Wheels and reels

Behind the wheel that's behind the lens

With the summer season and warmer weather fast approaching, we are really excited for April's ROTM feature, which is an equal parts business and fun 2012 Nissan X-Terra, brought to us by Kelsey Toevs. From helping us get photos of our latest rack line-up, to her 2023 Dirt Diaries winning video, Kelsey's work in mountain biking is nothing short of amazing. But that's just a small part of her skillset, as she got her start in photography capturing architectural, and portrait shots. Needing a rig that can handle the back roads of the Pacific North West, as well as Vancouver's concrete jungle, Kelsey's 2012 X-Terra gets her where she needs to be when hunting for the perfect shot.

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

I’m Kelsey Toevs, born and raised in North Vancouver and I’m a photographer/filmmaker. Most of my work is for real estate agents capturing new houses hitting the market but I also create bike films and photographs with my husband Steve Vanderhoek.

Give us a quick overview of your rig.

I drive a 2012 Nissan X-Terra with a Smittybuilt roof top tent and a North Shore 4 Rack! I love my rig because it fits everything I want to do. It’s small enough to get around downtown for shoots but can also get anywhere in the backcountry for mountain bike projects and camping adventures.

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

I haven’t done any crazy mods to it but put Level 8 guardian wheels on and shaved out the front wheel wells to accommodate bigger tires. Everyone knows it’s me driving around because of the tent and the North Shore Rack.

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

I did a fun road trip to Bend, Oregon with a big group of friends to do some cliff jumping that took us around some of the coolest waterfalls in Oregon. But taking it up to Squamish constantly is so great because it’s so beautiful and so close.

What would be your next dream road trip?

I’m about to go on my dream trip in April down to Virgin, Utah! Heading down with Steve and a couple friends to ride and film and then head over to the coast and make our way back up through California.

How long have you had your North Shore Rack?

I think I’ve had a North Shore Rack for the entire time I’ve had my truck, so about 10 years!

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

I really enjoy riding Cypress because on a nice sunny day you get to hang out at the grass field overlooking the city after your ride. I’ve had the most fun riding 5th Horseman.

Coffee, beer or tea?

Coffee definitely

Shuttle/road trip essential tunes?

I’m all over the map with music but I will never go wrong with Country.