On Sunday 22nd May, riders across the globe united for the largest Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR) yet. The DGR brings together classic and vintage style motorcycles and their riders to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health. 2022 marked the ninth year of Triumph Motorcycles’ partnership with the DGR, as main partner and sponsor.
We took to the streets of London where the DGR community gathered in their masses at Twickenham to ride dapper together on a route that stretched to Smithfield Market.
After low-key rides for the last two years due to covid restrictions, this year the gentlefolk of London really upped their game and embraced the old-school theme in a range of dapper attire. Spirits were high and the sun shone as we rode through London, past iconic landmarks including Big Ben.
A wide variety of iconic classics and modern classics graced the streets of London, from café racers to scramblers, side cars and bobbers, with a high presence of Triumph Motorcycle owners taking to the streets to fundraise. Onlooking crowds gathered to cheer on the riders, with families, children and pets coming together to join the DGR community and support its causes.
A special mention must go to the top three DGR fundraisers globally this year: Ron Krietemeyer from San Francisco who wins the ‘1959 Legends’ editions; Joseph Mancinelli from Hamilton, Canada; and Sam Heughan from Edinburgh, Scotland. Collectively this year’s top three fundraisers raised over $250K USD!
So how did the London riders find their DGR experience?
Ricky Carmichael, Motocross legend and Triumph Motorcycles’ ambassador: "What an amazing time I had at my first DGR group ride in London. I can't imagine a better way to see London than on a motorcycle! The weather was perfect, and the riders turned out for a great cause in supporting men's health. It was a great experience, and I am already looking forward to next year's ride!"
DJ Supreme, DJ, actor and presenter: “This was the first time I’d taken part in the DGR. I’ve been affected by both issues - someone in my family suffers with cancer and I’ve had a serious motorcycle accident and I did suffer with depression during my rehabilitation period. I came today on a Triumph Speedmaster.”
Deimante, digital creator @tomboy_a_bit: “I rode an iconic Triumph Bonneville today. It’s my fourth time riding in the DGR. I take part thinking about my son and his future most of all but also my friends, my father, my future husband - every single man.”
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride will return on Sunday May 21st 2023, when Triumph Motorcycles and the DGR will celebrate 10 years of partnership with a special celebration.
