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Category: Organisations
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Last bike ridden by Hairy Biker Dave Myers to be auctioned for charity
- The BSA Goldstar ridden by Dave Myers in the final series of The Hairy Bikers is being auctioned for charity
- It will go under the hammer at the National Motorcycle Museum in Solihull on Wednesday 26th March
- Proceeds from its sale will go to CancerCare North Lancashire & South Cumbria and the NSPCC Childline charities
The last motorcycle ridden by much-loved Dave Myers, one half of the incredibly popular TV chef duo The Hairy Bikers, is being auctioned for two worthy causes – CancerCare North Lancashire & South Cumbria and the NPSCC Childline.
The BSA Goldstar motorcycle, which famously featured in the BBC’s “The Hairy Bikers Go West”, the last ever series of The Hairy Bikers, will go under the hammer with H&H Classics at the National Motorcycle Museum in Solihull on Wednesday 26th March.
Dave fought a long battle against cancer but sadly died in February last year. The auction of his beloved BSA Goldstar will be a fitting tribute to his effervescent personality, together with his immense influence and passion for motorcycling. 
Ahead of the auction, the bike is in a special static display at the National Motorcycle Museum and features life-size cut-outs of both Dave and Si King, celebrating their enduring friendship, plus Dave’s leathers, helmet and boots.
Speaking of her wish to support charitable causes through Dave’s legacy, his widow, Liliana Myers, said: “The auction of Dave’s BSA Goldstar is a fantastic way to support two charities who do incredible work.
“We hope to raise as much as possible, so would encourage interested bidders to dig deep into their pockets for the chance to own a truly special motorbike.”
National Motorcycle Museum director, James Hewing, said: “The auction of his bike represents a unique opportunity for someone to own a piece of motorcycling history while celebrating Dave’s enduring legacy.
“We hope this display will resonate with fans and visitors, reminding them of the joy and inspiration Dave brought to so many.”
The Hairy Bikers series ran for two decades, turning Dave Myers and Si King into national treasures. The huge appeal of their warm and jovial personalities, coupled with their love for motorcycling and foodie expertise, saw millions watch them on TV, keen to see them on their travels.
Colette McKay, managing director at H&H Classics, which is conducting the auction, said: “H&H Classic is honoured to be auctioning such a significant motorcycle. Dave’s immense popularity and passion for motorbikes and cooking is legendary, so we’re confident we’ll raise as much as possible for two very worthy causes.”
Enthusiasts, fans or collectors wishing view the motorcycle can do so by visiting the National Motorcycle Museum, in Solihull. Meanwhile those wishing to bid on Dave Myers’ cherished BSA Goldstar can do so in person, via telephone or by bidding online at the sale on Wednesday 26th March, or by leaving a commission bid with the auctioneers ahead of the sale.
All of the classic motorcycles and vintage scooters appearing in the sale can be viewed at the museum from 1pm on Tuesday 25th March or on the sale day itself. For more information on any of the lots, visit www.handh.co.uk.
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About the National Motorcycle Museum
The National Motorcycle Museum houses the largest collection of British motorcycles in the world, with over 1,000 machines from 170 different manufacturers spanning three centuries. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the UK’s rich motorcycling heritage.
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Royal Automobile Club’s Simms Medal awarded to Maeving for its innovative electric motorbikes designed and built in Britain
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Pall Mall, London, Tuesday 29 October 2024: today an all-new electric motorcycle conceived and created in Britain received a prestigious award for ‘an outstanding contribution to motoring innovation’ by the Royal Automobile Club, in a special ceremony.
The Simms Medal, named after the Club’s founder, was presented to Seb Inglis-Jones, who co-founded Maeving in 2018 with Will Stirrup to open a new era for the British motorcycle industry.
In the year the two friends founded their business, just 297 electric motorbikes were sold in the UK, while over 20m of them found buyers in China. However, the partners’ plan to import and sell Chinese-made models for the British market was soon parked when they decided the quality wasn’t good enough, and that removable batteries were key for ease of use in town and beyond.
In 2023 Maeving launched its first models, the RM1 and RM1S and the initial batch sold out within hours. It immediately became the best-seller in its sector. Following the tradition of legendary motorcycle names including Triumph, Norton and BSA, Maeving opened its factory in the West Midlands, in Coventry, and in doing so became Britain’s first electric motorcycle manufacturer.
Inglis-Jones and Stirrup met and bonded at Durham University and decided that one day they would open a business together. But the idea for an electric motorbike only came when Inglis-Jones bought one for his daily commute.
“We questioned why electric motorbikes lagged in sales and identified the single most important factor: removable batteries,” said Inglis-Jones. “So our innovation addresses the primary barrier to electric adoption – insufficient charging infrastructure – by allowing riders to power up from any standard socket.
“This approach contrasted with what major Western manufacturers were doing: designing heavy, high-powered models that served as alternatives to popular internal combustion-engined motorcycles, but often struggled with reliance on inadequate charging infrastructure.”
A deep and shared respect for the planet was another reason why the two gave up their jobs in the corporate world to found Maeving, and since then they have recruited what Inglis-Jones calls “one of the most talent-dense engineering teams in the world, with over 200 years of combined industry experience”, to help them. The team includes Graeme Gilbert, former Head of Product at Triumph.
“This idea stemmed from the notable discrepancy in electric two-wheeler sales between the East and West,” Will Stirrup added. “The level of experience and expertise in the Midlands is unparalleled. Harnessing this has made Maeving’s motorcycles the embodiment of craftsmanship and innovation.
“The whole Maeving team is thrilled that the Royal Automobile Club recognises our vision with the Simms Medal.”
Maeving joins a rollcall of British talent to have received the Simms Medal, which is presented only in years when the judges feel there is a worthy winner. This has included McMurtry Automotive, Williams Advanced Engineering, Riversimple and the Ariel Motor Company, as well as individuals such as Richard Parry-Jones CBE and Dr Rob Lewis OBE. A full list of previous winners is given below.
Ben Cussons, Chairman of the judges on the Royal Automobile Club Technical Committee (which awards the Simms Medal alongside the Dewar Trophy) said:
“Maeving’s achievement in designing and building an attractive and innovative electric motorcycle in the UK is a project that Frederick Simms would have been proud of. The business exudes the passion of its founders but has the financial backing and commercial nous that will help it achieve its ambitious aims.”
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ACT Adventure Country Tracks e.V. has opened a new chapter with the eighth track of the ACT series. For the first time in ACT history, a track crosses two countries: Montenegro and Albania. This challenging adventure was meticulously prepared in multiple stages, starting with the first scouting missions in spring and culminating in a full team scouting in September.
The new track starts near the Croatia track and can be seamlessly connected with the Greece track, thus linking these popular ACT routes. With more than 50% of the route being offroad and a difficulty level rated as "hard," this track is particularly suited for experienced adventure bikers looking to tackle the final offroad challenges of the Balkans with their large touring enduros.
One of the track’s standout features is its flexibility: Over the course of 6 to 7 days, riders can follow various alternative routes with different difficulty levels. Some sections even offer exciting onroad detours. Additionally, the more difficult offroad sections at the end of the tour can either be spread out over two days or entirely enjoyed on-road, making ACT Montenegro and Albania one of the most versatile and thrilling adventure trips in the entire ACT lineup.
Thanks to the support of numerous sponsors, this year also provided the opportunity to test an impressive variety of vehicles and products. In addition to the well-known Yamaha Teneres and the Triumph Tiger, KTM, Husqvarna, MV Agusta, two special Touratech BMWs, an Edelweiss Suzuki, and two Ducatis were part of the team. Equipped with the latest products from Garmin, GoPro, Sena, Metzeler, and Earpeace, as well as apparel from REV'IT!, Nexx, and Touratech, the team had the chance to thoroughly test the gear under extreme conditions. The expedition was also supported by Ford, Good Souls, and Westerfeld Logistics.
The first videos of this adventure will be released in the coming weeks on Instagram and Facebook. The official film premiere of the new ACT movie will take place on December 6, 2024, at the Cinenova Cinema in Cologne. In addition to the ACT team, many partners and sponsors, ACT ambassador Charley Boorman will also be present, having experienced his third ACT track. After the premiere, guests will have the opportunity to exchange stories about the routes and their experiences with club members, partners, and fellow riders.
In addition to the cinema premiere, the film will be released as usual on December 25 at 8:00 PM on the ACT YouTube channel.
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Automotive industry charity, Ben, is raising awareness about the support currently being provided to automotive individuals and families who are struggling with money worries, debt or urgent financial need.
Due to the continued cost-of-living pressures, Ben is providing vital support for many automotive families who would otherwise have to make impossible choices such as whether to put food on the table or pay essential bills.
Over the past 12 months, Ben’s helpline has managed nearly 16,000 enquiries and administered over 600 financial grants for those struggling with money. In addition, Ben’s support services team have provided hundreds of automotive individuals with financial information, advice and guidance to help them get back on track with their finances, as well as support them with the wider impact on their mental health and emotional wellbeing. In the last year, the demand for Ben’s services and support has grown by over 15%.
Money worries often have a knock-on effect on people’s mental health and wellbeing. According to Ben’s research[1], 7 in 10 of our automotive family worry about money and these people are more likely to experience feelings of anxiety, low mood and depression. Year on year, the number of people worrying about money has increased (from 6 in 10), debt increased by 3% (19% to 22%), being unable to budget increased by 12% (14% to 26%) and skipping meals increased by 6% (10% to 16%).
With the summer holidays approaching, this time of year can be a real headache for parents. Additional costs add up over the holiday period and back-to-school items such as uniforms, bags and PE kits add financial pressure. Ben is urging automotive families not to struggle alone and to get in touch. Families who Ben has already supported have recently said:
“Ben’s support has been amazing, thank you for making a real difference in our household. You have absolutely no idea how much this has meant to us after the year we’ve had.”
“The food vouchers will make an amazing difference to the whole family. It’s been a long road this year. Although we’ve had lows, you’ve given us some great highs, especially for the family. You have been a great support.”
“Thank you, I’m feeling rather overwhelmed. It will help a great deal and I am very grateful.”
Rachel Clift, Health & Wellbeing Director at Ben, said: “Cost-of-living pressures are still having a significant effect on many people in our automotive family. As a parent myself, I know that families now face the added costs that the summer holidays bring, as well as the back-to-school expenses. This is why we need to make sure everyone in our automotive industry knows that Ben is here for them.
“If you’re worrying about how you’re going to afford your food shop or your bills and the effect this is having on your mental or physical health, please get in touch. You’re not alone, Ben’s here for you. The sooner you get in touch, the sooner we can help you get back on track. If you’re struggling or at breaking point, contact our free and confidential helpline today.”
Ben is here for those who work, or have worked, in the automotive industry and their family dependents. Ben is already supporting many automotive families this Summer. Don't suffer in silence, contact our helpline: 08081 311 333 or use our webchat at www.ben.org.uk. You can also access Ben’s out of hours text support line by texting BEN to 85258.
Sign up to receive tips, advice and tools from Ben at www.ben.org.uk/signup and, for online support with money, visit www.ben.org.uk/money.
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The Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland's ‘Live Fast Die Old’ Motorcycle Safety Campaign returns for the 2024 motorbike season.
Despite accounting for less than 1% of all road traffic in Scotland, bikers account for 17% of road deaths, with negotiating bends and overtaking among the riskiest manoeuvres.
The campaign, which will be live until 29 September 2024, features a series of films which highlight the thrill of riding in beautiful landscapes, while also reminding bikers to enjoy Scotland’s roads safely.
The dedicated ‘Live Fast Die Old’ website and Facebook page house the campaign films and offer other rich and engaging content, with films and blogs from Scottish bikers sharing first-hand experience and tips with peers, as well as route inspiration and best practice advice.
The campaign will be live on digital, social and outdoor channels supported by PR. Representatives from the ‘Live Fast Die Old’ campaign will also be attending this year’s Thunder in the Glens Festival in Aviemore (23 to 26 August 2024).
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