Rigs We Dig: Fronco Bronco 2021 Ford Bronco with Roam Desperado RTT

November 21, 2023 3 min read

We dig this rig! Frank Gonnella from Fronco Bronco takes his 2021 Ford Bronco with a Roam Desperado RTT all over the place and sleeps soundly on his HEST mattress and pillows.

Rig Nickname: Fronco

Location: San Mateo, CA

Make & Model: 2021 Ford Bronco with ROAM RTT

Critical dimensions for your bed platform:

Roam Desperado RTT Length: 80” Width (at narrowest point): 49” Height: (not sure, 10+” at the feet, a few feet high at the peak)

HEST products: HEST Dually Long, Fitted 50 Sheets and & 2 x Standard Pillows

Is this your daily driver or getaway car?

Daily!

What do you like most about your rig?

Satin/matte paint protection film (PPF) with gloss black PPF creates a rugged, aggressive style that also has utility in protecting the vehicle on the trail.

On your average weekend adventure, what is the gear set up you bring with you?

Full fridge, basket of snacks, some fuel to cook, some camp chairs, a pair of Devos lanterns and some firewood (if the location allows fires). Basically everything else is already built into the rig and ready for use when needed. (Oh, and a toothbrush and deodorant!)

How did you navigate gear storage needs into your rig set up?

I worked with American Adventure Lab to build storage right into the cargo area of the truck. There's a shelf that sits above the fridge to maximize the vertical space, drawers and table surfaces that slide out which are securely mounted into the cargo floor. Fridge is also on a slide-out drawer/table combo, so most of my gear stays in the vehicle at all times. I have access to additional storage on the roof given the stability of the TrailRax rack, and Roam Rugged Mounts for an 83L box up top when needed. I also have a spare tire platform to carry more fuel, maxtrax, or other items if needed.

Any custom details?

The matte paint protection film and black paint protection film accents are as utilitarian as they are stylish. Not only does my vehicle have a unique look, but it is thoroughly protected from rock chips, brush pinstripes and other hazards that could damage the body.

Coolest place you’ve taken your rig to?

I've seen incredible places all along the western half of the USA and Mexico, but Death Valley has been one of the coolest and most varied landscapes I've seen in a single outing. It's surprising how much variety there is, from deserts to mountains, rock, volcanic soil, dry lake beds, hot springs and hills.

Any projects in the pipeline to get your rig even more adventure ready?

This year has been a tremendous year for performance upgrades with my new RPG mid-travel suspension and Advanced Fiberglass 8” fenders and hood. I think 2024 will just be about enjoying what I've built (and fixing whatever I break while doing so!).

Biggest challenge in your build out?

I was one of the first 6th Gen bronco owners, and it took a long time for companies to perfect their equipment for fitting to a new Bronco. Patience was the biggest challenge, and holding out for the best products, not just the first to market. Fortunately, I was able to help many of these companies bring their products to market sooner, and I'm grateful to every one of them who are now friends (in addition to being sponsors).

Tips for others looking to do the same to their vehicle?

Go out and use your rig. Let your own lifestyle and what you enjoy be your guide to improving your experience. You'll never be done upgrading, so just focus on what helps you enjoy - and stay in - the moments you have out in nature, whether that's a better night's sleep out in the wild, or the parts that helped get you there.

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