PETE ’ S PEOPLE
past , so his concern is valid . He loves the big bikes and gets a kick out of riding the biggest machine on the road , but equally is unfeasibly chuffed that his wife rides a black Triumph 1200 , and they ’ re a showstopping pair . Since he began riding with Leonie about six years ago , exploring by bike with her has become a major part of his life . He and Leonie live the life , dress the part , and look stylish as hell in their designer safety gear , but both love to ride alone if the other can ’ t for any reason . John loves the effect the big Triumph has on people , “ Hell ! That ’ s a big bike .” “ Yup . Badass !” and a twinkling happy smile slides onto his face . He acknowledges that ’ s it ’ s the biggest commercial motorcycle in the world , and he ’ s not one to shy away from the rockin ’ it attitude . The bike is black , so is his riding gear . When he first bought the Rocket , he wondered if he ’ d look like ‘ a twat ’, with a shaved head and tatts , would it all be “ a bit too much ?”. Nah .
He loves a challenge , the challenge of being a man in today ’ s world , but also works at ensuring that all riders are looked after and brought into the Every Suns fold if they are ‘ good people ’. He doesn ’ t tolerate racists , bigots , or idiots , and is clear in his beliefs . He wears his heart on his sleeve and has serious tattooage . His arms are entwined with sleeve tatts – at first , they are daunting – but then you realise they are flowers , entwined with his kids names and the love of his life , Leonie . Not too fierce , then . John loves exploring this country . I asked what he would do if he couldn ’ t ride , “ I ’ d keep exploring the country in my Jimny ”. And it ’ s clear that John ’ s passions for his wife , riding , his mates , his boys and for living the best way he knows how , are the true mark of the man . An original . What is his dream destination then ? No hesitation , “ Invercargill ”. Why ? “ Its furthest away ”. I asked what his take aways from riding are .
Day 4 : The bikes at Nikau Caves Cafe
70 KIWI RIDER