It's May. And whether you're a diehard off-road enthusiast or a new recruit to the overlanding lifestyle, this time of year has a definite vibe. Maybe it's the return of consistently warm weather. Perhaps it's the excitement of new adventures out in the woods and weekends on the trails. For us, this time of year makes us giddy for one of our favorite off-road events: Overland Expo West.
Part car show, part trade show, Overland Expo West upends the industry norm for enthusiast events. It has literally everything for the wilderness-craving soul with a penchant for the off-road. From educational classes and demonstrations taught by the industry's leading experts to a top-tier trade show with vendors spanning the entire overlanding spectrum—OE West delivers. This year's event was no exception. 2023 marked Black Rhino's 3rd year as a supporting sponsor, and we couldn't have been happier to be back in Flagstaff, AZ, and a part of the action.
Axial Racing's RC Crawl Challenge
This year, we joined forces with Axial Racing to sponsor the thrilling RC Crawl Challenge. The challenge featured 1:10 scale trucks outfitted with Black Rhino Wheels, testing their performance and agility on an intricate course. Winners battled against the terrain to win a set of Black Rhino Wheels, a $1,000 Morimoto Lighting gift certificate, and a Smittybilt hammock. Younger participants had the chance to win a 1:24 scale Axial Racing SCX24, a Lego Jeep Rubicon, and a stylish branded hoodie. You can learn more about the Axial x Black Rhino Jeep Wrangler.
We Brought The Goods
We try to outdo ourselves with each Overland Expo we attend. This year, we made a statement. After choosing 22 of our favorite wheels to display–including this year's newest additions: the Alpha, Arsenal and Alston—we set out to build an experience for spectators and other participants alike. Collaborating with Morimoto Lighting and Smittybilt, our campground was a one-stop shop for adventurers—featuring a myriad of trail-proven wheels, state-of-the-art lighting solutions, and top-quality off-road products. Event participants who visited the grounds got the full overlanding effect with Black Rhino.
Bow to the Shogun
The event witnessed the grand debut of the highly anticipated Black Rhino Shogun wheel. This all-new offering from Black Rhino Wheels showcases our cutting-edge flow formed technology, which guarantees superior strength and durability on the road and the trails. Available in 16" and 17" diameters and three bold finishes, the Shogun wheel is set to make a lasting impression in the off-road community. Learn more about the Black Rhino Shogun.
Shoreline Motoring's Sprinter Van Display:
One of the main attractions at the Black Rhino Wheels exhibit was Shoreline Motoring's Sprinter van. The Huntington Beach-based company has a long reputation of excellence in the automotive community and their adventure-built Sprinter is a testament to their quality and precision. Outfitted with 17x8" Black Rhino Atlas wheels wrapped with 37” Nitto Tires and an impressive Morimoto Banger Off-Road lighting arrangement, the Shoreline Sprinter is trail-ready and built for adventure. The Sprinter exemplified the perfect combination of ruggedness, style, and versatility, demonstrating the true potential of Black Rhino Atlas wheel on Sprinter van applications. Learn more about the Black Rhino Atlas.
Thanks For Another Great Year
With another Overland Expo West in the books, we wanted to take a look back and thank each vendor, participant and event visitor for the continued support and shared passion year after year. Here at Black Rhino, we live for adventure and are proud to supply the most capable off-road wheels to inspire each journey. We'll see you in 2024.
