Europe's oldest Harley-Davidson dealership, Warrs, was founded by John's father Fred. The former racer and mechanic now runs the company |
What's the most embarrassing bike you lusted after as a youth?
My best mate Tom's AP50 with a bum-stop seat and clip-ons.
What's was your worst bike?
Honda SS50. Now you know why I lusted after an AP50!
What motorcycle would you ride if money (or job!) were no object?
A Harley 'Peashooter' 1920s board track racer. It would sit nicely in my collection.
What's your favourite road?
Route Napoleon from Grenoble to Grasse.
Best thing you ever did on a bike?
I hope the best is yet to come.
What is the maddest thing you ever did on a motorcycle?
I raced in the 250LC production class. That was pretty mad.
What is the worst thing that has ever happened to you on a motorcycle?
I don't want to tempt fate with that one.
What is the most miserable time you've had riding a bike?
Riding with an open face helmet in the pissing rain - ouch!
Who's your motorcycling hero?
My father Fred, who taught me how to ride when I was five.
What would you do with your last gallon of fuel?
If it was truly the last I'd build a pyre and burn my leather jacket
First bike you did 100mph on?
Harley XR1000 flat tracker.
Fastest you've ever ridden?
160mph on the GP circuit at Brands on an RR1000 Buell.
What's your biking pet hate?
Rubbish oversuits that leak.
What would you spend on a bike?
Enough to get that grin factor.
Essential riding equipment?
Earplugs on long runs.
Two-stroke or four-stroke?
High performance two-strokes will always bring back fond memories, but for me it's got to be a big V-twin four-stroke.
What achievement by a rival are you most envious of?
None.
What trends in your field are just below the horizon right now?
On customs, more moderate size back wheels versus the mega wide 350 section jobs, which make riding difficult.
If you could swap jobs, what would you like to do?
Spaceman.
How much are you paid, and are you worth it?
Two pints of lager and a packet of crisps. And yes, I'm worth it.
