Frequently Asked Questions

   

 

 

 

Questions and Answers about the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™

Frequently Asked Questions have been revised for the 2026 Challenge.

  1. Why do you limit the number of new riders that can sign up each year?
  2. Will tracking devices be used again this year?
  3. Can I opt out of the public tracking?
  4. Is it cheating to use GPS during the Challenge?
  5. How will speeding violations be handled this year?
  6. How will you know if anyone cheated during the Challenge?
  7. Are there any infractions that could result in being removed from the event after leaving the Starting Line?
  8. Can I be disqualified and my “Finisher” status revoked after reaching the finish line?
  9. What if I have to withdraw before the Challenge?
  10. Can I participate in another event while riding the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™?
  11. What is required to be an “Elite” or a "Bad Ass" Finisher?
  12. Am I disqualified from participating if I have an accident?
  13. Are Challengers allowed to have a passenger?
  14. Are there monetary prizes?
  15. Is the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ limited to Harley's only?
  16. Is the ride going through Mexico or Canada in 2026?
  17. Do I have to ride the entire route?
  18. What more can you tell me about the route?
  19. Are support teams going to be allowed?
  20. Do riders have to camp near their bike?
  21. Are we allowed to outfit our bikes with a larger aftermarket tank or use a fuel cell?
  22. Do I have to pay my entire entry fee at one time?
  23. Will it matter if I put one bike on the application and then decide to ride another?
  24. Do you have a comprehensive list of rules and how the event is run?
  25. Your ability to change the rules before the event doesn't seem acceptable.
  26. Will trikes or trailers be allowed?
  27. Will there be a drug test at the finish line?
  28. Do I have to use the Checkpoint dealerships to get work done on my bike?
  29. Will there be a Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ in odd numbered years?
  30. Are fundraisers for charities required as a participant of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™?
  31. Do you give discounts to Veterans who want to ride the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™?
  32. Is it ok for me to use the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ logo?
  33. What is Wolakota?

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1- Why do you limit the number of new riders that can sign up each year?

Our mission is to promote awareness of the plight of many of our nation’s people who have lost hope. These people can be found at every turn such as Native American Reservations, inner cities, the Appalachian Mountains and even rural areas that have all been beaten down by either the economy, family issues, drug & alcohol abuse, medical issues or a combination thereof. We are looking for great riders; not great numbers.

There are a number of reasons why we decided to limit the number of new riders participating in the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™. Among these was the safety of our riders. The Challenge route, as always, will be very technical and challenging. This event is not intended to be for everyone and we believe that any one that takes on the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ must be a cut above the rest. It was decided that we would limit the number of new participants because we believe it is our responsibility to ensure that anyone who participates in this epic event is held to a higher standard and we owe it to them to provide the support they need without over extending ourselves.

Any one who has ridden in the past will always be welcome to join us again. There is no limit to the number of returning riders who can participate.

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2 - Will tracking devices be used again this year?

Yes, and once again, US Fleet Tracking is the only authorized tracking provider for the 2026 HOKA HEY MOTORCYCLE CHALLENGE™.

If you do not already own a US Fleet Tracking device from a previous event, you will be required to lease tracking equipment from the Organizer at the cost of $50 lease fee plus a $100 refundable deposit; payable once you are accepted into the 2026 Event.

Returning riders who own their own authorized and operational US Fleet Tracking™ equipment may use that device in the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™. Any returning rider who uses their own equipment will be responsible to pay for the necessary tracking service and for making that tracking available to the Organization prior to the start of the Event. A paid invoice must be presented at the time of registration.

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3 - Can I opt out of the public tracking?

Yes, however, if you wish to be considered an "Elite" or a "Bad Ass" finisher, you will need to remain on the public map in order to be held to public scrutiny.

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4 - Is it cheating to use GPS during the Challenge?

We view this as cheating yourself. In order to get the most out of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ electronic devices to include; GPS, iPads, Smart Phones, track & call, Bluetooth and other communication devices used as navigation aids are discouraged. This restriction places greater demand on the participant and can only help them to grown stronger and more confident in their abilities. The use of mounted/hardwired GPS and/or in-helmet communications is also discouraged and should not be powered up while riding the route.

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5 - How will speeding violations be handled this year?

In order to be eligible to be classified as a "Finisher" riders must arrive at the finish line, having followed the rules established in the Terms and Conditions of the Event. Item #2 under Rules of Engagement stipulates that: Participants must not speed. Any moving violation for speeding, failure to signal, improper lane change, etc. will be grounds for automatic disqualification from FINSHER status. Challengers are, however, encouraged to continue to participate in the Event unless their violation is considered to be wreckless operation. This, and any reported speed that exceeds 99mph will result in automatic disqualification and removal from the Challenge route - no questions asked.

Organizers reserve the right to monitor and review riders' tracking for speeds and route infractions and participants may be asked to certify that they did not receive a ticket for a moving violation during the course of the event.

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6 - How will you know if any one cheated during the Challenge?

The Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ is NOT a competition. Instead, we promote values like Honor & Integrity and we expect our participants to demonstrate these qualities while participating in this Event. We cannot possibly watch your every move while out on the road so, if a rider does not follow the rules of engagement as established in the Terms & Conditions, the rider is merely cheating themselves of the full Hoka Hey experience.

However, to be considered a "Finisher", a thorough cross verification of the riders' vapor trails and speed reports will be conducted. Event Organizers also reserve the right to implement a random drug screening to discourage the use of performance enhancing drugs during the event.

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7 - Are there any infractions that could result in being removed from the event after leaving the Starting Line?

Yes! Any rider who consistently disregards the speed limit and/or is found to be riding erratically or recklessly may be asked to leave the Event. Any consumption of alcohol or the use of illegal drugs will result in being asked to leave the Event. The Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ Organizers abide by a strict set of standards of which there can be zero tolerance. Suffice it to say, any action that endangers fellow riders or others on the highway may result in being asked to leave the event. Any reported speed that exceeds 99mph will result in disqualification. Be sure to read the Terms and Conditions.

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8 - Can I be disqualified and my “Finisher” status revoked after reaching the finish line?

Yes, upon completing the route validations using the rider's vapor trail and speed reports, the Board of Directors may determine that excessive speeds and/or missing large portions of the route are grounds for disqualification. Any other infractions that are later proven may also be grounds for revocation of your "Finisher" status.

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9 - What if I have to withdraw before the Challenge?

If you discover that you won't be able to participate in the upcoming Challenge, you must notify us in writing by emailing (NOT TEXTING) us at info@hokaheychallenge.com. Once we have received your withdrawal, we will roll your entry fee to the next event. Text messages are not considered an acceptable form of written notification.

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10 - Can I participate in another event while riding the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™?

Our main concern is your safety so, participating in any event that takes your focus from the Challenge route will be grounds for disqualification. The Hoka Hey organizers are less concerned with events that can be certified mearly by submitting tracking results without having to accomplish additional requirements while participating in Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™. But, anything that takes you off route or requires your attention elsewhere will not be permitted.

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11 - What is required to be an “Elite” or a "Bad Ass" Finisher?

To be considered an "Elite Finisher" a rider must have arrived at the finish line within 12 days having completed the route following the turn by turn directions and not miss any roads. They must also have ridden at reasonable speeds and have complied with the rules of engagement as outlined in the Terms & Conditions. Riders must finish by midnight on the 14th day to be considered a "Bad Ass Finisher".

Both "Elite" and "Bad Ass" Finishers are expected to participate in fundraising activities and will be held to a much higher standard without leniency.

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12 - Am I disqualified from participating if I have an accident?

If a rider is unfortunate enough to be admitted to the hospital and held overnight or longer they will not be considered a "Finisher". Many riders come away from an accident with broken bones and still manage to complete the Challenge route. However, if a medical professionals deem your injuries bad enough that they admit you to a hospital, then your ability to finish the Challenge route safely is most likely compromised and we would rather you err on the side of safety.

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13 - Are Challengers allowed to have a passenger?

Yes. But only returning riders may carry a passenger. To do so you will need to submit an additional $100 and the passenger will need to sign and submit the signature page from the Release & Waiver and Terms and Conditions. Passengers are not permitted to help operate the motorcycle or trike if you intend to be eligible for placement as a certified finisher.

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14 - Are there monetary prizes?

No. As a direct result of having a monetary prize that recognized finishing placement when the Challenge first began, there has been a misconception that the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ was a speed race. This opinion took the focus away from what the event was intended to be. The Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ is not only intended to test an individual’s stamina and endurance, but their mental capacity to follow directions and adapt to any situation. In fact, the route details are withheld for the sole purpose of keeping the riders guessing.

All riders that arrive at the finish line, having followed the prescribed route and the other Terms and Conditions of the Event will be recognized as Challenge Finishers. Riders shouldn't be lulled into a false sense of security by the format of the Event. Challengers must rely on their endurance, navigation skills, and wit to reach the finish line in time.

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15 - Is the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ limited to Harley's only?

No, the event will be open to all American Manufacturers of V-Twin, motorcycles like Harley-Davidson®, Victory, Indian® and custom motorcycles.

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16 - Is the ride going through Mexico or Canada in 2026?

No, the 2026 Challenge will not be taking riders through areas of Mexico or Canada.

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17 - I would love to participate but don’t think I can take that much time off work. Do I have to ride the entire route?

Riding the entire route should be the intent of each applicant. But, we understand that time does run out on occasion. All we can ask of any Challenger is that they give it their best effort. Contact the Hoka Hey Organizers with special circumstances.

If, for any reason, you decide to leave the route we ask that you notify the Operations Center so we know you have departed.

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18 - What more can you tell me about the route?

Hundreds of hours go into developing a very specific turn by turn route. Not to mention the days and days spent pre-riding the route. We work very hard to pick the route and provide Challengers with acurate driving directions. For the most part, the route will follow secondary paved roads. It is the Organizers intent to not use interstate highways, but sometimes this cannot be avoided; if used they will be minimal. It is also the intent of the Organizers to not use unpaved roads or byways; again, sometimes this cannot be avoided but if used they will be minimal.

The Organizers will have the route for the upcoming Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ pre-riden by experienced riders before the driving directions are printed. However, conditions along the route may change unexpectedly. If, after the Event starts, the lead riders discover a particular stretch of the route is dangerous they are expected to contact the Hoka Hey Hotline (605-890-0386) and, if possible, an alternate route will be disseminated to all follow-on riders resulting in a change of the route during the event.

As with previous Events, we will keep the route a secret in order to make it more Challenging. Participants should expect to encounter vast technical riding and will have to rely on their navigation skills and wit to reach the finish line! Riders will need to reach the checkpoints in order to receive their driving directions for the next leg of the journey. The route should not be shared with folks at home in order to prevent friends and loved ones from inadvertantly lending assistance the rider may not want.

In order to be considered eligible to receive Finisher recognition, Challengers will be expected to stick to the route even if it means backtracking 100 miles to find a missed turn. There will be established checkpoints and the possibility of a random checkpoint and riders are expected to hit them all if they want to be in contention for formal Finisher recognition. However, riders who deviate from the course may still be eligible for a Wolakota award.

19 - Are support teams going to be allowed?

No, family and friends may meet you at a checkpoint to provide moral support. However, they may not follow you across the continent and they may not provide mechanical or navigation assistance, aid or support of any kind. Riders should NOT share the route with folks at home in order to prevent friends and loved ones from inadvertantly lending assistance the rider may not want.

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20 - Do riders have to camp near their bike?

In order to receive Finisher recognition, participants should plan to use a tent, lean-to or a hammock during the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™. Challengers with physical disabilities should contact the Hoka Hey Organizers for possible exemption from this restriction. Under certain circumstance and on a case-by-case basis, hotel stays may be granted under extreme circumstances. Sleeping in a configuration other than "outside" does not automatically disqualify a rider from a Wolakota award.

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21 - Are we allowed to outfit our bikes with a larger aftermarket tank or use a fuel cell?

Aftermarket tanks are permitted only if your stock tank is removed and the aftermarket tank does not exceed a total of 6.2 gallons. For the purposes of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ a second fuel tank would be considered a fuel cell and would disqualify that bike from participating in the event. Added fuel cells or gas cans are NOT permitted under any circumstance.

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22 - Do I have to pay my entire entry fee at one time?

Potential new riders must pay the entire entry fee at the time of application. Returning riders may make a deposit of $250 U.S. (two hundred and fifty dollars U.S.) when application is submitted with the remaining balance due not less than 60 days prior to the upcoming event. All applications submitted after that date will require full payment at the time of application submission and may incur additional charges. If, as a returning rider, you have applied a deposit but cannot pay the remaining amount by this deadline it is imperative you contact Hoka Hey Organizers and explain your intent; we will do all we can to work with you. You can make your full payment, deposit, or pay the remainder of the entry fee at our Secure Online Payment Center. Any late payments may result in additional fees.

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23 - Will it matter if I put one bike on the application and then decide to ride another? What if my registered motorcycle is incapacitated just before or during the Challenge.

We just need to have an idea of what to look for on the day of departure. So - if you change your mind after submitting your application - or if you will be renting a motorcycle for the Challenge - just give us a call or submit the change in writing. No problem! In the event your registered motorcycle is incapacitated just before or during the Challenge you can replace it by the purchase of a new or used one, or use another that you already own. However, the replacement motorcycle will be subject to all restrictions and requirements in accordance with the Terms & Conditions.

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24 - Do you have a comprehensive list of rules and how the event is run?

Sure! You should be able to find everything you need in the Terms and Conditions. The T&C may be updated for each Challenge in order to address some of the concerns that came out of the previous Events. Potential riders should read them over carefully before applying.

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25 - Your ability to change the rules before the event doesn't seem acceptable.

This comment must be referring to the Force Majure or the section of the Terms and Conditions entitled "Rules Subject to Change." These sections are fairly specific in their reference to matters that are completely beyond our control (fire, earthquake, epidemic diseases, etc.) and provide us with the ability to adjust to unforeseen circumstances. However, the Organizers have no intention of making changes after the Rider’s Meeting which will be held the night before departure from the Starting Line.

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26 - Will trikes or trailers be allowed?

Trikes, and/or sidecars will be permitted on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the Hoka Hey Organizers in advance to notify us of your situation. Trailers will not be allowed under any circumstances

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27 - Will there be a drug test at the finish line?

Possibly, the Event Organizers reserve the right to implement drug screening on a random basis to discourage the use of amphetamines or methamphetamine during the Challenge.

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28 - Do I have to use the Checkpoint dealership to get work done on my bike?

No. Any repairs necessary can be conducted at any dealership, even if you have to go off route to have work done. Having work done on your motorcycle (emergency repair or otherwise) at a dealership other than a Checkpoint dealership is perfectly acceptable and will not disqualify the rider.

For the most part, Checkpoint dealerships might agree to have technicians on duty for a specific amount of time during the Challenge to accommodate your needs. However, it is highly recommended you contact the Checkpoint prior to arrival and inform them of the type and possible extent of the work that needs to be done on your motorcycle; even if it is only a normal service. It is even more important you contact the Checkpoint if you need major repair. Normally an on duty technician will be able to accomplish a normal service but a major repair may require a different technician be on duty. If the Checkpoint is unaware of a needed major repair upon your arrival it may be required that you wait until the start of the next normal business day to have your repair completed. Advance notice is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Having extended hours and technicians on stand-by is often done as a favor to us and is NOT a requirement to be a Checkpoint. Riders should not expect special considerations and should never disrespect any dealership for any reason.

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29 - Will there be a Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™in odd numbered years?

No. However, there is an rendezvous being planned which will allow Challengers and Supporters to join together and celebrate what has happened during the previous year. Sign up for our newsletter and go to the Rendezvous page on this website for more information. In fact, you can expect this pattern to continue; a Challenge every two years and during the off years, a special gathering at a preselected site.

To stay informed of all Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ events and updates be sure to sign-up for our Newsletter.

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30 - Are fundraisers for charities required as a participant of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™?

Riders MUST participate in fundraising activities to be considered an "Elite" or a "Bad Ass" finisher. Otherwise, we encourage all Challengers to consider raising money on behalf of a charity or non-profit organization but it is not required of them. If you decide to conduct fundraising actives for a charity or non-profit, you will want to be familiar with our Fundraiser Policy before you begin.

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31 - Do you give discounts to Veterans who want to ride the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™?

The Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ holds Veterans in the highest regard. Many of our Board Members and Riders are veterans. Whereas we do not give an automatic discount to the entry fee to all veterans, we offer ways for veterans to gather sponsors and we also offer a chance to receive a partial or full refund of a veteran's entry fee. Check out the Veterans Refund Program page for details on who can apply for a full or partial refund of their entry fee.

Applications to receive a Veteran's Refund for the next Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ will be accepted between Memorial Day and Veterans' Day in the year prior to the upcoming Challenge.

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32 - Is it OK for me to use the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ logo?

The Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ name and logo are trademark protected and may not be used without the express permission of the Medicine Show LLC. Authorization may be granted in accordance with our with established logo policy for fundraising purposes only.

Under no circumstances will authorization be granted for personal use or for modification of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ brand name or logo.

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33 - What is Wolakota?

Our mission is to promote awareness of the plight of many of our nation’s people who have lost hope. These people can be found at every turn such as Native American Reservations, inner cities, the Appalachian Mountains and even rural areas that have all been beaten down by either the economy, family issues, drug & alcohol abuse, medical issues or a combination thereof. We are looking for great riders; not great numbers.

Our select riders do not accept the Challenge to pit themselves against other riders; nor do they participate for personal gain. They accept the Challenge to battle their inner obstacles and face whatever the elements have in store for them out there on the road. Many of our riders spend countless hours and thousands of dollars just preparing for the Challenge, let alone the time and money expended during the Event. Since we changed the format of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™ in 2014, more than $2,000,000 has been given to charities around the globe.

It is for this reason we initiated a special award for the rider who collected the most money for their chosen charity. We also award four riders who demonstrate Respect, Honor, Integrity and Compassion. Read the Terms & Conditions for a more detailed synopsis of our awards and recognition programs.

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