Triple EEE - Superlite "Desertlite"

Current:

Owner: Bob Pettit (Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/f.it.just.wing.it/)

Restorer: Bob Pettit

Fabricator: Rusty Lindamood (Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Rustys_garage777/)

Test Driver: Karl Tech (Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Karltech513/)

Current Engine: Polaris Indy 500cc 2 Stroke Twin

Chassis: Triple E Desertlite - 3rd Gen (modified front and rear suspension for desert racing)

Year Built:

Current Location (as of 2025): Las Vegas

Past:

Past Race Car Driver:

Michael Peace (Time Period Unknown)
David Mills Saddlrey (2010-2011 Whiplash Series, New Mexico & Texas)

Race Numbers:

3ZX
1934X
67ZX
2

A Closer Look at This Vintage Superlite Restoration

A vintage Superlite—once used in the storied Mickey Thompson racing series—has been meticulously restored by a dedicated team of off-road enthusiasts. While the complete history of its racing days remains a bit mysterious, the new build showcases a thoughtful blend of vintage elements and modern performance upgrades. Here’s an inside look at the standout components that bring this classic racer roaring back to life.

Key Upgrades & Features

Suspension Seat by Beard: The restorer selected a Beard suspension seat to soften the ride for the driver, significantly reducing fatigue over rough terrain. It’s a simple but essential upgrade in a single-seat off-road racer.
Front Shocks by Fox & Rear Shocks by Works: With Fox up front and Works in the rear, this Superlite has a well-balanced suspension package. The combination provides consistent handling, helping the car stay planted during landings and over uneven surfaces.
Blurton FNR Transmission: A Blurton forward-neutral-reverse (FNR) transmission gives the build both robustness and maneuverability. It ensures quick gear changes during racing, while also making it easier to load, unload, and move around tight pits.
Type 4 CVs & Outboard CVs: Equipped with Type 4 and outboard CVs, the rear suspension gets enhanced wheel travel and improved articulation. This setup helps maintain solid traction, even in the most demanding off-road conditions.

Braking & Steering

Neil Pedals & Airheart Master Cylinder: When it’s time to slow down, Neil pedals and an Airheart master cylinder deliver a predictable, responsive brake feel. This reliable combination is especially appreciated in off-road racing, where braking points can shift with changing terrain.
Formuling Steering Wheel: A Formuling steering wheel completes the cockpit, offering precise steering input and a classic race-inspired aesthetic.

Body & Fabrication

Bodywork by Jack’s Aluminum: Jack’s Aluminum crafted new body panels to both protect the Superlite’s key components and give it a polished, professional look. Lightweight and durable, these panels fit seamlessly into the overall build.

Why This Build Matters

Even without a fully documented backstory, this restored Superlite embodies the spirit of a bygone era in stadium off-road racing. Its single-seat design, updated suspension, and modern conveniences capture the excitement of a machine that once ran alongside legendary racers.

Maintaining Classic Lines with Modern Touches: From the original chassis design to new performance parts, each upgrade enhances reliability and safety while preserving the buggy’s classic stadium-racer vibe.
A Testament to Off-Road Ingenuity: The components chosen for this restoration—Fox, Works, Beard, Blurton, Neil, and Airheart—reflect the passion and engineering savvy that defined (and still defines) short-course and desert racing.

Calling All Superlite Fans

If anyone out there happens to have photos or videos of this particular Superlite—or any other Superlite from this era—please reach out! We’d love to learn more about this car’s past and collect any historical tidbits or visual media that might add to the lore of these incredible machines.