Matt Grably - Author

Matt Grabli – About The Author

Matt Grabli is a professional mechanic, experienced off-roader, writer and founder of Offroadium. Worked as a general automotive mechanic, parts specialist at Auto Zone, and aftermarket performance product consultant at Real Truck, before shifting focus to writing and digital content creation.

Matt Grabli and a Mercedes G class off road rig

My story

Like many, my passion for cars stems from my father. From a young age, I would linger with him in the garage, watching him fixing and maintaining cars into the late hours. Car magazines showcasing beautiful vehicles captivated me far more than books or cartoons ever could. This blossomed into an addiction where I would eagerly spend my pocket money on the latest issue of Car & Driver. This influenced my decision to pursue a career in automotive field.

Like many car enthusiasts in the early 2010s, “stance” and “street scene” dominated my interests, with websites like StanceNation and SpeedHunters as my biggest influences. However, after completing my street stance build, I realized my prized car, into which I had invested significant time and resources, was no longer fully drivable. The stiff suspension and inability to clear speed bumps limited where I could go, even road trips were unrealistic due to ride discomfort.

It was around then that I turned to off-road vehicles. Despite working with client trucks and Jeeps previously, I had not appreciated how well these vehicles aligned with my goals and lifestyle. They satisfied nearly everything on my wish list (except perhaps gas mileage) and opened new roads and destinations through enhanced capabilities versus the limitations of my previous build. I could apply my creativity, knowledge, and experience to improve drivability rather than hinder it.

This opened an exciting new world, from local camping to cross-state expeditions on scenic trails. Events like King of the Hammers and Overland Expo exposed me to the mature, side of automotive culture. My passion for vehicle modification, technical experience, writing skills, and interactions with owners of customized off-road rigs have inspired me to share my knowledge with like-minded enthusiasts on Offroadium.com

Matt's Posts

Ultimate 2nd Nissan Xterra Overland Build - Pro Tips & Interview

Ultimate 2nd Gen Nissan Xterra Overland Build on 35s – Pro Tips & Interview

The Nissan Xterra has earned a reputation as one of the most capable and affordable…

Nissan Xterra overland build new

1st Gen Nissan Xterra Off Road Build with 35 Inch Tires and Lift

The first generation Nissan Xterra remains a highly capable and popular platform for off-road builds…

2005 Mitsubishi L200 with Lexus V8 Power Under the Hood

3rd gen Mitsubishi L200 / Triton Off Road Build with Lexus V8 Engine Swap

When we stumbled across this lifted truck on Instagram, we were instantly intrigued. You’ll never…

7
Safari style Porsche 911 Syberia RS by Kai Burkhard

Ultimate Porsche 930 Safari Off Road Build (911) on 30″ M/T Tires

This lifted Porsche 930 Safari build is a beast in elegant clothing. When Kai Burkhard…

Toyota fj cruiser miniature

Toyota FJ Cruiser Overland Build on a Budget: Must-Have Mods

As an automotive mechanic who has worked on many Toyota FJ Cruisers over the years,…

Lifted Honda Fit Battlewagon on Xxr 527 16x8 0 offset and kenda klever mud tire 245 75r16 thumb

A Lifted Honda Fit Modified for Off-roading – Compact Overland Build

At first glance, you may not recognize the lifted vehicle in the photos as a…

Lifted Mitsubishi Pajero 1 with 285/75/16 off road wheels

Vintage 1st Gen Mitsubishi Pajero Overlander – The Japanese G Wagon

Finding a capable SUV similar to the legendary toughness of a Mercedes G Class is…

8
Lifted Square Body Chevy Suburban on 35 Inch Wheels

Classy Squarebody Chevy Suburban Off road & Overland Build

The iconic square body Chevy Suburban has long been a legend among off-roading enthusiasts. When…

Lifted VW transporter T6 Overland off Road build

Lifted VW Transporter T6 Off Road Overland Van from Germany

As an avid off-roader and overland enthusiast myself, I’m always eager to discover new custom…

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Lifted Chevy k5 blazer with a 6 Inch lift and 35" tires overland build

1986 Chevy K5 Blazer Overland Build – Rugged & Simple

For some people, simple pleasures are what helps them get through the rough day. For…