Tell us a little about yourself?
Phil, 45 and I'm a self-employed sales agent in the Cycle & Outdoor Industry, Hapus Outdoors. I grew up in South Wales and have been addicted to two wheels since a little kid doing laps of my estate on a yellow BMX with plastic wheels that looked like mag wheels. I try to ride a couple of times a week but do unfortunately spend a lot of time in a van on a motorway somewhere.
How and when did you get into riding?
I've ridden pedal bikes for years but It's been the last 8 years or so that I've finally jumped onto a motorbike licence. Standard parents not keen on me getting a motorbike when I was home, I kept on saying I'll do it next year...
What are the best and worst things about riding?
The best, it's a cliché but the sense of freedom and that as you ride along you experience all of the temperature changes, smells, road feel and all of the noise that comes with being open to elements. In a car or van you are totally disconnected.
The worst, wet, cold and all of the worst smells! And filtering, with boxes that are slightly wider than your handlebars..
What’s the best piece of riding advice you’ve ever been given?
"Never be in a rush when on a motorbike". I was lucky to have some talented Police instructors when I did my test and that comment stuck in my mind.
How do you keep your bikes secure at home and on the go?
Litelok is my go to, I have a history working with the brand but I owned a Litelok Moto before I even started. I use a Litelok X1 on my front hub (BMW GS) and a Moto on the rear wheel. I also have a GO U which I used to secure my lid to my rear grab rails. I'm just back from a 10-day trip and I slept soundly knowing the bike would be there in the morning.
Share your best tips to help others keep their bikes safe?
Make your bike harder to steal than others in the area, it sounds a bit selfish, but thieves are looking for the easy option. Layered protection. Couple of locks and ideally a cover.
If you visiting or staying somewhere have a look where the security cameras are or where it's a busier area and park there. Recently a hotel I stayed at let us park right by the door, we just asked, very politely and they were great.
When someone asks what kit you recommend, you say?
Heated grips. Nothing better than being able to warm your hands. Goldtop leather gloves, incredibly comfortable and long lasting. They age beautifully. Merino buff, a go to when it's hot or cold. Adventure Spec Linesman jacket and pants. As comfy as walking gear but you can trust it on the bike.
What’s on your riding bucket list?
A European mountains trip, I just covered some of the Black Forest in Germany and I'm very keen to get back and experience more of the alpine passes. They were closed this year due to late season snow so it's back on the bucket list for the next trip!
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