Killin classic bike fans ready to ride
A Killin group is making a bid to retain its world fundraising record.
Last year 20 vintage motorcycle fans from Killin raised significantly more money per rider than any of the 500 cities that took part in the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride, a global event that raises money for prostate cancer research and male mental health.
The 20 Killin riders raised nearly £9000 or an average of £450. Around the world, £3 million was raised by 56,000 riders, an average of around £50.
For this year’s event on Sunday, September 25, the Killin team is hoping to double the number of riders to 40 and maintain its top position by raising around £12,000.
The Killin ride was started in 2016 by classic biking enthusiast Thomas Murphy, who will be turning out with his wife Elizabeth in their 1971 BSA 650cc Lightning and sidecar.
The Killin run expects to attract a wide variety of vintage, classic and custom bikes from manufacturers including Triumph, Norton, BSA, Velocette, Indian, Royal Enfield, Harley Davidson and Rudge.
Their riders will be dressed for the occasion in tweeds, brogues, dinner jackets, bow ties, cravats and accessories such as open face helmets, goggles, moustaches and pipes.
The Killin participants will gather at 10am at the McLaren Hall car park and leave at 11am for a ride that will take them to Tyndrum, stopping at the Cruachan Dam, and then back to Killin. Classic bike riders have been invited to join in.
Thomas said: “Killin has embraced the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride with enormous enthusiasm and we are proud that we raised so much money per rider.
“Hopefully we will raise more money this year and maintain our status as the ride that raises more money per rider than any other location.
“Just as importantly though, the DGR offers participants and spectators a great day out enjoying the classic bikes and fancy dress.”
It offers a great day out enjoying the bikes and fancy dress