1963 and I was 13 years old. I had a devastating accident that crippled me. 

I always loved motor bikes. Mike Hailwood was my hero.

My mates all got bikes, but I couldn’t have one because of my disability.

Then I bought a CB92 Benly, with electric start, it had been in a lock up for quite a while but started right on the button.

I loved the bike and I joined the Honda Owners Club circa 1966/67.

Unfortunately, my condition worsened, and I had to have a major operation. The recovery time took years, and in the meantime the bike was sold. I was heartbroken.

Fast forward to 2005, and my company was doing everything possible to get rid of as many old hands as they could, as cheaply as they could. I was told I would have to travel to different sites to work. At the time, I was walking to work.

My condition had improved, and suddenly I saw an opportunity to get back on two wheels.

Through a collection of old bangers, my mates dragged me to the bike shop where I traded in a bike for a new Honda. I have had five altogether, the current two are a NC750X and a CB1100EX. 

The Covid thing has really had me on a downer this year, as it has messed up my plans for my normal bike race meet visits, BSB, WSBK and Moto GP, a trip to France, the Bike Show in Birmingham, and my trips to Poole and Western Super Mare bike nights.

I have been off the road with a niggling illness, but went out last week with my fellow Honda man, and his new Honda Fireblade SP.

What a cracking bike!

John Nethercott