Manny is a Multi-Track Specialist in the Personal Injury department at DAS Law. Here he tells us a bit about his history and life on the road, and in the garage.
Hi Manny. Tell us, what got you into biking?
I did a ‘Junior off the Road’ programme with Preston County Council when I was 14. It was at weekends with an off-road test at the end with a nice little certificate…. that was in 1980!
How long have you been a biker?
Since I was 17, so since 1983. I’m an Advanced rider for the IAM, DIAmond and ROSPA, am on DVSA’s register for Post Test Trainers, have a diploma in motorcycle instruction (DipMI), and am also an examiner for the Enhanced Rider Scheme, and an Advanced and Elite examiner for DIAmond.
Why is biking better than driving?
That is something I’ve never been able to explain to non-bikers, and never needed to explain to bikers.
What motorbike do you currently ride?
A Kawasaki GTR1400.
What other bikes have you owned?
Loads, too many to name, but I’ve been through the Goldwings (1000, 1100, 1200, 1500, 1800), a Harley Soft Tail, a Ninja10, and a Blade among others.
If you could make one modification to your bike, what would it be?
My current bike is perfect, but I build Rat Bikes in my spare time. My latest build is below:
If money was no object, what is your dream biking adventure?
To ride to China through the Karakoram Highway.
What is your favourite ride out (UK or abroad)?
My favourite one has to be when I rode to Pakistan through 11 different countries.
Where is your favourite biker café and what is the best thing on the menu?
The ‘Biftek’ – a Mediterranean style sirloin steak – at The Olive Branch in Hebden Bridge.
What has been your best biking moment?
Riding through eastern Turkey near the top of one of the mountains when all you see below you is a carpet of white clouds.
What one piece of advice would you give to someone thinking of getting into biking?
There is no such thing as bad weather – just bad clothing. Make sure you invest in good quality clothing and not buy cheap stuff; if you’re comfortable, you’ll enjoy it much more.