Talan Skeels‑Piggins in 2025: Still Racing, Still Leading, Still Changing Lives
Some riders push limits. Others redefine them entirely.
Talan Skeels‑Piggins is firmly in the second camp—and he’s been proving it for over 20 years.
His story isn’t just about racing against the odds. It’s about rebuilding a life, one twist of the throttle at a time—and helping others do the same. In 2025, that mission is still roaring forward, stronger than ever.
From Trauma to Triumph: The Origin of a Movement
Back in 2003, Talan’s life changed in an instant. A devastating road traffic collision hurled him from his bike and into the path of oncoming vehicles. He vividly recalls a dazed voice asking: “Are you alright, mate?”
You’ll have to ask him what his reply was—but let's just say it was suitably unprintable.
The crash shattered his spine and broke his neck, leaving him paralysed from the chest down and unable to control the muscles that keep most of us upright. “When I was in hospital, I never thought I’d ride again,” he later admitted.
But giving up? Not in his nature.
By 2011, he’d not only returned to riding—he founded The Bike Experience a groundbreaking UK charity that helps motorcyclists with disabilities rediscover the freedom of two wheels using modified motorcycles in a safe, controlled environment.
“A lot of people think that when you're injured or disabled, life’s opportunities disappear.
We give them back the choice and show them they can overcome the challenges.”
Talan doesn’t just ride again. He races. He coaches. He inspires. And in 2025, he’s taken that legacy even further.
Doctor, Racer, Pioneer: Talan Honoured by University of Warwick (2025)
This summer, Talan was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters by the University of Warwick in recognition of his exceptional contribution to sport, disability advocacy, and community empowerment.
It’s a title he earned not from textbooks, but from tarmac and tenacity.
“What I do is give people belief—not just in bikes, but in themselves.”
The award recognises both his relentless personal drive and the profound impact of The Bike Experience on disabled riders across the UK.
Capsized but Not Defeated – The GB Sailing Challenge
In early 2025, Talan set off on a solo circumnavigation of Great Britain by sea, sailing a non-adapted Colvic UFO 34 yacht. He wasn’t alone—leg-amputee sailor Neil Baxter joined the mission. It was a challenge meant to push boundaries again, this time offshore.
But nature had other plans.
On February 2, disaster struck. A rogue wave capsized the boat off Torquay, fracturing Neil’s hip and forcing a rescue operation. Talan, ever the professional, completed the immediate leg, then made the call to postpone the rest of the voyage.
The mission isn’t over. It’s just rescheduled.
“We’ll be back out there. No doubt.”
The Bike Experience: More Than Just Riding
In 2025, The Bike Experience continues to change lives—one adapted throttle at a time.
Whether it’s ex-servicemen, accident survivors, or congenital disability riders, the charity opens doors most thought had slammed shut.
Riders are equipped with modified bikes, expert instruction, and most importantly—belief.
“It’s not just about the motorcycle. It’s about reminding people what they’re capable of.”
What’s Next for Talan?
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Sailing Reboot (2026): The circumnavigation of Britain is back on the radar.
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Bike Experience Expansion: Talks are underway to expand TBEX into satellite venues across the UK.
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Global Advocacy: Talan’s now a regular on international speaking circuits, spreading his message far beyond racetracks.
Final Thought: Talan’s Legacy Isn’t Just His Own
Talan Skeels‑Piggins didn’t just get back on the bike.
He brought thousands with him.
His story reminds us that motorcycling isn’t just about speed or risk.
It’s about freedom, identity, and the wild, unkillable spirit of people who refuse to quit.