burning, but the motor was covered in oil. At first we thought it was power steering fluid. We got going again but then the oil temperature gage went to zero. I thought we kicked a rod out, but it just spit out a sensor from the side of the block. I was frustrated because we didn’t have anything to plug the hole. I carry tons of fittings on my work truck that would fit, but I didn’t have any with me. We couldn’t continue without oil. I’m disappointed that we could not finish, but I’m glad it wasn’t anything we did wrong, it was just a faulty part. We didn’t miss anything in prep. It wasn’t worth getting mad about it; let’s go have a beer. I’ve been racing a long time. It’s a mental game, and a physical game. You either love it or it’s not for you.”
Scott Biehl knows what it’s like to not finish, but not at Silver State. He finished and won. “We went years without a finish but still had fun racing,” said Scott. “It’s about having a good time, winning is a bonus. Our plan was to just run our own pace, and have a good time. Then Chris came flying past us so we turned it up and chased him down. We got in his dust after 30 miles, and we could smell oil. We hoped he wouldn’t blow it up. We got passed him, and then were in a battle with a class 7 truck. We got around him and started to catch the UTV’s. We stopped several times to pull them out of the trees or roll them over. There were a lot of stuck vehicles in the mountains. Otherwise it was fast and fun in the trees; it was good to be up in the mountains. My co-driver Leafar Delgado and I got out of the truck so my Son and Travis got to do all the fun water crossings. It was a long race. The ruts were really deep in our section. The Jeep is narrower than the big trucks that make the deep ruts so it dances around on the crown in the middle. In other spots it seems like you can let go of the wheel and let the tires follow the ruts; like the old amusement park rides. I have to thank Eric Brown for helping us, and also the guys from Kevin Adler’s team. They already pitted their truck and loaded up, but they stayed until our Jeep came in just in case we needed any help.”
The Jeepspeed series is the most fun racing series, it’s cost effective, and it’s worthwhile for grass roots drivers. You don’t need to be a millionaire to race Jeepspeed. Most teams build their own vehicles, and have pit crews made up of family, and friends. When a team needs help, their competitors pitch in to fill the void. The camaraderie is unlike any other racing series. It’s no wonder that the Yokohama Jeepspeed series is the longest running spec racing series in off road racing. Jeepspeed also has generous prize money and contingency awards. In addition to the prizes up for grabs at every race, the Jeepspeed series gets support from Yokohama Tire; Official tire and title sponsor, KMC Wheels; Official wheel and presenting sponsor, Jasper Racing Engines; Official powertrain, Rugged Radios; Official communications, GG Lighting; Official lighting, EVO Mfg.; Official suspension, Action Sports Canopies; Official canopy, T&J Performance; Official builder, and Associate sponsors King Shocks, Currie Enterprises, and Fluid Flow Performance.
Photography Courtesy: Dirt Focus
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Sunday, 23 January 2022
Parker ,AZ
The 2022 Yokohama Jeepspeed series presented by KMC Wheels returned to Parker, Arizona for the traditional start of the racing season. Parker has typically been the location of the season opener, but this year’s event had a new twist. They would run the course backwards; something that has not been done for a very long time. Usually this means that the course will be rougher. The braking bumps in the corners, and the undulating bumps found in the loose dirt sections have a particular shape; curved on one side, and sharp on the other. It makes for a long, pounding race for the drivers, and their trucks. Mysteriously, it was found out to be the opposite. The course was surprisingly fast, and smooth; as smooth as a desert race cour
Contenders Emerge At Yokohama Jeepspeed Race Series 2022 Season Opener
Parker ,AZ
The 2022 Yokohama Jeepspeed series presented by KMC Wheels returned to Parker, Arizona for the traditional start of the racing season. Parker has typically been the location of the season opener, but this year’s event had a new twist. They would run the course backwards; something that has not been done for a very long time. Usually this means that the course will be rougher. The braking bumps in the corners, and the undulating bumps found in the loose dirt sections have a particular shape; curved on one side, and sharp on the other. It makes for a long, pounding race for the drivers, and their trucks. Mysteriously, it was found out to be the opposite. The course was surprisingly fast, and smooth; as smooth as a desert race course can be. It was still filled with rocks, ruts, and countless dangers waiting to take their toll.
On the line was bragging rights, but also some incredible prizes from sponsors who love Jeepspeed racing just as much as the teams, and fans. Winners in each class would receive a set of wheels from KMC worth $1200 dollars, an LED light bar from GG Lighting valued at $550 dollars, a $200 dollar Rugged Radios gift pack, and an A/N wrench set from Fluid Flow Performance worth $250 dollars. That’s all in addition to prize money and contingency awards. In addition to the prizes up for grabs, the Jeepspeed series gets support from Yokohama Tire; Official tire and title sponsor, KMC Wheels; Official wheel and presenting sponsor, Jasper Racing Engines; Official powertrain, Rugged Radios; Official communications, GG Lighting; Official lighting EVO Mfg.; Official suspension, Action Sports Canopies; Official canopy, T&J Performance; Official builder, and Associate sponsors King Shocks, Currie Enterprises, and Fluid Flow Performance.
The Jeepspeed series is the most fun racing series, it’s cost effective, and it’s worthwhile for grass roots drivers. You don’t need to be a millionaire to race Jeepspeed. Most teams build their own vehicles, and have pit crews made up of family, and friends. When a team needs help, their competitors pitch in to fill the void. The camaraderie is unlike any other racing series. It’s no wonder that the Yokohama Jeepspeed series is the longest running spec racing series in off road racing.
The Jeepspeed Challenge class is the most limited, but it’s also the most popular. Taking these Jeep trucks with off the shelf suspension kits around the course takes a lot of skill. They also challenge the crews as it’s common to do some trouble-shooting or repairs on race day. “The first race of the year started out with great expectations,” says Ken Tichy. “The school bus was prepped and ready. The plan was to add a long arm kit and Dana 44 in the front but the current supply issues got in the way so that will have to wait until Silver State. We were running strong, passed a 3700 on the graded road at around mile 40. All was good until we got into the deep wash area and we were passed by the 1776 and shortly after the 1714 (Both 4 wheel drive cars). At pit 2 around mile 70 stopped for fuel and the crew told us the driver side front shock mount was cracked. Our plan was to back off to 50% and try to make it to main pit to hopefully weld up the damage. About 10 miles past pit 2 the noise in the front started to get louder so we slowed even more and limped to Midway in search of a welder. We got out and accessed the damage and realized it was more than a pit repair could fix, so we were stuck at Midway until the course was cold and John could retrieve us with the trailer. Thanks to our pit support; John, Mark, Mike, Reid and the boys from the Wolfpack. The desert took its toll this time but we all lived to race another day.” Kyle Gieselmann also had problems, and was unable to finish.
This left Scott Biehl, and Steve Palmieri to duke it out for the win. Scott was excited to race as his son would be co-driving in the car. He had some problems before the race even started. First the water main broke at his house, and then he had a fender bender with the motorhome in Parker when a woman pulled in front of him. They scrambled to make it to contingency in time. On race morning they had an issue on the starting line. Their fuel was the wrong color. They are supposed to run approved fuel which is clear 100 unleaded; his was blue. They filled their cans at the airport, and it is the wrong fuel to run. He wasn’t trying to cheat, he was trying to save money. “I tried to save $4 a gallon with AV gas,” said Scott. “I just forgot the rule, but rules are rules; we will probably get a penalty. Once we got in the truck and the green flag dropped, all my troubles went away. We caught 1776 at mile 5, we were on a mission. At mile 40 we caught a 3700 truck. We were bumper to bumper with Tichy in the sand wash. I clipped a tree so the hood was flapping. I turned the truck over to Travis Fletcher who said he was just going at prerunning pace, but I saw on the GPS he hit 97 miles per hour. The race started out horrible, but turned into a great day. We got to the checkered flag first; we are usually the one’s doing the chasing. My son Jacob got some good seat time navigating in the truck. It was his first full race. Riding in the truck will make him a better driver when he’s ready to take the wheel. He works on the truck, it’s not a free ride. He knows he’s lucky. None of his friends get to race. Since we got sponsored by El Centro Motors, and Imperial Valley Volkswagen this year we will be at all the races.” Scott was moved from first to second, and lost his finishing points over the fuel issue. Like he said; rules are rules.
Scott Biehl battled with Steve Palmieri all day. “It was a great race, we were neck and neck all day,” says Steve. “He caught us quick at about mile 10 in the rock garden. We caught him back in the sandy wash around mile 80. We got to mile 112, and had an oil cooler come loose so we got passed back when we stopped to fix it. It was real fast running all day. I have run that race so many times in the opposite direction that my mind was messed up all day. I had no idea where I was most of the time. These short wheelbase Jeeps usually have on side in the rut, and the other riding on the berm in the center. You end up popping around all day, it gets sketchy. We had no other troubles, and no flats. My brother in law does a lot of the prep so he gets the credit along with the crew. One thing about desert racing is that it’s a team win. Nobody is more important than any other.”
In the Jeepspeed Outlaws class, Jerry Simonson took the win. He finished the course in a little over 6 hours. “My son Kyle Quackenbush, and I started the race; we ran the first lap,” said Jerry. “Our Jeep, AKA the Sexy Beast, was running great. My brother Dan Simonson, and Stan Pier drove to pit 3 where we switched out. My wife Kathy Simonson and son Travis Quackenbush finished the race. The Yokohama tires are amazing. Green City Heating and AC has been there helping us keep the Sexy Beast running strong. It was a great day! Thanks go to all our family & friends that help at Simonson Racing.”
Garett Allred took another win at Parker in the Jeepspeed Trophy Class. “I thought it was going to be exciting going backwards; it was weird going that way,” said Garett. “It turned out to be super smooth; the smoothest Parker ever, but it was fun. At mile 50 I noticed the volts on the gage started dropping. I called for an alternator change at pit 2, but they didn’t have one when we got there. With 40 miles to go to the main pit we had only 8 volts showing even though we shut just about everything down. We made it on only 5 volts. We found out that the charge wire had gone bad. We run a carburetor so we only needed to supply the fuel pump, and not a computer. I had covid before the race so we had no time to test before we got there. We ran right up into the class 8 trucks, and it was fun racing with them. I was having fun picking them off, and hoped the truck would not shut down due to the electrical problem after making all those passes. After the repairs in main pit I turned the truck over to a friend who used to be my co-driver. He had such a good time he is joining our team and helping out with expenses. It was a fun, zero stress day, and we came out with the points lead going into Silver State. It felt great to be back in the driver’s seat.”
Win or lose, everyone was put to the test, and had something to be proud of. Work is already underway for the next Jeepspeed race, the Silver State 300 on April 28th to the 30th. The course is a favorite among drivers. Festivities take place in Las Vegas, and the course is up around Alamo, Nevada. Think you would like to give Jeepspeed racing a try? For information about the Jeepspeed racing series go to www.jeepspeed.com. There you will find additional info, deals on some attractively priced race Jeeps, Jeepspeed news, rules, race results, videos, and much more. -
Thursday, 04 November 2021
California City, CA
The final race of the 2021 Yokohama Tire Jeepspeed Race Series Presented by KMC Wheels was held in Cal City, CA, a unique place that is known for being the city that never quite made it. Originally designed to be a rival to Los Angeles, it spans the third-largest land area of any city in the state of California, but has roughly 14,000 inhabitants. It became a symbol of big dreams, and land speculation. The desert landscape in Cal City has plenty of terrain for desert racing, and the two-day Best In The Desert event brought an end to the speculation surrounding who would win the championships in each of the Jeepspeed categories.
The Jeepspeed series has classes for different levels of modifications. The Jeepspeed ChallenThe Speculation Ends For Jeepspeed Racers In Cal City
California City, CA
The final race of the 2021 Yokohama Tire Jeepspeed Race Series Presented by KMC Wheels was held in Cal City, CA, a unique place that is known for being the city that never quite made it. Originally designed to be a rival to Los Angeles, it spans the third-largest land area of any city in the state of California, but has roughly 14,000 inhabitants. It became a symbol of big dreams, and land speculation. The desert landscape in Cal City has plenty of terrain for desert racing, and the two-day Best In The Desert event brought an end to the speculation surrounding who would win the championships in each of the Jeepspeed categories.
The Jeepspeed series has classes for different levels of modifications. The Jeepspeed Challenge Class (1700 Stock), is the most popular and most affordable class. Trucks in this class must use off the shelf parts readily available to the general public and are allowed limited options for modification. It’s old school racing at its finest. Next up is the Jeepspeed Cup Class (2700 Intermediate). This Intermediate Class for Jeep and Dodge production based vehicles allows more modifications than the limited Class 1700. The Jeepspeed Outlaws Class (3700 Modified), allows Jeep or Dodge sport utility vehicles and light trucks that are recognizable as a Jeep or Dodge by brand grill, hood and fenders. The larger wheelbase and engine limits allow several more recent models such as 4 Door Wranglers and Dodge trucks to participate. At the top is the Jeepspeed Trophy Class (4700 Open). This is the Open Class with the least restrictions. Vehicles in this class must be Jeep or Dodge sport utility vehicles and light trucks that are recognizable as a Jeep or Dodge by brand grill, hood and fenders. Large motors, long travel suspension, and custom chassis are all allowed in this class.
One of the greatest attributes of the Jeepspeed series is its fierce competition. Since all the vehicles are closely matched, races, and championships usually come down to the final race of the season, and 2021 was no different. Ten different teams competed in the Jeepspeed Challenge class this season. Drivers of record included Mark Kammerlohr, Steve Palmieri, Tim Martin, Ken Tichy, Kyle Gieselmann, Joel Miner, Michael Bosley, Scott Biehl, Catarino Quiroz, and Bryan Reagan. Coming into Cal City, the top three in the standings were all in a tight battle for the championship. After two days of racing on the challenging Cal City course, the results were as follows: Mark Kammerlohr took the win, Steve Palmieri was second, and Ken Tichy third.
“The Cal City Desert Challenge lived up to the name,” said Mark Kammerlohr. “It was two days of challenge as the "green" course got well-worn after day one of racing. It created a different style for day two. Our Flip N' The Bird Team was without the bird as he was stuck working, but we were able to replace him with the more than capable and very familiar Ian Massey. He did a great job co-dawging for the two days. The nature of the race changed for our team when we learned that the 1772 (Tim Martin), was not going to be able to make it. Entered in the race along with us was the 1776 (Steve Palmieri), and our unofficial team mate, the 1706 (Ken Tichy). As the first race of the day, we were up before the sun checking over the jeep and getting ready for staging. The day one race began and we were eleventh off the line. The thirty mile course was laid out with a slew of right and left hand ninety degree or greater turns but also had some high speed sections and a rocky "goat" trail in the last couple miles. We set out at a pace that was very conservative and wanted to use the first lap as a "sight" lap to see where we could attack it and where we needed to be conservative. At mile eight or so the 1776 caught us and passed when I missed one of the sharp turns. Now we were in his dust and just putting in miles. The early morning weather was a little damp and the wind seemed to stop completely so we were in dust for much of the race. Again, trying not to hurt the jeep, we ran a smooth pace and finished. Unfortunately, it turned out to be almost five minutes behind the 1776. After day one we looked over jeep and took care of prep for the next day. Since we didn't beat up the Jeep, prep was minimal, and we got to watch some of the other classes race. Seeing them chew up the track, we knew that day two was going to be a different beast. While the 1776 took the day one checker, they had to do some work on the steering so I know they were driving hard.”
“On day two, we set out with a plan to see how the course changed and to do our best to make up five minutes to take the overall win. With this type of course and distance, it was unlikely, but in desert racing we all know anything can happen. Based on our time from the day before, we started sixth with the 1776 right in front. With the starting interval being a minute, we knew if we caught them quick then we could be on the way to making up the time. I did my best to catch them early and while I got close a couple of times I couldn't get past them in the dust. When the dust cleared, I saw the vehicle ahead was a TrophyLite and the 1776 was nowhere in sight. I got past the TrophyLite in a rocky hilly section. As we came over a rise, I saw the 1776 stopped on the side of the course. We slowed and they appeared good so we pushed to the end of lap one. Coming out of the pits I could see the 1706 coming into the infield section behind us; they were on a tear. Second lap out we knew what was in store and we pushed harder. We had no issues and as we leave the pits to start lap three, our crew radios Ian to give an update; 1776 had a control arm issue, 1706 is two minutes back. 1706 started almost four minutes behind us! I knew they couldn't win the overall, but they could still win the day so we started pedaling as hard as we could. We were fast and had clean air by now so it was just a solid cruise to the finish. We crossed the line in first place and with the season points championship. The 1706 lost a driveshaft at mile twenty eight ending their chance to pass us for the day. Both the 1776 and the 1706 got put back together and finished all three laps.”
Steve Palmieri’s second place finish in Cal City allowed him to edge out Tim Martin for second in the 1700 points championship. Tim Martin earned third place in the championship. Ken Tichy’s third place at Cal City earned him fourth place in the championship. Michael Bosley rounded out the top five in championship standings.
“The 1706 team showed up at California City not quite knowing what to expect having never raced there before,” says Ken Tichy. “During tech we met the Mayor of the city; she was very gracious and happy to be hosting the race. Props to BITD and the City for putting on the event on such short notice. Day one was my day to drive with son Adam in the right seat. Our first lap was good; fighting thru the dust and rising sun until around mile 25 when Adam started calling out that the transmission temp was climbing above 220. By the time we got to the pit, the temp had climbed to 250 so we pulled in. The crew found that the trans fan had no power. They ran a hot wire from the battery and the fan sparked to life, so we were off for our second lap. Transmission temperature was now below 180 and the stop in the pit left us with clean air ahead. Unfortunately, the time spent in the pit caused us to get the grand prix style checked flag finish after only 2 laps. Day one ended with the car all good and only one close call with a 2 wheeled pass of one of the Hall cars that ended with Adam saying good save dad! Day two was Adam’s turn to drive with me in the right seat. We were expecting a different course from Saturday as the fast afternoon classes had probably chewed up the corners. We were right. The corners were now deep silt beds and the two wheel drive "School Bus" was struggling in the deep silt to stay on top. Adam did a great job; he never got stuck. Around mile 20 on lap one, the top light bar decided it didn't want to play anymore and started to come loose. I reached up to grab it and fortunately it broke off and I was able to pull it into the cab; Adam never slowed down. We stopped at the pit with a drive by to hand off the light bar and were out on lap two. Adam was on a mission to chase down the Jeeps that started 4 and 5 minutes ahead of us. On lap 3 we heard on the radio that 1776 was in the pit with a broken control arm, so Adam stepped it up another notch to hunt down Mark in the 1785 car. We were reeling in 1785 and could see his dust. We thought we must be in first on corrected time, but the desert had another plan. At mile 27.5 we lost the rear u joint and were dead on the course. We pushed the car off the course and surveyed the damage. We had broken one of the u bolts and damaged the u joint. We had the parts in our pit, so BITD recovery dropped off the part and Adam got the car fixed. The 1776 car passed us after they had repaired their control arm. We were able to finish lap 3 with a checkered flag for another third place finish. Congratulations to Mark in 1785 on his win for the weekend and the championship. Thank You to our pit crew John, Mike Barnett, Mike Craft, Reid Larson and our wives for all your help and support for a fun weekend of racing. Also thank you to Jeepspeed for putting on this great series!!
In the 2700 class, Larry Trim took home the championship, and the top three championship winners in 3700 were Jerry Simonson, Chris Mortensen, and Harley Coffland. The 4700 class was the final championship to be determined.
The 4700 class was very competitive from day one of the season. Billy Bunch, Rob Seubert, Jeff Harmonson, Garett Allred, Andrew Hulse, Brett Maister, and Jason Jernigan all competed in their open trucks. Rob Seubert suffered a rare crash during the season; putting the multi-time champion out of contention for the championship win. He still managed to finish on the podium in third. The top two spots were held by Andrew Hulse, and Jeff Harmonson. Jeff Harmonson would need every point available in Cal City to overcome Andrew Hulse’s point lead going into the race. Wins on both days in Cal City could make that happen.
“The Jeepspeed Trophy class has been fun, we had a good season,” said Jeff Harmonson. “The last minute change from Parker to Cal City worked in our favor; that’s where we do our testing. I ran my first desert race ever in Cal City. On day two the track was worn out. There were deep ruts and silt in the corners. In 2nd gear turning 7 thousand RPM’s we were barely moving in the sand. Saturday’s race was much faster. We were the second truck out on course. I liked it because we had lots of family and friends with us. There were 20 people in our pit. We had fun telling lies around the camp fire. When it starts getting tough out on course I keep going because I owe it to my crew. They put in long hours in the garage so I’m racing just as much for them as I am for myself. Winning in our own back yard was a great time for everyone.” Jeff earned every point possible, but Andrew Hulse and his Wolfpack team took the Jeepspeed top spot.Jeepspeed racers are tough competitors who love a challenge. Thanks to strong sponsor support from Yokohama Tire, KMC Wheels, Jasper Racing Engines, GG Lighting, Rugged Radios, EVO Mfg., King Shocks, T&J Performance, and Action Sports Canopies they are able to compete at a fraction of the cost other classes spend. That’s why the Jeepspeed series is the longest running spec class in off road racing. It allows competitors to build their own trucks if they wish, as long as they follow simple rules to keep the playing field level. When you want to go faster, all you have to do is go to the next higher class that allows more modifications. Jeepspeed is responsible for bringing many new grassroots racers into the sport, as well as launching the careers of champions. The teams share a camaraderie that is unique in off road competition. They often team up with each other, or volunteer to help others in the pits. No other racing series compares when it comes to fun for the dollar.Jeepspeed racers are tough competitors who love a challenge. Thanks to strong sponsor support from Yokohama Tire, KMC Wheels, Jasper Racing Engines, GG Lighting, Rugged Radios, EVO Mfg., King Shocks, T&J Performance, and Action Sports Canopies they are able to compete at a fraction of the cost other classes spend. That’s why the Jeepspeed series is the longest running spec class in off road racing. It allows competitors to build their own trucks if they wish, as long as they follow simple rules to keep the playing field level. When you want to go faster, all you have to do is go to the next higher class that allows more modifications. Jeepspeed is responsible for bringing many new grassroots racers into the sport, as well as launching the careers of champions. The teams share a camaraderie that is unique in off road competition. They often team up with each other, or volunteer to help others in the pits. No other racing series compares when it comes to fun for the dollar.
Think you would like to give Jeepspeed racing a try? Now is the perfect time to make plans for next season. For the latest information about the Jeepspeed racing series go to www.jeepspeed.com. There you will find additional info, deals on some attractively priced race Jeeps, Jeepspeed news, rules, race results, videos, and much more. On the Jeepspeed forum, you can read more in-depth race reports from many of the Jeepspeed teams. Go check it out today!
Jeepspeed Races for 2023
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APRIL 20-22, 2023
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AUGUST 16-20, 2023
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OCTOBER 12-15, 2023
Frequently Asked Questions...
Q: How long has Jeepspeed been a racing class?
Jeepspeed has been the fastest growing and most competitive off-road race class since 2001. Started by Clive Skilton and the Barnett brothers, Jeepspeed offers racing, rallying and adventures to the weekend offroader who has racing on their bucket list.
Q: How much does it cost to get started racing?
Jeepspeed is the most affordable class is off-road racing.
Our rules allow each competitor the option of constructing their own race vehicle, thus keeping fabrications costs to a minimum.
A Jeepspeed builders kit can be purchased for as little as $10,000.00. Contact Jeepspeed for kit breakdown: tires, wheels, cage, suspension etc.
Others may want to fully fabricate the cage and bumpers on their own. You can purchase the suspension, shocks etc. from our approved vendors list.
A competitive Jeepspeed XJ race car can be built for under $30,0000.00
Average per race expenses:
Entry fee $800.00
IRC $250.00
Fuel $500.00
Lodging $200.00
Food $200.00
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$1950.00
Q: What are the major differences between the classes?
Class 1700 Jeepspeed Challenge: Stock wheel base +/- 2". 6 cylinder motors max 250 c.i. . 33" maximum tire size. 10" of front wheel travel and 12" of rear wheel travel. 1 shock per wheel. Limited travel and power that leaves the racing up to the driver.
Class 2700 Jeepspeed Cup: Limited modifications. Stock WB with stock frame. 119" WB modified frame. 35" tire. 12" front travel . 14" rear travel. Two shocks per wheel. Production based Jeep and Dodges - Stroker 6 cyl. Any Jeep/Mopar V8 engine up to 6 ltr. Super chargers and Turbos allowed on 6 cylinder motors only.
Class 3700 Jeepspeed Outlaws: Open class! Any make production based engine. 37" maximum tire size. 15" of front wheel travel and 24" rear wheel travel. Shock size and number of shocks are open. Modified open class. Stock WB with factory frame. 119" WB with modified or tube frame.
Class 4700 Jeepspeed Trophy: New for 2019: Any recognizable Jeep or Dodge bodied vehicles. Open chassis. 123" max WB. 37" tires. Open engines. 18" front travel, open rear travel.
Check out the RULES for each class for more information
Q: Are there people who can build a racing car for me?
Jeepspeed has had years of success allowing each competitor the opportunity to fabricate on their own race vehicle. However if you need help constructing or repairing your race vehicle, contact us at Jeepspeed and we will set you up with one of our preferred Jeepspeed builders in your area.
Q: How many races do I have to attend?
Prior to each season the number of races for the championship are decided upon. The schedule is based on feedback from the racers as well as our sposors with the focus always on producing a competitive well attended race for each event of the season.