Derbyshire star Leon Haslam says racing is ‘ultimate distraction’ as motorcycles improve mental health

Derbyshire motorcycle racing superstar Leon Haslam has backed an investigation which found that riding a bicycle helps escape stress and depression.

In a recent survey of 1,000 motorcyclists by Asda Money, riders were asked why they started their hobby, and some explained that it helped them cope with their anxiety and depression.

This is because data from the Mental Health Foundation shows that one in six adults suffers from a common mental disorder, such as anxiety and depression.

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And Leon, 38, from Smalley, who competed in the Superbike World Championship for many years and was crowned champion in 2018 for the Kawasaki team, said to him that competition was a great form of escape and “the ultimate distraction”.

Leon, nicknamed ‘Pocket Rocket’ and currently a Honda rider, told Asda Money: “It’s great that the bike can provide a way out for a lot of people, from everyday problems to stress or potential mental problems.

“The concentration required of motorcycling is such that all other issues are overlooked and even if it is for a short time it could be invaluable.

“Obviously racing is the ultimate distraction for me, but getting on a racing bike in the pit lane feels like hopping on a road bike or my trial bike. “

The main reasons to profit from the motorcycle data in the Asda Money survey before World Mental Health Day October 10 felt a sense of freedom (59%), the thrill of cycling (40%) and the ability to travel (34%).

Asda Money’s findings suggest that the benefits of motorcycling range from a way to disconnect from the online world to the fresh air to stimulate the senses.

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