Exploring Moab with my R1T and dogs

[Taiga]

Years ago, the TV show Mythbusters did a test to see if drifting a car was in any way quicker around a track compared to traditional racing lines. The answer was that is was actually slower, but arguably much more fun.

That logic also holds true to the R1. Rally is probably the quickest way to get anywhere on traction limited surfaces while drift is just loose and tail happy. Rally gets you great acceleration and handling while drift is all about induced oversteer. Rally is a scalpel for the dirt and Drift mode will get you sideways faster than a Mustang leaving a cars and coffee on a Saturday morning.

I actually don’t use Rally that much off-road. While the responsiveness is fun, when I have space to go fast, I find drift more more fun. Rally is faster with better traction, but if traction is a concern, I am in Off Road All Purpose or Rock Crawl when I wanted more pedal control.

And that is really the problem with the Rivian. The R1T just makes it too east to get yourself in trouble. The Rivian is so much more capable than I am. You don’t need to work hard to go fast. The R1 is like an automotive cheat code. I need to remind myself to not go beyond my limits, but I don’t know where they are for the R1.

Even after a year with it, the physics of a 7000lb truck doing what it does just don’t compute. I don’t have the skills to use Rally Mode as it should be, and I feel Drift is easier because you just need some open space to get some sideways. And when you are done with the sideways fun, let off the go pedal and it falls right back inline, maybe with just the slightest touch of opposite lock. It’s not technical, it’s just plain fun.

Now if we only had a handbrake….

Awesome! Thank you. Can't wait to find some open dirt.

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[RIVinIT]

My dogs and I spent a few days exploring Moab in my R1T. I’ve had my Rivian for about a year and just want to encourage others to get out and explore.

Charging: Rivian, please get some Level 2 waypoint chargers set up in Moab! The charging infrastructure in Moab leaves much to be desired, there are a few Level 2 chargers in the city but they are all about 6kw. A few Waypoint chargers would go a long way. There is an Electrify America station about 50 miles north in Green River that I recommend topping off at. I put it in Conserve Mode from GR to Moab and had plenty of battery left. Otherwise, here are a few Blink chargers and a free one at City Hall, but only one of the two was operational. A few of the local hotels also had Blink level 2 chargers but at 6kw, you will be there a while.

Trails: Hurrah Pass and Potash Road are easy option to get started on and get some experience. potash Road is actually a back e trance to Canyonlands National Park. You can also go to the state park and explore Fins n Things. The R1s are more than capable for Fin n Things but you need to have some experience in off roading and a spotter helps in places.

R1 Stuff: I would strongly recommend 20” All Terrain tires for any off-road work here. Be sure to air down for a bit more traction and a softer ride. I used 30 psi which I consider airing down for a Rivian, even though I take my 4Rummer to below 20. Also, be sure to air back up when you are done with the trails for good tire wear.

I would also recommend playing with the drive modes. If conditions permit, do yourself a favor and try drift mode if you have some open space. I have raced plenty of cars on tracks but Drift Mode in the R1T is just stupid amounts of fun. I feel bad for the people who get dual motors and will not have the option for drift mode. Honestly, drift mode is enough justification to get the quad. When you need more pedal control for power delivery, Rock Crawl Mode is great. When the terrain gets more technical, the cameras are your friend. Finally, pet mode is great in the desert when your pups need a break but you want to get out. It’s a game changer compared to coming here with my 4Runner.

Rivian Questions: I got more questions on my R1T here than any other place in recent memory. Everyone was asking about it, especially visitors from Europe. I could not stop at Arches National Park without getting questions about it. I was happy to show off the vehicle and I hope Rivian realizes the opportunity to expand brand awareness in places like Moab.

Now go explore!

Great Pics and info, thanks TMMcgee

 

[av8or]

Moab might be my favorite place in the country. Thanks for the write up and pics.

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