Andres Sotos-Castello (aka Outtomunch)
The Man
I’ve been falling off bikes since my teens and see no reason to change the habit of a lifetime now I’m in my mid 40’s.
At the age of 41 I did something I said I’d never do, I bought a BMW and was welcomed into the shadowy world of pipes and slippers.
My big loves are bikes (no, really!) and music together with my daughter Imogen and long suffering girlfriend Amanda.
The Machine
A 2005 BMW R1200GS.
In the 4 years that I’ve owned the GS it’s taken me to three continents but The Gambia will be the longest and most challenging trip it’s undertaken so far.
Neil Hughes (aka Neil 23)
The Man
Age 45, married to Gill for almost 23 years, have 2 teenage children, Jack 16 (currently a "man" trapped in a boys body) and Emma 13 (no trouble as yet !)
We have an Estate Agency business, so not doing much work at present !
Best trips so far -- Scotland, go at least once every year, love it up there. Germany , Austria and Alps, just done a 2 week trip round Spain, any trip is a good trip !
Gambia will be biggest trip yet, cant wait for that one !
Looking forward to meeting rest of riders and will try to get to Ullapool in June to meet up.
Other interests -- alcohol and curry !!
The Machine
My bike is a BMW 1200 GS which has lowered shocks and seat as a bit of a short arse.
Richard Collyer (aka Sockpuppet)
The Man
I'm the token young guy being aged only 25, currently living in Leicester. For the last 2 years I've been a self employed logistics consultant.
Been riding bikes since last October so the least experienced of the group by a long way which I plan to make up for by...well I'm not sure how or if I'll make up for it. I suppose that's what makes it a challenge.
After reaching Gambia and finishing the Calum's Road ride my plan is to carry on solo to South Africa.
The Machine
2005 BMW R1150 GSA
Glen Bagnall (aka Milk Tray Man)
The Man
I’m a forty year old who’s been riding since 2000 after taking a Direct Access course as a divorce present to myself. Have my own business working as a customer management and business change consultant. Home is Essex but currently living in deepest darkest Wiltshire where I am currently working.
Member of a couple of bike clubs, ride pretty much all year round and still break into a huge smile whenever I head out on the bike, even if it’s just to the shops! Apart from participating in and leading some tours in the UK and Europe I have never done anything like this before.
The Machine
BMW R1150 GS
John Hawkins (aka Paintman)
The Man
Young at heart 57 year old vehicle re-finisher (I tart up ex fleet or rental cars before they go on display on dealer forecourts).
I live in the infamous town of Leighton Buzzard with my wife Debbie and three daughters (doh), Katie, Lisa and Sophie.
As an original Mod I had various Lambrettas and an ex USA army parka with ‘genuine’ bullet holes in. Went to four wheels when I was 19. Then apart from off-road trials bike competitions, on my 250 OSSA, only returned to two wheels transport in 2006.
I bought my brilliant 1200GS before I had even passed my test!! The Machine
BMW R 1200 GS
Tom Rogers (aka tommytwobellies)
The Man
I owned my first bike at the age sixteen, a Honda MB50, and have had the bug ever since. Always had an interest in overland travel and the idea of riding all the way to Gambia has got my imagination running wild. I've traveled throughout Europe but I am looking for a more challenging ride.
I’m a self employed plumber so will have lots of time to plan for this trip over the coming months!
Please feel free to click on the link below and donate to this worthwhile cause.
Thanks
Tom
The Machine
BMW R 1200 GS
