At RUX, we love a Tacoma! In this week’s RUX Ride, we chat to pro mountain bike athlete, Tegan Cruz, about his ‘06 Tacoma.
Who are you? What do you do? Where do you live? What makes you happiest?
My Name is Tegan Cruz, I am a professional mountain bike athlete living in Pemberton BC. When I'm not training or traveling the world competing at the UCI Downhill World Cup circuit, I enjoy all the west coast of BC has to offer from Snowmobiling in the backcountry to camping and exploring onboard my Toyota Tacoma.
Describe your vehicle: make, model, etc.
I drive a 2006 Toyota Tacoma 4 door long box that has been swapped to a 6 speed manual. I have also welded up Coastal Offroad bumpers front and rear and have upgraded the suspension as well as mounting a roof top tent for camping. . Built up my truck to be able to take me wherever I wish to go, 4x4 through the mountains to a lake or road trips to the beach, my truck can do it all!
Describe your favourite feature of your vehicle.
My favorite feature on the vehicle is the capability of the vehicle. My Tacoma has allowed me to explore all around the west coast of BC and take me on some pretty great adventures. and I'm just getting started!4. Best location/adventure you've ever had with your vehicle?
I've been pretty lucky to do some amazing trips in my Tacoma but my favorite trip has to be my road trip down to Southern California with my brother Lucas. exploring down the west coast of north america camping our way down the coast.
Most epic stuck/breakdown/wrong turn?
Knock on wood, I've been pretty lucky not to have too many issues out exploring but I have done a couple CV axles out in the bush. always carry tools and have good friends to get you out of any situation!
Any advice to someone thinking of getting into a custom adventure vehicle?
Can't recommend a Toyota Tacoma enough to be the start of an adventure vehicle. Even if it starts off as some upgraded wheels and tires these vehicles still have the capability to take you on some pretty rad adventures. Youtube has taught me to be a DIY mechanic and has cut down on all costs building out my vehicle.
Any upcoming/current adventures you want to promote, or other partners you want to give a shout-out to?
Out of town traveling and competing for the next little while, but you can bet summer adventures are on the horizon!
