Adrian Hawkins

What an amazing day!

Tuesday 21st May 2024

Well, what can I say - that was one heck of a day and just marvellous in every way!

THE most well organised, managed and run ride out I've ever been on (and I've been on quite a few, I can tell you)!

Well done to everyone involved in yesterday's DGR from Halesowen to Hinckley - perfect from start to end! Here's to DGR 2025 - bring it on!

Can't wait for Sunday to arrive - "Give generously"

Thursday 16th May 2024

I'm so happy to be involved in this year's DGR event and raising money for two well-deserving causes; Men's Mental Health and Prostate cancer!

My father and two best friends are all Prostate cancer survivors, so that cause is very close to my heart.

I'd like to thank the kind souls who've already sponsored me for Sunday's ride from the Triumph dealership in Halesowen, to the birthplace of my beloved 'Bonnie' the Bonneville - the Triumph factory Visitor Experience in Hinckley!

There's STILL time to add to my growing sponsorship pot; please, please go to the link and be as generous as you'd like!

Thank you again; here's to a fabulous DGR on Sunday!

Blood transfusion for the Bonneville!

Sunday 12th May 2024

I'd been a lazy boy and not given 'Bonnie' a well deserved blood transfusion after last summer's Northern Spain trip.

So, I've put that to rights today; was in Halfords at 8:05am this morning and the old girls had a transfusion of Castrol's finest - all ready for next Sunday!

It's good to be out-out!

Saturday 11th May 2024

Being a carer for someone is a privilidge; it's also demanding and can take its toll on your mental health.

I'm so glad I've got the Bonneville to get out on when I can and to have that wonderful 'me time!'

I've just had two glorious hours out on Bonnie and enjoyed the glorious sunshine and my neighbouring county of Staffordshire.

Be 'kind' to yourself and take every opportunity to spend as much time as you can, doing what makes YOU happy - its so important! Aren't we lucky to have two wheels and a shared passion!

'The Bultaco Steve McQueen should have ridden'

Thursday 9th May 2024

So, I'm about two-thirds into my complete restoration of a 1975 Mk9 Bultaco Frontera. Had the old girl imported from her city of birth, from a wonderful gentleman called Albert Pons - a caring custodian of the brand.

The project and my vision, is to create the 'Bultaco Steve McQueen would have ridden'.... watch this space for updates!

At the 'Cole face!'

Thursday 9th May 2024

Well, I've nearly finished the third re-write of my biographical tale, 'Travelling Heavy;' the story of my epic trans-Europe bike ride and back-story which tells of my somewhat bizzare relationship with the man who inspired the trip.

I tried to tempt Henry Cole with a taster of it after purposfully bumping into him at the Classic Bike Show in Staffordshire - jovial as he was. But, I'm sure my manuscript ended up with the ciggie butts and chip wrappers in the nearest bin; so be it!

Anyhoo; I'll press on and tap more keys and try and get my tome completed - eventually! 

It's in the blood!

Thursday 9th May 2024

My love of two wheels, fine clothes and good music is engrained.... it's in my DNA!

Sitting on my Miller framed Bultaco Sherpa, fresh faced (but, looking as moody as I could as a sulky 15 year old) in my parent's garden back in '78, with a full head of hair and my young life ahead of me, I'd not a clue about the scrapes, japes and capers to come!

But, scrapes, japes and capers I've most definitely had - some of which I couldn't possible bragg or blog about, I can tell you!

And, they keep coming - just like the wonderful DGR.... bring it on!

Any time on a Triumph is THE best time!

Thursday 9th May 2024

So pleased to have stumbled across an old friend's DRG post on social media - I couldn't wait to sign up and join the millions of distinguished riders who willingly participate in wonderful events like this!

Any time on two wheels, especially when they're attached to a Triumph, and, believe me, I've had some flippin' incredible times on 'Bonnie,' my trusty Bonneville!

So far, the highlight has to be my trip to Switzerland with Mrs H and my two good biking buddies, Gini and Vince. Boy - what a trip, with over 3000 glorious miles covered without a hitch... a few hairy moments but, hey, don't they just add to the excitement!

I'm Riding for Men's Health in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride

Thursday 9th May 2024 On Sunday the 19th of May 2024, I'm riding in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride with fellow men and women across the globe to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer and men's mental health on behalf of Movember. Men die on average 6 years earlier than women and for largely preventable reasons. The number of men that are suffering is growing, and we need to do something about that. So, before I press my tweed and polish my boots, I'm asking you to join me in raising funds and awareness for these causes by donating what you can for this meaningful cause and to help the men we love, live happier and healthier lives.