It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lane Leavitt, former Bultaco factory trials rider who passed away on May 16th aged 74 years.

Lane was AMA trials champion on three occasions and was a world championship contender, who competed against the Lampkins, Rathmell, Schreiber and Whaley. He switched to Montesa, when the Bultaco company hit financial trouble in 1979.

His achievements were: three times US National Champion; five times California Champion; twice Oregon Champion; he rode in the SSDT four times; USA ISDE Team Member; AMA Sportsman of the Year and inducted to the Trials Hall of Fame of the AMA in 2006.

Lane wrote a book on observed trials with photojournalist Len Weed entitled ‘Motor Cycle Trials – Techniques and Training’.

He married his teenage sweet-heart, Debbie Evans, herself a well known trials rider and stunt performer. Lane set up his business with Debbie, called Leavittation Inc., based at Santa Clarita, California, which arranged stunt work for the movie industry. He turned to professional stunt performing in 1980 on the ‘Fall Guy’ TV series.

1979 World Trials Champion, Bernie Schreiber wrote on learning about Lane Leavitt’s passing: “A unique individual in his own way, but a true friend who always brought his honest opinions on all topics. He was innovative, passionate and constantly in search of a better motorcycle, better trials events and better results. His opinions on trials events, motorcycles and riders development were direct and honest. He enjoyed pushing the envelope in Trials and all facets of his stunt work in an industry he loved so much.“

Trials Guru sends sincere condolences to Debbie and the Leavitt family at this difficult time. The trials community of the USA have lost not only a champion, but an enthusiast of the sport.

Lane Leavitt – 10 November 1950 – 16 May 2025