Style Rider, Michael McAndrew – Moto Guzzi V7

Style Rider aims to document the world’s most stylish motorcycle riders, be they riders of classic, custom or cafe racer steeds. Focused on the intersection of motorcycle culture with individual style, here we speak to Irishman Michael McAndrew about pairing Barbour waxed cotton jackets with Red Wing boots, and riding his Moto Guzzi along the coastal roads of Sydney.

Name: Michael McAndrew

Residence: Sydney, Australia

Occupation: Business Development, Recruitment

Today’s ride: Moto Guzzi V7 Carbon Dark. This is a limited edition model of 1921 motorcycles to celebrate 100 years of Moto Guzzi.

Describe your style: Barbour jackets paired with Red Wing or Wolverine 1000 Mile boots. Over time you develop your own style. Ten years ago, I could not have imagined wearing Barbour; however, a small amount of English country gentlemen has made its way into my wardrobe.

Favourite items: My collection of Ring Jewellery. I studied art in college and never lost the passion for jewellery.

Next purchase: AllSaints leather bomber jacket.

Style inspiration: American Desert dirt bike racing from the 1960s; hence Barbour and Red Wing making up a core part of my riding style.

Best local ride: Riding along the coastal roads of Sydney from Coogee to Watsons Bay.

Tip for stylish motorcycle riding: Wear whatever you like but plan for going arse over tit off the bike.

Next motorcycle trip: My dream is to ride the coastal road from Sydney to Melbourne and then the Great Ocean Road to Adelaide.

Why do you like riding? It is the connection I feel with the bike. All your senses are running at 100%, and there is a freedom you just don’t experience in a car.