Capping off a busy August with the release of our latest generation of rack, the NSR4 Gradus, we have the feature rig in the spotlight to show it off. Brought to us by Simon Koch, long time member of the NSR riding crew, we have his 2025 Landcruiser First Edition, a reborn legend of a rig which pairs perfectly with our brand spankin' new rack. Simon was gracious enough to lend us his rig for a couple of six packs, to not only model the Gradus 4, but also for testing some of the finer details of our new rack.
Give us a quick INTRO- who are you? Where do you live?
My name is Simon Koch and I have lived on the North Shore since 1978 (yes I’m a pretty old mountain biker), and am a long time member of the NSR riding crew.
Give us a quick overview of your rig.
It’s a 2025 Landcruiser First Edition
Tell us about any special modifications that make your rig stand out.
I haven’t made many modifications as it comes stock with really solid features. I changed out the stock rubber for Falken Wildpeak Tires. I had these on my last 4Runner and they are amazing.
What is the best road trip you’ve taken your rig on?
It is early days but probably a fly-fishing trip with a buddy in the spring to the area around Sheridan Lake, BC
What would be your next dream road trip?
I’m looking forward to going to Tyax to ride Spruce Lake. I drove up the Hurley River road in ’94 and it was pretty rough back then. I expect the Landcruiser will handle it better than my old Jimmy which kept overheating.
How long have you had your North Shore Rack?
I think it’s about 11 or 12 years. Once my kids started riding, I needed a solution for 4 bikes that didn’t take up too much space in the garage.
In your travels, what is your favorite riding location/favorite trail?
This is a tough one. The obvious places are the North Shore/Sea to Sky and Moab. I have also built some trails near my cabin in the interior which are also favorites.
Coffee, beer or tea?
Yes
Shuttle/road trip essential tunes?
The War on Drugs and some Pearl Jam
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