James Toseland gets back on two wheels with Harley-Davidson

Retired racer and former World Superbike champion James Toseland is back on two wheels again with a new Harley-Davidson Softail Slim.

After spending more than half of his life focusing on using two wheels to reach the finish line in the quickest time possible, Toseland has chosen a more relaxed set of wheels for road riding now his racing days are behind him.

The 31-year-old, who has recently moved back to London, has been itching to get back on to a motorcycle following the forced decision to take early retirement from racing last season.

A Harley-Davidson statement reads: “James wanted to remember what it was like to enjoy riding and experience the journey rather than constantly focus on the rev counter and speedometer. 

“Since then, he has already put the Slim to good use – riding from his Mum’s home in Sheffield to Scarborough and, at the weekend, completing his annual Easter Egg Run for favoured charity, Sheffield Children’s Hospital.

“He is now planning a trip further afield and has Route 66 in his sights for the experience of a lifetime with girlfriend, Katie Melua.”

Toseland said: “Racing has been my life for a very long time and I’m lucky to have enjoyed success at the level I did. It opened up opportunities to travel the world and meet a variety of inspirational people.

“So, when I retired, it seemed strange to not be on two wheels, but I think I’d find it difficult to get on to a sports bike on the road and relax. Getting on a Harley was a totally new experience, but just riding it put a smile on my face and gave me a new perspective on riding.

“To be honest, now that I live in London, I think that a motorcycle is the only viable form of transport to get around the city.

“But the Harley is a head turner as well as having the convenience factor, plus it‘s comfortable enough to convince my girlfriend to get on the back!”