Twisted Road's Member Spotlight series celebrates our most passionate riders and hosts, showcasing their unique stories, unforgettable adventures, and the ways they keep the spirit of motorcycling alive. Throttle into the journeys of fellow enthusiasts who embody the joy and freedom of two wheels.
Meet Captain James M., a retired airline pilot who spent 40 years flying planes and now finds freedom on two wheels.
James and his wife retired to sunny Sarasota, Florida, where he continues to explore the world—this time from the seat of his motorcycle. "Now I do my flying on the ground," he jokes, "and, of course, you have to 'bank' to go around corners."
James shares his motorcycling journey, favorite rides, and what makes Twisted Road an essential part of his life.
How long have you been riding? Which bikes have you owned, and how did you become interested in riding?
I’ve been riding since 1979 when I passed my motorcycle test in the UK. Back then, the examiner stood on a corner and watched you ride past, often out of sight for much of the test! Since then, I’ve owned more than 30 motorcycles—I sometimes wonder where they’ve all gone.
In the early days, I leaned toward Japanese sport models, followed later by Laverdas and Ducatis. Having ridden in 20 countries, I’ve experienced incredible adventures on two wheels. My first introduction to motorcycling was inspired by reading Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert Pirsig—it changed my life.
What moto trips have you taken? Tell us some highlights.
In the early 1980s, I explored Europe on a Honda 900 with a tent strapped to the back. Fast forward to 2021, I rode with the Harley Owners Group in Auckland, New Zealand, during a seven-month work stint. It was fascinating to compare that with my Australian Yamaha trip in 1996. Riding in Saigon, Vietnam, during the late 1990s was equally unforgettable.
The most memorable trip came in May 2019. I rode a Royal Enfield 500 Bullet from Pokhara in Nepal through the Upper Mustang to the Forbidden Kingdom. Along the way, I overcame altitude sickness, stayed in local accommodations, and made it to the Chinese border at 17,000 feet above sea level. That adventure was truly one for the books.
What hobbies do you enjoy when you're not riding?
I lived in Athens, Greece, for over a decade and still keep a sailboat there. Sailing the Greek islands in spring and autumn is a dream, often combined with scuba diving right off the boat. In winter, I ski. I owned a ski chalet in the French Alps for 10 years, where I wrote The Ski Chalet Cookbook, cheekily titled Cooking on the Piste (a British double entendre).
As a retired airline pilot, I now write books about my flying adventures. My latest title is How to Steal a Jet, available on Amazon. Currently, I’m working on a motorcycling book to share my experiences on two wheels.
What do you enjoy about being part of the Twisted Road community?
The best part of Twisted Road as an owner is the trustworthiness of the system. Every rider I’ve rented to has been pre-approved and shown care for my machine. The Twisted Road team is incredibly responsive, which is a breath of fresh air.
I also love meeting new people, especially younger riders. I worry that motorcycling is becoming a lost art, and I sincerely hope the magic of two-wheeled travel remains alive for future generations.
What are your favorite biker-friendly places and rides around Sarasota?
Around Sarasota, the Open Road Bar & Grill near Arcadia and Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse are great spots. Marina Jack, located on the waterfront, is perfect for relaxing with easy parking for bikes. For scenic rides, the barrier islands are unbeatable. Head up Longboat Key to Anna Maria Island for a sunset at the beach, followed by seafood at the Ugly Grouper. Alternatively, ride south to Siesta Key Beach, explore Casey Key, and stop at Casey Key Fish House for a taste of Old Florida.
Further afield, St. Augustine offers fascinating history, while a two-day trip to Key West takes you through the breathtaking Seven Mile Bridge. Along the way, stop in Everglades City for an airboat ride or visit the Caribbean Club in Key Largo for live music and sunsets. It’s motorcycling paradise.
What’s on your moto trip bucket list?
I’d love to explore Rajasthan, India. Having flown out of Mumbai in the 1990s, I admire the people and culture. Mongolia on Royal Enfields is another dream, as is a return to Thailand to explore more of Chiang Mai and beyond. Closer to home, Florida’s highways, paired with my Harley-Davidson Fatboy, offer endless joy. It’s a motorcyclist’s dream come true.
Concluding Thoughts
Captain James's motorcycling journey is as thrilling and varied as his years in the skies. From riding through the Forbidden Kingdom in Nepal to cruising Florida’s highways, his love for two wheels knows no bounds. Twisted Road has become integral to his passion, connecting him with fellow riders and keeping the spirit of motorcycling alive. Whether he’s banking corners on his Harley or dreaming up new moto adventures, Captain McBride shows us that the road is where freedom truly begins.
Want to check out McBride's motorcycles for rent? Check the following listings out:
