Meet Jose Vasquez, our latest feature on 67 Designs’ customer spotlight and a dedicated network computer technician hailing from Burbank, California. Born and raised in LA County, Jose’s roots run deep in the vibrant culture of Southern California and his passion for customization. Jose’s journey into the world of customization began in his teenage years. Influenced by his brother, who installed stereos and wheels, and inspired by the “Fast and Furious” culture, Jose embraced the art of making cars unique. Custom modifications and loud, flashy designs became a part of his identity, reflecting his love for standing out and expressing individuality. When not off-roading and customizing his rig, Jose is either in the gym, out in nature shooting landscape photography, or lending a hand–whether it is fixing a flat tire or offering advice.
Proud owner of: MambaFlex, a 2019 Jeep JLU in bright white
Customer of 67 Designs since: 2020
Featured Upgrades:
- Nitto Trail Grapplers 40" Tires
- KC Hilites (FlexEra4, FlexEra1, Cyclones)
- PSC Steering (improved steering after upgrading to 40" tires)
- GenRight Offroad Front and Rear Bumpers.
- SteerSmarts Steering components
- Rockjock AntiRocks (No more disconnecting sway bars manually)
- EVO MFG High Clearance Long Arm Upgrade (Improved Jeep geometry)
- R1 Concept Offroad rotors and brake pads
- Rugged Radio GMR2 Handheld GMRS FRS Radio
- American Adventure Lab Jeep JL Overhead MOLLE Shelf
- 67 Designs Jeep® JL Rail Mount / Gladiator Series 55 Rail Mount - Pack Options
Early Inspiration: In 2019, Jose’s automotive journey took a thrilling turn when he acquired a bright white 2019 Jeep JLU. Initially a fan of smaller import cars, Jose sought something that could accommodate his adventurous spirit. The Jeep, with its ample space and versatility, became the perfect companion for his escapades. This shift was also practical, as his previous BMW, while stylish, lacked the space and capability for his outdoor adventures.
The 2020 pandemic was a pivotal time for Jose. With more free time on his hands, he delved deeper into off-roading. The thrill of exploring uncharted territories not only fed his adventurous spirit but also provided a therapeutic escape. Being out in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, offered a mental health boost that Jose came to appreciate and kept him coming back.
Early Adventures: Jose’s love for overlanding ignited in 2019, spurred on by interactions on forums, Facebook, and Instagram. His very first trip was a trip to a local trail called Red Canyon. His initial adventures took him to places like Big Bear and Utah, where he connected with fellow enthusiasts. The sense of community and camaraderie in the off-road world was a stark contrast to his previous experiences with muscle car modifications, where envy and competition were prevalent. For Jose, total strangers turned into chosen family, from attending baby showers and weddings to finding his significant other–both of whom now take to the roads in their jeeps together.
Most Memorable Trip: Among his many adventures, the most memorable for Jose was a trip to Moab, Utah. The breathtaking red rock landscapes, captured in countless photos and YouTube videos, left an indelible mark on him. The thunderstorm on the first night, with its deafening thunder and torrential rain, was an unforgettable experience, shared with friends who were also first-timers to the area. The most exciting part for Jose is doing the more technical challenges, accomplishing the obstacles off the trail, and understanding the limits of a rig; however, the best part of any trip is getting to share those accomplishments with people over packed lunches after a long day of rock crawling.
Lessons Learned: Off-roading isn’t without its challenges. Jose recalls a nerve-wracking moment during a snowy adventure in Moab when he returned for the 2nd time. Leading a group, he faced an icy descent where his Jeep’s brakes locked, causing it to slide precariously close to a cliff. Any further and the vehicle could have rolled and caused some damage. The adrenaline rush and the subsequent relief upon safely navigating the obstacle became a cherished memory, often laughed about later at their Airbnb.
Upcoming and Dream Trips: Looking ahead, Jose is excited about an upcoming three-day camping trip to Alabama Hills. Though not big on extended camping, Jose is eager to embrace the experience. His dream trip, however, is to explore the trails of Colorado, particularly the renowned Black Bear Pass, known for its stunning views and challenging terrain. For now, Jose’s sights are set on doing the Rubicon Trail, a 22-mile trail that spans across the Sierras to Lake Tahoe peppered with granite slabs and boulders, a dream for every rock crawling enthusiast.
Community Involvement: Jose is an active member of the off-road and fitness communities. Regularly attending local meets, expos, and off-road events, he values the friendships and connections made along the way. He loves building relationships with companies like KC and getting to know vendors and their products.
Fun Fact: A man of many interests, Jose once found himself unexpectedly in the elite of the fashion world. Armed with a Canon Rebel camera, he ended up photographing a Calvin Klein fashion show, standing shoulder to shoulder with professional photographers. This experience, among many others, highlights his adventurous spirit and willingness to dive into new experiences.
Connect with Jose: Follow Jose’s adventures and connect with him on
- Instagram: @ Mambaflex_JLU
- YouTube: Trailmade
This Customer Spotlight is by Meg Klavitter.
This series was envisioned and created by Kate Della Pietra in the summer of 2020 when she worked for 67 Designs as a marketing intern.