A Gritty Test of Man and Machine
The King of the Hammers isn’t just a race—it’s a proving ground. In the heart of the California desert, Class 11 racers take on the ultimate challenge, pushing their stock Volkswagen Beetles beyond their limits. Navigating the demanding terrain of the King of the Hammers means knowing every inch of your car, from the stock engines to the transmission, and tuning them to deliver peak performance on the track. At the 2025 event, the Class 11 #1185, built and driven by PMER, showed what determination, preparation, and the right parts can do when facing one of the toughest off-road races in the world.
Understanding the Challenge
Racing a car that was designed 86 years ago is no small feat. The Class 11 vintage air-cooled Volkswagen Bug, a staple in off-road racing, demands a unique set of skills and a deep understanding of its quirks. With its swing axle suspension and torsion bar design, the Bug is prone to oversteer, requiring a delicate touch to keep it under control. Navigating the demanding terrain of the King of the Hammers means knowing every inch of your car, from the stock engine to the transmission, and tuning them to deliver peak performance on the track. It’s a dance of precision and patience, where every move counts.
Built for the Challenge
Class 11 racing is as raw as it gets. No long-travel suspension. No massive horsepower. Just a nearly stock Volkswagen Bug, reinforced with a roll cage, upgraded shocks, and a few performance tweaks to survive the brutal terrain. PMER and his father built their Class 11 racer from the ground up, stripping it down and reinforcing it with:
- Fox Class 11 shocks for better suspension travel
- Sleding Engineering motor to keep the air-cooled powerplant reliable
- Transaxle Engineering transmission to handle the punishing conditions
- Brand-new R1 Concepts brakes for the stopping power needed in unpredictable race conditions
Every tweak and upgrade is a step towards conquering the desert. Reducing the weight of the vehicle can significantly enhance its performance, making it more agile and responsive on the challenging terrain.
When you’re flying through rocky trails and unpredictable turns, knowing your car’s capabilities is key. PMER emphasized this in his pre-race prep: “You gotta know your car at the end of the day.”
Vehicle Selection and Preparation
Choosing the right vehicle for Class 11 racing is crucial. The 1969 and 1970 Volkswagen Beetles are the top picks, offering a perfect blend of performance and reliability. Super Beetles, with their different suspension design, are a no-go for off-road racing. Instead, Mexican Beetles, which lack the Super Beetle features, are a great alternative and can be easily modified to meet class requirements. Once you’ve got your vehicle, the real work begins. Installing a roll cage, upgrading the brakes, and modifying the suspension to improve ground clearance are just the start. Every tweak and upgrade is a step towards conquering the desert.
Engine and Performance
The heart of any race car is its engine, and the Class 11 Bug is no exception. The stock Type 1 engine, with a maximum displacement of 1600cc, can be pushed to produce up to 92 horsepower with the right modifications. This requires a deep understanding of engine mechanics and a willingness to push the engine to its limits. A well-tuned engine can make all the difference on the track, but it’s a delicate balance between performance and reliability. In a race where every second counts, having an engine that can deliver consistent power without breaking down is key.
Suspension and Handling
The suspension and handling of the Class 11 Bug are critical to its performance. The swing axle suspension, while prone to oversteer, can be transformed into a responsive and agile system with the right modifications. Upgrading the shocks and springs can significantly improve the vehicle’s stability and control, while modifying the steering system can enhance its responsiveness. Additionally, improving the ground clearance is essential for navigating the rough terrain of off-road racing. With these upgrades, the Bug can handle the toughest tracks with ease, turning potential pitfalls into mere bumps in the road.
Race Day: The 7-Mile Battle
The 2025 Class 11 race followed a 7-mile loop for 35 minutes, testing endurance, skill, and vehicle durability. Unlike high-horsepower classes, these Bugs rely on momentum and precision, making every braking point and throttle input count.
But in off-road racing, anything can happen. Despite the challenges, the thrill and fun of racing in such a demanding environment make it an unforgettable experience for all participants.
The Flip Heard Around the Desert
As the race unfolded, the #1185 encountered the unexpected—a full rollover. In the heat of battle, another car made contact, sending PMER and his co-driver flipping over, leaving them staring at the desert sky.
Despite the hit, the first question wasn’t about the car—it was about the drivers.
“You guys okay?”
A simple “Yeah” was all that mattered. The car was beat up, but the team was safe, proving that solid preparation and quality parts, including R1 Concepts brakes, are essential for handling the unpredictable chaos of off-road racing. The team was glad that their meticulous preparation and choice of quality parts paid off in ensuring their safety.
Why Braking Matters in Off-Road Racing
In the dust and chaos of King of the Hammers, braking performance is just as critical as acceleration. Loose dirt, deep ruts, and surprise obstacles demand quick reactions and reliable stopping power. That’s why R1 PERFORMANCE Off-Road/Tow Series Brake Pads are a top choice—they’re built to withstand extreme conditions while delivering consistent braking power in high-stress environments. Racers often have to wait for the right components to be built and tested, but the reliability and performance they offer are well worth the patience.
For Class 11 racers and off-road enthusiasts alike, having the right brakes means the difference between making the turn or meeting disaster.
Driver Preparation and Strategy
Racing a Class 11 Bug requires more than just a well-prepared vehicle; it demands a skilled and strategic driver. Navigating the demanding terrain with precision and control, while managing the vehicle’s performance and reliability, is no easy task. A well-prepared driver can make all the difference in a race. Understanding the track, managing tire wear, and making real-time adjustments are all part of the strategy. With the right combination of vehicle preparation, engine performance, and driver skill, a Class 11 Bug can be a formidable competitor on any track.
The Legacy of Class 11 Racing
While high-tech off-road machines get the spotlight, Class 11 represents the spirit of grassroots racing—drivers and builders taking basic cars and pushing them to the limit. Much like Formula Vee, Class 11 racing emphasizes affordability and a supportive community, attracting both amateur and professional racers. PMER’s journey at the 2025 King of the Hammers proves that preparation, skill, and resilience define true off-road warriors.
No matter where the next race leads, one thing is certain: Class 11 drivers don’t quit—they adapt, rebuild, and come back stronger.
Ready to Upgrade Your Brakes for Off-Road Performance?
Whether you’re racing or just tackling the trails, R1 Concepts offers high-performance brakes built for extreme conditions. Check out our R1 PERFORMANCE Off-Road/Tow Series Brake Pads and R1 GEO-Carbon Series Drilled & Slotted Brake Rotors to maximize your stopping power when it matters most. In wheel-to-wheel racing, having reliable brakes can make all the difference in maintaining control and achieving victory.
