Marcus John

Headteacher

Motorcycle: Honda NVT 650 Deauville

How long have you had your bike?

About nine months

Why and how did you acquire it?

Bought from local garage but through e-bay

What is the bike like to ride?

Its an out-and-out tourer and so very comfortable for long journeys; rather slow in comparison to some sports-tourers I have ridden recently

What would be you dream bike?

BMW R1200 RT

What bikes have you ridden in the past?

Honda CB 250 Superdream, Honda CX 500, Yamaha XJ 650 [all many years ago!]

When did you take your test and what was the experience like?

Took my test when I was 17, in 1981 – it was very easy in those days, they just stood on the pavement and watched you ride around the block!

What's the funniest or quirky thing that's happened to you when riding a bike?

Other people's reactions always surprise me, especially now that I am a middle-aged Headteacher. I am often disappointed by the prejudice shown by non-bikers. Equally, I am frequently impressed by the camaraderie shown by fellow bikers!!

What could be done to improve the conditions for motorcyclists in this country?

Increase bike awareness on the part of car drivers, and improve visibility by allowing bikes to have flashing yellow lights [similar to recovery vehicles] when driving in heavy traffic.