5 GOOD REASONS TO RIDE WITH A CLUB:

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Because you never know when a zombie is going to chase you across a river....

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      There is a general rule to off roading that is clear and simple, don’t wheel alone.  There are times that we go out into the woods to scout out an area for trail rides or off looking for snakes. There have been times we broke down way off the grid, or got stuck.  We lost our clutch cylinder in Tiger Bay, back in 1987 we got stuck way back in the Strand south of SeaWorld. We do have a winch and recovery equipment, and I have no fear of getting out and walking through a hole to check the depth.  But most of the time if the obstacle looks sketchy we just don’t go that way. Recently taking a short cut to the general store in Richloam we came upon just such a hole. I got out and walked forward to check how  soft it was. I could have made it but my gut said no. The next day there was a post in Stuck in Florida SOS with a guy stuck in that very spot.  So if you like to ride the best thing to do is find some friends or look up your local Jeep club and meet new friends.  Here are 5 things to persuade you to ride with a club.
 
Safety: 
We often ride out to find and photograph wildlife.  Sometimes that takes us into areas that if we breakdown or get stuck it could lead to a long walk. Not to mention that some places you just should not go. Insert banjo music here…
 
Experienced Guides:
Following someone who has been there before provides a clear rout. They know where they are going and how deep each hole is. They know what to stay clear of and how to pick your line. They often know what areas are good for they level of your Jeep and will be there to encourage you to give it a try.
 
Camaraderie:
It’s more funner…. I Know its improper English but that word just fits the jeep life. A good group of people traveling together gives you a chance to meet new friends and old acquaintances. You can see what others have done to their Jeeps and ask about things you have been dealing with.  A family friendly club was a big draw for us.
 
Information:
Clubs have meetings and that’s where you get to find out what is happening in the Jeep world.  We often meet at sponsor locations and usually there are raffles. I have won some good and useful gear.  The Orlando Jeep Club is also involved in charities.  From fund raisers to raffles financial aid is given to local worthy causes.  How to classes and safety lesions are part of meetings.  Also planning and upcoming events are announced to you know where to go.
 
Events:
Events in the Central Florida area happen throughout the year. Heading out with a group gives you friends to hang with. Some clubs are involved in the event and are part of trail rides and spotting. Each year 100s of club members put time in testing and riding the trails so that when the event comes around they know the trails they lead. Jeepin with Judd is HUGE!!!!  Orlando Jeep Club plays a big part in what jeepers do at the event. Trail rides are a big dray and when you get to ride in areas that are clean and diverse, it’s a treat.

The Orlando Jeep Club web site has information on how to join up so you can be a part of a good trail ride event. Look them up at http://www.orlandojeepclub.com