Comedian John Bishop speaks out after crashing his bike while riding with Tim Peake

Comedian John Bishop has taken to social media following a motorcycle crash that has caused him to miss out on an upcoming charity event.

Speaking during a video he posted on Instagram, Bishop revealed that he and the former astronaut and fellow biker, Tim Peake, had been out for a ride together when the apparent “lesson” was learned.

The details of the crash aren’t known, although Bishop does go on to say that he has broken his ankle as a result. He is shown wearing a brace on his right leg in the video.

“I went out for a motorbike ride today with Tim Peake, who’s a brilliant lad and a great motorcyclist,” Bishop said. “And I learnt a lesson today: astronauts are better motorcyclists than comedians.”

Bishop then explained that the injury means he will be unable to take part in the upcoming Tour de 4 charity ride, which takes place in Glasgow on Sunday, September 6. 

The event was created by Sir Chris Hoy to raise awareness of Stage 4 cancer and funds for cancer charities, with Prostate Cancer UK one of the official charity partners for this year’s ride.

Bishop was due to join Hoy on the ride after previously signing up to support the event. He has since urged people to continue supporting the cause despite his unfortunate change of plans.

“Please continue supporting Prostate Cancer UK and supporting Sir Chris Hoy on his ride on Sunday,” Bishop said, before signing off with: “Gutted to miss it.”

The comedian also posted a message alongside the video explaining that he had been looking forward to taking part and helping raise awareness and funds for prostate cancer research.

Hoy responded to the post with a message wishing Bishop a speedy recovery, while Peake also offered his support, telling his fellow rider that he was sorry to see him miss the event.

Bishop’s motorcycle connection is relatively recent. He began riding after being left a scooter by his late father-in-law, before taking his motorcycle test and eventually buying a BMW R 1300 GS-TE. He subsequently used the bike to travel to gigs during his Back At It tour, telling ITV in 2024 that riding had given him a “whole new perspective” and introduced him to a motorcycle culture he had previously known little about.

The unfortunate crash means Bishop will now have to watch the Tour de 4 from the sidelines, although his injury hasn't stopped him from encouraging others to get involved.

The event is particularly significant given Hoy’s own diagnosis. The six-time Olympic champion and 11-time world champion revealed in October 2024 that his prostate cancer had reached Stage 4 and was terminal, with doctors giving him an estimated two to four years to live. The cancer had spread from his prostate to his bones.

The first Tour de 4 took place in Glasgow in 2025, attracting more than 3,000 cyclists and raising over £800,000 for Prostate Cancer UK and other cancer charities. 

This year's event returns to Glasgow with several ride options, including a 56-mile route, a shorter 37-mile ride, a 1km family ride and a static cycling challenge.

While Bishop may have discovered that astronauts are better motorcyclists than comedians, at least he appears to have retained his sense of humour. 

You can support the ride on the official website.

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