Bike star Leon says racing is ‘ultimate distraction’ to boost mental health

DERBYSHIRE’S motorbike racing superstar Leon Haslam has backed a survey that found getting on a bike helps provide escapism from stress and depression.

In a recent survey of 1,000 motorcyclists by Asda Money ahead of World Mental Health Day tomorrow, motorcycle riders were asked why they started their hobby, and some riders explained that it had helped them to cope with their anxiety and depression.

It comes as Mental Health Foundation data shows one adult in every six has a common mental disorder, such as anxiety and depression.

And Leon, 38, from Smalley, who has competed in the World Superbike Championship for many years and was crowned champion in 2018 for the Kawasaki team, said for him competing was a great form of escapism and “the ultimate distraction”.

Leon, nicknamed “Pocket Rocket” and currently riding for Honda, told Asda Money: “It’s great that motorcycling can offer an escape for many people, whether it be from everyday life problems, stress or potential mental issues. The focus required from motorcycling is such that all other issues are forgotten and even if that is for a short period of time it could be invaluable.

“Obviously racing is the ultimate distraction for me but climbing aboard a racing motorcycle in the pitlane has that same feeling as if

I’m jumping on a road bike or my trials bike.”

The top reasons for enjoying motorcycling given in the Asda Money survey were enjoying a sense of freedom (59%), the thrill of riding a bike (40%) and the ability to travel (34%). Findings suggest the benefits of motorcycling range from a way to disconnect from the online world to getting fresh air to stimulate the senses.