2021 Bison Track Sponsored Rider, Richard Oja

Location: Pendleton, OR

Instagram: tuonorich

Favorite Track: Oregon Raceway Park

How did you get into motorcycles? My first motorcycle experience was in 1966 on the back of my fathers newly acquired Honda CB90 which sparked a life long obsession with motorcycles.

Why do you ride? The reason I ride has evolved over the years, starting from just plan excitement, to attempted mastery of the sport. Above all, it has always has been, and continues to be joyful.

Career Highlight: The ability, when allowed, to ride two different bikes in two different groups each hour at track days.

Favorite Bike to Ride: My backup bike, a 2014 Yamaha FZ09.

How do you prepare to go on the track? Live a reasonably healthy lifestyle, Keep my bikes and gear well maintained, Carefully prepare and pack anticipatory needs which include healthy food choices, hydrate before departure, and during the event, Arrive the night before, relax, stretch, be mindful, insure sufficient rest/sleep. Set the intention to have fun, and not take myself too seriously.

Goals for 2021: To continue with improving my riding skills, and to lay waste, to perfectly good tires.

Why do you choose Bison Track? For the 2021 riding season, I decided to upgrade my level of personal protection with an air bag system. Seeing the dysfunctional crash results with ill fitting off the rack suits, I wanted a custom built suit. I chose Bison to build my suit due to testimonies, the founders unassuming attitude, and his approach to include others in the Bison Family.