The Overland Motorcycle Preparation Workshop grew from a simple idea: helping riders prepare themselves and their motorcycles for adventure.

Long before adventure motorcycling became fashionable, riders were already heading off across Europe, North Africa and beyond on motorcycles that often needed careful preparation and a good deal of ingenuity. I wanted to create a place where riders could meet, share knowledge, learn practical skills and prepare for their own journeys.

What began as a small workshop gradually became a gathering place for travellers, BMW GS owners, instructors, engineers and enthusiasts from across the UK and overseas. Riders would arrive seeking advice on motorcycle preparation, luggage systems, navigation, camping equipment, maintenance, riding techniques and expedition planning. Just as often they would arrive simply for a cup of tea and a conversation.

Over the years the workshop hosted technical sessions, rider training, guest speakers, travel presentations and countless informal discussions about motorcycles and travel. Many lifelong friendships were formed there, and many memorable journeys started with a motorcycle parked outside the workshop door.

The workshop was never really about selling products. Its purpose was to share experience, encourage adventure and help riders gain the confidence to explore further afield. It became a place where practical knowledge was valued and freely exchanged.

Looking back, the Overland Motorcycle Preparation Workshop became one of the most rewarding projects of my motorcycling life. It introduced me to remarkable people, led to lasting friendships and played a significant role in many of the adventures featured elsewhere on this website.

This page records some of those memories, events and the people who helped make the workshop what it became.