Meet The New Rider #1243 Len Clendenen

 

Hoka Hey Rider #1243 — Len Clendenen

I am Len Clendenen — Hoka Hey Rider #1243, and a proud rookie rider in the 2026 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge. I’ll be taking on the journey aboard my 2017 Victory Cross Country Tour, chasing miles, purpose, and the honor of riding for something bigger than myself.

 

 

Like many riders, my story started simply — with the love of the open road. Just a few short years ago, I didn’t even know “long-distance riding” was its own world. That changed when I met a random riding companion who opened my eyes to the culture, discipline, and community that exists beyond the daily ride. Since then, miles of quiet backroads and long Texas two-lanes have become a place where I find both peace and challenge.

 

Those miles — and the many unplanned “Lenventures” along the way — have taken me far beyond the great state of Texas and across some of the most incredible landscapes in this country. I’ve slept under the stars beside my motorcycle, ridden through weather that most people wouldn’t face in a car, and discovered parts of myself that no other experience in life has revealed. Motorcycling has become more than travel; it’s a path to reflection, growth, and connection.

 

 

When I’m not exploring the road, I’m often exploring the world. Traveling to experience different cultures, scuba diving, camping, and seeking hidden corners of the planet gives me a deeper appreciation for the diversity and beauty of life. Whether it’s a remote road or a distant coastline, I’m always searching for those breathtaking views and the stories of the people who live there.

 

 

Professionally, I work as a Quality Engineer in the energy sector, where structure, precision, and schedules define the day. That’s why the moment I fire up my Victory and roll onto the road, it feels like freedom. Riding is where discipline meets chance — where the map exists, but the experience unfolds mile by mile.

Why I want to Ride the Hoka Hey

After years of watching the incredible riders who came before me, receiving the call to ride in the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge is one of the greatest honors I could imagine.

To me, Hoka Hey stands for honesty, integrity, resilience, a warrior spirit, and a deep sense of community.

I first discovered the challenge through a local social media group while searching for a deeper connection within the riding world. That search led me to an invitation from Mike Lamb, an Elite Finisher of the 2022 challenge. Through him and the stories of riders like Riot, Hop, Twister, Ice-Man, Squatch and many other riders, I realized that Hoka Hey isn’t simply a long ride — it’s a test of character and commitment.

 

This journey isn’t about miles alone. It’s about purpose, connection, and giving something meaningful back to others.

My goal is simple: to finish this challenge with honor and integrity, while carrying the stories and strength of the people I ride for.

Riding for Seven Warriors

For the 2026 challenge, I’m proud to ride in support of Mile Monsters Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to helping boys battling Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy — a rare and fatal muscle-wasting disease.

The seven young warriors behind my ride are Jaxson, Drew, Alfie, Turbo, Brody, Jack, and Gavin. These boys are the real heroes of this journey.

While riders push their limits across thousands of miles, these kids face challenges every day that most of us could never imagine. My mission is to carry their names and their strength across the country — showing them they are never alone in their fight.

Mile Monsters Inc. doesn’t just raise awareness. They show up for families directly — helping with mobility equipment, medical expenses, travel for treatment, special experiences, and the everyday support that improves quality of life for children battling DMD.

Crossing the finish line will mean more than completing a ride. It will mean knowing I gave everything I had for seven incredible boys who deserve to experience the world in every way possible. And if I can carry their spirit across every mile of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge, then every mile will have been worth it.

Hoka Hey. 🏍️🔥