President’s Update
Hello riders,
Hope everyone is enjoying the official start of the riding season here in Ontario. I’d like to thank all of you who took the time to volunteer and get out there to clean the trails. Thanks to you, we had a great start to the season with most trails open and ready to rip.
I’d also like to extend a thanks to all the Directors here at the OFTR. Many of them worked even harder than normal to ensure the RideOFTR App opened with minimal friction. It wasn’t perfect, but it was certainly better than last year. We worked with the developer to conduct a soft open weeks before the App went live to ensure a great experience on opening day. Many directors tested and provided feedback to the developer over the weeks leading up to May 1st in order to accomplish our aim. For those of you who still experienced some issues, thanks for your patience. By and large, we received very positive feedback and the App is live, please download it and explore the features in the latest update.
Events are coming! The Midhurst Trail Ride hosted by SCORRA is right around the corner and it is always a great time. LVDR hosted the Doug Kent Memorial Beagle Bash Enduro and Trail Ride in April and it looked amazing. Please visit the OFTR website and follow us on social media so you can see what events are coming up. June is full, and there are lots of opportunities to get out and meet other riders.
With the long weekend around the corner, I hope you all get some riding in.
Keep the knobby side down,
Rob Girouard
President of the OFTR
OFTR News You Can Use
The Ontario Federation of Trail Riders (OFTR) has reason to celebrate as they’ve been awarded a grant from Moto Canada, marking a significant milestone in their mission to enhance off-road experiences across Ontario. This partnership promises to fuel the passion for off-road riding in the Province.
Moto Canada, renowned for its commitment to promoting responsible sale and use of off-road vehicles, has recognized the vital role that organizations like OFTR plays in promoting and advocating for off-road riding in Ontario. The grant represents a shared vision between Moto Canada and OFTR: to support initiatives that promote sustainable trail riding practices and advocating for the off-road motorcycle community.
The grant from Moto Canada also opens up exciting opportunities for the OFTR as we continue to advocate for issues that directly impact our clubs and our members.
Furthermore, the partnership with Moto Canada signifies more than just financial support; it represents a shared commitment to promoting the values within the off-road community. By joining forces, Moto Canada and OFTR aim to inspire a new generation of riders to explore the great outdoors responsibly while fostering a deep appreciation for Ontario’s natural beauty.
Renew your membership
Riders of Surron, Talaria, Emmo, or Stark, gear up! Let’s hit the trails legally with our plated and insured bikes. And yes, that OFTR membership sticker is a must!
Remember, all riders need to be plated, insured and have your valid OFTR sticker (or proof of purchase).
Have your plates properly displayed, green off-road plates go on the front of your bike, and blue motorcycle plates go on the back.
Reach out to us if you have any questions.

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT
This months sponsorship spotlight goes to Princess Auto! Tools and equipment for folks who work with their hands and figure things out which is a common trait to be found amongst dirt bikers. Throughout the year we will be sharing various discounts and promotions that you can only get at Princess Auto. So keep your eyes peeled for these offers you won’t want to miss.
Club Corner
The BMA is a group of off-road motorcycle enthusiasts dedicated to the safe and responsible practice of our sport for all ages. We feel strongly that this is the best strategy to preserve and expand off road riding opportunities in the Ottawa area and Eastern Ontario. By demonstrating responsible riding and the responsible use of private and publics lands we will be able to successfully advocate for increased support and recognition for the sport and the many social and economic benefits that off-road riding activities bring to our communities.
Stop by and visit Bytown Motorcycle Association at the Ottawa Valley Powersports Show, May 24-May 26.
SAFETY TIP OF THE MONTH
Risk has many faces. As we ride throughout the summer, that risk changes as we grow more competent in our skills and challenges us in different environments. Our risk perception and risk tolerance is driven by our confidence and when we become over confident we need to recognize this as a risk and when we do we need to stop and think of the consequences. We cannot rationalize a move or action on the trails that could have significant consequences to you or your co-riders. Stay in the moment, recognize the space we are in and evaluate the risk.
You don’t rise to the occasion. You fall to your level of preparation.
Safety tip brought to you by OFTR Member: Brian G
NEW SPONSOR ALERT
The OFTR is pleased to announce Yamaha as another new sponsor to our family – we look forward to sharing exciting news with them in the future!
Father’s Day is June 16, 2024
Do you want to get your dad, or grandfather a gift they will love? Check out our merch at the OFTR Merch shop. Check out the new designs too and buy something you know they will love!
UPCOMING EVENTS
SCORRA
Midhurst Trail Ride – SOLD OUT
May 26, 2024
Algonquin Two Day Ride
June 15 & 16
STARA
Funduro
June 29, 2024
BPORRA & DRRRA
Canada Day Ride
June 30, 2024
HTR
Soggy Boot
July 7, 2024
KORMA
KORMA Ladies Ride
July 20, 2024
ODSC
Dual Sport Creemore Ride
July 21, 2024
NTR
Weslemkoon Trail Ride
August 4th, 2024
STARA
Blueberry Hustle
August 17, 2024
HTR
Ladies Moto Mingle & Camp Out
August 23-25, 2024
BMA
Calabogie Boogie
September 7 & 8, 2024
ODSC
St. Williams Super Sunday Dual Sport Ride
September 2024
Rally Connex Rides
(use code OFTR for discount)
Spring Training Tour by Rally Connex
May 4 & 5, 2024
Ladies Off-Road Training by Rally Connex
May 4, 2024
Spring Fling by Rally Connex
May 25, 2024
Rock Hound Rally by Rally Connex
August 16-18, 2024
Corduroy Trail Ride by Rally Connex
September 21-22, 2024
Fall Colours Ride by Rally Connex
October 4-6, 2024
- From Ontario Federation of Trailer Riders
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