OMRA Community: In Memoriam – Lyon Payne

As news of Lyon Payne’s tragic passing spreads throughout the off-road motorcycle community, OMRA would like to take this time to honor him and his unwavering commitment to the sport he loved.

You don’t have to look far to find someone who has had a friendly encounter with Lyon. Anyone who had the pleasure of meeting him would tell you his infectious smile and enthusiasm for working on trails in the Tillamook State Forest were always on full display. He was quick to humbly deflect praise and recognition, despite the impact he made. He was, in every sense, a reluctant legend.

In his retirement, Lyon made it his mission to ensure the sport of single-track dirt bike riding remained accessible, sustainable, and thriving for the generations of riders who would come after him. He believed deeply in giving back to the sport that had given him so much, and he lived that belief through countless hours of trail work and stewardship.

Lyon represented the very best of our community. His sense of responsibility, humility, and dedication to the land and the sport is something we should all strive to carry forward.

In the wake of this loss, OMRA has received many questions about how best to honor Lyon’s memory and continue the important work he was doing in the forests we all love. Plans are currently being made for memorial trail work parties and rides. Lyon often expressed his hope that more riders would get involved in trail maintenance and stewardship, and we will share details as they become available.

Our thoughts are with Lyon’s family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.