Larry Bastedo Canada Obituary, Death; The Canadian motorcycling world is in mourning following the passing of Larry Bastedo on February 27, 2026. A Life Member and Director of the Canadian Motorcycle Association (CMA) and an inductee of the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame, Larry’s impact on the sport spanned more than 50 years, leaving a legacy of leadership, passion, and dedication that will endure for generations.
Born and raised in Hamilton, Ontario, Larry began his motorcycling journey with the Steel City Riders, known in its early days as the Flying Midgets. He quickly rose through the ranks, earning expert status by 1958 and capturing his first expert scramble victory in Oshawa. That same period saw him crowned eastern Canadian champion and national champion in spiked tire ice racing. His talents also extended to road racing, competing in AMA nationals at Laconia and Watkins Glen in 1960.
After an injury redirected his path, Larry excelled in enduros, trials, and dirt track racing. He won the senior class at the 1968 CMA national trials championships, receiving the prestigious Civic Ring from the City of Hamilton. Internationally, Larry proudly represented Canada at the International Six Days Trial (ISDE) in Poland, Germany, Spain, and the Isle of Man, later serving on the Fédération Internationale Motocycliste jury and supporting Canadian ISDE efforts for decades.
Larry’s influence went beyond competition. In 1963, he co-founded BK Motorcycles in Hamilton, one of Canada’s earliest Yamaha dealerships. He also served as a national referee, CMA board member, and president of the Ontario CMA region. As an announcer and commentator, his voice became synonymous with Canadian motorcycle racing, including the early supercross events in Toronto. He was also instrumental in preserving Ontario’s historic Corduroy Enduro, ensuring future generations of riders could experience the sport he loved.
Family was central to Larry’s life. He found his greatest joy in sharing his passion with his sons and grandsons, passing down a love of motorcycling that will continue to thrive. His legacy is measured not only in titles and trophies but in the thriving Canadian motorcycle community he helped build.
Larry Bastedo will be deeply missed by family, friends, and the nation’s riders, who remember him for his skill, generosity, and lifelong dedication to the sport of motorcycling.
Rest in peace, Larry Bastedo — a true legend of Canadian motorcycling.