The Westcoast Workhorse

Works Hard, But Plays Harder

We have a very special ROTM feature for February 2024, as it is our own company vehicle: a gorgeous and “nearly” stock 1978 Ford Bronco. This beauty was originally purchased by the founders of North Shore Racks, Malcolm and Alison Hammond as a workhorse that helped get their business off the ground. Though it might not be transporting raw rack components these days, it is still a go-to shuttle rig for the NSR team.

Give us a quick INTRO- who are you? Where do you live?

My name is Malcolm Hammond, my wife Alison and I are the founders of North Shore Racks. We live locally in North Vancouver and ride several times a week.

Give us a quick overview of your rig.

It’s a 1978 Ford Bronco with a 400ci v-8, mostly stock. We’ve had it for 24 years, long before these Broncos were considered cool. Really, we just needed something inexpensive and truck-like. I had a history with this generation of Ford truck so it was something I could easily repair and maintain for a low cost. Fuel economy wasn’t a big concern as it was mostly needed for short trips here in North Van, with some Seymour and Cypress shuttles mixed in. Soon after buying it we started our family, and both of our boys were brought home from the hospital in it. Now they’ve both learnt to drive in it! Most of the early testing for North Shore Racks was done with this truck.

Tell us about any special modifications that make your rig stand out.

The real challenge with older vehicles is to keep them as original and stock as possible. The aftermarket is full of upgrade parts while the OEMs have long stopped making parts. I rebuilt the engine a few years ago and did take some liberties here. The original engine was from an era when the manufacturers were trying to figure out how to meet emissions, the result was a gutless gas guzzler. Now it has higher compression pistons, a roller camshaft, aluminum intake and 4-barrel carb. Stock power rating was only 140hp, and after the rebuild it produced over 300hp and burns significantly less fuel, all with a quiet stock exhaust. It really is amazing how much better it is.

What is the best road trip you’ve taken your rig on?

Multiple trips into the interior of British Columbia and especially the Kootenays.

What would be your next dream road trip?

Looking forward to the spring shuttle season on Cypress.

How long have you had your North Shore Rack?

20+ years!

In your travels, what is your favorite riding location/favorite trail?

Local riding is as good as anywhere but if I were to pick a favorite it would be Nelson, BC. Great trails, great people and a great vibe.

Coffee, beer or tea?

Beer and tea, no coffee for me.

Shuttle/road trip essential tunes?

Heavy metal for riding, 80s tunes with some Roger Waters for road tripping.