Off-Road Authority

The van life isn’t just for pros – James Martin is a regular MTBer who’s serious about his build and trips (@myoverlandsprinter)

“I bought it in March 2021 with the plan to build my dream vehicle. It came as a 4x4 panel van with windows. There was already air-con and leather heated seats. I added the arch flares, insulation and sound-deadening. Next, I fixed all the electrical items and plumbing. Getting the floor down was important, so I could fit the rear seat bed and my family could start using the van. Then I built cabinets and added wall panels and things. I also installed a power supply so we can use the van off-grid. It was a costly part of the build to save up for but it’s amazing! There’s a 200Ah lithium battery with a 2,000W inverter/charger, which can be charged by a solar panel, but can take an external hook-up as well. We can use everything from a toaster to an induction hob.

“The van is well-used. It does everything from day-to-day work to weekend getaways and once-in-a-lifetime trips. I’ve managed to get plenty of MTB events in, from the Dyfi Winter Warm Up to Battle On The Beach, as well as the national marathon champs at Kielder Castle. Our coolest trip was travelling over the Pyrenees, using the Smugglers’ Route (off-road) to cross from Spain into Andorra. The views were amazing, and we dropped in while the MTB World Cup visited the area. Our worst moment was when I caught the rear axle on a rock, causing a leak from the rear differential. I managed to get it sorted in the next village after descending into Andorra. They had us back on the road in two hours!

“I have a few upgrades planned for the future. A pop-up indoor shower is needed, more outside lighting (for winter), and the sound system needs some attention! The more you use a van, the more you realise what works for you and what you need. Will it ever be finished? Probably not!”