New Wheels (Forged & Flow-Formed), let’s talk about it! | Behind the Wheel Podcast

New Wheels (Forged & Flow-Formed), let’s talk about it! | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Posted on by Konig Gfx
New Wheels (Forged & Flow-Formed), let’s talk about it!

Today’s episode of the Behind the Wheel podcast is a special one because we’re going to be talking about our NEW WHEEL releases for the year!

We unveiled these wheels at SEMA, but let’s check them out in detail together.

Today, we’ll be looking at 2 new forged wheels, the F5R and the F6SX. As well as a new Flow-Formed wheel called the Hyperspec, and additionally, we’ll be looking at a new variation of the MRK1 called the MRK1 XR!

AND we’ll throw in some truck wheels today too, so sit back, grab a snack or drink and join us today on the Behind the Wheel Podcast!

2024 Behind the Wheel Podcast | All Rights Reserved

Building Cars BEFORE THE INTERNET… | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Posted on by Konig Gfx
Building Cars BEFORE THE INTERNET… | Behind the Wheel Podcast

These days, it’s easy for pretty much any type of car enthusiast to find exactly the part they’re looking for in just a matter of a few minutes on the internet. Whether it’s Amazon, Ebay, Facebook Marketplace, or a million other online marketplaces, car guys and gals have it easy these days! In the 90s and 2000s however, it wasn’t as easy as CLICK & SHIP.

So, what would we do?! We’d go to shops more, we’d go to more shows, get more involved with the local scene, and dare I say…. READ A BOOK or magazine to source information? Whether it was magazines like Super Street, Turbo, or Modified, or early Internet forums like k20a.org, cart enthusiasts from the 90s and 2000s truly had to get resourceful at that time.

DO YOU HAVE a story to tell about modifying cars in the 90s or 2000s? We’d love to hear about it.

Join us for the Behind the Wheel Podcast EVERY WEDNESDAY at 3PM.

2024 Behind the Wheel Podcast | All Rights Reserved

Budget Builds: Can you build a car for $25K? | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Posted on by Konig Gfx
Budget Builds: Can you build a car for $25K? | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Times have changed and prices on suitable project cars have skyrocketed. Whether you’re browsing Facebook Marketplace, Bring a Trailer, or even CoPart – used vehicles can be tough to find at a decent price these days.

Is it even possible to buy and modify a decent car to a respectable level for $25k? If so, what are you looking for and where are you finding it? The crew talks about potential builds, including some that you probably never thought about.

COMMENT BELOW and let us know what car you think you can find AND modify for $25k.

2024 Behind the Wheel Podcast | All Rights Reserved

Honda and Nissan merger…it’s really not what you think…. | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Posted on by Konig Gfx
Honda and Nissan merger…it’s really not what you think…. | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Big news in the automotive world recently with the announcement of the merger between Honda and Nissan (… and Mitsubishi) to create the world’s third largest automotive company, behind Toyota and Volkswagen.

“On Dec. 23, the automakers announced that discussions were underway to create a new holding company that would operate both Honda and Nissan — and potentially include Mitsubishi Motors Corp. However, executives acknowledged several months of talks remain before they can finalize a merger agreement. The potential merger of Honda Motor Co. and Nissan Motor Corp’s could catapult the two automakers into a stronger global position in the race to deploy new technology and bring electric vehicles to the market faster, experts say.”

The potential merger between the two companies could mean big things for enthusiasts… or could it? Will this merger open the doors for the enthusiast by bringing us something like an AWD Type R or a VTEC-equipped S-chassis return? Or are we more likely to see advancements in EV and Hybrid Technology?

Let’s dive into this news as well as talk about some possibilities on the enthusiast side.

WHAT DO YOU THINK about the merger between Honda and Nissan?

2024 Behind the Wheel Podcast | All Rights Reserved

Wanna get sponsored? Here’s how to make it happen… | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Posted on by Konig Gfx
Wanna get sponsored? Here’s how to make it happen… | Behind the Wheel Podcast

You’ve made some serious progress on your build and now you’re interested in finding a sponsor to help support your future goals. Reaching out to a brand you like seems like a natural step, but HOW you approach them is crucial to establishing a relationship. What should you include in your pitch? How can you make your proposal stand out from the countless others these companies receive every day?

In this episode of the Behind The Wheel podcast, Scott and Luis dive deep into the art of crafting a sponsorship proposal that grabs attention and gets results. They share insider tips on what companies look for, how to showcase your unique value, and some of the common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a budding creator, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you secure the support you need to build a lasting partnership with your favorite brands. Don’t miss it!

This is the last podcast of the year! From all of us here at Konig, Happy New Year! We are super excited to see you all in 2025!

2024 Behind the Wheel Podcast | All Rights Reserved

From B-BOY to B-PROFILE…. life before KONIG

Posted on by Konig Gfx
From B-BOY to B-PROFILE…. life before KONIG | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Celebrate the holiday season with us as we bring you a special episode featuring two car enthusiasts sharing their journeys to becoming part of the KONIG family. Dive into their unique paths, filled with passion for cars, and hear their stories about navigating the vibrant Long Island and NYC car scenes. From late-night meets to the roar of engines, it’s all about the culture that brings us together.

But that’s not all—our very own Luis T takes us down memory lane with a surprising twist: he ‘used to be’ a B-Boy, or breakdancer! That’s right, Luis can do a headspin, and we’ll find out how his love for movement and rhythm parallels his passion for cars. Who knew the man behind the wheels had moves to match?

We’re thrilled to have you with us during this holiday week. From all of us at KONIG, we extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones for a joyful, healthy, and safe holiday season. Here’s to celebrating the connections that make this time of year truly special!

© 2024 Behind the Wheel Podcast | All Rights Reserved

Formula Drift’s Most Vocal ROOKIE – Jacob Gettins | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Posted on by Konig Gfx
Formula Drift’s Most Vocal ROOKIE – Jacob Gettins! | Behind the Wheel Podcast

We’re thrilled to have Jacob Gettins on the podcast today as we dive into his incredible journey to becoming Formula Drift’s newest Technical Announcer! Jacob has quickly become a familiar voice in the world of drifting, captivating fans during this season’s FD Live streams with his expert commentary and passion for the sport. But that’s not all—he’s also the host of Formula Drift’s official podcast, The Outerzone, where he brings fans closer to the action and delivers behind-the-scenes insights like never before.

In this episode, Jacob sits down with Scott and Luis to break down all the excitement from this past Formula Drift season. From jaw-dropping moments on the track to pivotal rule changes, he shares his perspective on the sport’s evolution over the last year. You’ll hear about some of the season’s biggest highlights, the challenges of being behind the mic in such a fast-paced environment, and the shifting dynamics within the sport as it continues to grow.

Whether you’re a die-hard Formula Drift fan or just curious about what goes into the world of professional drifting, this episode has something for everyone. Jacob’s enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the sport shine through, making this one of our favorite episodes of Behind The Wheel to date. So buckle up and join us for an unforgettable conversation with one of drifting’s rising stars!

© 2024 Behind the Wheel Podcast | All Rights Reserved

SUSPENSION TUNING done right! | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Posted on by Konig Gfx
SUSPENSION TUNING done right! | Behind The Wheel Podcast

We’re diving into suspension systems on the podcast today, and you’re in for a treat! Joining us is Zachary Peterson, the Research & Development Lead at Fortune Auto. With years of hands-on experience and a passion for automotive engineering, Zach brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Whether you’re a weekend warrior hitting the track or someone looking to improve your daily driver’s handling, this episode is packed with insights tailored just for you.

Our conversation with Zach covers everything from the basics of suspension tuning to the nuances that separate a street car’s setup from a full-fledged race car’s system. He sheds light on the differences between various types and levels of coil-over suspension systems, offering valuable advice for enthusiasts of all levels. Curious about the distinction between single and multi-way adjustable systems? Or how suspension tuning affects performance and comfort? Zach breaks it all down with clarity and expertise.

Fortune Auto, the company Zach represents, is a U.S.-based powerhouse in the coil-over suspension market. Their team of engineers, designers, and automotive enthusiasts focuses on creating custom solutions tailored to meet diverse needs. From their flagship 500 and 510 series coil-overs to their PRO 2-way and PRO 3-way adjustable systems, Fortune Auto provides a wide range of options for car owners. Each product is designed to deliver exceptional performance, whether you’re navigating city streets, carving mountain roads, or competing on the track.

If you’ve ever wondered how the right suspension system can transform your driving experience, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in as we explore the science, art, and passion that go into creating suspension systems that balance comfort, performance, and precision.

© 2024 Behind the Wheel Podcast | All Rights Reserved

WTF! Happened to the EAGLE TALON? | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Posted on by Konig Gfx
WTF Happened to the EAGLE TALON? | Behind The Wheel Podcast

Luis & Nick dive deep into the fascinating history of certain car brands that have since disappeared, like Eagle, Scion, and Datsun. On today’s podcast, they take a nostalgic journey back to the 90s to reminisce about the legendary Eagle Talon, a car that became an icon for enthusiasts during its short but memorable run.

In the early 1990s, Chrysler introduced the Eagle brand as part of its ambitious effort to offer a diverse lineup of cars that could cater to different markets. Eagle was meant to be a kind of “experimental” label, with the focus on more adventurous, distinctive designs and a blend of American and foreign engineering. While it never gained a huge following, it did have a handful of models that captured the imaginations of car lovers at the time.

The most iconic of these was the Eagle Talon, which was introduced in 1990 and quickly became a favorite among sports car enthusiasts. The Talon was essentially a rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Eclipse and Plymouth Laser, but it was marketed as a more performance-oriented alternative. Its sleek, aggressive design and relatively affordable price tag made it a hit in the import car scene, especially among younger buyers who were looking for something that could stand out from the sea of Hondas and Toyotas.

But despite its early success, the Eagle brand had always struggled to find a consistent identity. Cars like the Eagle Summit—a compact hatchback—and the Eagle Vision, a full-size sedan, never quite captured the same magic as the Talon. While the Vision offered a futuristic look and features that made it ahead of its time, it never gained much traction in the marketplace. The Summit was simply too underwhelming, competing with more established nameplates in a crowded segment.

By 1998, Chrysler had had enough of its experimental Eagle venture. The brand was discontinued, and the last Eagle car was sold, signaling the end of an era for a company that had tried to carve out a niche in the increasingly competitive automotive market. Some enthusiasts still look back on the Eagle Talon with fondness, often citing it as one of the greatest “forgotten” performance cars of the 90s.

Luis & Nick explore why the Eagle brand never really lived up to its potential, despite the fact that cars like the Talon were beloved by enthusiasts. They also discuss the broader trends that led to its demise, such as the rise of more established Japanese brands like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan, who dominated the market in both quality and reliability. The podcast delves into how Chrysler’s decision to close the doors on Eagle was part of a larger shift within the auto industry, as companies refocused on their core brands and tried to streamline their offerings.

They also touch on other car brands that went the way of the Eagle, like Scion and Datsun. Scion, a youth-oriented brand introduced by Toyota, aimed to capture a new generation of drivers but ultimately fizzled out due to a lack of brand identity and an inability to adapt to changing market demands. Similarly, Datsun, which was rebranded as Nissan in the 1980s, represents another example of a once-prominent nameplate that faded into obscurity as the automotive industry evolved.

In the end, the story of Eagle, and cars like the Talon, is a reminder of how quickly the automotive landscape can change. Brands rise and fall, and what was once cutting-edge can quickly become obsolete. For car enthusiasts, however, the Eagle Talon and the brands like it will always be remembered fondly as a time when the auto industry took risks, experimented with bold designs, and sometimes, even produced a true legend.

© 2024 Behind the Wheel Podcast | All Rights Reserved

The Autonomous Journey || Behind The Wheel Podcast

Posted on by KONIG
Embarking on the Autonomous Journey: Behind The Wheel with Luis and Nick

Embarking on the Autonomous Journey: Behind The Wheel with Luis and Nick

Imagine stepping into a car without a driver, gliding through city streets while you sit back and enjoy the ride. Sounds like science fiction, right? Not anymore. In this week’s episode of the Behind The Wheel podcast, our hosts Luis and Nick dive headfirst into the exhilarating world of self-driving cars, sharing firsthand experiences and tackling the big questions surrounding this game-changing technology.

A Leap of Faith in San Francisco

Luis kicks off the episode with an electrifying tale from his recent trip to San Francisco. Amidst the hustle of a B-Boy competition, he and his friend stumbled upon Waymo’s autonomous vehicles cruising effortlessly through the city. Skeptical yet intrigued, they decided to take the plunge. The result? An eye-opening journey that felt as if an invisible chauffeur was at the helm. From the seamless navigation to the unexpected interactions with pedestrians who confidently crossed paths with the driverless car, Luis found himself not just impressed but genuinely comfortable.

The Human Element vs. Artificial Intelligence

But it’s not all smooth sailing. Nick brings a critical eye to the discussion, pondering the implications of removing the human instinct from driving. He raises essential concerns about how autonomous cars handle unexpected situations—those split-second decisions that human drivers make daily. The duo delves into incidents like GM’s Cruise vehicle accident and Tesla’s past self-driving challenges, underscoring the importance of safety and reliability as the technology evolves.

Design, Aesthetics, and the Future of Driving

The conversation takes an intriguing turn as they discuss the aesthetics of self-driving cars. While companies like Waymo prioritize functionality with sensor-laden vehicles, Tesla aims for a sleeker, more futuristic design with their upcoming Cyber Taxi. Luis and Nick debate whether cutting-edge technology can coexist with the stylish appeal that consumers expect from modern vehicles.

Coexistence of Tradition and Innovation

One of the episode’s most compelling themes is the coexistence of autonomous vehicles and traditional driving. Luis remains optimistic, envisioning a future where both can thrive. He believes that while driverless cars may handle daily commutes, there’s still a place for the thrill of driving that enthusiasts cherish. Nick, ever the car aficionado, hopes that the essence of driving doesn’t get lost in the march toward automation.

Technological Marvels and Industry Impact

Reflecting on how far we’ve come—from flip phones to smartphones, and now to self-driving cars—the hosts marvel at the rapid pace of innovation. They also touch on what this means for industries like aftermarket car parts. Companies like Konig Wheels continue to thrive, adapting to new technologies while catering to both traditional drivers and early adopters of autonomous vehicles.

Why You Can’t Miss This Episode

This isn’t just a conversation about cars; it’s a deep dive into the future that’s unfolding right before our eyes. Luis and Nick blend personal anecdotes with insightful analysis, offering a balanced perspective on the promises and pitfalls of self-driving technology. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a car lover, or simply curious about what’s next, this episode is packed with thought-provoking discussions that will leave you eager to join the conversation.

Tune In and Join the Ride

Are you ready to explore the frontier of autonomous driving? Don’t miss out on this exciting episode of Behind The Wheel. Buckle up and join Luis and Nick as they navigate the road ahead—it’s a journey you won’t want to miss.

© 2024 Behind the Wheel Podcast | All Rights Reserved