1. Name Change

Yep, this is a big one. Changing the name from "Air Ride Technologies" to "RideTech" was no small undertaking. We have been pleased with the reception and we think most folks get-it right away. RideTech is still the leader in "Air Ride Technologies", but there is more to RideTech than air suspension.

2. New Products

Frankly, the amount of product development that occurred in 2009 at RideTech is staggering, even for those of us on the inside. Much of our hard work throughout the last year (and longer) is just now starting to bare fruit. In the beginning of 2010, you will see the products hitting shelves. Not only are we offering the largest amount of new products in the history of the company, nearly every existing item in our line has been updated or improved in some way. Take a look, and keep watching there is still more in the works that we haven’t released yet!

3. AutoCross / Track Days

For a growing number of hot rodders, driving your car to and from a show just isn’t cutting it anymore. In every case, the autocross and track events in `09 were better attended and more enthusiastically supported. We think this is a good thing, a VERY good thing. We invested considerably in participating and sponsoring many of these events in `09, and are happy to say there will be even more in 2010!

Nationals

4. Project Cars

Much like many of our customers, this year was not a headline year in new project vehicle construction at our shop. We instead focused on refining our existing fleet (and there was also all those new products being developed). We changed several engines, swapped a few transmissions, updated interiors, exchanged a couple rear-ends, etc… Still it was fun, and our cars and trucks are better off for the effort.

5. Nova Giveaway

We once again had mixed emotions at this year’s GoodGuys Nationals in Columbus when we gave away the SuperNova. It was great to have been involved with the giveaway car, but it sure is hard to let go of such an awesome ride – especially after you have driven it (and raced it) for a full year! In the end it was a blast:

6. Power Tour

We felt the Hot Rod Power Tour deserves its own listing on the top nine. It just doesn’t fit in the other categories, and frankly it has special significance in RideTech’s culture as a company. The Power Tour helped launch our business back in the mid `90’s and is still one of the best representations of what we think this hobby should be about – driving your car. We were a key sponsor of the Tour in `09, and for 2010, we have just raised our commitment, so start making your plans, and in the mean time check out some of our `09 coverage:

7. Car Shows

We didn’t cut back on our show schedule this year, and from what we saw, neither did most of you. Of course if you were paying VERY close attention and kept a keen calculating eye on the numbers, attendance was down slightly at some events, but not enough to have an impact. We love getting out to the shows, seeing your rides and getting to talk about what your building. We also like to share as much as we can about each show we visit. Take a look at some highlights:

8. Videos

We think video is one of the best ways to show the world what we’re about, and beside, they are just fun. We did some of our own video work, as well as had some pretty talented folks put some videos together for us in `09.

9. Trade Shows

Industry shows are always a big deal, especially when you have new stuff to talk about. With so much new stuff to talk about, the `09 SEMA, PRI & IMIS shows were the most productive trade shows we’ve ever had as a company. We even picked up a new product award for the "Select Series" shock:

Recently, we were given the opportunity to sponsor a video series on the Hub called “Top Shops”. When we were told the Top Shop to be featured was Rad Rides by Troy, we were in.

We’re always proud to be associated with the gang at Troy’s shop, and this video series didn’t disappoint. It is a great look at a great shop and really gives an inside look at why Troy is counted among the very best car builders in the world.

We’ve posted the 4 episodes of the shop tour below, and make sure to follow Chris Jacobs in the future as he visits more top shops.

Part 1 – Welcome to Rad Rides

Part 2 – The Fab Shop

Part 3 – The Machine Shop

Part 4 – The Body Shop – 1956 Chrysler Custom

Lets take a tour!

Upstairs we have Amber’s Shock room. Amber assembles & test every single adjustable shock used in the Shockwave units.

Down stairs we have the welding room. Dave, Bret, and Josh melt our parts together.

In the center is CNC central. John, Tim, Cassey, man these metal eating monsters.

Towards the front of the shop is Rodney’s Area.
Rodney develops all the air suspension systems. Currently he is working on 2nd gen Camaro TigerCage.

The office area is complete and everyone is moved in. The break room is about 75% finished. We hope to have it finished soon.

Here is the receiving area. Greg makes sure everyone has the materials needed to keep those machines running non stop.