Skyler Howes @skylerhowes110

Early Life and Beginnings
Born on April 14, 1992, in Riverside, California, Skyler grew up in Utah and first learned to ride on a 1974 Honda XR75 that his father rebuilt from a junkyard.

His passion for off-road quickly flourished, and by 2008 he was crowned USRA 125 Desert Champion

Background

Professional Transition (2012–2018)
Howes turned professional in 2012 and quickly became a standout in the U.S. off-road scene.

In 2018 he delivered a breakout year, winning the Sonora Rally, the Dakar Challenge, and the Baja Rally, which opened the door for his entry into international rally-raid.

Dakar Debut and Growth
Skyler made his Dakar debut in 2019 as a privateer with Klymciw Racing, but had to retire that year. In 2020, he returned and finished a remarkable 9th overall, despite riding with a recently broken neck just months earlier.

In 2021, riding as a privateer once more, he broke into the Top 5 overall at the Dakar, solidifying his reputation as one of the sport’s toughest and most determined competitors.

Historic Dakar Podium

In the 2023 Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia, Howes achieved a career milestone: 3rd overall, becoming only the 5th American in history to stand on the Dakar podium. He led the rally for six stages, and after more than 43 hours of racing, the top three were separated by less than two minutes.

Joining Monster Energy Honda HRC

In 2024, Howes joined the Monster Energy Honda HRC team. Despite setbacks such as a withdrawal in the Rallye du Maroc prologue, he posted solid results like 4th place in both the BP Ultimate Rally-Raid Portugal and the Desafío Ruta 40, contributing key points to Honda’s Constructors’ Championship win.

Known for his positive mindset and perseverance, he often says: “If you make one mistake, you’re out of it!”

Career Highlights

• Dakar Rally: 3rd (2023), 5th (2021), 9th (2020)

• Key Victories: Sonora Rally (2018, 2022), Dakar Challenge (2018), Baja Rally (2018), Morocco Desert Challenge (2019), Vegas to Reno (2019, 2022), Silver State 300 (2020, 2022)

• National Titles: USRA Desert 125 (2008, 2017), National Hare & Hound 250 (2012)