E-bike Excursioner

Luke Dokic edits www.mtbvanlife.co.uk – a blog all about vans in the MTB scene – but what does he drive himself?

“This little grey beauty started out life as a panel-van direct from VW. Sam (my best mate) wanted a van as a base for adventures, so we set out to modify and build a custom purpose-built vehicle for those and MTB trips. Neither of us had any previous experience in this field, so it’s not a professional build, but it’s functional, works for us and has a rustic feel. The two key requirements of the build were to sleep two people and have the ability to store our bikes inside the van (for security reasons). Along the way, we had numerous sponsors come on board to add their mark on the van, which was hugely welcome.

“Working together has seen a lot of changes and new additions – a roof rack, light bar, awning, swivel seat and side steps. We never would’ve thought, five years ago, that we’d be lucky enough to work with brands and see the van where it is today. So, here’s to many more adventures and modifying the van even more!

“One of our best moments was on our big annual trip down to the Alps for some proper mountain biking – sitting at the top, under the lifts, sipping a beer and watching the sun set over the distant peaks. Low points were bottomingout the van at a ski resort and it sinking into mud in the pouring rain! Or when one of the wind deflectors fell off and someone drove over it and smashed it into a million pieces.

“The van enables us to be grounded in nature, through mountain biking, hiking, and canoeing. If we’re having an adventure in the wild, we’re happy! It’s the escape from normal life that’s key to destressing and relaxing. We created MTBVanLife to share experiences and inspire people, find unique camp-spots and meet like-minded individuals sitting around the fire. If you see us on the road, give us a wave and say ‘hello!’.”