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On this milestone episode #50, we have the pleasure of chatting with Frank and John from OutdoorX4 magazine. OutdoorX4 is a new publication that brings offroading and the outdoor lifestyle together and features articles from numerous well known adventure seekers. Articles highlight adventures from parts unknown to your own backyard and beautiful photography. As well as being a print magazine, you also get a digital subscription so that you can read in the go using your iOS, Android or laptop. OutdoorX4 also has a website with curated outdoor lifestyle content from all around the web. Be sure to also like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter and Instagram.
News
GoPro Hero 3+
GoPro has released a new version of the Hero 3 action camera. The new camera has been labeled the Hero 3+. Although this camera is not all new, GoPro did attempt to improve on some of the inherent weaknesses found in the Hero 3. According to the folks over at Gizmodo.com, the Hero 3+ has the following enhancements over its predecessor:
– A refined lens along with improved imaging software resulting in a sharper picture.
– The 3+ is a whopping 2 grams lighter than the 3 (73g vs. 75g).
– A new Wi-Fi chip with a faster transfer rate for slightly less latency when controlling the camera using the remote or smartphone app.
– A higher capacity battery (1180mAh vs. 1050mAh).
– New software features include a “SuperView”, and “Auto Low Light” modes.
Check out Gizmodo’s Hero 3, Hero 3+ comparison video here: Hero 3 Vs. Hero 3+ Video
Eton boost turbine charger. http://feedly.com/k/GBChks
Many of us Tech Geeks find it difficult to compromise on the number of energy hungry gadgets we can bring with us when we leave the confines of our “On Grid” to satisfy our desire to explore the trails less traveled, “Off Grid” style. Who doesn’t want the convenience of a smartphone that works better as a GPS than most GPS specific devices on the market today? Most of today’s high tech portable devices are big on technology and short on battery life. If your idea of an outdoor adventure doesn’t always include the use of a vehicle equipped with the ever more popular 12V outlet, Eton may have the product for you. Brendan Leonard of Adventure Journal took Eton’s hand crank equipped BoostTurbine 2000 on an 11 day trek to test the unit’s viability as a charging source for your favorite USB equipped mobile electronic devices.
Image Courtesy Adventure Journal
It turns out the 7-once, 11 cubic inch device requires roughly 500 rotations of the crank to increase an iPhone’s battery charge by 1%! Click here Adventure Journal to read more about Brendon’s experiences with the BoostTurbine
Offroad versions of GM SUV s http://feedly.com/k/GBCl3Fy
General Motors is considering offering offroad capable versions of the latest models of their large SUVs. According to Autonews.com GM is going to offer a more off road capable option for all of their body on frame SUVs. According to Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer for GM Trucks, the Z71 package GM has been offering on the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, has not been as popular as was hoped. Could this mean the tables are finally turning and American automotive manufacturers are again recognizing us in the more “Utility” market segment? Let’s cross our fingers, but not yet hold our breath. Read more about this story here: Autonews.com
Modular rack for a pickup – http://feedly.com/k/GBCwMe
The variety of accessories available to pickup truck owners, to better utilize open bed space, has been expanding rapidly over the past several years. With most trucks now sporting a shorter bed and larger cab, the four post rack systems to haul longer loads such as canoes, kayaks, surf boards, and the occasional extension ladder have become a common accessory in the pickup truck community. Backbone of Kent, Washington has added a new product to their lineup of four post rack systems, the V Back.
Image Courtesy offroadxtreme.com
The V Back provides the convenience of a four post rack, with the flexibility of an open truck bed. Visit Offroad Xtreme http://www.offroadxtreme.com/news/new-products/backbones-v-back-is-a-sliding-reversible-rack-for-your-pickup/?utm_source=feedly for all the details!
Goodbye Convertible G Wagon
It looks like the convertible version of the Mercedes-Benz Gelande Wagon will be discontinued.
Image Courtesy AutoBlog.com
According to AutoBlog.com, Mercedes will continue to offer both the long and short wheel base models, sans the convertible. We in the US will only be offered the long wheelbase, four door option. For those who people who have putting off buying their dream car… Don’t wait too long!
Interview with Frank and John from OutdoorX4 Magazine
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Offroad APPtitude
The RunKeeper app is a great way to keep track of your workouts or your adventures on the trail.
Recipe – Dutch Oven Chili
Ingredients
- 1 lb bacon
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 4 onions
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 oz ground cumin
- 3 oz chili powder
- 2 tbsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp red pepper
- 2 tbsp Lawry’s seasoning salt
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 15 oz can baked beans
- 15 oz can kidney beans
- 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 28 oz can tomato sauce (use paste for a thicker chili)
- Add two jalapenos (seeds included if you would like a spicier chili)
Directions
Cook and cut the bacon and add to the bottom of the dutch oven. Brown and drain the ground beef before adding to the oven. Dice onions and garlic. Add remaining ingredients to the dutch oven and let simmer for 15 min, stirring occasionally.
