"A routine day is definitely not for me."

Interview with customizer Hayden Roberts.

Hayden Roberts lives in Long Beach, California. Here, he co-founded the renowned customizing workshop Hell On Wheels MC. This is also where the name for his vintage motorcycle race came from – all over the world. Because when Hayden is not tinkering with bikes, he is organising races. And because these are always just one big party, he is also known as "Chief Party Planner". A born entertainer and absolutely obsessed with motorcycles – a magnificent mix.

Hayden, why are you so fascinated with motorcycles?

When I was about three or four years old, my father took me to the Grand Prix in Great Britain. Ever since, I have spent practically every weekend out on the racetrack. It was the noises and smells that seized me more than the racetrack itself. When I ride motorcycles, my head is completely free – this is my favourite thing about it. Then, it is only about the sound of the engine and finding the best routes. Corner after corner.

What have you got planned for the future of Hell on Wheels MC?

In the future, we want to start more events in California. This also includes dirt track and mountain racing – with and without a costume. We also want to go oversees and organise races in Japan. Maybe even Europe.

Why are you known as "Chief Party Planner"?

I'm not exactly sure. But when I began organising races, they always just felt like a big party. The competition was more in the background. When someone turns up wearing a Viking helmet or a banana costume it becomes really fun.

Where do you really want to travel?

I have a trip to the Himalayas planned for September. Here in California, a trip down the Los Angeles Crest Highway into the High Desert would certainly be an amazing experience. It just has the perfect balance there – with winding roads turning into wide open highways stretching off into the desert.

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Over the course of time, a real customizing workshop results from that passion for motorcycling. At Hell On Wheels MC, lovers of old vintage motorcycles can have their bikes repaired and restored, or even commission completely new custom bike creations.

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In the Californian customizing workshop, bikes are not the only things being tinkered with. The lads from Hell on Wheels MC have also been organising vintage motorcycle races for several years now. These have since become known far and wide and are less a competition and more like one big party. Until now, the events have only taken place in California. But races in Japan and Europe are also planned for the future.

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Hell on Wheels MC event blog

Who would you like to take an excursion with?

First of all, the true greats of racing obviously come to mind, like Agostini or Kenny Roberts. But when I come to think about it, I am nowhere near as good as them, so that probably wouldn't be much fun. At least not for both of us. Then Joy Lewis comes to mind – she is someone who is up for doing anything. This is always the most fun.

What does the perfect day with an R nineT Scrambler look like?

I would pick out a route from a map with the perfect mix of terrain. With gorges, mountains and impassable trails. Then I would simply dive headfirst into the adventure – with a good friend and without an itinerary.

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Sparks are flying at the BMW Motorrad Scrambler shoot in California! Joy Lewis and Hayden Roberts have already met. When working together on the set and then together, where they belong. They recently got married.

The R nineT Scrambler stands for freedom, unconventionality and untamed lifestyle. Does this suit you?

I have tried the typical "nine-to-five" daily routine, but it was not for me. In the end, each and every one of us needs to find what best suits them. For me it's doing what I want when I want. It's quite simply a case of finding the important things in life, which really make you happy. And as long as this is not money, everything can be easily attained.

Do you have a life motto?

Find what you love and let it kill you – Bukowski.

What does motorcycling mean to you personally?

Taking the long road home.

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Honest. Untamed. Air-cooled.

Feel the wind, lean into every corner and experience the freedom in every metre you ride – the BMW R nineT Scrambler lets you be who you are. Tough, unconventional, and against established standards, it goes where you want. Made for everyone who wants their bike to be pure, minimalistic and break all the rules.

Suitable motorcycles.

R 12

Heritage

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R 12 nineT

Heritage

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R 18 Classic

Heritage

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"A routine day is definitely not for me."

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