The Baja Oasis Staff Intro: Steve Hengeveld
Steve Hengeveld is a well-known name in the world of off-road dirt bike racing, especially when it comes to the brutal landscapes of Baja, Mexico. Growing up in California, Steve was always into motorcycles. He spent a lot of time riding in the desert, which turned out to be perfect training for the big races he would take on later.
Steve really made his name in the late ’90s. He was quickly recognized as one of the top riders, especially in the Baja 1000 and Baja 500 races. These races are no joke—unpredictable weather,
rocky paths, and long stretches of desert make them some of the toughest out there. But Steve seemed to handle it all with ease, and people started to take notice.
One of the most significant parts of his career was when he joined the Honda factory racing team. With Honda, Steve was part of a dominant force in Baja racing during the 2000s. He racked up several wins in both the Baja 500 and Baja 1000, showing time and again that he had the endurance and skill to come out on top. Whether he was racing with a team or going solo, Steve’s performances were always impressive.
In 2019, Steve’s impact on the sport was recognized when he was inducted into the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame. It was a huge honor and one that really cemented his legacy as a pioneer in the sport.
Even though he’s not racing full-time anymore, Steve is still a big part of the off-road racing scene. He spends time mentoring younger riders and sharing what he’s learned about Baja’s tough courses. His influence on the sport is still strong, and his career continues to inspire many in the off-road racing community.
