Introduction

Steve Vanderhoek is no stranger to thrill-seeking and adrenaline-fueled adventures, and his latest creation is no exception. Our favorite dirt biking enthusiast is back with a mind-blowing project that perfectly fuses his passion for steep, rocky lines and heart-pounding drops. After feeling uninspired for a couple of years, a recent trip to Utah reignited his creative spirit and passion for building exhilarating features.

The Adventure Begins

During his journey, Vanderhoek was tipped off about an incredible location deep in the backcountry, a place characterized by post-wildfire recovery—an expansive burn zone filled with massive slabs of rock, reminiscent of the intense PNW Rampage zone. The catch? This adrenaline-fueled gem is located 2.5 hours away from home, surrounded by grizzly bears and devoid of cell service. But this did not deter Vanderhoek, who set off on his dirt bike, and upon arriving at the site, he couldn’t contain his excitement—he had truly found the ideal backdrop for his next big project!

Preparation for the Ride

As his creation neared completion, the reality of actually riding the monstrous feature began to sink in. Knowing himself well, he realized he could easily obsess over every detail, which could delay his moment of truth. So, he boldly declared to his friends, “Book it in the calendar! I'm hitting this thing on Thursday!”

Final Adjustments

The day before his much-anticipated ride, Vanderhoek meticulously followed his usual process. He spent hours alone at the site, making enhancements and adjustments to ensure everything was perfect. He filled distracting holes with rock and epoxy, meticulously grinded the surface for grip, and packed the landing to create an optimal riding experience. This time, he even extended the line by an additional 50 feet, allowing him to get comfortable on his bike before the big drop. After a long day of preparation, he visualized himself successfully riding the feature and was filled with confidence like never before—so much so that he enjoyed a blissful night's sleep for the first time before a big stunt!

Facing Fears

However, the drive to the site was a different story. Despite his planning, Vanderhoek felt a wave of nervousness wash over him, grappling with guilt for potentially putting his friends and family through undue stress. His parents were understandably concerned, and his partner Kelsey had witnessed the aftermath of his biggest crashes. Vanderhoek reassured them that he would only push the limits if he felt completely confident. He was prepared to walk away if the conditions weren’t right or if he didn’t feel ready.

The Thrill Awaits

As Vanderhoek prepares to showcase his thrilling creation to his circle, the riding community eagerly awaits what this adventure has in store. Will he conquer this big drop spectacularly, or will he play it safe? Only time will tell, and one thing’s for sure—this is a ride you won’t want to miss! Stay tuned for updates on Vanderhoek’s exhilarating journey—it promises to be an unforgettable experience!