When and why did you develop an interest in riding a motorcycle?
I’ve been mad on bikes for as long as I can remember whether its riding, tinkering, reading or watching anything to do with bikes.
What was the bike and what were the circumstances?
My first experience of motorcycling comprised an old BSA frame with no engine jumping humps (on the back) as a 6year old. From the age of 12 I used ride (on the fields) a Zundappe Bella, Francis Barnet 197 & BSA C11G I wonder what their worth today? At 16 my steed was a 2 speed Puch before progressing onto a Honda CD175 with loud megaphone exhausts. Sadly I had a fairly serious accident and took a break from road bikes. I couldn’t let go completely so I slaked my thirst with a Bultaco Sherpa for fun. I now ride a BMW GS1200 and am restoring a Honda CBR600 as a future steed.
If you were given the opportunity to own any bike on the market which would it be?
Without doubt a Ducati 996R if only I could fold myself up to ride it!
Where is your preferred place to ride in the UK?
I love the roads of Suffolk, plenty of bends quaint villages with plenty of tea stops!
And overseas?
The Massif Central area of France for the fantastic views and great food!
If you were offered the opportunity to go on an extended bike tour who, family members aside, would you choose as a riding companion?
Barry Sheene, who we all loved to hate in the 70’s, but secretly wanted to be best buddies with.
When do you intend to give up riding?
Not until I can’t stand or I’m no longer safe!
Describe your scariest moment on your bike?
Seeing a car pull out in front of me with no escape route as a seventeen-year-old. What I have learnt though is to apply ‘The System’ to reduce and control these situations!
