Jonathan Barker

Ready, Set…

The Kwak is primed and the togs have been pressed. On Sunday we ride. #DistinguishedGentlemansRide #DGR #RideDapper #ForTheRide #Movember

Starting at the Top

Its not like the options are endless but I think I've nailed it!

Slow Progress

So gasket arrives, is correct and is fitted. Cylinder in place and head nuts gingerly torqued, I am frequenlty remined of its age by the old boy. Back on track we thinks. 

Oh no JB, contrare indeed. Yes it started first glace of the boot sole and run a steady warm up. But then I had to go and mess. New grips were a treat to myself. The originals having overcured to now resemble Whitby Jet. In the process of degripping I may have made a small mess of the switchgear paint work. 

In all fairness a small task to swap out for a spare set of cases already in fresh paint. 

So, weather permitting I should get a ride out this week and satisfy myself the kwaks up to the ride.

Cross your digits.

Ride Prep

A month out from DGR and its time to make sure the ride is right. A quick zip around Denby Dale last week had me super happy with how well it weathered the winter hibernation. That said, a little rattle on the left pot got us curious enough the whip the barrel off. Thank the japanese bike dieties we did. The base gasket was on back to front. Kwak triples owners collectively wince. But as luck would have it theres no damage, literally no idea how. New gasket on order and hopefully back together by next weekend. On we trot.

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

On Sunday the 18th of May 2025, 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.