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Many ADVers are familiar with Overland Expo East held in Arrington, VA, and Overland Expo West held in Flagstaff, AZ. Due to the popularity of past events, the organizers recently added a new venue, Overland Expo Mountain West, which was held at The Ranch Complex in Loveland, CO. Even though we’re still coping with COVID-19, and the decision to attend the event was questionable by some, the event turned out to be OX’s biggest gathering yet.
Both the location and time of year (August 27–29) were well thought-out, given the number of small- and large-scale vendors who signed up. Temperatures were a bit on the warm side, with the high around 90°F. However, for campers, nights cooled to a more comfortable low 60°F. The event date might change when things are “normalized,” or if Flagstaff’s OX West is moved back to its old slot in late May.
Harley Davidson was present with a test-ride fleet of about 18 Pan Americas, as was Triumph with a mix of their offerings, and Yamaha with plenty of Tenere 700s to sample. All one needed for a demo ride was a valid motorcycle license and proper riding gear. And unlike at IMS events, the waiting lines were reasonable, giving anyone interested a chance to try these new offerings on for size.
In addition to test rides, Ride with Us provided free introductory classes in off-road motorcycling, even equipping the students with riding gear. One of their claims to fame is getting a noob up and riding within 45 minutes, and indeed, they did just that! Student training was conducted on a fleet of XT250s and TW200s on hard-pack in a large dirt corral, free from distractions. There were smiles everywhere upon course completion. Ride with Us is planning to join other OX events, so if you know someone curious about motorcycling, it’ll be one heck of an opportunity.
If you already knew how to ride, Bill Dragoo’s D.A.R.T. was on-hand, teaching advanced off-road classes. Bill has a knack for a non-intimidating gentle approach to instruction that provides a smoother runway to learning the more challenging aspects of off-roading. Likeminded expert trainers Dusty Wessel and Cassie Maier assisted. If you are interested in gaining or honing your off-road skills, I highly recommend looking them up (see links at the end of this article).
As for vendors, the majority were 4X4-oriented, but the motorcycle area was manned by several industry giants, including Wolfman, Mosko Moto, Green Chili ADV gear, Woody’s Wheel Works, and Ural. They also had up-and-coming women’s apparel vendors such as Just Ride 5. OX Mountain West proved to be the perfect opportunity to not only see the gear but to meet and greet the owners/designers in person and learn more about their products.
The food and beverage vendor area was another treat, including one of my favorites—the E&O Medicine Show. With Owen on electric violin and Evan on guitar their musical stylings kept folks entertained from late afternoon into the evening. It’s worth noting they’re always a hit at these events.
Those who’ve attended past OX events know the most-neglected aspect has been the shower and restroom facilities. Well, that’s finally been addressed, and I’m more than impressed with the improvement. These areas were always clean and well-stocked, with portable trailer showers well-placed throughout the grounds, and open 24 hours a day.
When it came time to unwind at the end of the day, OX’s Overland Expo Film Festival provided a heap of inspiration and a much-needed break from the heat of the day, with air-conditioning and comfortable seating.
My only “con” was the dry grass and treeless camping area. It was pretty dusty and felt like a swap meet parking lot. Then again, the area was only intended as a place to sleep or grab a snack from your rig.
OX Mountain West’s hard-working staff made this event a success. The Colorado venue is a great option for those who can’t make it to either of the other two OX events, or just can’t get enough of everything overlanding.
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