From frozen lake tracks to the scorching dunes of Dakar, Canada has carved out a two-wheeled legacy that’s as vast and rugged as the country itself. It’s not just about horsepower—it’s about grit, snow, mud, ice, and the people who don’t let a little weather stop them from riding.

The Early Days: Where It All Began

Motorcycling in Canada dates back to the early 1900s, with Ontario-based brands like CCM and Queen City Cycle leading the way. By 1911, the Manitoba Motorcycle Club was already one of the oldest clubs in the world. This wasn’t just about transportation—it was about identity. Canadians have always embraced the bike not just as a machine, but as a ticket to freedom.

Off-Road Icons and Dirt-Flecked Glory

Canada’s off-road history is built on legends. Helmut “Speedy” Clasen led the charge, becoming Canada’s first ISDT gold medalist in 1971. He racked up 14 national titles and raced well into his sixties. He wasn’t alone—Larry Bastedo and Malcolm Smith helped build the foundation for enduro and motocross across Canada.

Then there’s Lawrence Hacking, who became the first Canadian to complete the Paris-Dakar Rally in 2001. More recently, Jordan Strachan from Northern Ontario completed the 2025 Dakar on a Kove 450EX, battling the Saudi sands to become one of only 77 finishers. Not bad for a guy used to ice storms and moose crossings.

Road Racers Who Put Canada on the Map

Canadian road racing wouldn’t be the same without the Duhamels. Yvon Duhamel, known for his skill across ice racing, motocross, and road racing, was a true pioneer. His son, Miguel Duhamel, followed in his tire tracks, becoming the first Canadian to win an AMA Superbike title and stacking up over 30 career victories.

Then there’s Jordan Szoke. With 14 national superbike championships under his belt, he’s the winningest road racer in Canadian history. Szoke didn’t just win—he dominated. Perfect seasons, rain-soaked podiums, and over two decades at the front of the pack. Canadian racing royalty, plain and simple.

From Local Trails to Global Podiums

Canadian riders don’t just compete—they contend on the world stage. From ISDT to Baja to Dakar, they’ve proven that harsh winters and short riding seasons only build tougher racers. They carry maple leaf patches into the mud, the dust, and the glory.

Why It Still Matters

This history isn’t just a bunch of names and dates—it’s what fuels the Canadian rider today. We’re born into a culture of perseverance. Our season is short. Our roads are rough. Our weather is unpredictable. But we still ride. We find the gaps in the forecast and the twist in the trail. And that spirit carries into everything we do, including our gear.

Joe Rocket: Built with Canadian DNA

Joe Rocket was born in 1992 in Windsor, Ontario, founded by Bruce Parker with a simple mission: make gear that’s built for real riders without breaking the bank. From those early days in a small shop, Rocket quickly became a staple in Canadian motorcycling culture—outfitting everyone from weekend warriors to pro racers. Known for pushing innovation and accessibility, Rocket changed the game by introducing the first mesh motorcycle jacket, giving riders across Canada a way to stay protected and cool in the summer heat. Over the decades, the brand has become more than just gear—it’s a symbol of Canadian riding grit, blending performance, value, and style for those who ride no matter the weather.

At Joe Rocket Canada, we’re proud to be part of this legacy. Our gear is designed for Canadian conditions and inspired by the riders who came before. From snowy trails to national podiums, we make gear that stands up to the elements—because Canadian riders wouldn’t accept anything less.

Ride hard. Ride far. Ride Canadian. Ride Rocket.