If you've ever contemplated taking your Holden Colorado for a spin off the beaten trail - you're not alone! Thousands of Colorado owners can be seen adventuring through the vast Australian outback with their pride and joy. And if you've ever seen an off-road gig, you'll probably notice that it looks much different than it did right out the factory - equipped with numerous off road vehicle accessories meant to enhance the experience and ensure you're safe and sound, no matter whether you come across obstacles like branches, rocks or the occasional curious 'roo.
That being said, here's a list of all the off road vehicle accessories you should consider equipping your Holden Colorado with before you venture down the dirt roads.
Bull Bars
The bull bar is often considered the king of off-road accessories. It's a multi-functional piece that protects the front of your Colorado and serves as a mounting point for other accessories. Holden Colorado bull bars are generally made using plastic, aluminium or steel. Plastic bull bars are not advisable if you plan on driving through rough trails, as they aren't as durable as their metal counterparts. Aluminium and steel bull bars are both great options, with both of them having their own distinct advantages and disadvantages.
Steel bull bars are considered premium, as they're the toughest and can withstand the most impact. Stainless steel, in particular, is extremely durable and resistant to the elements, ensuring years of service that may even outlast the longevity of your Colorado. On the other hand, aluminium bull bars are far more lightweight, so they won't hurt your fuel economy as much. They're still pretty tough, and they'll likely serve you well unless you're into extreme off-roading. Often, aluminium bull bars are powder coated for extra resistance to the elements.
Regardless of whether you go for aluminium or steel Holden Colorado bull bars, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. As aforementioned, bull bars can be used to attach other accessories. One of the most useful accessories you can mount on the bull bar is the winch. 9 out of 10 times, you want your bull bar to be winch compatible, since 9 out of 10 times, you'll want to have a winch with you. The reason being is that the winch can help you pull yourself out of any sticky situation. And if you've never explored the Australian off-roads, trust me - getting stuck is more common than you think, and the last thing you want is being left stranded in the middle of nowhere with no help or means to get out and keep going. Besides winches, you can mount other accessories as well, including extra driving or fog lights, tow points and many more.
Recovery Equipment
As aforementioned, chances are that at one point or another you'll find yourself stuck in the middle of nowhere. When that inevitable does happen, you want a reliable way to pull yourself out. I briefly discussed how winches are great at this, simply because they're hydraulic pieces of equipment that require very little manual effort to operate. However, if paying a couple of hundred dollars seems like too much for you at this point - worry not. There are quite a few alternatives that are more affordable, yet still reliable and efficient. Two of my personal favourites are recovery tracks and hi-lift jacks.
Recovery tracks are the most affordable recovery option, and you'll find models from brands like MAXTRAX that you can use as shovels, and place under your tyres to help your Colorado gain traction and momentum out of mud, snow, etc. Recovery tracks often feature a "nest" design that allows you to store them without feeling like you're forced to waste cargo space on them. The downside to using recovery tracks is that you'll actually have to do everything by hand - dig around your tyres, place them under the tyres properly, and so on.
On the other hand, hi-lift jacks are what I would consider the middle-ground between winches and recovery tracks. They're completely mechanical pieces of recovery equipment, and while you still have to use some effort to get yourself out, it's not as strenuous. But hi-lift jacks are considered dangerous by many, which is true, especially if not used properly and carefully. You always want to use them on firm, even ground, which can be considered a luxury off the beaten trail. However, fortunately, there are accessories such as base plates and hi-lift jack points that can make the whole process more convenient and safer.
Roof Racks
Roof racks are a must-have accessory if you plan on journeying for multiple days. These versatile accessories can provide a lot of value, as they not only increase your cargo capacity but significantly improve comfort as a result. This is due to the fact that you'll be able to bring everything you may need for your trip, while freeing up valuable cabin space for you and your family to enjoy the ride comfortably. Roof racks, just like bull bars, can be made using aluminium or steel. Aluminium is generally the preferred option due to its lightweight properties. You don't want to put too much weight on top of your roof, as you can surpass your recommended GVWM, which could spell disaster. Besides increasing your cargo capacity and improving your comfort, roof racks can also serve as a mounting point for other accessories, such as auxiliary lights and UHF antennas.
Roof racks are available in different kits, suitable for various roof setups. For instance, if your Colorado features a crossbar and rails, you can get the most basic kit and install it easily. If it doesn't feature a crossbar and rails, you'll need to get a roof rack that includes those parts and all the necessary mounting hardware. Fortunately, roof racks are made to fit specific vehicle models and makes to ensure easy installation. You can also choose between permanent and temporary racks. The ideal option for you will come down to how often you need to utilise the rack.
