My Obsession With Motorcycles - A One Split Second Story

While many riders dream of the latest sports bike with cutting-edge technology and blistering performance, I've always been drawn to something much more traditional.

If I could choose my perfect bike, it would almost certainly be a Honda CB550 Four or a 1970s Honda CB750. That said, there's one exception to my love of classics—a late-1990s Honda Gold Wing. There's something about those big touring machines that really appeals to me, built for comfort, reliability and long-distance adventures.

I've never been much of a sports bike enthusiast. I prefer bikes with character, timeless styling and an engine that encourages you to slow down and appreciate the ride.

That philosophy carries over into the way I ride. I'm not interested in chasing speed or setting lap records. I quite happily poodle along, taking in the scenery and enjoying the freedom that comes with being on two wheels.

Some people say I ride like someone much older than I am, and they're probably right. But for me, that's part of the enjoyment. Riding is about the experience, not racing to the destination.

When I'm riding alone, you'll often find I'm talking to myself.

As I approach a bend or a junction, I quietly narrate the process: "Good road position… shoulder check… indicator… gentle braking… now look through the corner… accelerate away." It's become second nature.

Maybe it's a touch of my personality that likes routine and order, but I genuinely believe it helps reinforce good habits and keeps me focused on riding safely and smoothly.

Ironically, there was a period where I almost lost my passion for motorcycles altogether.

In my twenties, I commuted from Salisbury to Weymouth and back every day on a bike. Spending hours in the saddle in all conditions eventually made riding feel like an obligation rather than a pleasure.

Thankfully, once I stopped relying on a motorcycle purely for commuting, I rediscovered why I'd fallen in love with riding in the first place.

If there's one thing my friends know about me, it's that I like my motorcycles spotless. In truth, it's become a bit of an obsession. It doesn't matter how short the ride was—there's a good chance I'll be cleaning the bike afterwards.

I also enjoy carrying out as much of the maintenance as I can myself. I love learning how things work, solving problems and building a stronger connection with the machine every time I pick up the tools.

One of my favourite things to do is load up a motorcycle and head off camping. There's something incredibly satisfying about carrying everything you need for an adventure on two wheels.

I'm also a little bit of a prepper when it comes to riding. I like knowing I'm ready for the unexpected, so my bike is usually equipped with a first aid kit, a tyre pump, a high-visibility vest, essential equipment for minor roadside issues and, of course, a cleaning cloth.

Being prepared gives me peace of mind and lets me focus on enjoying the ride.

As much as I love the bikes themselves, it's the people that have made the biggest impact on me.

Over the years, I've met so many incredible people through motorcycling. Riders from all walks of life share a common bond, whether they're on a brand-new tourer, a well-loved commuter or a beautifully restored classic. The friendships, conversations and willingness to help one another are what make the motorcycle community so special.

Because of that, I believe it's important that every rider continues to practise the skills they learned when they first earned their licence. Whether you passed your test yesterday or forty years ago, the fundamentals still matter: observation, planning, positioning and always riding within your limits.

It's heartbreaking whenever you hear that another motorcyclist has lost their life or suffered a serious crash. Every one of those stories affects families, friends and the wider riding community.

My goal now is to become a motorcycle instructor.

For years I've talked myself through every ride, reinforcing good habits inside my own helmet. I'd love to take that same approach and use it to help other riders build confidence, develop their skills and stay safe on the road.

If I can encourage someone to become a better rider, avoid a mistake or simply enjoy motorcycling more, then I'll consider that time well spent.

Motorcycling has given me adventure, friendships, knowledge and memories that will stay with me forever. It's taught me patience, responsibility and respect, and I hope to pass those lessons on to others.

Because riding a motorcycle really is an amazing journey—and it's one that's always worth continuing to learn from.

Ride Safe, Ben - One Split Second.