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American Kevin Vermaerke has signed a two-year contract with Emirates-XRG, the world’s number one squad. The rider hasn’t yet won a professional race, but finished third (twice) and most recently sixth in the Arctic Race of Norway. What does the new signing mean for the world’s best team, and what does it mean for Vermaerke?
Number one team
UAE Team Emirates-XRG are undoubtedly the top team in the world right now. Their 2024 season was one of the most dominant in cycling history. True to form, UAE are having another extraordinary year in 2025 and closing in on more history. The team is always at the top of the odds at online sports betting UK sites and their recent results and continued historic performances – underpinned by consistency – will continue that trend, let alone with new, talented additions to the team.
They’ve already equalled their own record of 20 different riders winning a race. PogaÄar, as to be expected after his historic 2024, has won the most races. Spaniard Juan Ayuso is among the favourites for the autumn events, including his home race Vuelta a España, and teammate João Almeida will be another to watch.
CEO and team principal, Mauro Gianetti, said they were glad to welcome a versatile rider who had a proven track record at the highest level. Gianetti said Vermaerke would compete both in day races and stage races.
Adding a rider like Vermaerke is an example of their strategy. UAE combines global stars with younger talents who can develop in the environment of the best squad. Like the most successful teams in any sport, they balance short-term results with long-term planning. When a leader fades or retires, there’s a rider ready to step up.
Vermaerke isn’t a household name yet, but he fits the blueprint of a rider capable of big results under the right circumstances. The signing is another calculated step to make sure their reign at the top continues.
Vermaerke’s career so far
Vermaerke will have a chance to learn from Tadej PogaÄar at his new team. PogaÄar won the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France in 2025.
The rider has been with Team DSM for the last five seasons, since turning professional. He won the U23 version of Liège-Bastogne-Liège and raced for the US in the World Championships early in his career. Vermaerke said he had grown over the last few years and was expecting to reach a new level with the athletes around him and the attention to detail in the UAE team.
In a 2021 interview, Vermaerke said his hero was Chris Froome, whose mentality Vermaerke admired. The young cyclist said that Liège-Bastogne-Liège was his best result to date and the race that brought him the most attention.
He described himself as more of an all-rounder than a pure climber. He said that even when he’s unwinding, he’s focused on cycling. Vermaerke enjoys watching films and talking to friends back in the US. He was involved in one of the major crashes in the 2023 Tour de France; a spectator appeared to stick their arm out when the peloton was riding through a narrow part of road.
The move will be more than just a change of jersey. At Team DSM, he was often tasked with supporting leaders and rarely had the freedom to chase his own opportunities. At UAE Team Emirates-XRG, he’ll initially serve as a key domestique. But the structure of the team and their broad race calendar could allow him to seek leadership roles in smaller stage races or week-long tours.
The new environment might allow him to transform his promise into breakthrough results. A rider who can finish in the top ten on general classification at races like the Tour de Pologne or the Tour de Suisse could gain more importance in the squad.
Image under the Unsplash License
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Thousands of supply chain staff and families facing weeks without pay urged to contact Ben’s bespoke helpline to access support.
The Motor and Allied Trades Benevolent Fund (Ben) is offering bespoke support to the thousands of people affected by the ongoing cyber attack at Jaguar Land Rover (JLR).
Since 1 September, JLR has experienced a cyber attack that has shut down production at its three manufacturing sites in the UK. The estimated number of people impacted is 120,000, including 50-75,000 supply chain workers, 30-40,000 family members, and 5-8,000 agency staff.
Ben has launched a bespoke campaign, offering practical and emotional support, guiding employers and workers to all the financial and mental health resources available to support those impacted by the cyber attack.
The UK Government has announced a £1.5 billion loan to support JLR and its supply chain restart operations. However, many people working in the sector have already acutely felt the effects of a month without work or payment.
Rachel Clift, CEO at Ben, said: "The impact of the cyber attack has already been deeply felt across the supplier workforce, and the need for support remains urgent. While the Government loan is a positive step towards recovery, we don’t yet know how quickly funds will reach suppliers who were forced to shut down production.
“For many, this means starting up again after almost a month without work – a challenge that brings its own financial and emotional pressures. Small and medium-sized suppliers in particular face significant hurdles: cashflow disruption, staff who may have gone weeks without pay, and the practical and emotional strain of restarting operations at pace. These difficulties risk leaving workers and families in very vulnerable positions.
“We want everyone affected to know that help is here and support is available. Whether it’s financial assistance, mental health support, or practical advice, we are committed to standing alongside the automotive community as it navigates this difficult period."
The pause in production at JLR has already had a significant impact on the UK economy, contributing to the rapid decline in productivity for the UK’s manufacturing sector.
Rachel Clift continues: "We know that it’s vital that production can start again swiftly. This will require a resilient workforce across JLR and its supply chain. We want to work alongside the UK Government and other key stakeholders to ensure that all the necessary support is in place for workers to restart production without barriers."
Anyone affected by the JLR cyber attack can access support from Ben by visiting www.ben.org.uk/cyber-attack, emailing [email protected], or calling Ben’s confidential helpline on 0808 131 1333.
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Motorcycles may be only 3% of all registered vehicles on the road, but they account for 15.5% of all traffic fatalities annually. While the pure joy of riding on the open road throughout the United States includes incredible natural vistas, you want to take every precaution possible so your ride is safe, comfortable, and accident-free.
There are some simple pre-travel tips you can take to lower the risk of your upcoming road adventure. You want to create a situation where the thrill of curved mountain passes or relaxing coastal rides outweighs safety issues. A road trip can span hundreds to thousands of miles, meaning you need to consider car shipping for secondary vehicles, maintenance issues, packing, safety, and logistics before the first wheel turns.
Essential Pre-Trip Motorcycle Maintenance Checks for US Road Adventures 
Always begin your motorcycle journey by double-checking that everything is “road-ready.” Most accidents can be avoided with proper maintenance. Start by ensuring your tires have at least 50% tread life remaining and are inflated to the correct pressure. Inspect your chains, lubricant levels, battery life, brake pads, and rotors.
Fluids need attention. Your engine oil and coolant are essential, but also your brake fluid. Your chain shouldn’t have any more slack than necessary and should be thoroughly lubricated. If you have shaft drives, ensure there are no leaks or unusual noises before heading out. Have a friend stand nearby as you run through lights, turn signals, and the horn. The number one cause of motorcycle accidents is other drivers not noticing you, so keep these communication signals in working order.
If all that extra work seems beyond your current skill level, take your motorcycle to your local trusted shop. They can conduct a thorough inspection and offer any necessary suggestions before your extended trip, including recommendations for shipping a second bike using reputable transport carriers.
Packing Smart: Gear and Essentials for a Successful Motorcycle Road Trip
With your motorcycle fully prepped, it’s time to look at what you’ll need during the road trip. There is a reason people say“safety first.” You should start with a DOT-approved helmet, an abrasion-resistant jacket, pants, gloves, and boots. Some riders like to pack a second set of gear for rain or breathable fabrics for high temperatures, but ensure they can protect the body in a crash. Road burn is a serious concern.
Modify the motorcycle's seat cushion with ergonomic options and extra grip wraps. That will make an 8- to 10-hour leg of your trip much more comfortable. While setting up your bike, place your navigation and communication equipment properly so that they are out of the wind, but not so low that you have to take your eyes off the road.
Most experienced riders will suggest packing light. That way, you get the thrill of stopping at a local diner or picking up clothing at a fun shop you usually would not be able to visit back home. A good idea is to have your shipping address ready or use a friend who will store items you purchase during your trip until you return. Here is a good packing list to work from:
If nothing else, double up on protective gear. Any wet or damaged items can always be replaced whenever you reach a big city, but you want backups if you’re “out in the boonies” a bit.
Exploring Car Shipping Options for Multi-State Motorcycle Journeys
Plenty of riders have secondary family vehicles or additional motorcycles that require car shipping during the journey. That could be for meeting up with family on an extended vacation, shipping a car for snowbirds who love touring during transit, or those making a big move and want to integrate a cross-country journey first.
Whatever the reason, you can use the best auto transport services to get your vehicle safely to your destination while you enjoy the open road. That saves extra wear and tear on your car and the stress of trying to manage all the logistics on your own.
A reputable domestic transport provider will offer clear pickup and delivery instructions, including door-to-door options. Riders can choose from open or enclosed vehicle transport, with or without expedited shipping to move things along. The fleet management company should carry its own shipping insurance and provide you with a clear, no-hidden-fees quote or estimate for the entire process.
Always work with a team that follows interstate transport laws, has experience with motorcycles, and carries a USDOT and FMCSA numbers. The best auto shipping company will offer all these options, along with the real-time communication you need to plan your long-distance road trip or adjust for road traffic, construction, and weather changes as needed. 
Safety and Comfort Tips for Long-Distance Motorcycle Travel in America
Riding your custom bike all day long can put a lot of stress on the body. For example, the Pacific Coast Highway, stretching from southern California to Washington state, is over 1,650 miles long. That’s a lot of hours and strain if you’re not properly prepared.
To avoid rider fatigue, break up your longer trips with some fun sightseeing, dining, and shopping. Swing by an open vista overlooking the ocean or stop into a local bar and relax for a while. Plan on refueling every 100 to 150 miles and take time to stretch, hydrate, and re-up your snacks.
While riding, ensure you maintain proper posture and spine alignment by using padded grips, windshields that are adjusted to your height, and ergonomic seats. Everyone might love the idea of low-riding café racers from a Steve McQueen film, but those dreams go out the window when you’re 20 hours into a long-distance trip.
Most importantly, practice defensive driving. Use gear with high-visibility accents so other drivers can see you. Simple habits, such as maintaining a two-second following distance or scanning the road for debris, go a long way in keeping you safe.
Navigating Scenic Routes and Weather Challenges on US Motorcycle Road Trips
The United States offers numerous options for motorcycle touring. Routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia or Route 1 along the Maine coastline are beloved by experienced riders. Every route might offer twisting roads and unique stops, but the weather can quickly turn your trip into a serious challenge.
Pack so you have rain gear, fabric for 100-degree afternoons, and cold-weather jackets when the temperature drops. Using tools like the Farmer’s Almanac will give you insight into typical long-range weather for up to 60 days in the region you’re visiting. That way, you don’t run into snow in Montana or Wyoming when you’ve only packed rain gear.
Some motorcyclists will adjust longer trips by blending riding with vechile shipping during the harsher summer or winter months. That gives you options to ship your bike ahead to an area you know you’ll enjoy while you use your car to get dropped off by the family.
Freedom, Preparedness, and the Ride of a Lifetime
Enjoying all that a long-distance motorcycle trip in the United States has to offer is equal parts freedom and responsibility. You need to prepare your bike for all situations, maintenance concerns, and riding in comfort and style.
Combine your trip with professional auto shipping, utilizing a vast network of experienced drivers and trusted logistics managers, and you’ll be able to explore the Atlantic coast or rugged Rockies with complete peace of mind. Make this road trip the adventure of a lifetime with a bit of preparation, and you’ll build memories you’ll never forget.
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Long-distance motorcycle trips are as much about the stops as they are about the ride itself. The thrill of open roads is heightened when you plan meaningful pauses to enjoy scenic viewpoints, historic landmarks, cultural hotspots, or unique local experiences. Every journey offers opportunities to combine adventure with discovery, making each mile more memorable. For motorcyclists, thinking ahead about where to stop ensures the trip is filled with unforgettable sights and experiences. 
Scenic Viewpoints and Landscapes
One of the top priorities for any long-haul ride is to take in the natural beauty along the route. Mountain passes, coastal roads, and rolling hills provide perfect opportunities to pause and enjoy panoramic views. Stops at famous outlooks, like the North Coast 500 in Scotland or the cliffs along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, allow riders to capture photos, stretch their legs, and simply take in the vistas. Even a quiet country lane can reveal hidden natural beauty, making spontaneous stops just as rewarding as the planned ones.
Iconic Landmarks and Historic Sites
No road trip is complete without visiting landmarks that give a sense of history and culture. Castles, abbeys, and medieval towns in the UK offer fascinating detours for riders. Edinburgh Castle, Stonehenge, and Wales’ Pembroke Castle are perfect examples where you can take a break from riding, explore the site, and even enjoy a local café or picnic area. Stopping at these landmarks adds depth to the journey, giving riders the chance to learn more about the places they pass through.
Sports Events Along the Route
For sports fans, timing a trip to coincide with a live game can be an unforgettable experience. Stopping at a football match, rugby game, or horse racing event along your route offers a lively and thrilling break from riding. Many riders enjoy getting even more involved by placing a small wager on their favourite teams while at the venue, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience. Punters in the UK often opt to wager online at bookmakers not on GamStop, because these platforms operate outside of the UK’s tough rules and offer bettors more flexibility and easier access to a wide range of markets. Beyond easy access and variety, these sites often boast lucrative bonus offers that punters can use to stretch their budget. Experiencing a match live while on the road creates memories and stories that last long after the trip ends.
Local Restaurants and Culinary Experiences
Part of the fun of a road trip is sampling local cuisine. Planning stops at restaurants you’ve always wanted to try—or discovering hidden gems along the way—turns mealtime into a highlight of the journey. From seaside fish and chips to countryside pubs offering hearty meals, taking the time to enjoy local flavours enhances the overall experience. Even a brief coffee or snack stop at a charming café can be a memorable part of the ride.
Natural Wonders and National Parks
Long rides are an excellent excuse to explore national parks and protected landscapes. Stopping at waterfalls, lakes, or forested trails gives motorcyclists the chance to reconnect with nature. Parks like Snowdonia, the Lake District, or the Cairngorms not only provide scenic roads but also walking paths, viewpoints, and picnic spots. These natural stops give riders a break from the engine noise and offer a refreshing way to recharge before continuing the journey.
Cultural and Local Experiences
Beyond landmarks and scenery, taking time to engage with the local environment can turn a simple stop into a memorable adventure. Farmers’ markets like Borough Market in London or the Stow-on-the-Wold market in the Cotswolds provide opportunities to sample fresh produce and artisanal goods. Artisan fairs and local craft markets showcase unique creations, while small community events often feature music, performances, or hands-on workshops. Even casual interactions at a roadside café serving a regional speciality, or chatting with a stallholder at a village market, can enrich the journey, offering insight into local traditions and lifestyles that you might miss by sticking solely to the road.
Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Stops
While famous sights are always worth visiting, the real treasures often lie off the beaten path. Secluded beaches, quiet woodland paths, unusual roadside attractions, or small villages can provide unique experiences and unexpected memories. Riders who embrace these hidden gems often discover quieter, more personal moments of adventure, away from crowds and standard tourist stops.
Conclusion
Long-distance motorcycle trips are about more than just riding—they’re about experiencing the world along the way. Stopping at scenic viewpoints, iconic landmarks, national parks, local restaurants, sports events, and hidden gems ensures that each journey is rich with variety and excitement. From catching a live game to tasting local cuisine, each pause adds a memorable layer to the adventure. Thoughtful planning, combined with the freedom to explore spontaneously, transforms every road trip into an unforgettable series of experiences, making both the ride and the stops equally rewarding.
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Man sitting on the motorcycle photo – Free Motorcycle Image on Unsplash
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MotoGP weekends have always drawn attention from motorsport fans, but lately they’ve become more than just race days; they’re turning into full-on social events for the biking community. Across the UK and beyond, bikers are using MotoGP weekends as an excuse to meet up, ride out, cheer for their favourite riders, and soak in the shared passion for two wheels. Whether you’re heading to a local pub screening or riding out to Silverstone, MotoGP is becoming a reason to gather, not just to spectate.
A Shared Passion That Fuels the Ride
What makes MotoGP weekends such strong magnets for meet-ups is the shared love of bikes, speed, and skill. Riders from all over the country find common ground in the roar of the engines and the drama of the track. Watching a rider lean into a corner at 200mph isn’t just exciting, it’s inspiring. It sparks conversation, debate, and admiration that carries on well after the chequered flag. For many bikers, that energy is contagious, turning an ordinary weekend into something worth planning around.
MotoGP also brings together people from different biking backgrounds, sports riders, cruisers, tourers, and café racers alike. The racing might be on slick machines built for the track, but the love of the ride unites everyone. That shared passion builds stronger friendships, makes meet-ups more meaningful, and keeps the biker community connected through every race on the calendar.
With the next MotoGP race on the 2025 calendar set for the Hungarian Grand Prix at Balaton Park Circuit, plans are already in motion, ride-outs, pub viewings, campsite meet-ups, and for some, a bit of wagering to add an extra layer of excitement to the weekend. While official race odds haven’t been released yet, riders in top form like Marc Marquez are already drawing attention. He was recently priced at 1/250 to win the 2025 MotoGP World Championship by some of the best bookmakers not on GamStop in UK betting markets. Many punters will be watching closely for updated odds on the Hungarian GP, especially on platforms known for offering competitive MotoGP markets, fast payouts, welcome rewards, free bets, odds boosts, and fewer restrictions than online sportsbooks tied to the UK’s self-exclusion scheme. For those who live for the thrill of the ride, combining the race with the right platform makes the entire weekend even more unforgettable.
At the heart of it all, MotoGP weekends are about more than just the race, they’re about the people who show up for the same reason: the love of the ride. Whether it's the sound of the engines, the stories swapped over coffee, or the unspoken bond between bikers, that shared passion is what keeps the wheels turning long after the podium celebrations end.
From Living Room Screens to Trackside Gatherings
While some still prefer watching the action from their sofa, more and more bikers are hitting the road to experience MotoGP with others. Some ride to racetracks like Silverstone to catch the action in person, while others gather at biker-friendly pubs and campsites with big screens and barbecue smoke in the air. It’s not just about watching the race, it’s about being part of the atmosphere.
Trackside weekends offer the full package. You get to watch qualifying and race day live, browse the paddocks, meet other fans, and maybe even spot a pro rider up close. It turns a race into a proper weekend out, often with camping, live music, and plenty of socialising around shared stories and classic bikes. These weekends have become mini-festivals for riders who want more than just a televised race.
For those staying local, pubs and cafés known for being biker hangouts often host special MotoGP viewings. These spots become the go-to venues for groups of mates or riding clubs to link up, talk bikes, and enjoy the race together over a pint or Sunday roast.
Planning Rides Around the MotoGP Calendar
It’s not unusual now to see riders planning their road trips to match up with the MotoGP schedule. A summer route through the Peaks or down to the coast can easily end with a group stopover somewhere screening the race. B&Bs and campsites listed on biker-friendly platforms have picked up on the trend and often promote race weekend availability.
Some riding clubs go even further, organising official ride-outs that lead to a MotoGP viewing. It gives the trip a shared purpose and builds that buzz leading up to the race. Whether it’s the season opener in Qatar or the high-stakes final in Valencia, these weekends become bookmarked highlights in the riding season.
Even international MotoGP rounds are drawing UK bikers abroad. Trips to Misano or Assen turn into weeklong adventures, with ferry rides, group touring, and a few nights soaking up the European race scene.
Conclusion
MotoGP weekends have evolved into something more than just a race day on TV. They’ve become a reason to connect, ride, and celebrate everything that makes biking exciting. Whether you're watching at a pub with your riding crew, camping out at Silverstone, or planning a trip around the European rounds, these weekends are now a must on the biker calendar. They bring energy, community, and shared passion, making every throttle twist feel part of something bigger.
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Taken from the recent MotoGP race at the Sepang F1 Circuit in Malaysia.
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