“It’s a real head turner! I passed my module two on a Kawasaki ER-6 so have happy memories of Kawasaki. Any part of the Ninja race is a real icon within motorcycling so it was great to have a go on one. I love the green and the paint scheme is striking. As soon as I took it out, within seconds I’d noticed how great the suspension was – it was just fantastic – I couldn’t believe how much of our horrible road surfaces that it soaked up. I was blown away.
 
“The model I tested was fitted with an Akrapovic exhaust too and I loved the exhaust note. It was quite mellow around town but when you open it up, it sounds nice. Perfect balance. The engine picks up quickly and there’s an argument that you wouldn’t need anything bigger.”
 
After passing his Compulsory Basic Training as soon as he could, riding bikes was Rav’s key to freedom and independence. Plus, living in London, two-wheels have been his choice of commuter.
 
“I use my bike all year round. I hardly use the car, unless it’s for food shopping. Living in London, I commute through some seriously heavy traffic. I often have meetings in central London and one particular journey takes me over an hour if I go in the car, but on the Kawasaki 636 it took me 12 minutes. Not because I was going fast, but it was because I was able to cut through the traffic and filter. I couldn't believe how quickly I got there – it was brilliant.”
 
Is a sports bike his dream machine?
 
“It’s a difficult one. Up until recently I had two bikes – one that had a top box and then my pride and joy which was a sports bike. Now that I just have one bike, I’m looking for one that can do it all so it might have to be something more sensible – but not too sensible.
 
“When I picked up the ZX-6R from Kawasaki UK, the team were singing the praises of the Z1000SX, they think that that could be the perfect compromise of ability, power and comfort – especially given my 6ft size. I’ve never ridden one but I love the way it looks; I’d be keen to try one of those next.”