Julia on a bike

A year after my first solo expedition across Canada, I’m back on the road. Friday, June 21, 2024, was the summer solstice. Well, summer, really? Not here in Ontario. After the heat wave in Montreal, it was time for torrential rains in the neighboring province! And it was in the face of these less-than-optimal weather conditions that the values of solidarity and hospitality within the biker community once again came into play.

« They’ve forecast rain, and lots of it, says Paul, less than an hour after our arrival. You can stay another day. We know what it’s like to ride in the rain. » Yes, and so do I. My boots remember! So, another day in Renfrew? Another day it is.


We haven’t seen much of Paul and Tracey until mid-day, busy with their third grandson’s birthday. On the other hand, the neighbors – in fact, long-time friends – made several appearances. They share with our hosts a passion for two-wheeled vehicles that has taken them so far as to join a motorcycle club together.


An MC? Surely gangsters, again! But no, let’s not get excited. Their MC, called Knights of Inferno, gathers people working in the first aid, fire department, ambulance and military sectors. The club was founded in the early 2000s in the USA to bring together two-wheeled enthusiasts working in these first-aid services. In Canada, Knights of Inferno has four chapters (sub-groups, which bring together members from the same geographical area). The Chapter here (Capital chapter) has just over 30 members. And, quite unusually, women are accepted. Their patches are different and they can only hold one position within the club, that of secretary. However they are allowed to join the club as members and not just as « social » members, i.e. members who don’t ride motorcycles.


Paul and Tracey joined the MC several years ago and have taken part in many events, from rides to fundraisings. The club’s aim is to bring together two-wheeled enthusiasts who work or have worked in the field of first aid, but not only, as Vice President Luc explains: « We don’t want members who just want to spend a weekend discovering Ontario’s most beautiful roads. We also want members who are willing to share moments in life. We’re all friends here. We can enjoy activities together, both within and outside the club.« 

As with any motorcycle club, membership is not immediate, and it’s not uncommon for applicants to be refused access, or for members to be invited to leave. In such cases, it’s best to leave on good terms. Otherwise, it will be difficult, if not impossible, to join another.

Paul and Tracey enjoy riding to discover their country and the neighbour one, USA, whether with the MC or on their own. Both of them are not afraid of long distance rides, which is not surprising given the fact that Tracey, once getting her license, had one idea in mind : travelling her country from one coast to another. A goal she achieved a few years ago, as many later on.