Doug is Wrong About Trucks

"450X_FTW" (mistermic) 01/14/2016 at 08:56 • Filed to: None

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No Doug, people are not nuts if they don’t buy the Ridgeline. Ever think that they will buy a full size truck over the Honda simply because they like the way the full size one looks? Or maybe it drives better than the Honda? No one needs a Focus ST, but they are way more fun to drive than a base model Focus.

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Why do people feel the need to shame a person who owns a truck that does not use it on a daily basis for hauling or towing? I have a Ram 1500 as my daily driver, but since I work in an office people on here think I bought the wrong vehicle. Not every truck is a work truck.

This is how my truck (one on the left) spends majority of the weekends when it is warm out. Can’t do that configuration with a Ridgeline, the bed is too short.

The other weekends are spent doing this, towing around our 6000 pound (when loaded up) travel trailer to go on camping trips. Can’t do that with a Ridgeline either

Not exactly a light trailer when you have this inside of it either.

My point is, just because you see someone driving a truck without something in the bed or without a trailer, does not mean they don’t need it.

If a person wants to buy a Chevy 3500 dually and only tow a single place jet ski trailer once a year, let them

If a person wants to buy a Porsche GT3 RS and never take it to a track, let them

If you have the means to buy want you want over what you need, do so, because for people like me cars and trucks are an enjoyment of life.

Van Man, rocks the Man Van > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:01

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You realize you're in the minority of truck owners, right?

450X_FTW > Van Man, rocks the Man Van 01/14/2016 at 09:03

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I’m not a minority, I’m white (sarcasm)

Drive want you want to drive, let the haters hate

Doug DeMuro > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:11

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Yeah but not all truck owners are like you. I’m not shaming anyone , just pointing out that a) the Ridgeline will probably fail, and b) it will fail because the huge majority of truck owners don’t realize it can handle virtually anything they need. The huge majority of car owners don’t buy a Focus ST.

450X_FTW > Doug DeMuro 01/14/2016 at 09:13

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I plan on selling my Ram 1500 and replacing it with the Colorado diesel (if they ever arrive at dealers) because it can do everything my Ram can do while sipping fuel. 4 years ago when I bought it, only full size trucks could do what I needed it for. Now that midsized trucks are starting to arrive again, the options are open to other vehicles.

450X_FTW > Doug DeMuro 01/14/2016 at 09:14

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Also the west coast loves imported trucks. I’ve never seen so many Tacoma’s and Tundra’s as I have in California

Nibbles > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:16

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That camper’s 6,000 lbs loaded? DAYUM! That’s a lot of camper for that weight and it falls within my Dakota’s specs. I need to look at that model.

450X_FTW > Nibbles 01/14/2016 at 09:18

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It’s 4500 empty, then with a quad, a bike or two, camping gear, 70 gallons of water, food, etc, it all adds up fast

450X_FTW > Nibbles 01/14/2016 at 09:19

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Grey Wolf 21RR, one of the lightest toy haulers on the market

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:22

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It’s time we dropped “truck” from the end of “pickup truck” for anything that’s less than a 3/4 ton. Then maybe people would get it. A 1/2 ton or smaller pickup is one of the best all-rounders you can buy. For example, my case:

I’m not far from work and I don’t go many other places. Therefore a tank of gas normally lasts about 2 weeks even though it’s city (or slow-flow highway-through-city) mileage. I could get many times the mileage out of something else, but I don’t want an econoshitbox and don’t need one. A tank of gas is perfectly affordable every two weeks.

When I do go other places, it’s almost always highway mpg, and quite often with a bulky load. Not heavy, maybe, but bulky. Trust me on this, you can’t get 3 hockey bags into the back of your hatchback. At least not while also carrying the people who are going to use them.

I happen to like 4wd. It is absolutely not an essential feature. If I didn’t have it I don’t think I’d miss it, except in heavy snow. But last winter it let me do some mild exploring, for no reason other than because I felt the urge. That’s what it’s about, options and backup systems.

I like being a little higher. It’s a nicer driving position 95% of the time. That said I’m in a Colorado, not an F150, so I’m not towering above people either.

It has great visibility. I’m not talking about seeing over people so that I get vis at their expense, I mean an almost total lack of blind spots. It’s great.

Trucks are about the only way to get into RWD without paying a fortune (+ another fortune in insurance) when you are a younger driver. Unless you go for something older and German, in which case you switch up front cost with repair bills.

Overall what I’m getting at is this. People interpret half ton and smaller trucks wrong. 95% were never bought as work trucks (unless they are a stripper model), they were bought because they could do everything. It it works for them, and they are happy with it, they bought the right thing. Just because you don’t think it makes sense doesn’t mean they are wrong.

For my part, the Ridgeline is probably more than enough truck for me, but certain features - like being fwd based - I just can’t get over. Besides I like my current ride.

ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:23

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You’ve missed Doug’s point entirely. As he just replied, most people don’t actually use their trucks, they just buy them thinking they will.

If you, and clearly you do, acutally use your truck there is nothing wrong with that. Most people, however, do not have a camper, multiple muddy off-road vehicles, or need to constantly haul all their friends furniture around. For the average person, the new Ridgeline will work perfectly well, if they bought it based on reality and not the super-macho, impossibly manly lifestyle they are being sold in truck ads.

Nibbles > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:23

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Already perusing. I like Forest River’s offerings. We were considering a Rockwood this last fall :)

Eric @ opposite-lock.com > Doug DeMuro 01/14/2016 at 09:26

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To be painfully honest, even the old Ridgeline would have been more practical for almost every person that DDs a truck. This one is even more practical. It seems like 80-90% of trucks are simply used as cars 95+% of the time. The remainder have business logos on their sides.

My GF’s parents do it right: They own cars that they drive and keep a full size truck in the garage that rarely leaves for anything except hauling or towing stuff.

Van Man, rocks the Man Van > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:28

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I actually love full size trucks. I think they look cool and are all around awesome. But if I had one, I honestly wouldn't use it for all the stuff you do, so a Ridgeline would honestly be a better choice for someone like me.

450X_FTW > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) 01/14/2016 at 09:28

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Did not miss his point. It’s like asking a Mustang GT owner why the bought the V8 when a 6 cylinder would do everything they need? Because the V8 is more fun

450X_FTW > Van Man, rocks the Man Van 01/14/2016 at 09:29

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My plan is to eventually sell it and buy a Colorado diesel since it’ll still do everything I need it to do

ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:31

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Still missing the point.

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > Doug DeMuro 01/14/2016 at 09:33

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Frankly I agree with you that it will not be the runaway success that the specs suggest, and that truck buyers don’t need the capabilities they buy, but that doesn’t make truck buyers nuts.

Think about it another way. If all truck buyers wanted was a thing with a bed that drove like a minivan, sounded like a minivan and had a very similar drivetrain to a minivan, they would have bought a minivan because much of the time it’s more practical. What they want is something that drives like a truck, feels rugged like a truck, has truck power, sounds like a truck, looks like a truck (they’ve almost cracked this, but that snout... it’s not just the Ridgeline. All recent Hondas have been getting hideous up front), has a truck drivetrain, and has a truck chassis.

What I'm saying is, if Honda wants to sell small trucks, they should make a small truck, not a minivan with a bed. Even though it is capable.

OK, maybe we are nuts. But that doesn’t make our choice of vehicle wrong.

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) 01/14/2016 at 09:33

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Even if they don't, there's still nothing wrong with it...

John > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:35

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I see what your saying, but I think Doug had a different idea as well. While you seem to use the shit out of your truck, most people, from my experience, by a truck because they think that they need the utility, and they don’t want to not have it if they need it. That being said, every single person I know that owns a truck, minus those that have them for a business, do use them for utility purposes, but never to their full potential. Thus a smaller more efficient truck would objectively be easy to live with and more practical on a daily basis.

Subjectively, you may have different thoughts, that’s where looks and opinions come in. That also being said, you’re on a car blog which means you’re more invested in your vehicle than most as well. I work in an office most people don’t care, they don’t put the same thought and feeling into their vehicle as car (or truck) people do.

But really its more of a perspective between objective and subjective.

450X_FTW > John 01/14/2016 at 09:36

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When I bought mine there were no smaller trucks that could do what I needed, he’ll the Colorado was the size of a Ranger back then

ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) > Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer 01/14/2016 at 09:38

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Has anyone said that?

People are free to buy what they want.

Someone buying an enourmous truck as a vehicular-compensation accessory will still be mocked, but they are free to spend their money as they choose.

If only EssExTee could be so grossly incandescent > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:38

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But trucks are not fun to drive.

If only EssExTee could be so grossly incandescent > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:41

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So you go on a rant about how people sometimes do need full size trucks, and then go on to talk about ditching your full sized truck because a smaller truck meets all your needs?

Cash Rewards > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:41

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It’s a very good analogy, but the difference is fun vs utility. You can always have fun with a v8. You can’t haul stuff you dont own (obviously not you), but you got people buying trucks that have towing capacities that are shocking you don’t need a CDL for. So that’s where the “what’s the point” is coming from.

450X_FTW > If only EssExTee could be so grossly incandescent 01/14/2016 at 09:41

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100% subjective. I think they are fun to drive

450X_FTW > Cash Rewards 01/14/2016 at 09:43

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Because to them, it’s fun and it’s a lifestyle.

John > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:45

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Haha right! The difference is though, is you clearly are a motor vehicle enthusiast, which takes you out of the demographic of people I think doug was talking about. Judging from your dirt-bikes, tow behind trailer, and what appears to be a well thought out means of incorporating them into your daily driver vehicle, you’re in the minority I think. Your legitimate and well thought out interest puts you much better off than the average car or truck buyer in america. You accurately knew your needs (most people have no idea, hence a 2 ton pickup only used to bring bags of leaves to the dump) , researched accordingly (you knew how much you needed to tow and haul, and found a truck that could do it), and executed your purchases based off of your needs and the specifications you knew (you bought a truck that meets your needs, but isn’t unnecessary and impractical,an F550 would have done everything you needed too, but would have been a silly choice ) and thats the whole point haha, youre probably the exception that proves dougs rule. Id wager that most people do not have an accurate judgement on their needs, and probably over buy, resulting in a vehicle that is objectively harder to live with in their everyday life.

450X_FTW > If only EssExTee could be so grossly incandescent 01/14/2016 at 09:45

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Exactly, 4 years ago only full size trucks could do what I needed. Now with the advancement of mid size trucks, they can do today what a lot of full size could do 5 years ago.

450X_FTW > John 01/14/2016 at 09:46

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My point is people see a full size truck without a trailer or without stuff in the bed and their immediate thought is “they don’t need that”. Well 60% of the time I need it, all the time....

Cash Rewards > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:49

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The lifestyle thing I get. The fun of never using your truck to capacity? A bit lost on me.

John > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 09:50

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I agree with that for sure, I live in a family that has runs contracting company for over 4 and a half decades now, they all use their trucks to the fullest extent. But I would wager, actually put money on it, that MOST buyers dont. I live in NJ, and there are plenty of coal rolling turbo diesels, some owned by people I know well, and out of all of them, exactly one person uses the specs they have to their advantage in any practical way. The others have trucks that have never towed or hauled anything heavier than a keg of beer haha

450X_FTW > Cash Rewards 01/14/2016 at 09:53

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It’s like a person owning a muscle car and never doing a burnout

shop-teacher > Eric @ opposite-lock.com 01/14/2016 at 09:59

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Here’s the thing about having daily driver cars, and a truck you use only occasionally. That makes sense if you drive a lot of miles. If you don’t, then it costs more money to buy, register, maintain, and insure an extra vehicle, than it would be to just drive a truck and buy some more gas for it. Now, if you just don’t like driving a truck, and are willing to spend that extra money, that’s all well and good.

For me, I only drive 7-8000 miles a year. I love my truck, but I would actually love to daily drive a nice car instead. Do I need a truck everyday? No. Would it be a significant pain in my ass to get rid of my truck? Yes. So, I’m keeping my paid off, reliable as the day is long, nothing wrong with it truck. Even when gas was $4/gallon, a car that got 30 mpg city would only save me $100/month in gas. That is not enough to buy/register/insure/maintain another car. For me, buying another car isn’t “doing it right,” but rather, “spending a lot more money.”

For people who drive a lot of miles, it makes financial sense to have the truck as an extra vehicle. For people like me who don’t drive a lot, it’s cheaper to buy some more gas, than it is to buy another vehicle.

shop-teacher > If only EssExTee could be so grossly incandescent 01/14/2016 at 10:01

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That’s your opinion. I like driving my truck.

Splatworthy > Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer 01/14/2016 at 10:05

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For me it’s not about people saying you’re wrong for not buying a Ridgeline, it’s about how people are saying the people who buy Ridgeline’s are wrong, the Ridgeline isn’t a ‘real’ truck, men don’t drive Ridgelines, etc. I’ve driven Honda’s for years and loved the reliability, durability, and sensibility of the vehicles. At work we drive Ford and Chevy modified trucks that constantly have mechanical issues. For years I’ve wished Honda made a vehicle available that could do what those trucks do. And they finally came out with a pick up and all the bros said in unison ‘that’s not a real truck.’ Which I guess is true. Real trucks break down all the time.

The Ghost of Oppo > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 10:05

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You literally just made Doug’s point. By saying that the new mid-size trucks can fulfill your needs, which are much greater than the average truck buyer, you don’t need a full-size anymore, and neither do most people.

shop-teacher > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 10:06

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My truck situation is very similar. I don’t use my truck as a truck every day. Right now, there is a snow brush and some bungee cords in the bed. But I have kids, a house I’m constantly working on, and a camper. Could I get rid of my truck and make due with another vehicle that got a bit better gas mileage? Sure, but it would be a significant pain in my ass. Plus, I like my truck. It was cheap, it’s reliable, it’s paid off, and there is precisely zero reason to get rid of it. I’m sure as hell not going to take on another car payment (not to mention registration, insurance and maintenance) to “save money” on gas. I don’t drive enough to save dime one by buying a more fuel efficient vehicle in addition to my truck.

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) 01/14/2016 at 10:10

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Vehicular compensation accessory.

This really pisses me off. I have a truck, therefore I’m compensating? Not just trucks, either. Oh you drive a sports car? Tiny dick. Oh you have an SUV? Tiny dick.

Basically if you don’t drive a diesel minivan or something, you are compensating. Even if you’re a woman.

Trucks are great all-rounders. Fact. If you drive one it’s because you like it. There’s nothing compensatory about that. Sports cars are fun. Fact. If you drive one it’s because you like it. There’s nothing compensatory about that.

On the other hand if the only reason you bought “x” was to stand out, you may have issues. The thing is, trucks don’t stand out. They are too common now. Lifted trucks stand out.

Don’t be so quick to go all brotruckcompensationpackage on them either though. Once again (and I know this is an ODD idea for oppo to get as they aren’t brown diesel miata wagons) most of these people simply ENJOY driving lifted trucks.

Though of course if it's a HUGE body lift dripping with chrome and not a spec of dirt, you have a 90% chance of judging correctly.

450X_FTW > The Ghost of Oppo 01/14/2016 at 10:13

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And not everyone has the financial means to sell their 5, 10, 15 year old truck and buy a brand new Ridgeline. I’m fortunate enough that I have that ability to do so

450X_FTW > shop-teacher 01/14/2016 at 10:15

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My truck is paid off, but I also just had to pay $680 for a new fuel pump at only 51,000 miles and currently average around 13 mpg in the winter. I’m damn thankful that we’re not a $4/gal nation right now

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > Splatworthy 01/14/2016 at 10:16

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I honestly don’t understand the point of the Ridgeline. Is it a truck? If that’s what it’s meant to be, it’s going to flop. It’s not going to break open the traditional market. Is is a new market? If so, it’s going after the same one as the old one which was a huge success!! No, wait.

Truck buyers tend to be traditionalists. Fact. If Honda wants a piece of that market, they should make it traditional.

The Ridgeline works best in my mind as a fleet truck. All the features that people who don’t like trucks would want. None (or less) of the features they don’t like about trucks. Better to drive (in their minds). Better MPG for the company.

Which isn't to say you would be wrong to buy a Ridgeline. I just don't get it and it isn't for me.

shop-teacher > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) 01/14/2016 at 10:18

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While Doug has indeed not shamed anyone, lots of commenters have. What precisely would you call the comment, “buying an enourmous truck as a vehicular-compensation accessory”? It sure as hell ain’t welcoming or open-minded.

I know you did not direct that comment at anybody here, you’re cooler than that, but it is a closed-minded view. There is an idea around here, that is quite pervasive, that MOST trucks are not used as trucks. That idea is a total crock. I know dozens of people who drive trucks, ONE of them has never hauled more than a golf bag. So what? He doesn’t go around thumping his chest saying, “Look at me! Look how manly I am! I drive a truck!” No, he just likes the truck.

This idea that if a truck isn’t loaded up or towing a giant trailer all the time, then the person driving it is clearly just a poser idiot who bought it to enhance his image and compensate for a small unit, is closed-minded and insulting.

ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) > Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer 01/14/2016 at 10:19

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Do you use your truck to most of its capabilites?

If yes, then why get so upset? You’re using the vehicle as it was designed and intended. I have zero issue with that choice.

People who actually use their trucks are not a problem. The OP needs a truck that can tow his trailer and haul his bikes. Cool.

Buying a truck because one likes how it looks, but will never get used for anything other than commuting is stupid and worthy of derision. Same for buying more capable than neccessary and never using it to its potential.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 10:21

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My dad drives a lifted, mud tire’d, checkered flag bug shielded Silverado 1500 for no reason other than he likes the damn thing. I think the last time a trailer was hooked up to it Busch was still in office and the most its gotten used for lately was moving some furniture around. Other than that he uses in the same way my mom does her Fusion. You know what though? I think that’s 100% acceptable. Some people want the size and the V8 power and noise and the commanding view. I love every aspect of driving the stupid thing except the steering, but that probably comes down to me being spoiled by an E36 and its amazing steering feel. In the same way his truck doesn’t always get used to haul shit my car never sees a high performance scenario like it was designed to be used for, yet ones considered acceptable and the other isn’t and that’s so astronomically stupid I can’t even with the idea.

The Ghost of Oppo > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 10:23

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The American brands sold almost 2 million new trucks in 2015 and the F Series has been the number one selling vehicle in the US for decades. Sorry, but your arguments are making less and less sense.

shop-teacher > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 10:23

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I too am enjoying cheap gas while it lasts. But even when it was $4/gal, I don’t drive enough to make it worth either getting rid of the truck or buying an additional vehicle.

I had to buy a $600 steering rack last year at 100k miles, and I’m almost due for front brakes, but it’s a lot cheaper than a new payment!

450X_FTW > The Ghost of Oppo 01/14/2016 at 10:24

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People will buy what they want. That’s my argument.

ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) > shop-teacher 01/14/2016 at 10:28

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If people actually use their truck for what it is designed for, then I have zero issue with their choice. I also recognize that people cannot tow their trailers all the time.

But, most people buy into the lifestyle portrayed in truck ads and do not really need all those capabilities. The Honda is perfect for their actual needs, but people won’t buy it because they want, and this is especially true for truck ads, to feel more manly, more capable, more ‘Murica Fuck Yeah!. Truck ads impose an impossible male image that very few men actually reflect, but they buy them anyway. That called compensating.

The Ghost of Oppo > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 10:29

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Okay, my previous comment was wrong, you didn’t literally make Doug’s point, you hinted at it. NOW, you have literally made Doug’s point. As other people have said, you missed the whole point of Doug’s article.

It isn’t about what they need. It’s about what they want

450X_FTW > The Ghost of Oppo 01/14/2016 at 10:31

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Now you’re just confusing. Did I make doug’s point? did I agree with him? Did I miss his point? Make up your mind

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) 01/14/2016 at 10:34

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I’m not upset with you. I’m upset with that phrase in general. Like I said, It’s not just trucks. It’s idiotic.

Do I use my truck to most of it’s capabilities? 90% of the time, no. Very definitely no. It’s mostly a commuter. Occasionally I stuff 4 people and hockey bags in it. Occasionally it’s a beach run vehicle. Occasionally it’s gone bumbling around off the beaten path for no other reason than because I can. It (once) carried some firewood and chainsaws, and never have I towed anything larger than a wood splitter. So yes, I’ve done stuff that I couldn’t have done otherwise, but no it’s not like it’s an essential item.

Which doesn’t make it wrong that I bought it. My reasons for it were:

I want RWD. This is a cheap way in to a RWD vehicle.

I DO like the looks. I can’t get around that. It DOES look good.

V8, small vehicle.

Utility when I want it.

4wd lets me just do stuff when the notion takes me. I probably would never have missed it if I hadn’t had it, but last winter it let me just explore places for the heck of it.

I happen to like the way it drives.

Lastly, most importantly, IT MAKES ME HAPPY WHEN I DRIVE. That's the cornerstone of a car enthusiast. If it doesn't make you happy what's the point? And if it does, why must others get up yous ass about it? Look, I hate the Prius, as a car. I find their drivers insufferable as well. However THEY bought the vehicle that suits both their needs and their wants as best as possible, and there's nothing wrong with that. In the the same way, the Ridgeline is more than enough truck for me. But I just don't LIKE it. It does nothing for me. Therefore driving it would be a chore, not a pleasure. There is nothing inherently wrong with the Ridgeline or those who buy it, but it's not for me.

The Ghost of Oppo > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 10:40

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You said you disagreed with him, but then said the exact same thing as him. So you must have missed what his point was in the first place, or else you wouldn’t have said he was wrong.

450X_FTW > The Ghost of Oppo 01/14/2016 at 10:44

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He’s wrong in saying truck buyers are nuts if they don’t buy the Ridgeline. I’m sure it can do what most people need it to do, but for me I wouldn’t buy it simply because I don’t like the way it looks.

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > shop-teacher 01/14/2016 at 10:48

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This is my view. I can’t affoard 2 vehicles, once in a while I do truck stuff, and I most of the time I don’t go far so MPG doesn’t really matter.

Besides, I love driving my truck, so it's not really a hardship :)

Future next gen S2000 owner > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 10:50

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This is why I went with a midsize.

d15b > Van Man, rocks the Man Van 01/14/2016 at 10:52

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Agreed, Van Bro. Not that I’m hating on people who feel the need to toot their horn, but yenno, TOOT TOOT!

The Ghost of Oppo > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 10:53

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I admire your moxy, but again you didn’t read carefully. Doug didn’t say “If you don’t go out and buy a new Ridgeline you’re an idiot!”, he said the majority of truck buyers are irrational consumers.

javiIn1080p > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 10:55

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I think the point of Doug’s article is that the Ridgeline is all the average truck driver really needs, and thus the average truck buyer is dumb for not buying it. You’re not the average truck buyer- your needs are greater, and thus it’s not dumb for you to buy something other than a Ridgeline.

450X_FTW > The Ghost of Oppo 01/14/2016 at 10:57

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So are people that buy muscle cars. No one NEEDS a V8 but they buy it because that’s what they want, it’s more enjoyable

450X_FTW > javiIn1080p 01/14/2016 at 11:00

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Needs vs Wants. That’s what it comes down to. If a person wants a V8 over a turbo 4 cyl in their Mustang, they should be able to buy it without getting crap from others

The Ghost of Oppo > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 11:04

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Did Doug piss in your corn flakes or something? Everything he writes is satirical and sarcastic, relax man.

d15b > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 11:04

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So...by the transitive property, does this mean you agree with Jaxwagen?

450X_FTW > d15b 01/14/2016 at 11:06

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Jax is saying what Doug is saying, in that we should buy what we need.

It’s not just truck buyers, it’s american car buyers as a whole. It’s the automotive lifestyle that we have created for ourselves. Our cars/trucks are what identify a lot of us.

qbeezy > Van Man, rocks the Man Van 01/14/2016 at 11:22

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It’s not always about “a better choice”. Buy what you want and what you can. Don’t feel shamed into buying something. My coupe makes no sense for me. But I love it. It’s awesome.

shop-teacher > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) 01/14/2016 at 11:24

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There is no reason in the world that you should care what other people choose to buy, whether they use it for it’s intended purpose or not.

To say “most” people are just buying into a lifestyle is just as wrong-headed and insulting, as it would be if I said most people who buy VWs are stance-bro douche-bags, everybody who buys a Corvette is having a mid-life crisis, and anybody with kids who doesn’t buy a minivan is just trying to look cool.

The fact is you don’t know them or why they bought what they bought. Yes, the Ridgeline is all the truck most of them would need, no doubt about it. Maybe they like their Ford dealer. Maybe they got a great deal on a Silverado. Maybe they love the way the Tundra looks. Maybe they’ve been dreaming about buying a Dodge Ram since they were a little kid watching Walker Texas Ranger. Maybe they were on ‘ludes and somebody handed them the papers for a Nissan Titan. Maybe, just maybe, *GASP* they just like another truck better than the Ridgeline! How is that wrong?

Some VW owners are stance-bro douche-bags. Some Corvette owers are indeed having a midlife crisis. Some parents who refuse to drive a minivan are trying to look cool. Some pickup truck drivers are over-compensating coal-rolling morons. None of them are the majority. To suggest otherwise is wrong.

When people ask me what truck (or car) they should buy, I tell them, “Buy the one you want.” When somebody is making the first or second biggest purchase they will ever make, they should buy the one they want. They should buy the one that makes them happy. The only vehicle they should not buy is the one they cannot afford.

YeahSeriously > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 11:25

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This won’t get seen, I suppose, since I’m all grayed out, but anyway...

I totally agree. People have all sorts of reasons for choosing the car they drive, and it does not matter one bit. It is disingenuous to suggest that only truck buyers choose their vehicle based on looks — everyone else does it too. Even my 75 year old mother chose her Grand Am (I know, right?!) partly because she likes the way it looks. Nevermind that there are objectively superior choices out there, it’s what *she* likes. And she is very much not a car enthusiast.

I rarely get to open up my STI and drive it like it was intended, partly because traffic and partly because I only get out to the track a few times a year. But I still love the thing, because it has it’s moments. I’m contemplating a new pickup to replace my ancient F250, because I have a family now and a desire to haul around a travel trailer, and I’ll fully admit that I gravitate towards the biggest, manliest pickup that will get the job done without excessive compromises. No apologies!

ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) > shop-teacher 01/14/2016 at 11:31

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Meh, whatever.

No one needs anything. Fuck the world!

shop-teacher > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) 01/14/2016 at 11:32

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Mkay!

wiffleballtony > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 11:54

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I think where I make the distinction is when it’s got massive chrome wheels with skinny tires. No way that thing is working.

450X_FTW > wiffleballtony 01/14/2016 at 11:57

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Makes me think of this

AssFault > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 11:59

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I completely agree. People are free to drive whatever they want. I am free to judge them for it.

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > If only EssExTee could be so grossly incandescent 01/14/2016 at 12:04

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That just, like, your opinion man.

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 12:06

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I have no problem with this. It’s just completely ball-out crazy and there’s no way to take it too seriously. Heck, I’d drive it myself if it didn’t terrify me.

Of course I know he's probably just waiting for his rims to be delivered or something...

450X_FTW > Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer 01/14/2016 at 12:13

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Can only afford one wheel at a time, spent it all on his lift lol

Ross Kraz > If only EssExTee could be so grossly incandescent 01/14/2016 at 12:44

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Trucks are fun in dirt, mud and snow. Winter storms make most people nervous but they turn truck owners into Tanner Faust.

Ross Kraz > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 12:50

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Totally agree. You don’t always need something all of the time, but you might some day. I remember Clarkson saying something like: watches will work on a 300 meter dive. Even though you’ll never dive to 300 meters, it’s nice to know that it will be fine if you drop it in the sink.

Eric @ opposite-lock.com > shop-teacher 01/14/2016 at 12:51

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They actually average something like 4-5k per year on the truck, with most of it towing a boat, 5th wheel trailer, or hauling something in the bed. Their cars do ~15k per year, each. They have very typical driving patterns for suburban/rural commuters, though, unlike you. Your annual miles are far below the bell curve of average miles driven per year. While it might make sense for you, I can’t see it being true for someone that does 30-40 miles a day of commuting (pretty common) and only rarely uses it for something a car can’t do.

I don’t even own a truck. I can always borrow or rent one when I really need it, and I usually have a car with a hitch for towing small utility trailers for average hauling...

Eric @ opposite-lock.com > 450X_FTW 01/14/2016 at 12:55

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Except your argument makes no sense. A RWD truck isn’t any more fun than a FWD CUV/Minivan with a bed unless your primary purpose for the vehicle is doing donuts.

450X_FTW > Eric @ opposite-lock.com 01/14/2016 at 13:10

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Sure it is, you just don’t understand what “fun” is.

shop-teacher > Eric @ opposite-lock.com 01/14/2016 at 13:12

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Yes, when they’re driving that much, it’s cheaper to have the truck as an extra vehicle. Although I will say there’s nothing wrong with them putting those miles on the truck, if one of them just really liked driving the truck. Personally, if I drove the amount they did, I’d have another car too.

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer 01/14/2016 at 16:17

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Some of the people in my family probably get more miles to a tank in their trucks/SUVs/BoF vans than I do in my Versa. Damn city driving and small tank...

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback 01/14/2016 at 16:32

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Another way to look at it is days per tank. In the end that's what draws the line between whether it's affordable or not.

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer 01/14/2016 at 17:05

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I usually get about 10-14 days per tank. A nice thing is it hasn’t been more than $25/tank since the summer. So it’s pretty cheap to fill the small tank so I guess that’s a benefit. Though I still pine for a 4WD truck.

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback 01/14/2016 at 18:01

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I’m about the same, but my tanks are about 65$.

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer 01/14/2016 at 21:27

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Iguess that’s the only down fall to large tanks. Might get a decent range on it but fillings gonna take a lot of fuel. Just a byproduct of awesome trucks I guess.

Nauraushaun > Logansteno: Bought a VW? 01/15/2016 at 16:33

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my car never sees a high performance scenario like it was designed to be used for, yet ones considered acceptable and the other isn’t and that’s so astronomically stupid I can’t even with the idea.

So you never drive your car fast? You never enjoy the handling? You said yourself you do. That’s the entire point of the car - it’s a sporty road car. I’m sorry if I’m astronomically stupid.

I do disagree with you. These trucks are work trucks. You take compromises in fuel efficiency, size and weight. Those compromises are worth it because of the ability of the truck. If you don’t use those abilities, you just like having something bigger than everybody else....well, I understand that, but what does it say about you?

But you can say the same thing about those that buy huge sedans for no reason. They’re not into trucks, but it’s the same deal - they just want a big car so they feel boss. There’s an inferiority thing that comes with driving a small car, always has been.