On riding a motorcycle

I started riding a motorcycle as soon as I reached 16 years old.

My first bike was a 50cc Yamaha trail bike - a DT50MX. The ‘MX’ suffix was important as it denoted a more ‘off road’ style. In reality the bike was just a tarted up moped made to look more edgy. It was limited to about thirty miles an hour and to be honest, I’ve done more powerful farts but it gave me the greatest gift for a teenager - FREEDOM! I also learned a good deal about mechanics in the contant quest to squeeze a few more MPH out of it.

I went on to own and ride dozens of bikes during my life and I still ride one at the age of 61. And I still never fail to get a thrill when I’m out riding my bike. I certainly go a lot slower nowadays but that same sense of freedom is still there. I tend not to ride in the colder months but as soon as the thermometer hits 10 degrees centigrade then off comes the bike cover and away we go. The first ride of the year is just like being 16 again. It keeps me young mentally even though it’s a real struggle to throw my leg over the seat at first.

People say it’s dangerous - yes it is but so is walking along the High Street.