More riders over 50 are taking to 2 wheels. And it's ace

There's more and more old 'uns going past me as I take photos from my little chair in the hedge. No offence to the kids — I love you and the photos you buy — but shooting the over-50s crowd has quietly become one of my favourite parts of the job. Here's why.

## No wheelies, no showing off

No riding like your tail's on fire when the lights change, trying to prove something to a seventeen year old in a hot hatch. Just a calm nod going past, like they've got nothing left to prove and know it.

## They're not racing each other either

They want their mates beside them, the scenery, and an actual coffee stop — not a personal best. They've quietly unlocked the real Easy Rider dream. Not the weird, drug-fuelled version with the drama in it. The good one.

## It's never about being seen

Ask why they ride and it's never "the thrill." It's closer to "the only two hours all week where nobody wants anything from me." Bikes get you in the papers at seventeen and out of your own head at fifty. Funny how that works.

## The numbers back it up

The number of over-55s passing their motorcycle test has gone up more than 80% in the last five years, and test passes specifically at age 60 have more than doubled over that period. That's not a niche trend anymore — it's a genuine wave of riders discovering (or rediscovering) two wheels once the pressure's off.

And before anyone thinks I'm talking about someone else — I'm a paid-up member of the silver riders myself. Smiles and Miles is my mantra. Never "drop a gear and disappear." I ride a Harley. Best I can do is "drop a gear. Shit. I'm still here."

## Just passed your test?

If you're one of the growing number of over-50s who've picked up a licence for the first time — or picked it back up after years off the road — get in touch. I'd love to be the one who catches that first proper ride out.

Browse the Bike Gallery to see if I've already caught you, or get in touch to find out where I'll be next.

Follow along on Facebook, Instagram and X— I'm out shooting most weekends, and decent odds I'll catch you mid grin.