Motorcycles and mental health

I truly believe the two are interlinked because, like any passion or hobby, we can only benefit from spending time on something that we enjoy doing. Whatever your favourite pastimes are, you're going to feel good doing them, whether it's putting together a puzzle, playing video games, stamp collecting, anything. Of course, with motorcycling, there are many added extras. It's clear we love fettling and fiddling with our classic motorcycles: the feeling of accomplishment when you finally sort out an issue, or you get a much-needed job done on the bike - they all bring benefits and make us feel happier as a result. we won't mention those frustrating times when things do go wrong, or the damn thing won't start, because we know these times will not last too long. But the ultimate thing about motorcycles is riding them. This brings the most amazing feeling of freedom that you can only get this side of flying. This, added to the fraternity (whatever gender or sexuality) that comes with motorcycling, means it's a massive benefit to anyone's mental health. I know from experience, as - at last - getting on a bike after lockdown was just such a brilliant experience and I felt better and more positive as a result. It's not just me (read this issue for more), and with Mental Health Awareness week having taken place recently, it suddenly struck me how important motorcycles and the people entwined with bikes are to my own mental outlook on life. So, now we can ride - enjoy, go steady and (most importantly) be safe.