Every. Day. Ride #32 with Kim

Tell us a little about yourself?

Hi! I'm Kim, aka Street Twin Kim if you know me through social media. I currently ride a Triumph Bonneville Street Twin 900 and a Voge Rally 300. 
In my day job I'm a veterinary nurse. In my spare time, I enjoy blogging about my biking travels.

How and when did you get into riding?

Motorcycles have been a big part of my life since I was a small child. That’s what growing up with an Isle of Man TT races obsessed Dad does to you! The races were like a yearly pilgrimage. My family didn't own a car until I was 5 or 6.

As soon as I turned 17, I bought my first bike, a Yamaha SR125. I think my parents always expected my brother to get sucked into the biking world, not me! He's far more into his cars, and is a mechanic by trade. The SR was my daily transport for about 5 years- rain or shine- and I put a LOT of miles on it. I sold it to fund my car licence and then didn't ride again for about a decade. I always missed it, especially on sunny days. I finally got my full licence in 2022, and have been throwing myself at any riding opportunity that's come my way ever since.

What are the best and worst things about riding?

Best- As a person who’s on high alert most of the time, riding a bike brings me peace. It’s the only time my brain is truly quiet, and I don’t think about anything else. You’re so much more in tune with the world around you when you travel by bike – the sights, smells, sensations. You're more likely to take the 'road less travelled', seeing things you wouldn't otherwise come across.

Riding also means you're a part of this amazing community- I've met some of my closest friends through our shared love of the sport.

Worst- It's an expensive hobby...especially when you have multiple bikes! I honestly can't think of any others.

Tell us about your most memorable ride to date?

My most memorable ride to date has to be a recent trip to South Wales, where I got to drive a sidecar-cross outfit with my best friend, Laura, as passenger. I've never laughed so much in my life! I'm hoping I can find someone who's willing to let me hop on their outfit as a passenger this Summer.

Getting the chance to ride in the BMW GS Trophy UK Qualifier back in September 2023 has to come a close second. As a petite female rider, that weekend was such a confidence booster. It ignited a real drive in me to continue to ride as many different bikes as I can. Larger and taller bikes definitely don't feel as intimidating now.

What’s the best piece of riding advice you’ve ever been given?

Passing your test is only the first hurdle. Riding a bike is a constant learning curve- practice your skills and sign up for all of the further training you can. Whether that's a track day, off-roading school or an accredited advanced course, it will all help!

How do you keep your bikes secure at home and on the go?

At home, they're locked securely in a garage. 
On the go, my Litelok X1 comes everywhere with me now. I wouldn't be without it.

Share your best tips to help others keep their bikes safe?

Invest in a really decent lock, and a tracker if you can afford it. You might find it drops your insurance premium a little, too. Also, a good bike cover will make your pride and joy stand out far less when parking away from home. Out of sight, out of mind, as they say! 

When someone asks what kit you recommend, you say?

Get yourself properly measured and fitted for your helmet. You could spend the best part of a grand on one, but if it doesn't fit correctly, it's next to useless. And earplugs. They don't need to be expensive, just make sure you wear them. Or you'll end up like my Dad, who's now in his 60's and suffering with hearing loss!

What’s on your riding bucket list?

Oh, there are so many places! Top of the list has to be riding the Trans Euro Trail through Scandinavia to Nord Kapp. Gran Canaria isn't too far behind! The roads out there are incredible.