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

2020 Ford Explorer ST off road build with oversized mud tires

Lifted Ford Explorer Off Road Build for Overland Adventures

With a name like “Explorer”, one would think it is obvious that the Ford Explorer…

6
BMW X5 Off Road build: E53 and E70 with overland mods

Lifted BMW X5 Off Road Builds: E53 & E70 Projects

When the BMW X5 first debuted in 1999, it revolutionized the luxury SUV segment. BMW…

6
Audi Q2 with a lifted suspension and off road wheels

Lifted Audi Q2: Off Road Tires, Wheels & Overland Mods

The Audi Q2 is a stylish, upscale subcompact crossover SUV. While designed primarily for on-road…

lifted mini clubman off road build

Mini Clubman Off Road Tires, Wheels, Lift Kits & Overland Mods

The Mini Clubman, with its iconic retro-modern styling, seems an unlikely candidate for off-road modifications.…

bmw x2 off road wheels

Taking Your BMW X2 Off-Road: Lift Kits, Wheels, and Tires

The BMW X2 blends sporty driving dynamics with the versatility of a compact crossover. With…

11
1.5″ Lifted VW Tiguan Off road build with Overland Style Mods

1.5″ Lifted VW Tiguan Off road build with Overland Style Mods

When you think of capable off-road vehicles, the Volkswagen Tiguan likely doesn’t come to mind.…

Lifted Mercedes G-Class offroad bumper with a bush guard

Mercedes G-Class Unique Off road Bumper & Wide Body Design

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or “G-Wagon” as it’s affectionately called, is no stranger to customization. This…

2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness new skid plates and a lift

Subaru Outback Wilderness Mods for Off road & Overlanding

The 2023 Subaru Outback Wilderness stands ready to take you on your next off-road adventure.…

Mitsubishi Montero II off road build for overland adventures

Lifted Gen 2 Mitsubishi Montero Overland Off-road Build

If you’re looking for a reliable vehicle to take off the beaten path and tackle…

Jeep Wrangler TJ With Rotiform Six Offroad Rims

Jeep Wrangler TJ Overland Build & Off-Road Mods

Overlanding in a Jeep Wrangler TJ offers adventure seekers an affordable way to explore off-the-beaten-path…