Who?
Bike Europe
Who?
John Roff
John's attempt to look important by carrying a clipboard succeeds despite the welliesSupport vehicle driver
Currently working in Dubai, with a wife back home in England, John is the 'grown-up' of the group. He's the one that will buy the food and water, repair and maintain the bikes, pitch and strike camp, motivate us and lots more besides.
As a former soldier in the British Army John is no stranger to self-discipline and punctuality - perfect for getting our breakfasts ready on time. His experience of army exercises and going on expeditions with tanks may not be entirely relevant but at least he will have some good stories to keep us entertained on the way. While in the army John loved fixing Rapier surface-to-air missiles, we haven't finalised our kit list yet but we aren't expecting the Rapier to be on the 'essential' list. Sorry John.
John has never strayed more than 10 metres from his tools and is most happy when up to his elbows in grease surrounded by bits of dismantled motorbike. His claim to fame was being the 'spanner man' for the British Champion of Grass Track 500 Sidecar Racing and once completed an engine change in 20 mins between races. Wow.
Whilst working in Dubai John has had to learn to fend for himself without wife Jill (former GB girl) around to look after him. Apparently this freedom has gone to his head and he has started experimenting with his cooking so we can expect to be treated to beautifully prepared gourmet meals... or perhaps by experimenting he means putting grated cheese on the beans on toast. Either is good!
So basically John is the perfect man for the job - experienced, reliable, knows how to fix anything, domesticated and good company - there is just one thing that worries us...
John being a big motorbike nut, once decided to ride up to Le Mans on his day off while working in France. It was a 1000 mile round trip. Only one problem, just a small one mind, it was the wrong week. Doh!
So just to reiterate John we are leaving on the 31st July 2007. Got that?
