The SOBOBA
Trail Ride is a yearly event that dates back to the grass roots of modern dirt bikes. Many motorcycle greats (real
and movie type) have participated in Soboba’s challenge. It began in the early 70’s when Benny Helm, then Chief
of the Tribe, started the first Soboba Grand Prix.
These
(enduros) were among the largest in the country and soon outgrew our facilities. Then in the early 80’s Bob Graziano,
cousin (through marriage) of Chief Helms and a resident of the reservation, teamed with Malcolm Smith (eight-time I.S.D.T. gold medalist) to gain tribal council approval to
launch the SOBOBA TRAIL RIDE. To help control crowds the event became invitational-only and no spectators
are allowed.
Now, with a history of nearly forty
years of tribal council approval, AMA event sanction plus the promise of unpredictable Southern California weather, Malcolm
Smith hits the trail at 8:00 AM
on ride-day to lead off this very special event that takes place entirely on the Soboba Indian Reservation (Private Property)
with the approval of the tribal council.
This
is a "Invitation Only" ride with a limited number of spots available. WE ARE ACCEPTING SOME NEW APPLICATIONS
AT THIS TIME. Riders from last year’s event will have first pick, we will then add riders from other select
events and prior year rides to go on our future-riders list.
Don’t delay, call or apply early to get the best shot at getting into the 2017 event. Yes, this is a trail
ride. Yes, it is open to all sizes and types of motorcycles. Yes, it is tough. Yes, there are two single track loops of about
thirty miles each. Yes, you can take as much time as you need or want to finish each loop. You may recall that the BLM sold
a large portion of the mountain to the tribe. The new trails used the last two years are still in use with even more new trails
so expect great riding fun, challenges and spectacular scenery.