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Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, has announced a significant development in outdoor access with the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) awarding two grants dedicated to advancing e-bike trails in Georgia and California. These grants, marking the first e-bike-centric grants, underscore Yamaha’s commitment to diverse recreational enthusiasts.
In Northwest Georgia, the Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association (SORBA) Woodstock chapter is a key beneficiary, securing funding and equipment for the enhancement of Blankets Creek, Rope Mill, and Yellow Creek trail systems. Meanwhile, the Sage Trail Alliance in Southern California is set to maintain and restore OHV, mountain bike, and e-bike trails on the U.S.F.S. Los Padres.
Part of the 2023 OAI grant cycle, these grants demonstrate Yamaha’s support for off-road motorcycles, Side-by-Sides, ATVs, and eMTBs, solidifying its position as the industry leader in safeguarding access to public land for motorized and outdoor recreation.
Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s motorsports marketing manager, highlights Yamaha’s commitment to outdoor recreation, stating, “Yamaha’s commitment to outdoor recreation spans over 15 years, prioritizing OHV riders and extending support to diverse outdoor enthusiasts. The rapid embrace of OAI by the e-bike community underscores its value for trail and riding areas, adding their efforts to Yamaha’s distinguished grant recipients.”
Nicole Adams, President of SORBA Woodstock, expresses gratitude, saying, “We are honored to be among the first bike riding areas to receive support from the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative. The resources from our grant are vital to helping us maintain our trails to ensure a safe, responsible riding experience for our mountain bike and power-assist e-bike community.”
Yamaha’s Q3 2023 grants also benefitted the Georgia Recreational Trail Riders Association, Indian Valley Creek ATV Club, and the Ruffle Grouse Society.
In 2024, Yamaha invites OHV and e-bike riding clubs, cycling clubs, and land stewardship organizations to apply for grants through YamahaOAI.com. The website features an enlightening blog with project highlights. The published grant schedule includes submission deadlines, application guidelines, and relevant information. Yamaha encourages eligible organizations to contribute to the mission of the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative, improving access to public land for motorized and outdoor recreation. The deadline for the 1st quarter funding cycle is March 30, 2024.