Brotherhood on Wheels: How Childhood Friends Fuel a Lifelong Passion for Off-Roading and Cars

Growing up, there was one person who shaped my love for the off-road world and all things cars more than anyone else—my childhood friend, Russell Battles. But Russell wasn’t just a friend; he was a brother. He still is. To this day, Russell is heavily involved in the off-road industry professionally, but that’s a story for another time. Today, I want to share a bit about how Russell and I grew up together, our adventures, and the bond that continues to inspire me to this day.

Russell wasn’t just part of my circle; he was part of my family. My mom treated him like a second son, and he fit that role perfectly. Together, we were two sides of the same coin—our shared passion for vehicles and adventure united us, but our differences helped us grow. Where I was weak, Russell was strong, and vice versa.

Russell could legally drive before I could, and that opened up a whole new world for us. I’ll never forget the days spent on his old ’70s Suzuki 2-stroke, with me holding on for dear life as we tore through town, often dodging a cop or two on our way to the desert. Those moments were reckless, wild, and unforgettable.

But it’s the memories in Russell’s tricked-out Honda CRX that stick with me the most. It wasn’t just a car; it was a statement. With its massive wing—lovingly nicknamed "the shopping cart" by our peers—it was the ride that ruled North Avenue. Every Friday and Saturday night, that stretch of road became our playground. We lived for those moments, cruising up and down, soaking in the camaraderie of other gearheads, and feeling like kings of the asphalt. The soundtrack to those nights often featured Nelly or Linkin Park blasting from the speakers, setting the perfect mood for our teenage adventures. It was good, clean fun with just a dash of "we might die."

Looking back, I’m grateful for those years and even more thankful that Russell remains a great friend to this day. Our shared history is a reminder of how important it is to have someone in your life who pushes you, inspires you, and understands your passion.

So, now I turn it over to you. Do you have a "Russell" in your life—a friend who shaped your love for off-roading, cars, or adventure? Share your story in the comments. Let’s celebrate the bonds that fuel our passions and keep us grounded in the memories that make us who we are.

Here’s to brotherhood on wheels, and the friends who make the journey unforgettable.