OliMoto, the ambitious father-and-son team preparing to undertake a record-breaking 19,000-mile motorcycle journey around the world in 2027 are delighted to confirm Honda UK Motorcycles as a key partner in this adventure.
The partnership marks a remarkable full-circle moment for OliMoto co-founder Joe, whose connection with Honda began almost four decades ago when he first experienced the freedom of motorcycling on the back of his brother Sam’s Honda 400 Four, purchased from Shirlaws in Aberdeen in the late 1980s.
Now, with Honda as an official partner and the support of the same family-run dealership, Joe will embark on the adventure of a lifetime alongside his son Oli.
“Nearly four decades ago, I first discovered the freedom of the open road on the back of my brother Sam’s Honda 400 Four, which he bought from Shirlaws Aberdeen in the late 1980s,” said Joe.
“It’s incredible how life has now come full circle. With Honda as an official partner and with the support of Shirlaws, that same spirit of adventure will continue as I ride beside my son Oli, supporting his dreams.”
The OliMoto story began with a shared passion for exploration. Since Oli was young, he and Joe have spent countless hours together discovering new places, riding trails, crossing mountain passes and planning adventures both near and far.
The concept for OliMoto took shape following a journey home from the Adventure Bike Rider (ABR) Festival in 2025. What started as a conversation about motorcycles and travel evolved into a mission with a much greater purpose.
Together, father and son recognised the opportunity to demonstrate what can happen when young people’s ambitions are encouraged, confidence is nurtured and families choose to create extraordinary experiences together.
In 2027, at just 17 years old, Oli will set out with Joe on a planned 19,000-mile journey spanning multiple continents, in a bid to establish a new world record. However, the project’s objectives extend far beyond mileage alone.
The expedition will focus on cultural discovery, personal development, resilience, and inspiring young people to pursue their own ambitions, while documenting the people, places and experiences encountered along the way.
A journey of this scale demands reliability, endurance and global support, making Honda the perfect partner for the challenge ahead.
For OliMoto, the partnership represents more than simply selecting a motorcycle manufacturer. It reflects a shared commitment to adventure, innovation, determination and making bold ambitions a reality.
Honda’s reputation for durability and engineering excellence, combined with its global reach and longstanding association with adventure motorcycling, will provide invaluable support as Oli and Joe prepare for the challenge. The models chosen for the adventure are this year’s NX500 incorporating Honda’s latest E-Clutch technology, ridden by Joe and the CB125R being ridden by Oli.
On the partnership, Andy Mineyko, Head of Honda UK Motorcycles commented – “We’re absolutely delighted that Olimoto has chosen Honda to be a key part of this exciting venture. Our brand values, proven reliability and genuine spirit of adventure align perfectly with this project, and we can’t wait for the Olimoto team to get started next year on what promises to be a truly record-breaking adventure.”
Alongside their world record attempt, OliMoto will be raising funds for Save the Children, using the global adventure to generate support and awareness for the charity’s work around the world.
Funds raised through the project will help provide opportunities, education and brighter futures for children, reinforcing OliMoto’s belief that every young person deserves the chance to dream big and pursue their potential.
As preparations continue for the 2027 departure, the partnership between Honda, Shirlaws Aberdeen and OliMoto demonstrates how shared values, family connections and a spirit of adventure can inspire extraordinary journeys. A key date to kick of the project is the launch event at Shirlaws in Aberdeen 22nd October 2026 where John McGuinness MBE will be in attendance.
Michael Le Pard (“Mr. Totalmotorcycle”) is the Founder of Total Motorcycle, the world’s largest motorcycle information site, trusted by over 430 million riders since 1999. With over 34 years of experience in motorcycles, gear and rider culture, he has built a global community dedicated to empowering and inspiring motorcyclists.
Total Motorcycle remains his passion project. Combining expert research, hands‑on knowledge and a commitment to helping riders make informed decisions about bikes, gear and safety worldwide.
