Kowen Ride 2026
Kowen Forest Ride
18th, 19th, 20th SEPTEMBER 2026
Get ready to unleash the beast at the annual Kowen Forest Ride. The legend returns!
Join us for an unforgettable weekend of trail riding in the stunning closed-off forests of Kowen, Canberra.
This isn't just a ride; it's an epic experience designed to ignite your passion for two wheels!
We are actively working on 3 HUGE loops this year. Catering to every rider - from flowy single track bliss to challenging enduro sections that will test your limits. We will have a beginner friendly loop as well as a Demo loop. Yes, we will have “Return to home” exits provided for the less fit amongst you.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or discovering the thrill of off-road riding, Kowen has something to get your adrenaline pumping.
Plus - get a feel for the latest gear! We'll have demo bikes available through Eye Candy M/C and Beta, giving you the chance to test ride their latest range of incredible machines!
Entries are CAPPED to just 300 riders. This ensures an exclusive experience with plenty of room to roam and enjoy the trails. This is very much a first in best dressed exercise, so don’t delay in getting your entry in. Tickets sell fast!
Tons of epic single track to be had. Heaps of good times with your mates and plenty of prizes.
We have put it out to the riders for feedback based on last year, and the feedback we received was to keep the event BARE BONES (pun intended, hence our skeleton graphic). Grass roots style, stick with the best and longest single tracks in oz. No fanfare, no bands and entertainment. No RAFFLE, no night ride. No included shirts or food. But above all, keep the ENTRY PRICE AS LOW AS POSSIBLE. We have done that this year, and given you all PLENTY of notice. So, no excuses not to make the pilgrimage! No conflicts with AFL or NRL finals, Bathurst, Transmoto or other events. If you don’t come this year then it’s not our fault - it’s yours! Enter now!
What we WILL have will be the same awesome tracks & camping experience. Merch WILL be available to purchase at sign on and hopefully on the website too soon. We hope to have Tshirts and hoodies for sale at realistic prices. A food van (Vietnam Veterans club) will hopefully be in attendance again so you CAN buy excellent good value grub from them the whole weekend, no need to cook yourself.
All DSMRA members should be able to see the ride on our website to jump straight in on the event.
Non DSMRA members will need to join the club to attend the ride.
Get ready to ride, explore and create memories with your mates that will last a lifetime. We can't wait to see you there!
Rider feedback:
Dan Cardsy
"We appreciate you guys. Can’t wait to ride this year!"
Shaun Ezzy
"I’m sure most guys would be happy with the ride and a bonfire. Cut it back, simplify it and make it workable, build from there. It doesn’t need to be fancy. Hopefully it can one day, but for now, we just want some clear tracks to ride. Thanks for the hard work, lads."
Chris Lee
"💯 best trails great set up really enjoyed last year I’ll be back with a few mates as well this year thanks to all involved"
Aaron Losito
"Concentrate on what the ride always provided which was a good quality arrowed trail ride, time spent with our mates and all for a reasonable price which is what kept us coming back. We don’t need all the bells and whistles. I remember when you had to buy your own merch and bring your own food and there’s nothing wrong with that, we are there to ride. If the loops are short and basic, it doesn’t justify the costs nor provide a memorable experience. Entry to the event could also be a lot more streamlined. Advertise it early and try to leave the door open to as many entrants as possible. See you in September."
Membership Assistance
AMBULANCE COVER
Don't ride without it!
Arrangements vary state by state but ambulance trips are expensive so if you have an accident and need to be transported by ambulance to hospital then it will be very costly.
Basic ambulance cover costs as little as $30/year and is often included in basic private health cover. It is well worth the investment, and one day could save your life. Please check that you have this cover as the impact of an ambulance bill could be worse than the impact that caused the trip in the first place.
DSMRA's History and Purpose
The DSMRA was formed in 1995, in response to increasing restrictions on access for recreational vehicles to public land.
Our purpose is twofold:
To maintain a cohesive national body of enduro and adventure riders, providing an effective voice in the debate over land access for our sport and recreation.
To enhance opportunities for our members to explore and enjoy the great outdoors, fostering a sense of adventure and community.
DSMRA AIMS
We are focused on ensuring your experience on a motorcycle is a safe and enjoyable one.
Trail bike riding is an increasingly popular recreational activity. Riding with the DSMRA gives you an opportunity to ride with like-minded riders, develop your skills, increase your area knowledge and enjoy the best of what our great country has to offer.
Being aware of ever-increasing restrictions and conditions surrounding legal trail bike riding and doing the right thing can be difficult. The DSMRA is committed to keeping our members up to date with the regulations applicable in their area, as well as working with relevant authorities to keep our riding areas open.
Why Join DSMRA?
The DSMRA provides a social network of like minded riders who enjoy trail riding. All levels and abilities are catered for - from adventure riding on the road to open fire trails and even technical terrain for those that enjoy a challenge. We will take you to areas you may have never seen before.
DSMRA-organised rides include lead and sweep riders so no one gets lost or left behind. Organisers carry two-way radios, an emergency locator beacon and a first aid kit, and can often fix minor breakdowns in the bush.
This website outlines where you can attend monthly meetings and provides links on how to join us in our upcoming rides, training or social activities.
DSMRA Activities
Regular meetings provide the opportunity to meet other riders, discuss what’s on and share ride stories.
Hold well-organised rides for members across Australia, catering for all rider skill levels.
Maintain a network of riding contacts with local knowledge on ride trails, touring, navigation, restricted areas and environmental conditions.
Meet with national park, forestry and other land management authorities, to ensure that the interests of trail riders are taken into consideration in land management decisions.
Arrange training opportunities for members including rider skills, essential bike maintenance and first aid.
Participate in consultations over land access for recreational users and cooperate with other recreational user groups to ensure continued access.
Prepare submissions in response to land management plans, ensuring our riders interests are heard and balanced with other stakeholders.
Support and participate in community events such as Clean Up Australia Day, or volunteer for activities such as searches for missing persons or marshalling for special events.
Your next adventure awaits
★★★★★
"I’ve been a member of the DSMRA for almost 15 years. Over that time I’ve moved from just attending rides to being an active member of the Sydney Branch and National Committee. I also now organise and lead rides. So why am I so involved? Because being a member of DSMRA allows me to share and grow my passion for the sport with other great people from the dirt and adventure bike riding communities."
Rob McKimm
