Putting his body where his mouth is, Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries boss Tony Weber is learning to ride in time to take part in the third annual Ride Your Motorcycle to Work Week (7-11 October 2019).
When it was announced earlier this month, Tony said “we are traditionally a country mad for motorcycles”.
Yet, he admitted he is not a rider: “When the motorcyclists I know start explaining their love for it, I have to admit I am tempted to ask for lessons.”
Learning to ride
Tony is certainly a man of his word with his first training session at motoDNA Riders Academy, Sydney Motorsport Park.
“I was hesitant at first, but I got a feel for it quickly. I must admit, now I see why my colleagues and motorcycle industry members get so excited about motorcycle riding,” he says.
“It’s one of the great experiences – it’s just so enjoyable! I can’t wait to take it to the next stage.
“Ride Your Motorcycle to Work Week is a brilliant opportunity for riders to share their passion and make sure their bikes are prepared for the summer.
“I would encourage anyone to get out there and have a go, take your first steps as a rider. It’s just magic.”
MotoDNA founder and CEO Mark McVeigh says Tony took to the bike quickly.
Mark and Tony“He was unassisted in under an hour. Initially he was a bit nervous, but once he got a feel for the bike, I could see him falling in love with riding, just like I did, just like everyone does when they try it,” Mark says.
We suggest riders encourage their friends to start learning to ride during Ride Your Motorcycle to Work Week which also corresponds with the NSW Motorcycle Awareness Month.
Ride to work
Ride Your Motorcycle to Work Week aims to unite riders, celebrate taking the ‘long way home’, and showcase the small moments in a journey only riders notice.
The event is an initiative of the FCAI, supported by Aprilia, BMW Motorrad, Can-AM BRP, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Husqvarna, Indian Motorcycles, Kawasaki, KTM, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio, Suzuki, Triumph, Vespa and Yamaha.
To support the week, a selection of Australia’s motorcycle dealerships will offer a free Ride-Thru 10-point inspection of their bike to make sure it is safe and road ready.
Riders are also encouraged to share their favourite sections of their long way home on Facebook, Instagram and the official website.