2500 miles solo , on a 33 year old motorcycle , wild camping around Scotland in a 46 year old tent. April 2022 I travelled far North, not knowing I would have my faith restored in humanity in the best way possible... by getting Robbed.
@@HerTwoWheelsFar out ! I’ve watched tons of your videos .. long before I ever made one . You’re one of our go to feel good channels , an inspiration. Thanks so much … that’s so much . Happy safe travels
Dont tell this to many, but when i heard your story i felt you would know. Im 69 ,have ridden all my life . Went for a ride through the north ga. Mountians in the states a few years back, half way to my destination it started raining and i decided to push foward . The sky got darker and the rain got heavier i was in some serious curves , no one was out and about all of a sudden a falcon flew out of the woods about 30 feet in front of my bike, i dont know how long it stayed but it flew in front of me leaning, and banking through the curves ahead like a heaven sent guide. I thought i had picked the wrong day to ride, turned out those few minutes were what people spend a lifetime searching for. That memory is etched into my soul...best ride of 50 years in the saddle my brother in the wind.
@@tankcrowe7668 That’s beautiful man , got the shivers reading that … they’re once in a lifetime … wow . Thank you for writing that down . My best wishes to you brother
This has probably been one of the best uploads I’ve seen. The story is very moving. Jolene, your Mum, Robbie..all crafted into a very moving story, expertly told. Inspiring, sir. Thank you 🙏🏼 💙🏴
I have watched countless RU-vid videos, but for reasons I can't fully put into words, this one has truly captured my heart and stands out as one of the best.
I had one of my most memorable motorbike experiences on a Royal Enfield in India, a wonderful bike, wonderful people and an amazing country. Greetings from the Lake District, Northern England
@@LeanIntoTheWind 😂😂😂😂 very funny :) . But seriously tho , I notice a lot of peeps saying keep it as is , and they all do have a good point, This is story telling at it's best, This is nice to watch and easy to take in, as apposed to the usual 'multiangle quick changing crystal clear action shots' . And very much like the hog u ride , your vids may not be technically advanced , but they do have a lot of style , Style is everything 😎
I've never been captured by a video on RU-vid as much as this one. Captured in every sense. What a story and what a way to tell it and like so many others have said, no need for a Go-Pro . Thank you.
These stories really are the reason we ride. Last year I decided to do a 600 mile solo round trip to visit my brother on a holiday weekend. I decided to do it on my '78 FXE Shovelhead, a bike I had owned only a little while and never ridden it very far from home. The morning I left it was pouring rain but I was determined to go anyway. Thankfully the rain stopped half way there, but 3/4 of the way to my brother's place the old Shovel stopped also, on a lonely road miles from any town. Immediately two different people stopped and asked if I needed help. The first guy had gas but didn't know how to fix a bike. The second guy and his wife pulled over (he was an old-school biker) and offered to help fix the "Troublehead" as he called it. I had tools for everything except a pair of wire strippers, which he had in his truck. Thankfully the wire on the ignition switch terminal was the only problem and 20 minutes later I was back on the road. In my time of need people showed up with offers of help, even in the middle of nowhere. That was one of those moments for me that renewed my faith in humanity. Thank you for making these videos, it reminds us there are good people the world over and we all need to look for opportunities to pay the debt forward.
@@ratjaw75 Hello , This is a great read , don’t you just love that . Beautiful story dude , yeah I just love that . So happy it worked out . Especially when you stuck out there alone . Happy safe travels . Thanks for sharing that . Best wishes from Uk
Mate no word of a lie, I had the same thing. My mum passed away at 59 when I was 24 (in 2010).. A few years later I rode up the west coast and while on Skye, I lost my mind and bawled my eyes out thinking about how much she would have loved it. Not sure what it was but there’s something cosmic and spiritual all across the north west of Scotland. Still think of her every day, always more when I’m somewhere new/special.
@@paulwilson1847 Sorry to hear that about your mum , it’s no age . Yeah that land will get you . I think as well the silence and solitude, just gets you going ‘in’ . I found myself doing some real random stuff . Example … when I was wild camping I’d walk around collecting wood from the floor but found myself thanking the trees for dropping it , when washing in the river thanking the mountain for sending it down my way … thanking Jolene for starting each morning , greeting the sun when she rose .. yeah weird things . Rambling now , Once again man Thank you
@@LeanIntoTheWind I get you man, I came back from my trip with so much gratitude. I need to get back there. Same old struggles, work, obstacles, young kids, money, time etc… you’ve set some ideas in motion tonight man. Thanks so much, this is all art.
Jesus at 71 You have just explained to me what I am ? Not practical vision over everything. What it looks like to me is so so important built a rat/survival bike 3 years ago love it to bits made many many friends through what it looked like but now too heavy for these old legs so back to the norm and yes Scotland is special be it by bike or even car Cheers !!
Mate, you are an absolute legend. Your storytelling and narrative are totally natural, heartwarming and inspirational. You don’t need a go-pro keep it as is…brilliant love your style 👍👍👍
What an incredible story. The bit about your mum made me think of my dad - he always wanted to ride off and take photos in Scotland’s wild places but never managed to do it. Robbie sounds like an absolute legend - I love mad characters because they’re (usually) genuine people who’ve been through the wringer and have some life lessons to share. What a kind thing for Robbie to do. If you get back up here next year, do shout out as I’d be happy to show you around my neck of the woods near the Cairngorms National Park. Reminds me that I should get a shifty on and do the north coast. Not done the northwest or the top and I don’t live that bloody far away either. Looking forward to some more stories.
@@thepollenjock .. that’s too sad about your dad but sadly a way too familiar tale . But I reckon we all are guilty of that at times . You’re right about Robbie and he shared some stories too wild for RU-vid haha that made me laugh so hard . Thank you so much , I loved the Cairngorms area a lot . That would be incredible. Best wishes and happy safe travels… go North Dude , you won’t regret it
@@LeanIntoTheWind Indeed a familiar tale. Over 14 years ago now - only 54 too. I was 25. Aye, I bet there were some stories not safe for YT. 😂 I will definitely get up that way and likely at some point this year. I’ll be sure to share the pictures. Maybe catch you next year. 😉
@@thepollenjock far too young . Sorry to read that . Do it for him . Will look forward to any photos . I just had Robbie Anderson on the phone … I did not send him the video but he found it , and loved it That’s made my day .
I did this trip in my Land Rover in 2005 it was magical, and I’m still living on it. Yes there are still some of us mad bastards left in Scotland, we’re a generous bunch of people. Great story 👍
@@johnmcgonigal8533 Good to hear that ! Keep telling my old man to get up in his Land Rover . Bet that was great. Always good to hear from a mad bastard, even better to meet one ! My best wishes from The dirty South .
You were never meant to film and document this in the generic go pro fashion. This video made me cry twice you bastard. Truly original and refreshing, thank you for sharing
Her two wheels said it correct, your abilities to captivate, your journey through your voice and narration, Spot on. Keep doing what you do, I watched the part 4 and went back and did the first three. Everyone has a story and it is awesome to hear yours!! Thank you!!
Long, long before the inter'web or even books, we had storytellers. We are hardwired to listen, feel and appreciate a great story. Whatever the medium, the story is what touches us. You have the power; t'is a rare power to tell a tale that touches the heart. Thanks to Robbie for being the fire that ignited this story and to you for telling it so eloquently. Brilliant; even without the gopro.
Oh my friend.... During lock down, I cleared my father's shed. Tucked up in the corner was a 1978 Trail Master that belonged to my Dad when he was dispatch riding. It was moth eaten, rotten and stank...but I saw some life in it. I posted the jacket to a restorer. At the cost of 300quid I received back, a patched, classic jacket that belonged to my Dad! I wore it daily for a year on my boxer. This year, I am blessed enough to buy myself a belstaf the same as yours... My Father's belstaf is neatly hanging place on a manikin in my room, with my dad's old helmet. Beautiful video. I'm a new subscriber by the way and hope to see you on the road
@@twinpotracer Wow .. that is a ‘great’ story . Just amazing. Love the fact you had it restored. Love the jacket I got . . It was a lot of money , but it’ll last me forever .. thanks for subscribing.. glad you found the channel. Best wishes Mark
Mate, I've seen all 4 of your videos one after the other and they're all beautiful, well done for both the images and storytelling. Viva Robbie Anderson! ❤💪
@@Alcoast21 Good to hear that . I think I done this more for me than anyone else . As a memory of the last big trip with Jolene and an ode to Robbie Anderson . I did worry people may not dig the photo montage, but using the little clips I took I think it broke it up enough . It’s the first time I’d see the photos on big screen and they lend themselves to that . Cheers mate
Brilliant brilliant brilliant!! We all need a 'Mad Robbie The Welder' in our lives! (Told you bud, 95% good!) The golden eagle tale brought a tear to my eye. Miss my Ma every day.... Keep em coming, stay safe👊🏻
@@Tired_wirey_brandy_look. Aye , you may be right . . My friend . Viva Robbie Anderson . Best wishes , I raise my glass right now as I answer this to your mum. . Cheers
This wonderful story would bring a tear to a glass eye and a smile to a world-weary heart, at the very same time! Love your work, Ride on Brother. ❤️from 🇦🇺.
That’s got to be one of the best stories I’ve heard Mark, great footage. Thank you again for sharing. By the way I love Charles Bukowski read all is books and carry Women with me on all my road trips 😊 in Switzerland 🇨🇭 right now, on my way to Punta Bagna. Again grazie mille 😊👍🏻 and yes, the gentleman is right, you be great on Netflix.
@@user-mk5zo7tx1r thank you Claudio prego …. Bukowski is king of the word ! Have fun in France .. that’s in Parc Ecrins, ? I remember seeing signs . Oh what a beautiful area you are heading into , I’m so jealous right now . Happy safe travels brother . Our best wishes to you from Uk 🇬🇧
That Sir is the best video you’ve made to date! I’ve been on many tours around Europe with mates and the missus but only ever done one four day trip on my own and bloody hated it. After watching this maybe I should have another go.
@@77paddyboy Mate I’m running out of nice replies today … so many great comments … I appreciate every one . Thank you for watching & more so for your time to leave kind words .
Loved every minute of your story , got me in tears at 63 . I love Scotland and its rugged west coast and islands . Just back from South Erradale near Gairloch . But get yourself to the Outer Hebrides . You will be blown away by its beauty . Thankyou
@@georgecairnie8855 Ah great to hear from you .. hope you had a great trip . I bought a ticket in Uig to go to Harris , on the trip this film was about , but there was a huge queue Of cars campers etc , the lady sold me a ticket but said If it’s too full I won’t get on , everyone got on there was me and one car left , and guy said they max load and I could not go . I was gutted , got my refund and moved up the West coast . But it’s 100% happening on next visit , I will take much longer , I really want to do the islands as they were my mums favourites… she spent a lot of time in outer Hebrides. I can’t wait … glad to hear your love for the place in the lines you wrote . Thank you for actually taking time out to comment and so thoughtfully . My very best wishes to you , safe happy travels.
Your monologue painted a picture, especially the Eagle,my bikes have had breakdowns ,but someone always miraculously appears and helps.Ps What is the piano piece ?.PPs Viva Robbie Anderson and yourself !.
I went in April 23. On my Guzzi. Fairly well traveled around the world. Was amazed by west coast of Scotland. Just two days ride from my workshop. Thanks for a great film . My type of travel.
@@colinbreeze2814 Cheers Colin . . Hard one to make as so little footage . But a story that needed to be told to break the myth of The Scotland folk all hate the English , and vice versa . What a load of rubbish.. absolute legends the ones I met .
Thanks for sharing your beautifully told story….. NW Scotland is a magical land and my friend and I, on our two 40+yr old BMWs, had a similar amazing trip with no rain which will live with me forever. Your experience of the goodness of people and the brotherhood of bikers is one that I’ve shared during a lifetime of motorcycling. Not only with other bikers but with most people you meet, who are always keen to talk about your adventure and what led you to their part of the world. I think that on a bike (especially an older bike) you are seen as a true traveller, an old knight of the road, and people are drawn to help where they can….. Viva Robbie Anderson 😊
@@reinmansmith wow that sounds amazing , bloody love those old BMWs Thank you for kind words . Want to leave a more lengthy reply But woke on a beach this morning and a lot going on haha
Well done... if anyone ever asks, it's always the journey ... motorcycling is the truth and nothing but... viva robbie Anderson and mums that left us too early... thank you Mark
arr man, i rairley coment on vids on youtube, but this story touched everything i love about motorcycling, i am in my 60s now and been on bikes since i was a kid, i live in newcastle so scotland and the lakes are not to far, so much i could relate to, i ride an old 1340 evo now but did a lot of miles in europe on my z1 before it got killed in a crash, been clean and sober now for 10yrs, and random acts of kindness never cease to amaze me in a world where so many people are out to screw you over. thank you so much for saring your story, i am glad we expienced the golden age of motorcycling, as the future looks quite different, hope to see you on the road one day maybe in you next trip up north.
@@stephensiddall5679 Wow we have had similar experiences … loving your passion , thank you for taking time out to share . Hopefully the paths will cross
Although it was many years ago i and 3 mates at the time rode up to scotland to lock lomond and surrounding area ,the people we met were nothing but freindly and we wild camped on farmland and near the lock ,it was a great trip and the scottish hospitality was second to none! Your trip was very special and good to watch thankyou.
@@daveunsworth9931 Good to hear that . It’s great to shatter the old myth that they all hate the English and vice versa … I hate this stuff you hear growing up , Bloody French Bloody Italians Bloody Scots Too many people going by one persons encounter with another stranger and judging a whole country . Thanks for watching
As always, inspirational and simply brilliant. So many emotions always come out when I watch these video’s. So pleased you got a GoPro and found RU-vid !!!
You moved my heart to the shining side of righteousness. You made me miss Flodigarry, at the top of Skye, where I heard by chance the most incredible bagpipe player ever, playing to the moon and the waters, and to no one else. Thank you for you.
Magical story brother! Thank you for sharing. Your amazing mum lives on and the spirit bird you saw on that trip shows just that.. Magic! Never loose that spirit of adventure, ride on 🤘
This is such a beautiful way to tell a story, the pictures, the commentary, it was magnificent. I so often struggle to concentrate on anything, even if it’s of interest to me. This, I watched from beginning to end without so much as much as picking up my phone until now to write this msg. I am a roamer myself and look for experiences and beauty beyond my own front door, this can feel lonely as it’s often misunderstood as being flighty or irresponsible (and sometimes it admittedly is!) but nice to see there’s a few of us out there. Loved this video, very living thank you
@@theguitaristas Thank you Colin , getting a thumbs up from you is second only to getting a nod from Sergio Leone .. ;) Your videos are just beautiful to watch and have me in stitches at times , your playing is bloody lush too . Top man . Look forward to catch up Sunday bro 👊 I’ll get few shirts haha I want one now you said it
That means a lot … I’m so humbled by the response, ain’t it always the way , I thought this would fall on its face , due to the lack of footage . And the use of so many photos , I just wanted to tell about Robbie … and hence done it anyway . Thank you , thank you . So lovely to wake up this morning and have these kinda beautiful comments . Best wishes mate .
This is such a beautiful way to tell a story, it was magnificent. I so often struggle to concentrate on anything, even if it’s of interest to me. This, I watched from beginning to end without so much as much as picking up my phone until now to write this msg. I am a roamer myself and look for experiences and beauty beyond my own front door, this can feel lonely as it’s often misunderstood as being flighty or irresponsible (and sometimes it admittedly is!) but nice to see there’s a few of us out there. Loved this video, very living thank you
@@To-ingAndFro-ing Thanks so much , that means more than you know . Every comment on here has been so encouraging, so many good people have found it & that is just wonderful. I so near never posted this as it was mainly made from photographs… but I needed to for Robbie Anderson , my mum and obviously Jolene . Thank you once again and happy aimless wanderings to you always good times
You nearly.. ok you made me cry. Great pics, beautiful story. Travelling solo absolutely regains your faith in people. Most people are good people.. yeah man. Harley is on the horizon..
@@numinousbeing6939 haha , I’ve this a lot on the comments , I thought Ot. 2 of this series was the heart wrenching one . I didn’t see this one as hitting so hard . You are so right about travelling solo . Thanks so much for watching, more so for taking time to write . Best wishes
I just watched your video, as a Scottish biker who's done the NC before it had that name numerous times, it's interesting to see it done right, wild camping, keeping it basic and avoiding the campervans/midges. As a fellow storyteller, you've made an epic film here, looks like you've inherited your mum's keen eye for a shot. Cheers and keep biking, steve
@@stevereilly Thanks for watching mate , and taking time to write , I love a wild camp where ever I am .. but up there .. it’s just sublime.. so much beauty .. thanks for having me .. left a piece of my heart up there for sure . Was run of the road on Bealnach la ba , by a giant idiot camper van … They just decided they didn’t wanna pull over, into the lay-by ahead of them , and I had long gone by my passing point , they literally pushed into the gravel and rocks , dunno how I didn’t blow out front tyre … just t he e luck of that trip . But yeah I missed the most of them . Thanks for all the kind words.. happy safe travels to you bud Mark
Thank you for sharing this story. It's brought back so many memories of the simplicity of just chucking a tent on your bike and following the road. I was blessed to live near the foot of loch Lomond and had so many adventures up north including roadside bodges to keep going. This just brought it all back and I had tears in my eyes watching this. Thank you.
@@iainpirie7904 To live there , you were blessed indeed. Had my share of roadside bodges too and incredible feeling when you suddenly tearing along into the wind again. Amazing what gaffa tape , a cable tie or a pair of mole grips can get you out of . Loved your comment , thank you 🙏 for leaving it here , I find these all so interesting. Best wishes and you’re welcome.
Mate, that was a hell of a story and by far one of the best RU-vid videos I’ve ever watched. You have inspired me to pull out my old bike and get out on an adventure. Viva Robbie Anderson 👍
@@chrisperry5472 That’s brilliant.. the comments on this video have made my week …drag that girl out and get rolling . My very best wishes to you . Happy safe travels
Got the same Blue Christmas Lights Up in this little Caravan.. Slapped some Wood Together Made a not 8 x 10 foot Garage Woodstove room. Fits the Bike.. and shes out of the elements. Hello From just North of Mount Shasta California USA Literally in the Woods 1 miles from paved road another 20-35 miles to nearest Town one eay or the other. Mother's are Unconditional LOVE.. and She Loves Me So Nobody Can Touch Me NO FEAR LOVE LIFE Thanks for Sharing Well Done Friend Dad said a while back hed like to Ride to Alaska.. Maybe this Video eill Give Him a Swift Kick in the Ass.. As He'd put it
@@russasher6962 Hello California, sounds like you on sacred ground, a place of high beauty and tucked in good . Love your words man . My very best to you and all yours Thanks 🙏 for taking the time out .
@@SteveM109r oh don’t . My mate from Glasgow rang me last night . He had seen this film he owns a GS and was like ‘Fucking wee man aye didn’t like the bit about knocking the Gs ‘ Hahaha had to dig my way out . Explaining nothing wrong with that look It just wouldn’t look right sat on a chopper . Thank you my man !
Fucking typical rained on you in Wales.. Jesus give me hope!!! I live in Wales THE LAND OF MY FARTHERS AND MOTHERS .What a great story and what great people. The mad ones are always the best. I get quite depressed at times with folk and how bad they can be but stories like this give me hope. Who the hell wants to be sane in times like this its great to be nuts is it not. Take care my friend keep riding even when the legs give up just keep riding God bless ya and if any more trips just put them up you have a great way of telling stories you honestly do !!
@@allanhughes7859 thanks so much for the real kind words … I’ve had beautiful sun in Wales too , used to wild camp in Vale of the neath early 90s before every one was there ; and caught that in sun and spent days jumping off waterfalls and basking in sun , magical place But yeah it rains too haha Good to hear from you Be lucky always
Truly wonderful listening to your storytelling Lean into the Wind. I tell you whats weird about that trip, you passed twice within 10m of my front window on Skye. Once coming in and second leaving the island. How could I have missed Jolene. Yep, 'hidden lives' again, viva Robbie! Cheers man
@@johnyoung6498 Ah man … I’ll remember next time I come . Skye was my favourite part of the whole trip . I literally rode along with my jaw on the tank … it reminds me of Lord of the rings . I can see why you live there . Thanks 🙏
@@LeanIntoTheWind No problem, unfortunately its not all year. I would also say have a look at Coigach on the mainland, north west of Achiltibuie, especially the view from the wee road Altandhu to Brae of Achanaird (by Loch a' Chaorainn) looking SE. On OS maps the high spot at 74m, Google maps roadside view gives a taster. Cheers
Late to this one Mark but holy shit you know how to tell a story. Reading the comments I can see that everyone agrees. It’s impossible to add to what has already been said on here except to note the depth of everyone’s response. Travelling alone is not for everybody but it sure does provide unique experiences that just wouldn’t happen otherwise. Once again your video was a joy and I thank for the creative energy you brought to it.
Hello again . I’m glad you picked up on the comments , I’ve read each and everyone as they have landed and responded to them all . If I’ve missed one it’s pure accident. But last night was the first time I just read through them all in one hit . It was so unbelievably humbling , to think I almost didn’t post this . I dunno it’s just amazing what’s been said . I hate listening back to my voice , don’t everyone !!! But I wanted to tell the story so much , it was such a powerful trip and experience and Robbie’s kindness was like just unreal , the whole thing Golden I didn’t want it to end . Thank you Mike for adding to what has already been a wonderful 8 days since this video was posted . I made this for myself to relive the trip , I made it to shout out VIVA ROBBIE ANDERSON again , I made it for Jolene … I made it for my mother … I made it to thank Scotland for keeping me safe under her glorious wings .
I have enjoyed all your videos I must confess that this video reduced me to tears. You, your channel, your videos are so refreshing as RU-vid has increasingly become a Shopping Channel. I remember wearing dustbin bags watching racing at Mallory Park. My Belstaff served me well for years. Back in the days when Barbour was for the Horsey types who preferred green and had more money. Thank you for creating these videos and sharing so much reality. 👍 Viva Robby Anderson!
@@stephencartwright5046 thank you for the kind words ..wow , those bin bags were so fashionable haha . Viva Robbie Anderson My sincere best wishes to you .
Yes sirrr. Always magical on two wheels. Very well said my friend. We need more people in this world like Robbie you and I with the thrist for adventure on two wheels. And the heart of Gold.!!
Your bike also shows how easily these softails can be transformed into real classy rides. I went in a different direction with mine. Hope you'll not sell it now that you got that new thing. Keep riding❤
@@deedeecapone they can , very adaptable… sadly Jolene got written off , we got knocked off at 50mph and both went 30 metres down a duel carriage way . She took it way worse than me . RIP
Great, great story, and very well told. You've got a knack for this. Most interesting thing I've seen on youtube in a while. Many thanks and bon voyage.
Great to watch your video and listen to your experience. You enbody the spirit of motorcycling so well, more about the adventure than what bike we ride, long may it continue my friend 👍🏻
