Tag: motorcycle blog

  • Is the BMW R 1300 GS really worth the hype? – Next week, I’ll finally get to test ride BMW’s latest GS to see if it lives up to its reputation. Will I join the ranks of GS riders?

    Will the BMW R 1300 GS Live Up to the Hype? My Upcoming Test Ride
  • After 1,500 miles with my Africa Twin Adventure Sports, what should have been the perfect adventure bike has become a source of frustration. Despite adjustments and aftermarket additions, persistent shoulder blade pain is cutting rides short and taking the enjoyment…

    Riding Discomfort: A Motorcyclist’s Dilemma
  • 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…

    Do Motorcycle Dealerships Need to Try Harder?
  • 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.

    Join My Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Journey
  • 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…

    BMW F450 GS Reviews – What do they say?
  • 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.

    A Quiet Road & A Bit Of Space To Think – New YouTube Short
  • 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…

    Why Bala Lake Attracts Motorcycle Enthusiasts
  • 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.

    Lighter, Warmer Evenings Mark The Return of Bike Nights
  • 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…

    Why Motorcycle Riders Feel a True Sense of Belonging
  • 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…

    Understanding Motorcycle Noises: A Rider’s Guide
  • 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.

    Trials Day: A Unique Motorcycle Trials School Near Leek
  • 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…

    Adventure Bikes That Could Become Future Classics
  • A thousand miles is enough time to move past first impressions and start understanding a bike properly. My early experience with the Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT has highlighted some real strengths – great looks, impressive technology, and a…

    My First 1,000 Miles on the Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT
  • 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?

    The Decline of Two-Stroke Motorcycles in the UK – And the One Exception
  • 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…

    Understanding Motorcycle Suspension: How Forks and Shocks Work
  • 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.

    The Star Bikers Egg Run and Toy Run
  • 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…

    Electric Motorcycles in the UK: Why Incentives Matter
  • 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.

    Motorcycle Travel Experiences: Taking Time to Enjoy the Places You Visit
  • 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…

    Project Biker: Reflective Motorcycle Story Telling
  • 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…

    CFMOTO ADV Bikes – Big on Adventure, Small on Price
  • 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…

    Stop Scrolling. Start Exploring.
  • 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…

    Cardo Packtalk Edge vs Cardo Packtalk Bold: Which Intercom Is Right for You?
  • 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.

    Breakfast by the Waterfall: A Stop at The Old Sawmill Café, Clapham
  • 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…

    The First Ride That Feels Like Spring
  • 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…

    2025 Honda Africa Twin: My Experience with Handlebar Risers
  • Ducati’s 2026 DesertX V2 showcases an evolved design that preserves the original’s character while enhancing its aesthetics and performance. A new 890 cc V-twin engine, aluminium frame, & advanced electronics, all balance its off-road capabilities with sophisticated styling.

    Ducati DesertX V2: A Bold New Direction for Ducati’s Adventure Machine
  • 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…

    Getting Inspired at the Adventure Motorcycle Film Festival
  • 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…

    Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC – Can It Be Modified Into The Ultimate Modern Classic Scrambler?
  • 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…

    EnduroL8NAV Tower Review – A Proven Upgrade for the CRF300L
  • 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.

    My First Solo Blood Bikes Shift
  • 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…

    When Is It Time to Replace Your Motorcycle Boots?
  • 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…

    Hetty’s Tea Shop – A Perfect Pit Stop for Motorcyclists
  • If you’ve ever restored an older Honda, you’ll know that finding the right parts can be half the battle. When I was working on my 1978 Honda CB750 I came across David Silver Spares – and if you’ve not heard…

    David Silver Spares – A Hidden Gem for Classic Honda Parts
  • This post introduces a tech-focused blog series on motorcycle components, starting with the comparison of radial and axial brake setups.

    Radial vs Axial Motorcycle Brakes: What is the difference?
  • 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.

    Boosting Motorcycle Safety: Count the Bikes Habit
  • 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…

    Adventure Motorcycle Film Festival in Kendal
  • 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,…

    Yamaha XJ6N: An Unsung Hero of Everyday Motorcycling
  • 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…

    GMP Training: The Safety Behind Every Blood Bike Delivery
  • 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…

    Motorcycle Green Laning in the UK: Exploring Byways on Two Wheels
  • 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…

    My First Ride with the latest KEIS  Heated Jacket & Gloves
  • 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…

    Time for a Cold Bath –  Matlock Bath of Course
  • 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.

    Best Motorcycle Protection: ACF-50 or Ceramic Coating?
  • 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…

    Behind the Scenes of Blood Bike Training
  • 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…

    Saying Goodbye to My CB750 Café Racer
  • 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…

    The Hidden Costs of Changing Adventure Bikes
  • 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…

    Biker Destinations: Does the North Need a Modern Café Hub?
  • 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…

    First 24 Hours with the Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports 1100 DCT ES
  • 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.

    Goodbye Tiger 1200 Rally Pro, Hello Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES
  • 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.

    Why My BMW R9T Isn’t My All-Time Favourite Bike
  • 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?

    Exploring the Honda Africa Twin: Are Automatic Motorbikes better?
  • I’ve always enjoyed working on my motorbikes, swapping parts and making upgrades to suit my riding. Like most riders, that’s left me with a growing pile of original components that were still usable but ended up boxed away in the…

    Why Selling Old Motorbike Parts Matters
  • 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.

    Modified vs Custom Motorbike: Where Does My CB750 Build Really Sit?
  • 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.

    BSA Thunderbolt – A Fresh Take on Adventure
  • 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.

    The 2026 Tiger Sport 660 Engine Upgrade: Could This Be the Perfect Launchpad for a Tiger 660 Rally Pro?
  • 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.

    Falling Out of Love with Sports Bikes
  • Sometimes the best touring bike isn’t the one that can go anywhere. It’s the one that fits where you actually go. But lately I’ve been questioning whether an adventure bike is actually the best fit for the way I tour,…

    Adventure vs Sports Tourer: Which Is Best for Your Ride?
  • For many motorcycle YouTubers, the idea of earning money from content sits somewhere between aspiration and curiosity. This post looks at what YouTube actually requires before a channel can earn money.

    Unlocking YouTube Monetisation for Motorcycle Content Creators
  • Nestled in the heart of the Peak District, Monyash is more than just a stop on the map – it’s a perfect pause for bikers exploring the region’s scenic routes. Offering the ideal combination of rest, refuelling, and rural charm…

    Monyash: Perfect Stop for Bikers in the Peak District
  • As winter draws to a close, many UK riders start thinking about getting back on the bike. Whether your motorcycle has been laid up or only used occasionally, a proper seasonal check is essential. Here are 10 essential tips to…

    10 Essential Tips for Spring Motorcycle Preparation
  • Moving up to your first big bike is an exciting milestone, but choosing the right one is important. With more power, technology and options than ever, this 10-step guide helps UK riders upgrading from smaller bikes or returning after a…

    How to Choose Your First Big Bike: A 10 Step Checklist
  • The condition of UK roads has deteriorated with potholes, poor road surfaces and faded road markings being all to common. For motorcyclists in particular, it has become a serious safety issue.

    Is The State of UK Roads Putting Motorcyclists at Serious Risk
  • Choosing a new motorcycle helmet is one of those decisions that always takes longer than expected. It’s not just about safety ratings or brand names – it’s about how it feels on your head, how it works in the real…

    Choosing a New Motorcycle Helmet: Shoei Neotec 3 vs HJC RPHA 91
  • Blood bikers are trained volunteers who transport urgent medical items such as blood, samples, donor breast milk and medical equipment between hospitals and healthcare sites. They operate across the UK, providing a service 24 hours a day, every day of…

    Supporting Blood Bikers: Will Green Lights Help?
  • I first came across Jonathan Hull & Son Motorcycles at the 2022 Bike Shed Show. At the time, I was building, a 1978 Honda CB750 café racer project and found myself instinctively drawn towards any classic CB models on display…

    Custom Motorcycles Done Properly – Jonathan Hull & Son
  • Over the past two years, and especially through 2024 and 2025, the UK adventure bike market has exposed a simple truth. When riders become more selective with their money, they do not automatically default to established European or Japanese brands.…

    The Rise of Chinese and Indian Adventure Bikes in the UK
  • The end-of-year registration figures always give us a useful snapshot of how healthy the UK motorcycle scene really is. According to figures reported by Motorcycle News (MCN), and supported by official Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) data, 2025 turned out to…

    UK Motorcycle Market 2025 Analysis: What the Numbers Really Mean for Riders in 2026
  • Motorcycles have been around for ages, yet there are still plenty of myths about them. Most of these come from people who have never actually ridden a bike. Let’s clear up some of the most common ones.

    Debunking Common Motorcycle Myths
  • Motorcycling has always been about stories. Conversations at cafés, tales swapped at campsites, long chats in workshops and paddocks – riders have always learned from one another. In recent years, those conversations have moved into a new space, and motorcycle…

    The Rise of Motorcycle Podcasts: Why Riders Tune In
  • Just after Christmas, with that strange lull where the days blur together and the leftovers are still doing the rounds, I decided to get out for a ride. The temperatures weren’t exactly inviting, but the sun was out so a…

    Winter Riding in the Peak District: Honda CRF300L, Flash Bar Cafe and the Roaches
  • Today’s urban adventure took me through a city that feels, in many ways, left behind. Like many industrial cities, Stoke has endured a long and difficult journey. But my aim is to seek out the green shoots of renewal and…

    Urban Adventures in a City That Time Forgot
  • It’s hard to believe over a year has passed since I brought home my 2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro. Stepping up to Triumph’s flagship was always going to be a different experience altogether. Bigger, heavier and far more imposing,…

    Taming the Tiger 1200 Rally Pro
  • Back in June, I entered an enduro practice day event thinking it would be just another solid day on the bike. Instead, it became the day I managed to break my hand. It didn’t feel real at first – just…

    Back on the Bikes After a Broken Hand
  • If there’s one segment of motorcycling that refuses to slow down, it’s the midweight adventure category. Riders are leaning toward bikes that strike that sweet balance between real-world power, manageable weight, and long-distance versatility. Having owned both the Triumph Tiger…

    The Triumph Tiger 660 Rally Pro — The Midweight Adventure Bike Triumph Should Build
  • Another year and another visit to MCL (formerly Motorcycle Live) – as I drove down the M6 on a chilly November morning, I was looking forward to what the motorcycle industry had to offer and yet again MCL 2025 at…

    MCL 2025 Highlights: Motorbikes you need to see
  • Belstaff are celebrating 100 years of their iconic brand’s heritage right here in my home city. Not many will know that Belstaff was founded in the heart of Longton, Stoke-on-Trent back in 1924. Founded by Eli Belovitch and his son…

    Belstaff: Celebrating 100 years by coming home to Stoke on Trent
  • In today’s digital age, social media influencers hold considerable sway over their followers, shaping trends, opinions, and purchasing decisions across various niches. One such niche that’s been steadily gaining traction is the realm of motorcycle influencers. These riders, armed with…

    Under the influence: The rise of motorcycle influencers
  • This weekend marked another enjoyable journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Peak District on my trusty Honda CRF300L. Joined by my good friend Andy, we headed off in the crisp morning air, happy to be back out on our…

    Exploring Twisty Lanes and more Hidden Gems in the Peak District on my Honda CRF300L
  • 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…

    Squirrelling Through the UK Lanes
  • 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…

    Manchester Motorcycle Photo Shoot
  • 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…

    How the BMW R9T Reignited My Passion for Motorcycles
  • 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…

    Building a Café Racer from a 1978 Honda CB750K8
  • 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…

    Modifying my Honda CRF300L
  • 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…

    Exploring the 2023 ABR Festival
  • 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…

    Motorcycle Adventures: Creating Content to Chronicle My Riding Experiences