Every. Day. Ride #48 with Cafe Scrambler

In this months Every Day Ride we speak to James, Cafe Scrambler.

Tell us a little about yourself?

My background is actually in the fitness industry. I’m an ex-fitness coach and now work in the sports science industry, but outside of work I’ve always had a real passion for the outdoors.

I love exploring and trying new things, whether that’s horse riding, sailing or, of course, motorcycling. I’ve always enjoyed being active and experiencing things rather than just sitting back and watching, and I think that’s a big part of why riding has become such an important part of my life.

How and when did you get into riding?

I got into motorcycles in my early twenties, when I bought my first learner bike, a Hyosung 125R. From that point, I pretty much knew that motorcycling was something I wanted to stick with.

I went through quite a few different 125s before eventually taking my test, and since then I’ve ridden a variety of different styles of bike. It was through trying those different bikes that I eventually discovered that a scrambler-style bike really suits me.

I love exploring lanes and roads that aren’t necessarily in the best condition, and a scrambler gives me the freedom to head down those roads without worrying too much about where the route might take me.

What are the best and worst things about riding?

The best thing about riding for me is the ability to explore places that you simply can't always get to in a car. It turns travelling from A to B into an experience in itself.

I love the fact that getting on the bike is actually something fun to do rather than just a means of getting somewhere. You can take a random turn, discover a new road and suddenly find yourself somewhere you've never been before.

The obvious downside is the weather. Exploring on a beautiful sunny day is fantastic, but getting caught out in a proper downpour isn't always quite as enjoyable!

Tell us about your most memorable ride to date?

One that really stands out for me was a ride up to Clee Hill. It’s not particularly far from where I live — probably only about an hour’s ride — but it reminded me that you don't necessarily have to travel hundreds of miles to have an adventure.

I rode up the rough track towards the top, with sheep wandering across the roads and some incredible views opening up as I climbed higher. Being able to see the different horizons from that height was something really special.

I eventually stopped at the top, made myself a coffee and just sat there taking it all in. There was something really satisfying about knowing I'd simply got on the bike, ridden from A to B and ended up somewhere beautiful, completely by myself.

Those are the sorts of rides I remember.

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

“It's always better to ride a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow.”

I think that's absolutely true.

I love working the gears and getting the most out of a smaller-engine bike, particularly on slower, twistier roads. You can really work the bike rather than having to constantly hold yourself back on a powerful sports bike.

For the type of riding I enjoy, that feeling is much more rewarding.

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

At home, I use a Litelok alongside a ground anchor. The bike is also kept locked away in a garage, which is blocked in by other vehicles, so it isn't simply accessible.

When I'm out on the road, the Litelok is my go-to option. One of the things I like about it is that it's small enough to take with you. You can put it in a backpack and barely notice you're carrying it until you get to your destination.

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

One of the biggest things I'd say is don't advertise that you've got a bike.

Don't blast off down the road every time you leave your house, and equally, don't start revving the bike up on your driveway or down an alleyway when you get home. You don't want to draw attention to the fact that you've got a valuable item sitting there that could potentially be targeted.

When you're out riding, park in the most secure place available. If there's a secure car park, use it. It's worth taking a little extra time to think about where you're leaving the bike rather than simply choosing the most convenient spot.

When someone asks what kit you recommend, you say?

For me, safety has to come first.

Motorcycle gear can be expensive, and I think it's tempting for people to look for the cheapest options. But your skin is irreplaceable, so it's really not an area where you should be cutting corners.

My riding brand of choice has always been John Doe. I really like their gear because it manages to combine proper protection with a style that actually looks good. Their gear doesn't have to look overly technical or out of place when you're off the bike, which is something I really appreciate.

I also look for gear with strong safety ratings and proper motorcycle protection. Don't ride in trainers — wear proper motorcycle shoes or boots. Make sure you're wearing appropriate trousers and a proper motorcycle jacket, and keep your skin covered.

Even when it's hot, it's important. Riding in full gear on a warm day isn't always comfortable, but that's part of being on a motorcycle. You only get one body, so it's worth protecting it.

What’s on your riding bucket list?

A European motorcycle tour is definitely high on my list.

I'd love to properly explore Europe on the bike, taking in all the obvious destinations and, of course, riding through the Alps. There's something pretty special about the idea of spending a proper amount of time on the bike, moving from place to place and experiencing the roads and scenery along the way.

I'm definitely looking forward to making that one happen.