In this episode of Riding Through Aphasia, Ed Nell sits down with Andy Ibbott to explore his remarkable return to motorcycle coaching after suffering a stroke. Andy reflects on his days at the top of the sport, running the California Superbike School and coaching MotoGP champions, and how he fought his way back from a 5% chance of survival to once again teach riders at the elite level. From adapting his methods to overcoming physical and speech challenges, Andy shares what it means to reconnect with his passion and shape the next generation of motorbike racers.

Key Takeaways

Coaching Comeback: After his stroke, Andy returned to coaching at all levels—from grassroots “FAB” racers as young as six, to British Superbike contenders. His coaching remains world-class, with many of his students now competing at the highest levels.

Mind Over Body: Andy’s intellect and deep knowledge of racing were never lost, but translating that knowledge post-stroke into speech and physical action was the true battle. He continues to adapt and refine his coaching methods to work around communication barriers.

Riding Again: Getting back on a motorbike after his stroke was no small feat. Misjudging which hand was in control during a test ride reminded Andy just how far he’d have to come to adapt—but he did, even riding at near pre-stroke lap times.

Legacy in the Paddock: Andy’s coaching legacy is undeniable. A significant number of current British Superbike and MotoGP paddock riders have come through his training, including world champions and rising stars like Chloe Jones and a future hopeful he’s coached since age 10.

Best Moments

“I went from a one-hour operation to a ten-hour one—and a 5% chance of living.”

“I thought I was using my right hand to steer the bike... but it wasn’t working. It took that mistake to realise how I needed to adapt.”

“I could explain 100 different things in my head—I just couldn’t get more than one out at a time.”

“I don’t see myself as a hero. I’m just a normal bloke. I just happen to be rather good with motorcycles.”

About Andy Ibbott

Andy Ibbott is a renowned motorcycle journalist, former Managing Director of the California Superbike School, and coach to world-class riders, including Valentino Rossi. 

After a life-changing stroke in 2011, he overcame immense challenges, regaining mobility and taking on extreme endurance events like the Marathon des Sables. 

A passionate advocate for brain injury recovery, Andy continues coaching in British Superbikes and supports Brain Research UK. His book Performance Riding Techniques remains a go-to guide for motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.

Connect with Andy: https://andyibbott.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this deeply honest episode of Riding Through Aphasia, Ed Nell and Andy Ibbott delve into the complexities of living with aphasia – a little-understood condition Andy developed following his stroke. Andy shares how aphasia affects his day-to-day communication, the emotional toll it takes, and the tireless work involved in his progress from being non-verbal to regaining functional speech. They also explore the impact on relationships, the importance of patience, and the role of challenges in Andy’s continued recovery journey.

Key Takeaways

Understanding Aphasia: Andy explains aphasia as a communication condition caused by brain damage – often misunderstood by the public. He describes a clinical scale from 0 (no speech) to 7 (functional speech with errors) and shares that he began at level 0 and is now at level 7.

Writing with the Wrong Hand: Due to right-side hemiplegia, Andy had to learn to write left-handed. He reflects on the challenge of this, compounded by aphasia, making tasks like writing a shopping list a frustrating ordeal.

Tools and Tech: While Andy uses some adaptive tech like braces and modified boots, most of his progress stems from sheer determination, physical training, and pushing himself every day.

Advice to Others: For those newly affected by aphasia or supporting someone who is, Andy’s message is clear – be patient, keep challenging yourself, and find what works for you. Small wins, like making a cup of tea independently, matter greatly.

Best Moments

“My first words were yes, no, and a swear word – that was it.”

“From zero to seven took years of work. But I’m still going – there’s more to come.”

“You might mess it up the first few times, but eventually you’ll find a way that works for you.”

“Everything becomes a challenge. And that’s how I move forward.”

About Andy Ibbott

Andy Ibbott is a renowned motorcycle journalist, former Managing Director of the California Superbike School, and coach to world-class riders, including Valentino Rossi. 

After a life-changing stroke in 2011, he overcame immense challenges, regaining mobility and taking on extreme endurance events like the Marathon des Sables. 

A passionate advocate for brain injury recovery, Andy continues coaching in British Superbikes and supports Brain Research UK. His book Performance Riding Techniques remains a go-to guide for motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.

Connect with Andy: https://andyibbott.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this remarkable episode of Riding Through Aphasia, Ed Nell reconnects with Andy Ibbott to talk about what life looks like 15 years after his stroke. From tackling terrifying heights and open-water swims to coaching future British Superbike talent, Andy shares how he continues to defy expectations. He reflects on his relentless pursuit of new goals, including his Everest adventure and planned parachute jump, despite a fear of heights, and how teaching young riders has reignited his purpose.

Key Takeaways

Endless Goal Setting: Andy always has a new challenge lined up, from a tandem London-Paris ride to 

Everest and potentially skydiving with the Parachute Regiment, each one more daring than the last.

Raising for Charity: Every challenge Andy takes on helps raise money for causes close to his heart, especially supporting veterans and those living with disability.

Adaptive Resilience: Despite hemiplegia affecting his right side, Andy swam in open water, rides motorbikes again with adapted controls, and powers through with his left limbs.

Coaching Comeback: Andy returned to teaching motorbike racing, first with kids, then elite riders. He's now mentoring British Superbike hopefuls and the inspiring True Heroes team, many of whom face physical challenges.

Living with Risk: Andy openly acknowledges the emotional weight of coaching in a high-risk sport. He reflects on rider injuries, resilience, and the tough realities of motorsport.

Best Moments

“I can’t move my right side, so I swam with my left arm and leg and I did it.”

“When I’m back on solid ground after a challenge, I know I’ve done something for charity and myself, that’s the real win.”

“People in the crowd say, ‘I’m a runner, and I wouldn’t do what you’re doing’ and that keeps me going.”

“Coaching isn’t just about speed, it’s about knowing the risks, respecting the sport, and making riders better and safer.”

About Andy Ibbott

Andy Ibbott is a renowned motorcycle journalist, former Managing Director of the California Superbike School, and coach to world-class riders, including Valentino Rossi. 

After a life-changing stroke in 2011, he overcame immense challenges, regaining mobility and taking on extreme endurance events like the Marathon des Sables. 

A passionate advocate for brain injury recovery, Andy continues coaching in British Superbikes and supports Brain Research UK. His book Performance Riding Techniques remains a go-to guide for motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.

Connect with Andy: https://andyibbott.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful episode of Riding Through Aphasia, Ed Nell speaks with Andy Ibbott about the years following his stroke and the emotional and physical journey of learning to live again. Andy shares how it took two years to fully accept the impact of the stroke and the reality of aphasia, detailing the deep frustration of losing speech, movement, and identity. He opens up about the mental health struggles he faced, including suicidal thoughts, and how he began rebuilding his life, culminating in completing the London Marathon and riding motorbikes again with adapted controls.

This episode is an honest, emotional, and ultimately inspiring account of rebuilding a life after stroke. Andy’s determination to adapt, recover, and rediscover joy offers powerful hope to others facing similar journeys.

Key Takeaways

Delayed Acceptance: Andy took two years to come to terms with his stroke. Initially in denial, he struggled to accept the extent of the physical and mental changes.

Aphasia Frustration: Though he could think clearly, aphasia meant Andy couldn’t express himself, leading to immense emotional frustration and disconnection.

Mental Health Matters: At his lowest point, Andy contemplated suicide. His story highlights the importance of support, patience, and resilience during recovery.

Physical Recovery and Limits: Andy shares the long-term physical effects, with limited movement on his right side. Despite this, he works out regularly to maintain strength.

Riding Again: With adapted controls, Andy returned to riding motorbikes, demonstrating remarkable determination. He even rides just seconds slower than his pre-stroke lap times.

Best Moments

“I thought I could still do everything. It took me two years to realise I couldn’t and then to start asking, ‘What can I do?’”

“At one point, I told my partner to bring me a knife. I was ready to end it. But I’m still here and now I’ve done the London Marathon.”

“I can’t do 60mph wheelies anymore. But I can walk a mile. And I can ride again.”

“I may not be able to use my right hand, but I’ve got the throttle, the clutch, and the brakes all adapted to the left and I’m back on track.”

About Andy Ibbott

Andy Ibbott is a renowned motorcycle journalist, former Managing Director of the California Superbike School, and coach to world-class riders, including Valentino Rossi. 

After a life-changing stroke in 2011, he overcame immense challenges, regaining mobility and taking on extreme endurance events like the Marathon des Sables. 

A passionate advocate for brain injury recovery, Andy continues coaching in British Superbikes and supports Brain Research UK. His book Performance Riding Techniques remains a go-to guide for motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.

Connect with Andy: https://andyibbott.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Riding Through Aphasia, host Ed Nell continues his conversation with Andy Ibbott, exploring his life-changing stroke and the immense challenges he faced in recovery. Andy shares his experience of waking up from surgery, his struggle with aphasia, and the emotional toll of rebuilding his life. His story highlights resilience, mindset, and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Key Takeaways

The Stroke & Its Aftermath: What was meant to be a routine operation turned into a 10-hour surgery, leading to a stroke that left Andy unable to walk or speak.

Relearning Everything: From walking and writing to regaining speech, Andy had to rebuild his life from scratch, facing immense frustration along the way.

Mindset & Recovery: Andy’s ability to turn problems into challenges helped him push forward, achieving milestones like walking the London Marathon and climbing to Everest Base Camp.

The Lowest Point: A year and a half after his stroke, Andy hit rock bottom, contemplating suicide. His ex-wife’s support helped him shift his perspective and focus on new challenges.

Never Giving Up: Despite ongoing struggles with aphasia and mobility, Andy continues to set new goals, proving that resilience and determination can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Key Moments

"I lost my speech, my ability to walk, and nearly my life—but I refused to give up."

"Turning problems into challenges changed my mindset. If it’s a challenge, I’ll try to beat it."

"Aphasia makes communication difficult, but every day is progress, and I won’t stop improving."

"From considering ending it all to climbing mountains—life is about pushing forward, no matter what."

About Andy Ibbott

Andy Ibbott is a renowned motorcycle journalist, former Managing Director of the California Superbike School, and coach to world-class riders, including Valentino Rossi. 

After a life-changing stroke in 2011, he overcame immense challenges, regaining mobility and taking on extreme endurance events like the Marathon des Sables. 

A passionate advocate for brain injury recovery, Andy continues coaching in British Superbikes and supports Brain Research UK. His book Performance Riding Techniques remains a go-to guide for motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.

Connect with Andy: https://andyibbott.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Riding Through Aphasia, host Ed Nell sits down with Andy Ibbott, former Managing Director of the California Superbike School and renowned motorcycle journalist. Andy shares his incredible journey from a passion for motorbikes to a career in journalism, racing, and coaching some of the biggest names in the sport—including Valentino Rossi. He also discusses the life-changing stroke he suffered in 2011, which left him with aphasia, and how he has adapted to life since.

Key Takeaways

A Passion for Motorbikes: Andy’s love for motorcycles began at 14 when he saved up to buy his first bike, leading to a career in journalism and racing.

From Journalist to Coach: After working for Fast Bikes and MCN, Andy transitioned into coaching, eventually running the California Superbike School in the UK.

Training Legends: Andy worked with some of the world’s top riders, including Valentino Rossi, and even trained members of the British royal family.

Life-Changing Stroke: In 2011, Andy suffered a stroke that left him with limited movement on one side and aphasia, a language impairment that affects speech.

Adapting and Overcoming: Despite the challenges, Andy continues to share his knowledge, write, and inspire others through his resilience and determination.

Key Moments

"I never thought even once that I wouldn’t be here. Nothing would stop me—not even broken bones."

"Training Rossi was like dancing—he was so smooth, so in control, it was unbelievable."

"The stroke took away half my body, but I refuse to let it take away my passion for life."

"I was incredibly lucky to achieve my goals, and I couldn’t have done it without the support of the industry and the public."

About Andy Ibbott

Andy Ibbott is a renowned motorcycle journalist, former Managing Director of the California Superbike School, and coach to world-class riders, including Valentino Rossi. 

After a life-changing stroke in 2011, he overcame immense challenges, regaining mobility and taking on extreme endurance events like the Marathon des Sables. 

A passionate advocate for brain injury recovery, Andy continues coaching in British Superbikes and supports Brain Research UK. His book Performance Riding Techniques remains a go-to guide for motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.

Connect with Andy: https://andyibbott.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Riding Through Aphasia, a podcast that takes you on a journey of resilience, recovery, and rediscovery.

Join motorcycle journalist, coach, and stroke survivor Andy Ibbott as he shares his inspiring story, from his celebrated career in motorcycling to his battle with Aphasia following a stroke. In each episode, Andy opens up about his life before, during, and after the stroke, giving you a look into the challenges of recovery and the relentless spirit that drives him forward.

Interviewed by Ed Nell, this series celebrates the triumph of human determination, humour, and connection. It’s not just Andy’s story, it’s a source of hope for anyone facing adversity. Whether you're navigating a personal challenge or looking for inspiration, Riding Through Aphasia shows you that strength, perseverance, and living life at full throttle are the keys to overcoming even the toughest obstacles.

About Andy Ibbott

Andy Ibbott is a renowned motorcycle journalist, former Managing Director of the California Superbike School, and coach to world-class riders, including Valentino Rossi. 

After a life-changing stroke in 2011, he overcame immense challenges, regaining mobility and taking on extreme endurance events like the Marathon des Sables. 

A passionate advocate for brain injury recovery, Andy continues coaching in British Superbikes and supports Brain Research UK. His book Performance Riding Techniques remains a go-to guide for motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.

Connect with Andy: https://andyibbott.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.