Tag: kiln moto
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Reflecting on a lifelong passion for motorcycling alongside an industry and social media landscape that feels increasingly trend-driven and exclusive. While still deeply connected to the culture, I question my place within it and the pressure to conform.
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What started as a smart gathering of riders and clean motorcycles soon became a much wetter, more dishevelled affair at this year’s Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride in Staffordshire.
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Tucked away near Matlock Bath in Derbyshire and just a short ride from the Peak District. Low on Fuel Café is one of the newest biker-friendly destinations. With quality coffee, generous food, scenic countryside views and a welcoming atmosphere -…
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Mental health affects more men than many people realise, yet too many still suffer in silence. This article explores how motorcycling can provide freedom, connection and a positive outlet, plus the chance to check in on your mates.
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A57 Snake Pass is one of the UK’s most iconic motorcycle roads, offering a mix of sweeping bends, tight turns and dramatic Peak District scenery between Glossop and Ladybower Reservoir. Popular with riders it delivers a rewarding but demanding ride…
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The International Classic Motorcycle Show in Stafford offers great weather, a lively atmosphere, and a passionate community. Visitors enjoy classic bikes, conversations, and highlights like the Bonhams auction, autojumble, club stands, displays and guest riders.
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This weekend, I attended the International Classic MotorCycle Show and visited the Malle London stand, a British brand recognised for its durable motorcycle luggage and community-led events. Learn more about my discussions with one of Malle London’s founders.
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My longest and most demanding Blood Bike shift yet. From motorway relays to navigating a confusing hospital site & battling heavy traffic – plus a reminder that behind each shift is a network of volunteers making it possible.
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The BMW R1300RT ASA marks a clear step forward from the R1250RT, with more power, improved technology, and a sharper overall feel. While comfort and build quality remain top-tier, changes to the aerodynamics mean it doesn’t feel quite as stable…
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Kick Start was a British motorcycle trials competition broadcast on BBC One from 1979 to 1992. It highlighted precision riding in a family-friendly format. Its success led to a junior spin-off and helped inspire greater youth involvement in trials riding,…
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A nearly-new R1300GS with just 900 miles should represent the best of modern motorcycling, yet an early fork seal failure quickly challenged that expectation. Should premium price tags truly guarantee reliability from day one?
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Motorcycling is an exciting way to travel, but developing the right habits from the start is essential. These practical tips are designed to help beginners ride more safely and improve their skills with every journey.
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Wind noise affects both comfort and hearing when riding. Switching from foam to filtered earplugs reduces noise while preserving clarity for communication, improving the overall experience. A proper fit is essential, and brands like EarPeace offer options to suit different…
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A look at the motorcycle kit that has stayed with me across multiple bikes and thousands of miles. From Backcountry panniers to the Reckless 40 on my CRF300L and the 30L duffle, why Mosko Moto luggage has become a permanent…
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MotoBob’s channel has become a consistent and credible source of motorcycle news, offering clear and approachable coverage of new models, reviews and industry updates. Learn why it’s a reliable starting point for riders looking to stay informed on the latest…
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I’ve just made a change I didn’t expect, I’ve bought a BMW R 1300 GS. After a period of trying to make other bikes work, something had to give. What I once saw as a safe, predictable choice may prove…
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In a world where social media content quickly disappears, this blog explores why I chose to build a motorcycle website focused on long-term value. It is about creating meaningful, in-depth content that lasts, grows over time, and reflects a genuine…
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Adventure motorcycle travel doesn’t have to mean quitting everything for a round-the-world trip. By breaking riding into smaller, manageable adventures – you can build your own story over time. Read on to learn more.
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Buying a new motorcycle should be one of the most exciting parts of riding, but too often the dealership experience falls short. Poor communication and a lack of engagement can leave customers frustrated. Click through to see what dealerships could…
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Motorcycling in the UK has shifted from everyday transport to a mix of leisure riding and urban utility. Today’s riders are increasingly older, while younger participation continues to fall. Despite over a million bikes on the road, they make up…
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I’ve signed up for another Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride to support prostate cancer research and men’s mental health. Riding in memory of my grandfather – a lifelong motorcyclist. Click through to learn more and support the cause.
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The BMW F450 GS looks to be a far more complete and convincing small-capacity GS, with improved refinement and genuine all-round ability. I haven’t ridden it yet, but after diving into the latest reviews, a clear picture is emerging. Click…
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A short spring ride through the British countryside on the Triumph Scrambler 1200, taking time to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and find a moment of quiet on an empty road.
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Fancy exploring the Trans Euro Trail® (TET)? Discover this community-driven network of off-road routes across 30+ European countries. Navigate by GPX and enjoy real adventure while travelling responsibly through stunning, diverse landscapes. Click through to the blog to learn more.
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I spent a weekend in Bala, north Wales, surrounded by stunning scenery and winding roads – but without my bike. While walking up Snowdon and along Bala Lake with friends, I couldn’t help feeling a twinge of envy as streams…
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As the evenings grow longer and the roads dry, bike nights are back across the UK. This post explores the start of the season, why March marks the turning point, and how local meets bring riders together.
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There’s a reason riders say it’s more than just a hobby. From effortless conversations with complete strangers to an unspoken rule of looking out for one another on the road, the motorcycle community offers a level of connection that’s hard…
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Your motorcycle is trying to tell you something. From mysterious ticks to unexpected pops, the noises your engine makes can reveal problems before they become serious. Read on to learn how to identify common sounds and keep your bike running…
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Discover Trials Day, a motorcycle trials school near Leek where riders of all abilities can push themselves and develop their skills. This post takes a closer look at what the school offers, so keep reading to learn more.
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Adventure motorcycles have become one of the most influential segments in the motorcycling world, and several models are already being talked about as potential future classics. But what really gives a bike that legendary status? Read on to discover which…
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Two-stroke motorcycles once defined a generation of riders in the UK, delivering lightweight performance and unmistakable character. Does the legacy of the two-stroke still live on or have we seen the end of the two-stoke?
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Motorcycle suspension is essential for safety, comfort and performance. It absorbs bumps in the road while keeping the tyres in contact with the surface. Made up of the front forks and rear shock absorber, the system helps maintain stability during…
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What started as a modest charity ride has evolved into a major community event, bringing riders, volunteers, and supporters together to deliver gifts and share goodwill. Discover more about the Star Bikers Charity runs.
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The UK’s electric motorcycle market remains nascent and often overlooked compared with electric cars, despite its importance for urban mobility. Incentives such as the Plug-in Motorcycle Grant have supported early adoption, but with the scheme nearing its end, there are…
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For many riders the journey is everything, but arriving late, leaving early, and chasing the next road can mean missing the places we travel to. For me, this needs to change.
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Explore Project Biker, Nick Jacobs’ compelling take on motorcycle travel – where every ride goes beyond mere adventure. Through reflective storytelling, he captures moments of self-discovery, the emotional highs of the journey, and the quiet introspection that comes with exploring…
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Discover why CFMOTO is turning heads on UK roads. From the agile 450MT to the upcoming 1000MT-X, their adventure bikes offer modern features, rugged styling, and unbeatable value. Find out how this rising brand is challenging established manufacturers and why…
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Adventure on two wheels does not have to mean crossing continents or chasing famous roads. Sometimes the best rides begin with a simple decision to get out and explore somewhere new. Instead of only watching other people’s journeys online, you…
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Trying to decide between the Cardo Packtalk Edge and the Packtalk Bold? Both offer mesh communication and premium audio, but the differences become clearer once you look at real-world riding. This comparison explores what actually matters when you’re out on…
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The Old Sawmill Café in Clapham, set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, provides a distinctive place to eat within a building rich in history. Read on to find out more about our visit for breakfast.
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As winter begins to fade, I always find myself looking forward to those first warmer days of spring. For me, that meant wheeling the Triumph Scrambler out of the garage and taking her for a gentle ride across the city…
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This review shares my personal experience of fitting Garda crash bars and a sump guard to my Africa Twin 1100 Adventure Sports. It covers the ordering and delivery process, the challenges encountered during installation, overall build quality, and whether they…
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I’m aiming to improve the riding comfort of my 2025 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports 1100 by fitting Puig 21751N pullback risers. The change has improved my posture and eased upper-body fatigue, but it has also introduced more noticeable handlebar…
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Before the Adventure Bike Film Festival, I wasn’t familiar with Sam Manicom, despite his reputation in the world of long-distance motorcycle travel. After speaking with him & learning more about his travels & the books he’s written. Learn more about…
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The Adventure Motorcycle Film Festival showcased a diverse range of captivating motorcycle films, combining stunning visuals with powerful storytelling. Read on to discover the films that stood out to me and why I believe this festival will continue to grow…
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I explore whether the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC can be modified into the ultimate modern classic Scrambler. Through my own experience with the bike, I look at how subtle, well-considered modifications enhance its character, style and performance without losing its…
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The EnduroL8NAV tower, installed on my Honda CRF300L, offers exceptional durability and performance for adventure riders. With impressive lighting, it enhances visibility at night and withstands various riding conditions. learn why I think this is a highly recommended upgrade for…
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Reflecting on my first solo shift as a Blood Bikes volunteer, emphasising the responsibility and meticulous checks required for safe riding. The day included hospital collections and deliveries across Birmingham.
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After four years of solid use, my REV’IT! Pioneer Pro boots are undeniably showing their age. They remain comfortable and still perform as intended, but the signs of long-term wear are impossible to ignore. In the end, I decided it…
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Read about my first trip to Hetty’s Tea Shop, tucked alongside the canal near Froghall in the Staffordshire Moorlands. Its classic tearoom character and freshly prepared, comforting dishes make it a great place for riders to pause and refuel. The…
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This post introduces a tech-focused blog series on motorcycle components, starting with the comparison of radial and axial brake setups.
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Road safety discussions often emphasise technology and infrastructure, but cultivating awareness of motorcycles in everyday journeys is crucial. Read how the “Count the Bikes” initiative encourages families to spot motorcycles, fostering recognition from a young age.
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The Adventure Motorcycle Film Festival in Kendal on February 28th celebrates films about adventure riding, showcasing real-life stories from riders navigating challenges. Organised by popular podcasts, the event promises an inspiring atmosphere for motorcycle enthusiasts to connect, share experiences, and…
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My Yamaha XJ6N began life as a sensible winter purchase but soon became a bike I grew genuinely fond of. Its smooth 600cc engine and comfortable layout made everyday riding easy and enjoyable. Although it was never a styling icon,…
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I completed a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) assessment course as part of my Blood Bike training. The course focused on the critical role of GMP in safely transporting blood products and medical samples. It emphasised the importance of training, quality…
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Green laning is about patience, skill, and rediscovering routes that have been used for centuries. In this post, I’ll share a little of my own experiences of riding green lanes, highlight the challenges of shared use, and offer a few…
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Staying warm and focused is vital when riding, so I invested in KEIS heated gear powered by my motorcycle and noticed a big improvement in warmth and comfort compared with battery-operated options. The setup has really helped my concentration and…
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Looking back on a salt-covered winter ride on the Africa Twin – cold air, striking landscapes, and the simple pleasure of riding quieter roads. A pause in Bakewell and Matlock Bath before crossing the Peak District again and giving the…
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Motorcycles face tough conditions that can cause corrosion and wear. Regular washing and using protection like ACF-50 or ceramic coatings can help reduce long-term damage. Understanding the pros and limits of each method helps you maintain your bike effectively.
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After completing my advanced riding training, it was time for my Blood Bikes practical induction, learning alongside another new volunteer. Guided by an experienced rider, we carried out vehicle safety checks before shadowing the Blood Biker on their first jobs…
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I reflect on selling my Honda CB750 café racer, a motorcycle that begins life as a neglected import and gradually becomes a deeply personal project and weekend escape. Although selling it brings a mix of pride and nostalgia, the decision…
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Changing adventure motorcycles should feel like pure excitement, but the reality quickly follows: most of the gear from your previous bike will not fit the new one. Suddenly you are back to buying pannier racks, crash protection and navigation mounts…
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Motorcycle culture in Britain has come a long way – from casual café stops to carefully crafted destinations that draw riders from far and wide. But what really sets the North and South apart – and how has it shaped…
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See how I got on when I undertook the riding assessment to become a Blood Bike rider. SSCBB – the closest local Blood Bike charity to me – provides a vital medical courier service to the NHS using motorcycles and…
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The first 24 hours with the Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports 1100 began in miserable weather during collection, followed by a much-needed wash the next morning and a rewarding first proper ride. The day ended perfectly with the year’s first…
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Saying farewell to the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro and welcoming the 2025 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES. A real-world rider’s perspective on fit, confidence and preparing for European touring.
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A lively group discussion about favourite motorcycles soon turned into a moment of reflection on personal riding experiences. Curious to know which bike stood out as my top choice? Read on to find out which one I picked.
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Initially skeptical about the Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT; however, I found it surprisingly impressive. So did the big Honda with its DCT and electronically controlled suspension change my perspective on automatic adventure bikes?
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The distinction between “modified” and “custom” bikes is significant in the motorcycle community. I reflect on my CB750 Café Racer project, to help explore the gap between modified and custom bikes.
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The BSA Thunderbolt, is hitting markets in 2026, it marks BSA’s venture into adventure motorcycles. Combining classic British design with modern features and in my opinion a striking aesthetic.
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Triumph’s 2026 update to the Tiger Sport 660cc triple represents a meaningful performance step forward, and in my opinion, one that opens the door for a new Tiger 660 Rally Pro midweight adventure bike.
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There was a particular kind of freedom that came with being seventeen in the early 1990s, a freedom measured in 125 cubic centimetres. Join me on a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
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When I was younger, I was utterly obsessed with sports bikes, especially those from the 1990s. Two-stroke or four-stroke, it didn’t matter. There was something magical about that era; however, that love didn’t last for ever.
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Mental Health Motorbike is a UK charity that offers mental health support specifically for the motorcycling community. This blog details how the charity helps to raise awareness, reduce isolation, and foster a supportive environment for riders facing mental health challenges.
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After some thought, I’ve decided to sell my 1978 Honda CB750 café racer. This is not an unfinished project, but a bike that runs, rides, and has been regularly used since being modified. See the sale details here.
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The year was 1992, yet I still remember the excitement of that day clearly. I’d only just started riding and decided to take my Suzuki RG125 to Donnington Park with a few friends for the British Motorcycle Grand Prix. It…
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Some motorcycles stay with you long after you first see them. Not because they are the fastest or flashiest, but because they offer a style of riding that feels genuine and rewarding. For me, that motorcycle is the Honda XL600LMF,…
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I’ve been tempted by the Triumph Scrambler for some time, originally I sat on the XE model but it was just too tall for me. So when Triumph launched the Scrambler X with a lower seat height, I jumped at…
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There’s a special kind of thrill that comes from riding a motorbike down the winding, narrow lanes of the UK countryside. My friends and I affectionately call this kind of riding “squirrelling.” Not to be confused with green laning where…
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If there’s one thing I’ve learned from being part of the motorcycle community on Instagram, it’s that two-wheeled adventures can lead to incredible experiences and new friendships. Recently, I embarked on a journey that perfectly encapsulated this sentiment – a…
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For over two decades, motorcycles had taken a backseat in my life due to a lingering back injury. Once a passionate rider, I had to bid farewell to the thrill of the open road. However, life has a way of…
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The world of motorcycles is a diverse and exciting one, filled with many enthusiasts who are passionate about customising their bikes to reflect their unique style and preferences. One classic motorcycle that has become a popular canvas for customisation is…
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The CRF300L is a versatile bike that offers opportunities for exploration both on and off the road. However, eager to personalise my riding experience, I embarked on a series of modifications to transform my CRF300L into an even more capable…
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If you possess an adventurous spirit and have a penchant for two-wheeled exploration, there’s nothing quite like the excitement of attending an Adventure Bike Festival. In late June 2023, I embarked on an exhilarating journey with my trusty CRF300L, accompanied…
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As a passionate admirer of motorcycles, I have embarked on an exciting journey of content creation on YouTube and Instagram. Through these platforms, my primary goal is to document and share my motorcycle experiences. In this blog, I will delve…
