A trike for Simon Weston
Two years ago Norman Hyde – a man who needs little introduction to anyone with a passing interest in the history of British motorcycling over the last half century – met a gentleman who told him that he would love a trike like those ridden by Billy Connolly in his TV programmes about America and Australia. No doubt, Mr Hyde has people say things like this to him all the time. The difference was the gentleman in question was Falklands veteran, Simon Weston CBE.
Simon was, of course, terribly burned when his ship, RFA Sir Galahad, laden with ammunition as well as phosphorus bombs and thousands of gallons of diesel and petrol, was bombed by the Argentine Air Force during the conflict in the South Atlantic. Twenty-two of Simon’s 30-strong platoon were killed and he suffered 46% burns. Years of reconstructive surgery followed, including almost 100 major operations, not to mention psychological trauma. But, with the help of his mother, family and his old regiment, and his own courage and determination, almost 40 years on Simon is a leading advocate for troops’ and veterans’ rights. Along with his many charitable activities he gives inspirational talks on achieving mental wellness and was made a CBE in 2016.
Norman Hyde says: “Knowing what Simon had given to our country and knowing what good people there are in the bike world, from manufacturers and importers, through dealers to clubs and riders, I immediately said ‘Leave it to me, I’ll fix it.’”
And he did. He organised a crowdfunding scheme and Triumph Motorcycles donated a new 1200cc Bonneville which was handed over to threewheel maestros Trike Design in Caerphilly (Simon’s hometown) to be converted into a trike with modified controls for Simon, who has fingers missing from both hands.
Donations ranging from £5 to four-figure sums came from individuals and the trade, often accompanied by messages of affection for Simon. The Triumph Owners MCC made a substantial contribution as did the Duke of Richmond of the Goodwood Estate and the Motorcycle Industry Association. Simon’s helmet was donated by LS2 and the Held clothing company are making bespoke gloves.
The Triumph is fitted with Trike Design’s latest Brookland Sport design, with boot space inside the smooth GRP mouldings. The 17-inch wheels have independent suspension with an anti-roll bar and final transmission from the chain to twin shafts is via a differential.
Trike Design’s Robin Davies designed and fitted the specially adapted controls. Kliktronic press-button electric gear shifting means that Simon can change up with a finger on his right hand and down with his left thumb. Foot pedals for the throttle, brakes and clutch are similarly arranged to car controls.
Just before his 60th birthday, Simon was presented with the trike on Trike Design’s forecourt, during which Norman Hyde thanked not only the clubs and members who donated to the trike fund, but also OBM for assistance it gave to the project in providing its comprehensive list of specialist clubs. Mr Hyde, Mr Weston, it was a pleasure.