It has been said that imitation is a form of flattery. That can certainly be said of Ford’s new program for Bronco owners. The program will offer Bronco owners off-road experiences. This sounds suspiciously similar to Jeep people and their Jamborees and Safaris, but for the Bronco enthusiasts.

Which Bronco owners qualify for the experience

Ford wants everybody to learn the abilities of their Broncos. So, for purchasers of any Ford Bronco or Badlands trim of the Ford Bronco Sport will be eligible for the experiences. These experiences are for rookies and experienced off-roaders alike.

What is the off-road program

Ford is offering off-road experiences, called Off-Rodeos, that will help Bronco owners explore the scope of their vehicle’s abilities. According to Road and Track, the multi-day programs will include training in the fundamentals of off-roading, how to traverse obstacle courses, and how to keep the impact of off-roading minimalized to the environment. Additionally, the first day will have a lot of opportunities for owners to socialize. So, it’s not just all trail-working. The second day will include other outdoor activities that can change from location to location.

Where are the Bronco Off-Rodeos happening

The exact locations have not been revealed yet for the Bronco Off-Rodeos. However, Ford did offer that multiple locations will be provided. They will be scattered across the nation to ensure owners won’t have to travel too much to get to one. Initially, their video showed four locations, but it is not known if others will be added as time goes on. The map showed a location in the northeast, a location in Texas, and two locations closer to the west coast.

A page out of Jeep’s book

Jeep has long supported the yearly Jeep Safari and Jamboree events across the country. Sometimes they even reveal concept Jeeps at the events. The Jeep events sound very similar to what Ford is launching out to do now with the Off-Roadeos. But, the similarities are striking. For comparison, here is what the Jeep Jamboree USA website says,

“Jeep Jamborees are off-road adventure weekends that bring together the outdoors, down-to-earth people, and their Jeep 4x4s. These off-road treks have a long tradition dating back to 1953 when 4×4 pioneer Mark A. Smith organized the first-ever Jeep Jamboree and voyaged across the Sierra Nevada Mountains by way of the old Rubicon Trail. In 1954, Willys Motors — then manufacturer of Jeep vehicles became involved with the adventure, and Jeep Jamborees have been an off-road tradition ever since.”

The Bronco Off-Rodeos and the Jeep Jamborees both seem like similar concepts. Granted, Jeep fans have been at it a lot longer. However, the end result is the same. That is, both camps offer off-road training and opportunities for people to form a community bond together while adventuring outdoors.

Win-win situation for Wrangler and Bronco fans

It remains to be seen whether the Bronco and Wrangler fans will form a rivalry through these events. But, it is a win-win situation for both teams because ultimately it will bring more people outdoors, where each of their vehicles happen to excel at. Happier off-road people mean more sales. And, so the cycle begins again.

To be clear, Jeep does not organize the Jamborees. They do however, enjoy the exposure from them and occasionally participate in them. So, Ford’s approach with the Off-Rodeos is a little different in that respect. In either case, it is good to see this automotive segment heat up.

Honestly, I believe both camps can get along fine. It is amazing how a good campfire that has been set up after reaching a remote location can bring people together. So, what if the off-road community has new Bronco inspired events that may look a lot like those already established by Jeep fans. It just means that there will be more opportunities for adventuring fun. Smores anyone?