The folks on staff at the Four Wheeler
Network Blog was incredibly excited last month to put the ZR2 Bison to the test in an element that would surely show how
capable it really is of slogging through any condition. The crew had previously
familiarized themselves with the ZR2 during last year's “Four Wheeler Pickup
Truck of the Year” test, where it took home first place. The 2019 Bison
received massive upgrades through expert Montana-based outfitter AEV that the
group was itching to try out: on top of front and rear electric lockers,
Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve shocks, a 2-inch taller ride height,
and 3.5-inch-wider track width, the Bison also received a custom-stamped steel
front bumper.
It also proudly boasts fog lights and space for a
winch, rear bumper with dual recovery points and matching contours for the
widened fender flares, hot-stamped Boron steel skid plates protecting the oil
pan, fuel tank, transfer case, and AEV badging located throughout. The weather
was a bit dreary, but the team was determined to pack as much adventure as they
could into the time-space of the weekend. The 62-inch bed was more than enough
space for the camping gear needed for the trip, but with heavy snow in the
forecast, they chose to test the carrying ability of the back seat.
They easily stacked sleeping accommodations,
photography, recovery gear, and the Dometic CFX 35W electric cooler into the
back, and excitedly hit the road. The goal for travel was between Mojave and
Bishop, California, on mostly dirt roads. They noticed that the first leg of
their trip allowed for carrying speed through obstacles that would slow
non-off-road-equipped vehicles to a snail's pace. When the trail eventually
because very slick, steep, and riddled with rocks, the increased track width
and skidplating allowed for much more confidence and stability, and AEV's
17-inch aluminum wheels came complete with Goodyear DuraTrac tires, known for
their primo ability in mud and snow.
The team was literally stuck with the Bison in
feet of snow, and nearly knee-deep powder and the poorest visibility in
existence required the employment of both locking differentials to keep moving
at all. What was rated highest and most useful after this trek were many
components that one expert along for the ride admitted “would make him sell his
Jeep”. The grabby tires, front and rear electric-locking differentials, and
skidplates all were integral in allowing the truck to pass through the worst of
winter conditions. Follow along closely with the gang's adventures here, and make sure to pay us a visit here at West Chevy during
the spring to check out the capabilities and off-road candor of the mighty ZR2!
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