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For years, Clive had been trying to get two friends — Lewis and Paul — onto the podcast. Between work, kids, broken bikes and life generally getting in the way, it never quite happened. But one evening, with the garage doors finally shut and the kids in bed, the three of them sat down to talk about something that resonates with a lot of riders: what it means to be a young dad who still loves motorcycles.

It’s a familiar story. You spend your twenties and early thirties riding whenever you want. Weekends disappear into trails, trips, tinkering and the occasional questionable decision. Then life shifts. Kids arrive. Work gets serious. Time becomes something you negotiate rather than own.

And yet — the bikes remain.

The Engineers Who Ride
Lewis and Paul aren’t ordinary riders. Both work in motorcycle engineering — Lewis at Royal Enfield, Paul in another corner of the industry — and both have the kind of technical insight that makes their riding stories even more interesting.

Lewis came into motorcycling almost by accident. After studying mechanical engineering, he worked in oil and gas before realising he’d made a mistake. A job at Triumph changed everything. “If you rode a Triumph,” he laughs, “you could park right outside the design office instead of walking ten minutes from the car park. So I took my test and bought one.”

Today he works in studio engineering, helping shape the earliest stages of new Royal Enfield models — the sketches, the clay, the concepts. He’s the person who tells designers what’s possible, and tells engineers what’s actually achievable. A kind of creative referee.

Paul’s route was different. He’d been a road rider for years, owning big adventure bikes like the KTM 1290 and 890, before discovering off‑road riding. “I got bored of the road,” he says. “I wanted something more adventurous.” Iceland changed everything. After a two‑week trip with Lewis, both men downsized to lighter, more focused machines — Lewis to an AJP PR7, Paul to a Kove 450 Rally and a trials bike.

The Iceland Moment
Their Iceland trip became the spark for something bigger. Paul wrote a journal while he was there — partly because he forgets everything, partly because the experience felt important. When he turned it into an article, ABR Magazine published it under the title “That’s Why Dads Go to Iceland.”

It struck a nerve.

Because for a lot of riders, especially dads, adventure riding isn’t just about bikes. It’s about identity. It’s about having something that’s yours. It’s about coming back home a better version of yourself.

The Time Trade
Both men talk openly about the guilt that comes with riding when you’ve got young kids. The negotiation. The balance. The compromise.

Paul’s wife, Danica, sees his riding as something that makes him happier — and therefore makes family life better. “She told me to stop feeling guilty,” he says. “I come back nicer. More engaged. More fun.”

They have a simple system: they trade time. Paul gets a weekend here and there. Danica gets her own adventures — bikepacking, running, whatever she wants. They each have their own bank account for hobbies, so money doesn’t become a source of guilt either.

Lewis has a similar arrangement. “We’re sensible about it,” he says. “We don’t disappear for whole weekends. We meet Friday night, ride Saturday, and I’m home for bedtime. Or we ride after work. You fit it around family life.”

Both men agree on one thing: kids aren’t a burden. They’re brilliant. They’re the best part of life. But riding gives them something that makes them better dads — a reset button, a breath of fresh air, a reminder of who they are outside of nappies, school runs and sleepless nights.

The Bikes That Make Sense Now
Their bike choices reflect their lives.

Lewis rides an AJP PR7 — light, capable, occasionally temperamental. He spends more time fixing it than riding it, but when it works, it’s magic. He rides technical trails in Wales, ACT routes, and the occasional North England loop.

Paul has gone full off‑road: a Kove 450 Rally, an old Africa Twin, and a trials bike. “The Kove is awful on the road,” he laughs. “I rode it to Whitby once. Hated it. Got a van now.”

Both men have learned the same lesson: lighter bikes mean more fun, less stress, and fewer injuries — especially when you’re riding on borrowed family time.

The Young Dad Reality
The heart of their conversation is something a lot of riders feel but rarely say out loud.

When you become a parent, your time stops being yours. Your energy stops being yours. Your weekends stop being yours. And yet, the desire to ride doesn’t disappear. It just becomes harder to justify.

Lewis and Paul have found a way to make it work — not by riding less, but by riding smarter. Shorter trips. Earlier returns. Mid‑week blasts. Shared responsibility. Mutual respect.

And the truth is, they’re not riding instead of being dads. They’re riding because they’re dads — because it keeps them grounded, happy, sane, and connected to the part of themselves that existed before parenthood.

Why This Matters
Adventure riding magazines often focus on big trips, big bikes, big landscapes. But the real stories — the ones that resonate — are often smaller. They’re about people trying to hold onto something meaningful while navigating the chaos of modern life.

Lewis and Paul aren’t influencers. They’re not chasing sponsorships. They’re not trying to be famous. They’re just two young dads who love bikes, love their families, and are trying to make both fit into the same life.

And that’s a story worth telling.

“Being There: Stories from the Road Where We Keep the Rubber Side Down”
Award-winning motorcycle stories from a father, brought to life by his son.

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“Being There: Stories from the Road Where We Keep the Rubber Side Down”
Award-winning motorcycle stories from a father, brought to life by his son.

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“Being There: Stories from the Road Where We Keep the Rubber Side Down”
Award-winning motorcycle stories from a father, brought to life by his son.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
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“Being There: Stories from the Road Where We Keep the Rubber Side Down”
Award-winning motorcycle stories from a father, brought to life by his son.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/danijel-zambo/borders

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Most trail riders and adventure enthusiasts underestimate the crucial skills that separate a casual hobbyist from a true professional guide. Kelvyn and JP from the Overland Guide Association reveals the insider secrets of guiding—ranging from advanced risk management, effective pre-ride planning, to assessing rider ability with a unique, proven system. Whether you're leading rides for friends or planning for international expeditions, missing these essentials could mean the difference between a guided adventure and a catastrophe.

You'll discover: the real value of pre-ride briefings—and why most are just not good enough—and how to turn them into powerful safety tools; the step-by-step framework for evaluating rider skills rapidly and accurately, avoiding the common pitfalls; plus, how to plan routes that factor in terrain difficulty, time management, and escape routes to maximize safety and fun. Kelvyn shares concrete tactics, including how to communicate effectively with hand signals when tech fails, and how to manage a group across remote, challenging territories like Morocco, Australia, or the UK.This episode dives deep into incident and emergency management strategies—real stories of rescues at the cliffs of Morocco and roadside road crashes—that highlight the importance of safe planning and professional training. 

We explore the legal and moral responsibilities that guide guides, including how adopting a culture of care and awareness can protect you and your clients from genuine harm and legal pitfalls.Perfect for trail riders, ride leaders, adventure guides, and anyone curious about staying safe while enjoying the thrill of remote terrain—this episode empowers you with actionable insights, real-world stories, and the mindset to elevate your riding experience. 

Don’t just ride—guide with confidence, compassion, and competence.Whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned guide, understanding these principles could be your best ride yet. Join us to discover how top guides stay ahead of the risks and keep their riders safe, happy, and coming back for more.

“Being There: Stories from the Road Where We Keep the Rubber Side Down”
Award-winning motorcycle stories from a father, brought to life by his son.

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Harry Jackson, known as We Hate the Cold on YouTube, shares his remarkable journey from living in Thailand to experiencing a revolution in Nepal. He reflects on the challenges and adventures of motorcycling across countries, the impact of personal growth, and the transition from a music career to a life of travel and exploration. The discussion highlights the importance of being true to oneself and embracing life's unpredictability. In this engaging conversation, Harry shares his journey from the world of DJing to discovering a passion for travel and adventure. He reflects on his experiences in Thailand, the kindness of strangers in Southeast Asia, and the hidden histories of places like Laos. The discussion also delves into the challenges and joys of motorbiking through various countries, highlighting unexpected encounters and the beauty of different cultures. In this engaging conversation, Harry shares his experiences with motorcycles, his upcoming participation in the Adventure Bike Rider event, and his journey in filmmaking, particularly with his YouTube channel. He discusses the challenges of adventure riding, including border crossings and the complexities of war reporting. The dialogue also touches on unexpected encounters during his travels, particularly a memorable story from Iraq, and concludes with insights into promoting his film and future projects.

travel, adventure, Nepal, revolution, motorcycling, personal growth, YouTube, experiences, Thailand, music music, DJ culture, travel, Thailand, motorbiking, Southeast Asia, adventure, history, Laos, personal growth motorcycles, adventure riding, filmmaking, mentorship, YouTube, travel stories, border challenges, war reporting, adventure bike events, motorcycle culture

“Being There: Stories from the Road Where We Keep the Rubber Side Down”
Award-winning motorcycle stories from a father, brought to life by his son.

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Support the show

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
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Mike Smith is a Nebraska-based storyteller and filmmaker whose short documentary Prairie Pirates has quickly become a standout piece in the motorcycle‑film community. The film follows Mike and his friend Brady as they travel across Nebraska in search of vintage dirt bikes, uncovering not just old machines but the hidden stories, characters, and history tucked away in the prairie. Shot entirely in Western Nebraska, the project blends motorcycle culture, local heritage, and a sense of adventure rooted deeply in place. Smith describes the film as a “love letter to the Nebraska prairie,” celebrating the landscapes and people that shaped the journey. 

What began as a simple idea—tracking down a couple of guys with a stash of vintage bikes—evolved into something far richer. During filming, Smith and his team uncovered a little‑known history of Kawasaki in Western Nebraska, forged unexpected friendships, and rediscovered the childlike joy of riding old dirt bikes under the stars. Prairie Pirates went on to place third at the Vahna Motorcycle Film Festival, touring nationally and representing Nebraska alongside films shot in British Columbia and Ecuador. Smith often emphasizes that the film proves adventure doesn’t require exotic destinations—sometimes the best stories are buried in your own backyard, waiting to be dug up like treasure

“Being There: Stories from the Road Where We Keep the Rubber Side Down”
Award-winning motorcycle stories from a father, brought to life by his son.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
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Most people think they need months of off-road experience to tackle Morocco’s legendary dunes — but what if just a week with the right guidance can transform a novice into a sand-slinging pro? In this episode, we share how our recent motorcycle adventure with Wilderness Wheels shattered expectations, proving that adventure is accessible to almost anyone willing to try.

You'll discover how a diverse group of riders, including those with minimal off-road background, handled the technical desert terrain — and came out unscathed, with stories to tell. We dive into the secrets of riding in sand dunes, from managing throttle and weight distribution to judging the tricky apex of massive sand mountains, turning impossible stumbles into triumphs. If you've ever felt intimidated by desert riding, you'll learn why the right mindset, coaching, and a supportive team can make all the difference.

A special highlight is the return of Noel, who retired from the podcast but came back for this episode. His insights and experiences add a unique perspective, making this journey even more memorable. 

We break down the most spectacular moments in Morocco: riding ridges with dizzying drops, navigating narrow gorges that feel like trial bike territory, and dancing through endless sand dunes at sunrise.Whether you're a seasoned rider dreaming of Dakar or a curious newcomer craving your first taste of desert riding, this episode is packed with practical tips, inspiring stories, and insights to get you started. Prepare to rethink what’s possible on two wheels and get motivated to sign up for your own Moroccan adventure.

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Unlock the transformative power of motorcycle adventure and human connection in this captivating conversation with Clifton Shipway and Mark Wells. 

Dive into a world where riding the Himalayas isn’t just about the landscapes—it's about building lifelong friendships, supporting vulnerable communities, and discovering a new way to experience life’s wildest journeys.

Clifton Shipway, a dedicated adventure rider and director of the Good Shepherd Agricultural Mission, shares the extraordinary story of how his grandfather's pioneering journey in India inspired his own life and mission. From driving a tractor across the subcontinent in the 1940s to establishing a self-sufficient farm and orphanage today, Clifton’s family history is a testament to resilience, compassion, and pioneering spirit. 

https://indianorphanage.com/

Hear about his remarkable transition from a remote childhood in the rainforest to leading eco-friendly tours through the Himalayas—riding Royal Enfield bikes that are designed to conquer the toughest terrains at a fraction of the cost. You'll discover:

•  The magic behind Royal Enfield’s community-driven motorcycling experiences, including the legendary Motorverse festival in Goa, filled with music, off-road races, and camaraderie across cultures.
•  How riding in high-altitude Tibet and Nepal can elevate your life—and your mental health—by connecting you to breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary people.
•  Clifton’s unique blend of adventure, community service, and storytelling—producing documentaries and cultural preservation projects that explore India’s rich heritage.
•  Practical insights into motorcycle touring in India, Nepal, and Tibet, including tips on accommodations, food, and navigating the region’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
•  The impact of motorcycle travel on mental well-being, forging lifelong friendships, and how these journeys support incredible missions like Clifton’s orphanage and education programs.

This episode isn’t just about motorcycles—it’s about embracing a life of adventure, meaningful service, and profound human connection. Whether you’re a seasoned rider craving your next big trip, a philanthropist seeking to support impactful projects, or anyone inspired by stories of overcoming adversity and exploring the unknown, this conversation is your gateway to a world of possibility. Clifton Shipway is an adventure rider, filmmaker, and director of the Good Shepherd Agricultural Mission in India, a leader in cultural preservation and community upliftment. His stories of exploring remote corners of the Himalayas, catching pythons, and building a legacy of hope inspire a new perspective on life’s most adventurous pursuits.Ready to discover the true meaning of free spirit and purpose? Hit play and let Clifton and Mark take you on a journey you won’t forget.

https://www.royalenfield.com/in/en/home/

“Being There: Stories from the Road Where We Keep the Rubber Side Down”
Award-winning motorcycle stories from a father, brought to life by his son.

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The Adventure Motorcycle Film Festival team — Clive Barber and Simon Josey — look back on the 2026 edition with the kind of grin you only get after pulling off something special. The inaugural festival didn’t just meet expectations; it smashed them. A sold‑out crowd at the Brewery Arts Centre, filmmakers from across the UK and beyond, and a community that proved just how hungry riders are for real, human, two‑wheeled storytelling. Now, with momentum behind them, they are already shaping AMFF27, more voices, and a bigger platform for the stories that define adventure riding.

As part of the 2026 reflections, the team also caught up with three filmmakers whose work lit up the screen. Danny Lilwall spoke about turning everyday rides into emotional narratives that resonate far beyond the trail. Nick Jacobs shared how he balances cinematic craft with the raw unpredictability of travel. And Thomas Dance reflected on capturing the quiet, introspective moments that make adventure riding more than just miles on a map. Their passion, creativity, and willingness to push the genre forward embody exactly what the festival was built to celebrate.

“Being There: Stories from the Road Where We Keep the Rubber Side Down”
Award-winning motorcycle stories from a father, brought to life by his son.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
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