motorcycle

In an era where technology often overshadows the art of the ride, the Honda CBR650R emerges as a compelling statement of purpose. 

Back in the day, a middleweight sportsbike was uncompromising. In recent years, there has been a rebirth of the middleweight market, but the bikes that inhabit this space have now evolved. They have the same or better performance that we were used to, but now have improved ergonomics that make them more practical to live with and more comfortable to ride.

On Sunday, 13th July, at 4.15 am, I quietly pushed the Honda CBR650R press bike out of the garage, trying not to wake the neighbours. 

2 1/2 hours later, I arrived at Goodwood FoS. The doors opened at 7 am, and I needed to be signed on and ready to ride a LiveWire at 8.30 am. 

I met David from the PR company Motocom, one of the nicest and most professional people in the business, and we wandered down to the drivers' club to get me signed on.

In a world of adventure bikes screaming about their off-road prowess from the highest, most inaccessible mountain peak, the V-Strom 800RE sneaks up on you.

It’s surprisingly capable, unexpectedly effective, and more entertaining than it has any right to be.

The V-Strom 800RE’s punchline is the 776cc parallel-twin engine. It’s an absolute gem, delivering more low-down torque than you expect. It’s smooth, surprisingly punchy, and makes overtaking an absolute delight.

The Furygan WB08 Vented+ jacket is a versatile and stylish option for riders seeking comfort and protection during the warmer months. Designed with a focus on airflow and adaptability, this jacket is packed with features that make it a great choice for various riding conditions.   

I haven’t worn this much yet as it arrived at the end of the summer, just as the weather closed in, but you will see plenty of me wearing it in 2025.

The Triumph Speed Twin 1200 is a contemporary interpretation of the iconic original Speed Twin, blending classic styling with modern performance and technology. It’s a beautiful bike aimed at riders who appreciate a blend of retro aesthetics and modern engineering.  

The 1200cc parallel-twin engine is a gem. It delivers strong, torquey performance and is equally at home in the city or carving along a fast A road. Only the lack of wind protection holds you back.

Furygan Leather - Pro One Jacket / Raptor Pant Evo

In recent years I’ve been wearing textiles pretty much all the time. If it’s sunny or at least dry, I’ll wear a textile jacket and jeans, if it’s wet full textiles.

In my younger years, I always wore leathers, usually one piece. I was considerably thinner and younger then and as the years and kg’s rolled on, I gravitated towards textiles, it’s just easier and more practical. 

The Harley-Davidson Sport Glide is a motorcycle that exudes style and performance.  

It's a versatile machine that crosses boundaries. It’s at home tearing up the city streets, cruising to your favourite cafe or being a relaxed tourer.

With its powerful Milwaukee-Eight® 107 V-Twin engine, comfortable riding position and stylish design, the Sport Glide is a great choice for riders who want to enjoy the raw, brutish nature of a Harley Davidson V-Twin but with the dynamics of a well-designed, well sorted chassis.

Powerful engines, unmistakable design, innovative technologies and a burning passion for motorcycles: That is the credo of Ducati, the most desirable brand for powerful two-wheel products.

I was recently lucky enough to taste some of Ducati's delicious offerings for a couple of hours on a press day. One of the delights was the Panigale V2, named after the district of Borgo Panigale, home of Ducati.

In this job, I am lucky enough to have ridden many different bikes. Fast, slow, big small and a lot in between. However, I have never ridden a Harley……until now. 

The lovely team that looks after the PR for Harley Davidson reached out and asked if I would like to try their wares and I’m not going to say no to an offer like that.

If you want to make a statement, I mean really turn heads, BMW has just the thing for you. 

Introducing the BMW R18 Transcontinental. This is a luxury ‘Grand American Tourer’ style motorcycle, going up against some tough competition. Based on the R 18 platform, it has features and technology that place it at the top of the luxury motorcycle market.