Ever wonder what it really takes to compete at King of the Hammers? This behind-the-scenes look from Johnson Valley takes you inside the chaos of King of the Hammers, following Can-Am racers Kyle Chaney, Phil Blurton, Brian Deegan, and more as they take on one of the toughest races in the world.
From early mornings in the pits to last-minute wrenching, strategy calls, and the pressure of race day, this video captures the raw reality of what it takes to line up—and finish—at KOH.
It’s more than just racing. It’s endurance, preparation, teamwork, and grit pushed to the absolute limit.
Inside the Chaos of King of the Hammers: The Machines
A huge part of the story at King of the Hammers is the evolution of the machines themselves—and few platforms represent that better than the latest Can-Am Maverick R lineup.
2026 Can-Am Maverick R X rc
Built with King of the Hammers in mind, the Maverick R X rc is purpose-engineered for the kind of terrain these racers face in Johnson Valley. From massive rock gardens to high-speed desert sections, this machine is designed to handle it all.
Powered by a turbocharged Rotax engine and designed around both speed and control, the Maverick R platform delivers the kind of performance needed to stay competitive across every part of the course.
What sets the X rc apart is its focus on extreme terrain. With 35-inch tires, a dedicated Rock Mode, and an extra-low gear range, it’s built to take on the same brutal obstacles that define KOH.
Add in features like a FOX steering damper, reinforced protection, and a chassis built for punishment, and it’s clear this machine was developed with races like King of the Hammers in mind.
Inside the Chaos of King of the Hammers: Experience Matters
But King of the Hammers has always been about more than just the latest equipment.
While the Maverick R platform continues to push performance forward, the race once again showed how much strategy, consistency, and experience still matter in Johnson Valley.
In the middle of the chaos, one of the winning efforts came from a previous-generation Can-Am platform—another reminder that at KOH, finishing is often the biggest victory of all.
Watch the Full Video
Watch the full video below and experience the chaos, intensity, and determination that define King of the Hammers—from the drivers, the teams, and the machines that make it all happen.
