Member of the Week: Josh Stratton

Written By: Jackie Riess

Although Josh Stratton enjoys granola with almond milk on race day, his story is anything but granola. Josh now competes in the Vet C 30+ class of District 23 ARMCA hare scrambles and has hopes of racing a handful of motocross and enduro events this summer. In addition to riding and racing locally, he enjoys family time, traveling, golf, and water-sports.

Josh started riding early in life on late 1980’s Honda ATC 70’s and TRX 70’s. When he got his first bike of his own, a 1988 Kawasaki KD80, he quickly progressed to a 1988 KX80 that came disassembled from a family friend. He raced this bike in his first District 23 ARMCA race around the turn of the 21st century. He moved his way up the ranks, (never breaking a bone!) and competed in the 125cc class until 2015. He, like many other racers at this point in their lives, turned to focus on his collegiate studies. After graduating, he began a family with his wife and relocated domestically and internationally multiple times because of his job. He and his family came back to Minnesota in late 2019, which allowed him to begin racing again in 2020 and 2021.

Though he is inspired by great riders like Ricky Carmichael and Travis Pastrana, Josh is more notably influenced by his family. His father, Dave Stratton, was the fastest in the 5 state area in the 1970’s and 1980’s. This was a legacy Josh always wished to continue. Now with three kids of his own, their words of encouragement push him to do his best. But this isn’t a one way street, Josh is also extremely proud of them for their love of riding and racing. The Stratton family is one that epitomizes the significance of family in motorcycling, and has thus had a great impact on Josh’s life. Growing up on two wheels and around the motorsports industry, he can’t imagine life without it.

In 2021, Josh strives to race the majority of the District 23 ARMCA hare scrambles and earn himself a spot in the B class. He also wants to upgrade to a motocross bike in order to have more riding and racing options. Josh has three pieces of advice for other riders: have fun, practice in all types of soils and conditions, and stay active during the off season. To join families like the Stratton’s this summer, visit armca.org/schedule.

This article was prepared by an independent contractor and may not be the views of the board of directors of District 23 ARMCA or any of their sponsors or affiliates.