Off-road racing – why you should try it

By Jeff McGirr
District Sales & Aftersales Development Manager
Yamaha Motor Canada

You’re up before the sunrise for a hearty breakfast because today you’ll not only need a full tank of fuel in your bike but also in your body. There’s dew on the grass and the air is tinged with the fine aroma of off-road motorcycles as riders making their last-minute pre-race adjustments.

If you haven’t yet had the opportunity to participate in a local Enduro, Hare Scramble, Cross Country or Sprint race event, I’d strongly encourage you to give one a try. First, these events are class based so you race against those of similar skill – every level from peewee beginners and first-time racers to veterans and pros, including both men and women’s classes. Second, the event will help test both your mental and physical skill so you can reach and exceed your personal goals.

The atmosphere at these events is one of teamwork. Even though you’re competitors, there’s a mutual respect for the individual challenge. In fact, it’s not uncommon for racers to share best practices and even parts during events to help everyone achieve their goal.

Organizers and volunteers are second to none, eager to make the event memorable and just as thrilled to help you as you are to ride. You can expect pump-you-up riders’ meetings, live announcers, post-race award ceremonies and, of course, delicious meals.

The Corduroy Enduro, dubbed Canada’s Toughest Race, is one I personally look forward to each and every year. It encompasses everything mentioned above into three action-packed days. Running almost continuously since 1953, this event is a rite of passage for aspiring off-road motorcycle enthusiasts and attracts racers from across Canada and internationally.

The Corduroy Enduro challenges racers with rugged Canadian shield rock sections, mixed deciduous and conifer forests, and steep hills, as well as logs, water and mud. The terrain is incredibly tough on bikes and riders alike. However, in my opinion, it’s the combination of course features and the overall length that makes it Canada’s Toughest Race. Historically speaking, riders traverse approximately 150 kilometres a day for two days. Each day has timed tests while riding and tough challenges to test you.

The class you choose will dictate how gnarly this race is. The Pros tackle famous natural obstacles such as the Tunnel of Love and Greens Mountain, while first timers take on the five-point challenge. To finish the Corduroy Enduro is a feat in itself and many riders come with exactly that goal.

From coast to coast and all points in between, in Canada we are incredibly lucky to have vast and varied off-road riding opportunities. I encourage you to look up your local organization or club and see what events, challenges, races or even just rides are happening – then drop the clutch on your off-road or adventure bike and try it out!