Sep 15, 2026
Tuffride on the Canning Road Stock Route
Embarking on an extraordinary journey, we set out to conquer the legendary Canning Stock Route (CSR) with a caravan in tow
Embarking on an extraordinary journey, we set out to conquer the legendary Canning Stock Route (CSR) with a caravan in tow
At Tuffride, the spirit of innovation is matched only by our passion for embracing the unknown. Embarking on an extraordinary journey, we set out to conquer the legendary Canning Stock Route (CSR) with a caravan in tow. Our mission wasn’t just about pushing the limits of conventional travel; it was about pushing the boundaries of innovation as well as respect for the land.
Our mission was clear: to test the endurance of the new Tuffride Adventure caravan and trailer suspension – an advanced airbag suspension system poised to complement our renowned Tuffride suspension.
Our journey was not only an exploration of innovation; it was a commitment to preserving the delicate ecosystem of the CSR. With deep respect for the land, we meticulously planned to minimize our impact. The specially designed 17’6″ caravan, narrower at 2.1m, was constructed to withstand the grueling conditions. Our caravan were the first fitted with our new Tuffride Adventure Suspension on a custom-built chassis, by Intelligent Engineering. Both the caravan and the tow vehicle featured MAXXIS Razr MT 35-inch tires. Pressures used were as low as 10psi, to reduce rolling resistance and minimising track impact.
Enhanced engine power and an automatic gearbox ensured a controlled ascent and descent of the dunes. On each dune we relied heavily on lead vehicle information assisting us with our unwavering focus on leaving no trace, we meticulously navigated the terrain, avoiding unnecessary wheel spin and taking care to reverse if a dune wasn’t crested on the first attempt.
Under the seasoned guidance of Mike Ralston, a distinguished CSR expert and seasoned 4×4 traveler, each day commenced with a morning briefing that set the stage for the day ahead. With Mike’s extensive track record of leading groups through the CSR and being a valued Tuffride Tuffride Suspension customer, his role as our guide was not only evident but essential.
During each briefing, Mike would highlight the CSR’s heritage and the importance of the wells we encountered, while embracing the responsibility of a route custodian, enriching our journey with tales of its history.
Our journey wasn’t solely about conquering the CSR; it was about collecting data. We were also joined by Chris Kirk, who has a background in electronic engineering. Chris affixed multiple sensors to axles on both the caravan and tow vehicle.
Every jolt, every vibration, every shock – all were captured, providing real-time insights into the suspension’s response to the challenging terrain.
Both Mike and Chris’s trailers were equipped with the tried and tested Tuffride Airbag Suspension.
Our expedition concluded on July 26, 2023 after 3 weeks of an unforgettable journey.
There are more than 900 dunes on the Canning of which only 20 or so were not crested on the first attempt. The caravan and tow vehicle required no assistance to travel the entire track. Snatch straps and sand boards were not needed. No trees were removed or deliberately pruned.
The caravan and car made it down the track albeit with a few bush massage signs, as do all vehicles.
Tuffrides suspensions performed flawlessly across the rugged terrain. As we celebrate this achievement, we also celebrate the beauty of the land we traversed.
Join us in our ongoing journey of innovation and adventure. Experience the heart of the CSR through our video series and witness the intersection of technology, exploration, and reverence for the land.
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Wheels supplied by Maxxis Tyres Australia
Caravan Chassis supplied by Intelligent Engineering
Videos & Photos by Karoo Media
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