Automotive industry charity, Ben, is launching its ‘Christmas families project’ for another year, supporting families who might otherwise have to make impossible choices about heating or eating and whether they can afford Christmas gifts. Now in its fifth year, Ben’s Christmas families project keeps roofs over heads, lights on, food on tables, as well as putting gifts under trees for those feeling cost-of-living pressures.

The project started in December 2020 in response to the Covid pandemic when many more automotive families were struggling to afford the basics at a more expensive time of year. Since then, with Ben’s support, hundreds of automotive families have been able to pay their basic living costs, give Christmas gifts to their children and have a festive lunch together.

Ben supports thousands of automotive people each year. Over the past four years, almost 700 adults and children have benefitted from Ben’s Christmas families project. Since 2020, Ben has seen these figures grow by 208%.

Last year, Ben supported 265 automotive families through the project, including 120 children. It’s expected that the charity will help even more people this year. Here are some quotes from families that Ben supported in 2023:

“Thank you so much for the food vouchers, it will make a huge difference to our Christmas. It's been a really hard year, but this will lift the whole family, we have some treats to make it more special.”

“Thank you so much for the Christmas support. The food vouchers will make an amazing difference. It's been a long road this year and Christmas seemed impossible to reach but we got here with some great help. Although we’ve had lows, Ben has given us some highs. Now we’ll have a great Christmas day with treats, dinner and the kids will have some lovely presents.”

“I'm so overwhelmed by Ben’s kindness that I just burst out crying. You've made us so happy in what's been a rough time. I can't thank you and everyone at Ben enough for what you've done.”

To anyone in the industry who is struggling with cost-of-living pressures or finds themselves in crisis, please reach out to Ben, your automotive industry charity. Ben is here to help. 

Rachel Clift, Chief Executive Officer at Ben, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have helped hundreds of automotive people through our Christmas families project over the past four years. Of course, Ben’s not just for Christmas - we’re here for automotive people all year round and we help thousands of families each year. At a more expensive time of year, we want to make sure no automotive family goes without the opportunity to have a Christmas meal together and a gift for their children.

“We recognise that times are still really tough for many. No-one in our automotive family should face homelessness or have to make impossible decisions about whether they can afford to put food on the table or heat their homes. We’re here for those struggling or in crisis. We provide life-changing and, often life-saving, support to many families and individuals who can’t afford the basics and we urge people to contact our helpline. We want everyone in the automotive industry to know that Ben is here for them. Please don’t struggle alone, get in touch today.”

Ben is here for automotive industry people this Christmas so if you work, or have worked, in the automotive industry we urge you to get in touch now if you’re at breaking point via our free and confidential helpline. Don't suffer in silence, contact our helpline: 08081 311 333 or use our webchat at www.ben.org.uk

If you would like to show your support for Ben and your automotive family, visit www.ben.org.uk/supportBen

 

Looking for that spark of inspiration for the perfect Christmas gift? The British Motor Museum has plenty to choose from – and every purchase supports the charity! Home to over 400 iconic classic and vintage cars, the Museum offers an extraordinary day out for petrolheads, culture seekers and lovers of all things British so why not give the gift of a visit to the Museum! Gift vouchers are available to purchase online and are valid for 12 months.

Museum Membership gives Members free entry to the Museum including all special weekend show days. Members are also offered exclusive opportunities to preview great new exhibitions, take a private Museum tour and attend Members only events. Membership is available from just £42 per year. Gift vouchers for Membership are available.

For the enthusiast who has everything, why not adopt a car? There are hundreds in the collection to choose from, so you’re bound to find something they’ll love. Adoptions start from £25 and the scheme supports the overall work of the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust. Take a look at the Museum’s Online Collections and choose any car from the ‘adoptable’ filter. Adopters get a digital adoption certificate and their name added to the car’s listing in the Online Collections. It’s the perfect gift for anyone who worked in the British motor industry or has always loved a particular British classic.

For anyone who owns a cherished classic car ‘Heritage Certificates’ are an ideal gift and are available for just £48 plus P&P. The Certificate is an official ‘Certified Copy of a Factory Record’ showing the car’s specification as it left the production line. Details are taken from the original production records created by many of the leading British motor manufacturers. Elevate the gift by adding a document wallet which gives the owner a colour copy of the original sales brochure relevant to their car.

Archive prints also make an unforgettable gift for a special car fan. Choose from a  selection of unique images from the British Motor Museum Archive with everything from iconic British models to industrial streetscapes and milestone motorsport memories. Prices range from £25 for a small art print to £200 for a large solid wood framed print.

Other fantastic items available from the online shop include a Replica Tax Disc perfect to add some authenticity to a prized classic, number plate signs such as ‘Dad’s Garage’, a bespoke 1,000 piece ‘British Cars of the 70’s’ Jigsaw or a cute & cuddly Mini ‘AOK’ plush toy based on the 1959 first production Morris Mini Minor, designed and manufactured specially for the Museum by the London Toy Company.  If it’s stocking fillers you’re after, there’s a petrol can hip flask, a BMC keyring, a colourful Pop art tea towel covered in retro car adverts, and a British Motor Museum colouring book for the little ones.

Fancy a trip to the shop to choose something yourself? Wrap up your Christmas shopping with a Festive lunch in the fabulous Sky Suite. Christmas lunches are available from 12pm – 2pm on 4, 10, 12, and 17 December. Visitors can enjoy a seasonal two-course or three-course lunch with all the trimmings, glass of wine or soft drink and crackers for £29.95 for 2 courses or £34.95 for 3 courses. (Member discounts apply). Entry to the Museum is included for all diners on that day, and lunches must be pre-booked. To find out more about the festive lunches visit https://www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/whats-on/festive-lunches

To see the full range of gift ideas, please visit https://shop.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/

All shop purchases and visits help support the Museum as a registered educational charity No 286575. Deadline for UK orders is 17 December.

 

Are you considering buying a used motorbike? If so, you need to know the following five things.

The Bike Must Be Taxed Before You Can Ride it

Before you can ride your bike on the road, it must be taxed. To do that, you need the motorcycle’s reference number from the V5C registration certificate. The V5C must be in your name. You will also need to meet all other legal obligations before you are permitted to take your bike on the road. But once the bike is yours, you can spruce it up to suit your personal taste any way that you want. Perhaps you would like a respray, or maybe you would like to make it more personal by adding a private registration plate. 

The Bike Can Be Registered to You Online

When the seller of a used motorcycle has a V5C, he or she can register the vehicle to you online or by post. When the seller uses the online registration process, the DVLA will update the vehicle record immediately. The seller must then fill in the new keeper slip and give it to you. The original V5C must be destroyed. The DVLA will then send you a new V5C, in your name, within three to five days.   

The Bike Can Be Registered to You by Post

If the seller registers by post instead of online, the seller needs to complete section two of a new-style logbook, or section six if they have the older style. He or she, and you must sign the declaration in section eight of an older style logbook too. The seller must fill in the new keeper slip and give it to you, and send the V5C to the DVLA. You will receive a new V5C between two and four weeks thereafter. 

It Is Possible to Register a Bike without a Valid V5C

The DVLA advises you not to purchase a motorcycle when the seller does not have a V5C. However, if you do have a bike that does not have a V5C, you need to complete and submit form V62. You can also obtain it from any Post Office branch. Send the completed form to the DVLA with the new keeper slip that you have obtained from the motorcycle’s seller.

You Need to Check Whether the Bike Is Stolen

When you buy a used bike, it is not only important to ensure it has a valid V5C registration. It is also essential you check that the details of the bike and the seller match those on the document. Also make sure the engine and frame numbers match, and check the V5C includes a watermark to ensure it is a genuine document. Those checks will prevent you from buying a stolen bike.
You can run an online check on the registration plate of a motorbike to discover whether it has been previously written off or stolen, or whether there is outstanding finance on it.  

For example, if you are considering a Kawasaki, you can use the Kawasaki VIN Decoder to access details about the bike’s history, such as theft records, accident damage, and ownership verification. Combining this with a registration check ensures you have all the information you need to make a secure and confident purchase.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Motorcycle road trips offer a unique sense of freedom, adventure, and connection with the open road. Whether you're cruising through scenic countryside, tackling twisty mountain roads, or exploring coastal highways, there’s nothing quite like the experience of traveling on two wheels.

However, successful motorcycle trips require more than just hopping on your bike and hitting the road. Proper planning ensures a safe, enjoyable, and memorable journey. This guide offers practical tips for bikers looking to embark on the ultimate motorcycle road trip.  

Why Motorcycle Road Trips Are More Popular Than Ever  

The popularity of motorcycle road trips has soared in recent years, with riders embracing the opportunity to escape their daily routines and explore new destinations. According to a report by the Motorcycle Industry Association, sales of touring motorcycles increased by 9% in 2022, reflecting a growing interest in long-distance travel. 

The sense of adventure, combined with the cost-effectiveness of motorcycle travel compared to traditional car trips, has made it a favorite choice for solo travelers and groups alike.

Plan Your Route Thoughtfully

A great road trip starts with a well-planned route. While spontaneity can be part of the adventure, having a clear idea of where you’re headed ensures you maximize your time on the road and avoid unnecessary stress.

Tips for Planning Your Route:

1. Research Scenic Roads: Look for routes known for their beauty and biker-friendly conditions, such as the Great Ocean Road in Australia or the Tail of the Dragon in the U.S. 

2. Avoid Highways: Whenever possible, opt for smaller roads that offer better scenery and a more enjoyable riding experience.

3. Plan Stops: Identify gas stations, rest stops, and cafes along the way to keep your trip comfortable and manageable.

4. Check Road Conditions: Be aware of construction zones, road closures, and seasonal hazards that could affect your journey.

5. Consider Alternatives: Have backup routes in case of unexpected detours or weather conditions.

Using navigation apps or GPS devices designed specifically for motorcyclists can help you create a route that combines practicality with adventure.

Pack Wisely

Packing for a motorcycle trip is a balancing act—you need to bring all the essentials while keeping your load light and manageable. The limited space on a bike means you must prioritize what you truly need.

Packing Essentials:

• Riding Gear: Helmet, gloves, jacket, boots, and weather-appropriate layers.

• Safety Equipment: First-aid kit, tire repair kit, and a basic toolset.

• Personal Items: Identification, credit cards, cash, and any necessary travel documents.

• Tech Accessories: Phone, charger, GPS, and a power bank.

• Storage Solutions: Saddlebags, tank bags, or tail bags to organize your belongings.

One item often overlooked but incredibly useful is motorcycle covers. They protect your bike from the elements during overnight stops, especially if you’re parking outside. A durable cover can prevent damage from rain, dust, and sun, keeping your motorcycle in top condition throughout the trip.

Stay Safe on the Road

Safety should always be a top priority when embarking on a motorcycle road trip. Even experienced riders must remain vigilant, as long-distance travel presents unique challenges.

Key Safety Tips:

• Inspect Your Bike: Perform a thorough check before departure, including tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels.

• Take Breaks: Fatigue can impair your reaction time. Stop every 100-150 miles to rest and hydrate.

• Ride Defensively: Stay aware of your surroundings, maintain safe following distances, and anticipate potential hazards.

• Adjust for Weather: Be prepared to slow down or pull over if conditions become unsafe.

• Communicate: If traveling in a group, establish signals and stick together without crowding the road.

By taking these precautions, you’ll ensure a safer and more enjoyable ride.

Embrace the Journey

One of the best aspects of a motorcycle road trip is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the journey, not just the destination. Embracing a flexible mindset allows you to fully enjoy the experience, even when things don’t go as planned.

Ways to Enhance Your Trip:

• Stop for Photos: Capture memories of breathtaking views, quirky roadside attractions, and memorable moments.

• Try Local Eateries: Skip the chain restaurants and sample local cuisine at diners, food trucks, and cafes.

• Engage with Fellow Riders: Chat with other bikers you meet along the way—they may offer valuable tips or share inspiring stories.

• Explore Side Roads: Take occasional detours to discover hidden gems that aren’t on your main route.

• Keep a Journal: Document your thoughts and experiences to look back on after the trip.

Every road trip has its surprises, but these unplanned moments often become the most memorable highlights of the journey.

Maintain Your Bike on the Go

Long trips put additional strain on your motorcycle, so routine maintenance is essential to keep it running smoothly.

On-the-Go Maintenance Tips:

1. Check Tire Pressure Daily: Underinflated tires can affect handling and fuel efficiency.

2. Lubricate the Chain: Keep the chain clean and properly lubricated to avoid unnecessary wear.

3. Monitor Fluids: Check oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels regularly.

4. Inspect for Wear and Tear: Look for signs of damage, such as cracks in the tires or loose bolts.

5. Carry Spare Parts: Bring extra bulbs, fuses, and spark plugs for quick fixes.

Staying proactive with maintenance minimizes the risk of breakdowns and ensures you stay on schedule.

The Rising Popularity of Group Rides

Group motorcycle trips have gained popularity among riders who enjoy the camaraderie and shared experiences of traveling together. According to a survey by RevZilla, 62% of motorcyclists prefer group rides for long-distance trips, citing safety and social benefits as key reasons.

If you’re joining a group ride, make sure to:

• Establish clear communication and signals before hitting the road.

• Assign a lead rider and a sweeper (the rider at the back) for organization.

• Respect the pace and comfort levels of all group members.

Group rides can turn a solo adventure into a communal experience filled with shared memories.

The Joy of Reflection

At the end of your motorcycle road trip, take time to reflect on the journey. Consider compiling your favorite moments into a scrapbook or digital album to relive the adventure. These keepsakes can inspire future trips and remind you of the joys of life on the open road.

Conclusion

Planning and executing the perfect motorcycle road trip requires preparation, mindfulness, and a spirit of adventure. From mapping scenic routes to packing essentials like motorcycle covers, every detail contributes to a successful journey.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or embarking on your first long-distance trip, these tips will help you make the most of your time on the road. Remember, it’s not just about reaching your destination - it’s about enjoying the ride, discovering new places, and creating memories that last a lifetime. So gear up, hit the throttle, and embrace the freedom of the open road.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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