I was at an event in Orange County this past weekend and it was really astounding how many middle aged men I saw in immaculate pick ups that looked like they've never hauled anything besides groceries driving past. So many were lifted and accessorized as well.
Orange County is ground zero for that sort of performative conservatism.
I had a Dodge Dakota from 2000 to 2008. I mounted a folding contractor's ramp on it within a week, so I could roll a motorcycle up into it more safely. By the end it was rusted and dented, had gone through an exhaust manifold, radiator core, and three sets of all-season tires (the factory ones were garbage, wouldn't hold air, and cracked at the bead within the first 2 years). I do miss the freedom of being able to dare Audi drivers, "Do you REALLY want to try forcing me out of my lane?"
That must have been especially satisfying if you were also riding street bikes.
We call trucks like that "show ponies." They sure look pretty, but they've never been used for work and you can tell.
That didn’t take long. I really should stop banging my head against that particular brick wall.
Oh, most certainly
