Earlier on this year we had the opportunity to test ride some bikes at the MCIA organised Media Day. So on a relatively cold, slightly wet and windy April day we arrived at an Aerodrome in Bedfordshire and spent a very enjoyable few hours indeed trying out one or two of the assembled motorcycles.

Now, our priority as a motorcycling couple is to ride bikes two up, a fact which we had relayed to the organisers in advance. We did not want to get our knees down on track but what we did want to do was assess a motorcycle for its ability to cope with distance riding (touring) two up in relative comfort and we also wanted style.

Not too big an ask you might think.

Some motorcycle manufacturers these days seem to have the idea that is OK on new motorcycles to provide a sort of sloping end on the standard seat and then if you want to take a pillion you will buy an aftermarket seat – hmmm – don’t think so. Harley take note.

The other choice for touring I find rather boring – a sort of upright sports bike. Yes I read reports about how comfy they are but do they make my heart sing – NO!!

Don’t we as motorcyclists still make our buying choices as much about whether we like the look of the bike as much as the fuel efficiency, reputation, dealer support etc? I mean we want to look good on it don’t we as we cast a sideways glance in those shop windows as we cruise through town?

On the day, we got to take out four bikes in all – it could have been more but some manufacturers were not insured apparently for two up riding, can you believe? Beggars belief on a media test day but there you go. I have to say the manufacturers who did let us take their bikes out were extremely accommodating particularly the nice lady at Moto Guzzi.

The four bikes which we tried out (click the links below for the reports) were:

Suzuki V-Strom
Moto Guzzi Stelvio
BMW R1200GS
Harley Davidson Heritage Softail

We did have a great day and enjoyed immensely being able to try out the bikes and talk to the various manufacturers reps as well as the other people at the event.

Looking forward to next year…..
Your comments welcomed as always below: